Experience Nature Firsthand

Nicaragua is a nature lovers dream. La Florcita is committed to preserving the natural landscape and living in harmony with the many creatures that occupy the same space, both on land and in the sea, so that guests can experience the natural majesty of Playa Majagual. We have laid non-invasive walking trails throughout the property to make exploration easier and impact free on the environment as you try and see all of the creatures and plants La Florcita hosts.

Playa Majagual

There are few beaches left in Central America that are as special as Playa Majagual. The defining force here is not man or development but nature itself; the forces of wind, water, and sun have created this place by themselves. Carved from rock by the sea, a tranquil harbor exists with gentle, warm waters. La Florcita is the only property located on this unique beach and we strive to exist in harmony with the raw and pristine oceanfront. Soft white sand and gentle winds blow on this sunny beachfront. Experience the dazzling, color filled sunsets behind the iconic shark finned rock that defines Playa Majagual.

Local anglers enjoy spearfishing for spiny lobster and octopus off the beach's north end, where the conditions are ideal for catching a fresh meal. Often, you will find yourself to be the completely alone on the beach. It is one of San Juan del Sur's (and to a greater extent Nicaragua's) best-kept secrets. There is a false assumption that Playa Majagual is too far or too remote to enjoy the nightlife of San Juan del Sur; it is in fact it is only a 20-minute car ride away. Although close to San Juan del Sur, the natural beauty of the beach has remained untouched, creating an atmosphere similar to a virgin paradise, where driftwood and coconuts wash up on the shore. Here, the only sign of human interaction are the footprints guests leave in the wet sand.

Sea Creatures

Look out to the sea from the edge of La Florcita’s beach or the Beach Pavilion to see:

  • Olive Ridley Turtle
  • Leather Back Turtle
  • Hawksbills Turtle
  • Humpback Whales
  • Frasers Dolphin
  • Marine Dolphins

On the Water

La Florcita’s location gives you access to world class fishing. Let us help arrange half or full day deep sea trips. Enjoy the views of the dramatic rocky, tree-lined coast meeting the dark blue ocean as you enjoy a picnic lunch halfway through your full day. Regularly seen in the waters are Spanish mackerel, Jack Crevalle, Mahi- Mahi, and Red Snapper & Wahoo. Bring back your catch at the end of your excursion and have our Chef turn it into dinner.

If fishing is not for you, or you are looking for a more relaxed way to spend time on the water, we can help arrange full or half day sailing and catamaran trips. Lounge in the sunshine while watching the stunning coastline of Pacific Nicaragua pass by; explore remote, empty beaches while enjoying freshly prepared meals and cocktails aboard your ship. Let us help arrange a day out on the coastal waters of San Juan del Sur.

Beach and Poolside

Guests can experience unbeatable views of Playa Majagual and the sunset while sitting beachfront, just steps from the Beach Pavilion. Ample lounging space, featuring comfortable recliners and towels makes this area the best spot to sun bathe at La Florcita. Relax the afternoon away in the pool on the provided pool toys or simply catch up on reading and down time.

Guests can enjoy access to any of the following items on property:

  • Single Kayak
  • Double Kayak
  • Skim Board
  • Surf Board
  • Floating Trampoline
  • Boogie Board
  • Banana Boat
  • Lounger
  • Snorkel
  • Beach Ball
  • Beach Tennis
  • Towels

Offsite Destinations

Playa Maderas y Matildas

La Florcita’s location directly on Playa Majagual gives guests unparalleled access to this world class beach while being within walking distance of an additional two beaches, each one offering uniquely different atmospheres.

The beach of Playones, known locally at Playa Matildas, is located just a few steps outside the front door on the other side of our iconic shark fin rock. The ocean here brings in large waves that are perfect for beginner boogie boards.

Walking south for a few more minutes will bring you to the famed local surf beach of Playa Maderas. 300+ days of offshore winds guarantee excellent surf conditions year round with some of the best waves in the country. Taco shacks, smoothie bars, and stellar waves all within easy walking distance of La Florcita.

San Juan Del Sur

The laid back fishing village of San Juan del Sur is famed for its relaxed vibe and welcoming locals. The town is filled with numerous choices for restaurants and bars, and the slower pace of life here makes it a great spot to spend an afternoon or to enjoy the evening nightlife. Shop for handmade Nicaraguan crafts in the market, load up on supplies from the fruit and fish markets, or enjoy the hike to The Christ of the Mercy, a colossal statue of Jesus that stands high above the town; it is worth the hike up to enjoy some of the best views of the town and bay. Located only 20-minutes from La Florcita by car, we can help arrange transportation to and from San Juan del Sur.

Playa Manzanillo

Located along Nicaragua’s Emerald Coast and situated beautifully where the jungle meets the sea, is Playa Manzanillo. Offering a wide array of adventures, you can partake in everything from surfing to stand up paddle boarding. With luxury surf outfitter TropicSurf, you’ll be in the hands of experts as you learn to surf for the first time or master the waves like a professional at Manzanillo Point. The beach also has available kayaking adventures that range from idling on the water to actually fishing from a kayak: For a more leisurely experience, opt to snorkel the calm waters, where you’re sure to spot some of Nicaragua’s most diverse marine life.

