Where to Find The Best Hotels in Nicaragua
Heading to Nicaragua for a dose of sun, sand, and surf?! We’ll meet you there!
Nicaragua, the largest country in Central America, offers adventure, wildlife, culture, and so much more. Here you’ll find everything from active volcanoes and world-renowned waves to stunning landscapes and adrenaline-pumping activities.
When it comes to accommodations, there’s a wide variety of options to select from. Whether you’re looking for rustic jungle vibes, luxury resorts, or beachside abodes, it’s all possible. Narrowing down the best hotels in Nicaragua can be time-consuming, so we’ve compiled a list of great options and organized them based on the country’s popular regions.
As a Guatemalan-based eco-tour company, Naturally Smart Travel works directly with the community to offer sustainable travel and tourism experiences. We often host individuals and groups to explore Nicaragua on curated trips, tours, and itineraries. Keep reading to discover where to find the top hotels in Nicaragua.
Photo Credit: Naturally Smart Travel
The Best Hotels in León
León is one of the country’s most popular destinations. It’s home to a beautiful melting pot of cultures, with a resident population of poets, artists, activists, creative thinkers, and students.
León is raw, gritty, and authentic. It’s not quite as polished as Granada; however, it’s one of the best places to visit in Nicaragua, capturing travelers' hearts.
The city is the birthplace of Nicaragua’s revolution, and the Sandinista Movement (FSLN), which overthrew the Somoza dictatorship in the 1970s. The spirit of this political movement is evident in León, as reflected in its many murals and museums.
Nature and volcanoes surround León, and the Pacific coastline is only 30 minutes away. So, you might be wondering exactly how long you should stay here?! The answer depends, but five days is sufficient time to explore the city and its nearby attractions.
One tip when you’re considering where to stay in León: it gets hot here! Especially during the dry season, so it’s wise to find accommodations with a refreshing pool or air conditioning. And, without further ado, here are some great places to stay in León.
Photo Credit: Hostal La Tortuga Booluda
Affordable Stays:
Hostal La Tortuga Booluda
If you’re looking for a home away from home on your hunt for hotels in Nicaragua, you’ll find it here! This small family-run hostel is centrally located and situated in a stylishly restored colonial house. The rooms are well-equipped, featuring private bathrooms and work desks.
Begin your day with the free breakfast and coffee. The long list of amenities includes a pool, air conditioning, a courtyard, a kitchen space, a gym, a water filter, and a game room with pool and foosball tables.
Bonus: They offer private Spanish lessons, too!
Poco a Poco Hostel
2da calle NO. Iglesia Bautista, media cuadra arriba
Discover new connections, themed nights, and good vibes - and yet, it’s not a party hostel. In a restored historic building, the rooms are clean, and the location is convenient.
This hostel has mostly mixed-bed dorm rooms, but two private rooms are also available. There’s free WiFi, a shared kitchen, a year-round swimming pool, and air conditioning.
A paid shuttle and concierge are options if you need them. And, there’s a sister property just down the way, giving you the best of both worlds when it comes to hotels in Nicaragua.
Photo Credit: Hotel and Coffe Azul
Mid-Priced:
La Posada Del Doctor
Parque San Juan 50 metros al oeste
This 3-star bed and breakfast is centrally located and within walking distance of some of the city’s main attractions. This accommodation is a guest favorite and checks off all the boxes for a lovely stay when it comes to hotels in Nicaragua.
You’ll sleep well in the air-conditioned rooms and can fuel up for the day ahead with the free daily breakfast. There’s a 24-hour front desk, a lush garden, a helpful staff, daily housekeeping, and WiFi throughout the property.
Hotel and Coffe Azul
Find all you’re looking for in hotels in Nicaragua here: a good location, an outdoor swimming pool, and air conditioning. The modern updated rooms feature private bathrooms stocked with free toiletries, TVs, and a terrace.
Start your day with the complimentary American-style breakfast, and check in with loved ones back home using the free WiFi. If you have questions or need assistance, the friendly staff is always available at the 24-hour front desk.
This highly-rated hotel also offers a paid airport shuttle for your convenience.
