Beginners Bay Surf Spot, Nicaragua

Beginners Bay is a sheltered beach break at the foot of Magnific Rock (Punta Sardina) at Popoyo, in Tola on Nicaragua's Pacific coast. The headland blocks much of the swell, so the waves are slower and softer than at Popoyo's main reef next door.

It picks up waves year-round, from south and south-east swells. It is best from mid to high tide. The main wave is a long, soft left wrapping off the point, with softer peaks breaking both ways through the bay.

This is one of the main learn-to-surf waves around Popoyo, and it is busy with surf schools. Beginners can move from whitewater to green waves here, and longboarders get plenty out of it. On big swells the point gets bigger and better, and the current near the rocks picks up.

Popoyo and Guasacate have surf hotels, rental houses and land for sale within walking distance of the bay. Buyers usually look for a house or lot that puts Beginners Bay, Popoyo's reef and Santana within easy reach.