Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
black
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
30 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
3 000 m
Frequently asked questions
Playa Hermosa: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — grey, clarity moderate, average temperature +29.0°C, warms up to +30.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Playa Hermosa: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — moderate. Average wave height — 1.0 m.
Playa Hermosa: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 30 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Playa Hermosa: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — black. Texture — fine. Beach length — 3 000 metres.
Playa Hermosa: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in December, January, February, March, April. It ends in April. The best month for a holiday is January. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Playa Hermosa: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as moderate. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — low. Shark risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Playa Hermosa: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: stingrays. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Playa Hermosa: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, toilets, parking, Wi-Fi, sports ground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Playa Hermosa: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
Playa Hermosa: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Playa Hermosa Eco Resort Restaurant. Cuisines available: Nicaraguan. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Playa Hermosa: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Cash, Insect repellent.
Playa Hermosa: when is the best time to swim?
Best time is from December to April. In the morning the waves are more consistent. In the evening — exceptional sunsets.
Playa Hermosa: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Littering and open fires are prohibited. Swimming at your own risk — strong currents. Beware of stingrays in the shallows.
Playa Hermosa: what activities are available?
The beach offers: surfing. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Playa Hermosa: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for surfers of all levels, beach lovers and families. Suitable for surfing, swimming, beach volleyball and walks. Not suitable for lovers of noisy parties.
Playa Hermosa: what makes this beach unique?
Playa Hermosa is one of the few beaches in Nicaragua with volcanic black sand. The reality show Survivor Nicaragua was filmed here in 2010. The beach is known for its long waves and less crowded atmosphere.
Playa Hermosa: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Long sandy beach (3 km), Waves for all levels, Clean and uncrowded atmosphere, Beach volleyball, Restaurant and bar, Showers and toilets, Beautiful sunsets. Cons: Volcanic sand (not white), Periodic water quality issues, Requires transport from San Juan del Sur (10 min), Limited infrastructure outside the resort.
Playa Hermosa: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Playa La Flor Wildlife Refuge, Remanso Beach, Old Lighthouse, Maderas Beach. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Playa Hermosa: how do I get to the city of San Juan del Sur?
The beach is located near the city of San Juan del Sur. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for San Juan del Sur.