Manzanillo

Surf Guide

Manzanillo is one of the Pacific side's most fickle waves. When it's on, however, it's one of the best waves in Nicaragua. Manzanillo requires both a very specific swell direction from the S-W and a certain size before it begins to show its true form. (The wrong direction can render it mushy or a closeout, or both.)

Ability Level

All Abilities

BegIntAdv

Beginner to advanced

Local Vibe

Doable

WelcomingIntimidating

No real locals here, but it still can get intense.

Crowd Factor

Moderate

MellowHeavy

Yes, when the swell is good.

Spot Rating

Fun

PoorPerfect

Can get good but fickle.

Shoulder Burn

Medium

LightExhausting

Medium

Water Quality

Fair

CleanDirty

Fair

Ideal Surf Conditions

Swell Direction

SW

Wind

NE

Surf Height

Chest high to double overhead

Tide

Mid to high.