Popoyo
Tola, Rivas, Nicaragua
Sports: Surfing
Best time to go: March–October
Popoyo is a surf area on the Pacific coast of the department of Rivas, north-west of Tola, around the beach of Guasacate. Its main reef breaks off a rocky outcrop at the northern end of the beach, and the Outer Reef further out handles the biggest swells.
The area is known for its offshore winds: easterly and north-easterly trade winds blow across Lake Nicaragua and the narrow isthmus, so the waves are groomed offshore on many days of the year, strongest in the dry season. South and south-west swells arrive from about March to October, with the biggest days in the middle of the year. The main reef gives a fast A-frame peak over volcanic reef, the beach breaks nearby are friendlier on small days, and the Outer Reef is a heavy wave for experienced surfers only. Tide matters, as low tide makes the reef shallow. Expect crowds at the main peak in good swells, and respect the locals. The water is warm, though offshore winds can bring cooler upwelling water in the dry season.
Spots near Popoyo
- Bahía Salinas (67 km)
- Lake Arenal – Tilarán (164 km)
- Santa Teresa (228 km)