Photo Credit: Hotel La Perla Leon
Higher-Priced:
Hotel La Perla León
Hotel La Perla Iglesia La Merced 1.5c Norte
This boutique hotel is housed in a historic colonial-style mansion; in fact, it’s one of the city’s oldest buildings. It boasts a prime location, exceptional service, and private transportation add-ons.
Enjoy the beautiful pool, a great breakfast, and the modern amenities. At the on-site restaurant, you’ll find traditional Nicaraguan and international dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. You can easily book local tours and experiences directly at the hotel!
Hotel El Convento
1, Del Parque Central, 2 cuadra al Norte 2 cuadras al Oeste
Historic charm meets luxury in this boutique hotel that’s in the former Convent de San Francisco. The property has internal courtyards, sprawling gardens, spacious rooms, and a year-round outdoor pool.
It’s just a five-minute walk from the city center.
There’s WiFI throughout the property, a 24-hour front desk, and an on-site restaurant and bar. When it comes to hotels in Nicaragua, the Hotel El Convento has all the amenities and features for a great stay.
Photo Credit: Naturally Smart Travel
Hotels in Nicaragua: Great Stays in Granada
The colorful city of Granada is among the oldest in the Americas, marking its 500th anniversary in 2024. This unique destination captivates travelers with its authentic charm, vibrant markets, cobblestone streets, and well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture.
Located on Lake Nicaragua, wildlife and nature are abundant, especially in the Los Guatuzos Wildlife Refuge.
If you’re searching for a sustainable luxury hotel and a private getaway, consider the Jicaro Island Lodge. Below, you’ll find a few more options for great places to stay in Granada!
Photo Credit: Estrada Hotel & Bistro
Mid-Priced:
Estrada Hotel & Bistro
This smaller boutique hotel has seven rooms in a restored colonial building. The prime location makes it easy to explore the area, while offering a serene oasis to retreat to from the city’s bustling streets.
Guests have left exceptional reviews and ratings, in part due to the personalized concierge services. There’s free WiFi, complimentary valet parking, a 24-hour front desk, daily housekeeping, and on-site laundry facilities. You can also opt for curated activities, private transfers, and in-house massages.
Sip on drinks at the bar or dine al fresco at Bistro Estrada–cooking up the flavors of Nicaraguan and French-inspired cuisine using local ingredients. Not all hotels in Nicaragua have such a delightful selection of vegan and vegetarian dining options! Yum.
Mombacho Lodge
Discover rustic luxury at this nature lover’s paradise.
This eco-friendly mountain hotel has four private cabins built from local wood, each equipped with private bathrooms and decks. These sustainably minded accommodations use renewable energy and eco-friendly cleaning products.
Sleep peacefully surrounded by trees and jungle, tucked in a national park. It’s within walking distance of the Reserva Natural Volcán Mombacho. This isn’t one of your average hotels in Nicaragua!
The restaurant and bar offer vegetarian cuisine made from locally sourced and organic food. There’s a 24-hour round-trip airport shuttle available, as well as a local area shuttle.
The long list of tours and activities includes a guided night hike, ziplining, wildlife walks, canopy tours, and horseback riding.
Photo Credit: Hotel Dario
Higher-Priced:
Hotel Dario
This 5-star boutique hotel is a luxurious and rare find amongst all the options for hotels in Nicaragua. The comfortable rooms feature modern amenities, spa tubs, and daily housekeeping. It’s conveniently located in the heart of Granada.
The bright and spacious Restaurant El Tranvia serves both international and traditional Nicaraguan cuisine. The extensive menu features tasty cuts of Nicaraguan beef and fresh local seafood. Start your morning with a Spanish omelet and wash it down with a cup of the country’s finest coffee.
Make the most of your trip with the free WiFi, outdoor pool, bicycle rentals, and beauty spa. The beach and 24-hour airport shuttles make getting around all that much easier!
Hotel Plaza Colon
Oeste del Parque Central, Ave Vega
Hotel Plaza Colon is leading the way for sustainable hotels in Nicaragua.
