Poneloya Beach Las Penitas

Poneloya Beach Las Penitas is a surf spot located in Northwest, Nicaragua, about 18 kilometers west of the city of León. The spot sits right in front of the Playa Roca Beach Hotel, just meters from the bar and restaurant, and is easily reached by a 20-minute bus ride from León. The bus drops you off less than 150 feet from the surf. Las Penitas is 4 kilometers south of the village of Poneloya. The surf spot provides both left and right waves. The bottom is sandy, and you can surf here at all tides. The waves are very consistent, with over 150 surfable days per year, and the typical swell size ranges from 1.0 to 1.5 meters, but the spot can handle swells up to 3 meters or more. The length of the ride is usually between 50 and 150 meters. The spot is suitable for all levels, but there are strong currents and undertows, so always check your skills before paddling out, be sure that the spot and conditions fit your surfing level. When the spot is crowded, respect the locals and check the surf etiquette. The area is generally less crowded on weekdays but can get busier on weekends and holidays. Surfboard rentals and lessons are available, with board rentals around $10 USD per day and lessons about $20 USD per hour. The spot is still not well known to the general surfing population. Poneloya Beach Las Penitas hosted the first international surf contest in Northern Nicaragua, organized by Quicksilver. Nearby surf spots include Puerto Sandino, Suicides, Pipes, Miramar, and Padangs. The area also offers beaches, fishing, hiking, and tours to the San Juan Venado Island Wildlife Reserve. For the latest surf forecast, surf report, map, and webcam, check local resources before heading out.