Playa Gigante

Just north of San Juan del Sur is the tranquil half-crescent beach and fishing village of Playa Gigante. In a town of less than 300 combined locals, visitors and expats alike, the waves rule everything. Erected predominately to fulfill the dreams of surfers chasing the perfect Nicaraguan wave, here you can find a number of surf camps and beachside restaurants that cater to those in search of a grand adventure and the perfect break. Perfect sandy beaches here attract surfers and travelers, both local and from abroad. A collection of eclectic bars and restaurants has sprung up to serve these guests – relaxed, rustic, and perfect for mingling and just chilling out. An easygoing vibe permeates everything about the place. Although well-known for its prime surfing conditions, Playa Gigante remains true to its origins: At its heart, the beach is a rustic getaway where you’ll feel a world away from your cares and worries. There’s no need to worry about transportation while you’re enjoying Playa Gigante, as the majority of your needs can be accessed by a short walk. Enjoy eating local fresh catch and spending the afternoon alongside fisherman and fellow surfers. A visit to Gigante will prove to be rustic and local authentically – great for walking, swimming, fishing, sightseeing or spending time on the ocean to discover hidden bays and coves.

Playa Blanca

If your idea of fun includes sailing aboard a private yacht and jumping from the highest rungs of the vessel, then a journey to Playa Blanca is for you. Just north of San Juan Bay and only accessible by boat, Playa Blanca is Nicaragua’s only white sand beach. You can walk free and aimlessly, all while enjoying the cool sand beneath your toes. During your visit, you’re likely to be the only travelers to this hidden piece of Nicaraguan paradise: It will quickly feel like it’s all yours. Pack a lunch before you head for land. Jump from the ship to reach the shore, where you can enjoy a beach-side picnic.

Playa Popoyo

Along the Playa Popoyo shores you’re sure to find amazing surf, but sometimes the best fun is had in-between each break. Playa Popoyo is home to small, rustic ranchos that serves everything from cold brews to ceviche: Enjoy a snack as you peer out on one of Nicaragua’s most beautiful vistas. You will soon notice that Playa Popoyo isn’t as populated as other beaches. Here you can truly enjoy rest and relaxation amidst the beach’s towering rock formations and long stretch of sand. And make sure to stay for sunset: You won’t regret it!

Granada

Granada, situated on the shores of Lake Nicaragua, is the oldest city on the American Continent and a must visit for any guest to Nicaragua. Travel back in time to a city bursting with glorious colonial architecture and historical splendor as time stands still in this vibrant, cultural hub where the history is palpable. Explore the town, indulge in a visit to the chocolate factory, then take a boat tour and experience the nearby Isletas de Granada. For some insight into one of Nicaragua's most important crops, take a drive up the winding, cloudy, forested road of Mombacho volcano, which flanks the town’s edge, to visit a working coffee plantation. Situated on the northwestern shore of Lake Nicaragua, Granada is a must-see destination. The Granada excursion is a true prize among world-travel experiences and should be a lock for your Florcita itinerary

Masaya

Both a town and volcano in one, Masaya offers the chance of a lifetime- the opportunity to peer into the lava pool of Volcano Masaya. First, spend an afternoon wandering the famous craft market, shopping for hand woven hammocks, traditional wooden crafts, primitivistic paintings and hand painted pottery while enjoying the delicious local fruit juices available. End the day by heading to Parque Nacional Volcano Masaya at dusk and watch the lake of lava glow in a twilight setting.

Ometepe Island

The peaks of Ometepe Island's twin volcanos, Concepción and Maderas, tower over Central America's largest lake- Lake Nicaragua. This is the only fresh water lake in the world known to have ocean creatures such as bull sharks and swordfish. Ometepe is an eco-adventure paradise accessible by water or air. Paddle the estuary and spot the wildlife, hike to the San Ramon waterfall and cool off under this cascade of cool water. Soak yourself in the healing mineral pools of Ojo de Agua, and grab lunch at our favorite restaurant, Cafe de Campestre before returning to La Florcita for the night.

Telica

A hike to Volcán Telica is well worth the work for impressive views at the journey’s end. While all Nicaraguan volcanoes are mesmerizing in their own right, Volcán Telica is especially incredible – you can actually see molten lava flowing within this volcano’s crater. Requiring a moderate hike to the top, Volcán Telica is comprised of a crater nearly 1,000 feet deep. While the sight is stunning, the crater is best enjoyed at a safe distance, as smoke and fumes can grow quite erratic. For the best views at the top of Volcán Telica, begin your trek before daybreak. A panoramic, silhouette view of surrounding volcanoes stretch across the horizon, creating the perfect photography opportunity after an exhilarating adventure.

San Cristobal

For the grandest volcano hike of them all, venture to Nicaragua’s Volcán San Cristóbal, the highest volcanic crater in the country. Capping at almost 5,800 feet, this may be the longest volcano hike in Nicaragua, but the grade provides a friendly consistency that oscillates from medium to strenuous difficulty throughout the journey. From the trailhead, it takes just under four hours to reach the volcano’s northern peak. At the top, views of outlying volcanoes begin to take shape as Volcán San Cristóbal’s fumes form in spiral smoke swirls spouting from the crater.

Cerro Negro

Glide rapidly down the black sands of a steep volcano. If that sounds a bit extreme, it’s because it is. It’s Ash Boarding, the new extreme sport which allows visitors to descend the volcanic ash of Cerro Negro strapped onto a board. And, if that’s too crazy, you can run and bound down the side for an amazing adventure on foot.

This young volcano only stands about 500 meters high and a hike to the top (about one hour) rewards adventurers with a stunning, unobstructed 360-degree view of the landscape. To your left is a steaming active crater, while the other side features a steep, vegetation-free sand hill that provides a great surface for running downhill. This thrilling experience takes less than ten minutes top to bottom, but less athletic hikers can walk it more slowly. Alternatively, experienced snow- or sand-boarders can use a wooden board to zoom downhill, much like snowboarding. A short training session is provided by an experienced bilingual guide. Then, suit up in protective equipment (supplied for safe descent) and get ready for the descent of your life.