Puerto Sandino

Surf Guide

Puerto Sandino is one of the, if not the longest wave in Nicaragua. However, it can sometimes be difficult to catch it good, as it is way out in the middle of open water and very exposed to the wind from any direction. The initial takeoff zone to the end of the wave usually averages over 300 yards when it's on. It is mostly a sand-bottom break, however, there are rock/reef sections at certain points along this long wave. These intermittent areas of sand and reef allow for a variety of barrel and wally sections throughout the length of the ride. Boat access is highly recommended, as the wave starts in front of a large rivermouth almost a half-mile from the shore, currents can be strong, and having help if someone gets hurt. Due to Puerto Sandino's location, it picks up more swell than the nearby breaks, often producing sets that are several feet bigger. Its magic size is around eight-ten feet on the face. Although, due to the consistency of the sandbars, it can hold more size with the right swell direction and winds. The best time to surf this wave is the incoming tide push and with calm or light offshore winds. The ideal swell direction for Puerto Sandino is SSW, but does fine with S or SW too. Located due west from the very top end of Lake Nicaragua, the Puerto Sandino area still enjoys the benefits of the lake effect offshores that Nicaragua is known for. Peak season is from April through September.