This boutique hotel operates with certified sustainable practices, while promoting environmental conservation and supporting the local community. To help offset the hotel’s carbon footprint, the hotel planted over 500 hardwood trees in 2016.
Fuel up for your day with breakfast that’s made from locally grown ingredients and the freshest Nicaraguan coffee grown on the slopes of Mombacho Volcano.
The rooms have air conditioning, WiFi, purified water, coffee makers, and local Nicaraguan artwork. There’s an on-site coffee shop and a 24-hour front desk. The central location is close to the Granada Cathedral.
When it’s time to cool off, take a dip in the top-rated outdoor pool that’s surrounded by lush greenery. And, after a day of exploration, head to the bar to enjoy the national cocktail and local beers.
Photo Credit: Naturally Smart Travel
Top Accommodations in Jinotega
The off-the-beaten-path Jinotega is a beautiful farming region in Nicaragua’s mountainous countryside. Situated in the Northern Highlands, Jinotega is 130km north of the capital. Interestingly, half of Nicaragua’s coffee is produced right here in Jinotega.
This remote destination is ideal for those who love nature, the great outdoors, and birdwatching. It’s the perfect place to impose a digital detox, recharge your batteries, and reconnect with the natural world.
Here are some of the best places to stay in and around Jinotega!
Photo Credit: Montebrisa Boutique B&B
Mid-Priced:
Hotel Cafe
Hotel Cafe is on a mission to support the socio-economic and cultural development of the region, raising the eco-friendly bar for hotels in Nicaragua.
Exceptional hospitality meets sustainable tourism at this guest favorite accommodation. You’ll have a pleasant and restful stay in rooms equipped with comfortable beds, balconies, air conditioning, and incredible mountain views.
Additionally, there’s a 24-hour front desk, free on-site parking, a friendly staff, and a tour desk. The Hotel Cafe Restaurant Borbon serves national and international food, and is noted for its exceptional breakfast.
This accommodation is within walking distance of popular attractions like the historic cathedral, the entrance to the Peña de la Cruz mountain, and coffee plantations.
Hotel Cafe has all you’re looking for in a hotel while operating with integrity and taking responsibility for the environment. They’re committed to customer satisfaction without compromising sustainable values.
Montebrisa Boutique B&B
This top-rated boutique bed and breakfast is tucked in the mountains and surrounded by lush tropical gardens. It’s unlike other hotels in Nicaragua.
Mornings here begin with a hearty cooked-to-order breakfast. After fueling up, easily walk to the nearby Matagalpa Cathedral, restaurants, shops, and cafes.
There’s on-site parking, around-the-clock security, free WiFi, air conditioning, a front desk, and daily housekeeping. A 24-hour airport shuttle is also available.
If you’d like, the tour desk can help arrange personalized adventures, including white water rafting, Indigenous weaving workshops, waterfall hikes, coffee museum tours, and more.
Photo Credit: Vera Eco-Resort
Higher-Priced:
Vera Eco-Resort
Km 143.5 Carretera Matagalpa El Roblar, Comunidad La Grecia, San Ramón
Travel with purpose at this top-rated accommodation that’s located in a cloud forest. There are 27 bedrooms across 9 unique villas, and a full daily breakfast is included. The amenities are stacked and include an on-site restaurant, free WiFi, a spa, a multi-use sports court, and a 24-hour fitness facility.
There’s also yoga and meditation classes, ecotours, biking, horseback riding, Spanish lessons, and cooking or farming classes. The dedicated team is ready to assist you with an exceptional stay, and there’s an all-inclusive option.
Not only is this a great place to relax and reset when it comes to hotels in Nicaragua, but the Vera Eco-Resort is part of a community development model. The hotel shares its 437-acre property with a school that serves the local community. Additionally, while staying here, there are opportunities to engage in meaningful service work, if you’d like.
Selva Negra
Km 140 Carretera Mat-Jin, Matagalpa
Immerse yourself in nature at this eco-resort situated in a private nature reserve in the heart of the mountains. Choose from a variety of accommodation options, including cozy cabins and family chalets.
This family-run establishment operates with a deep connection to the environment. The farm-to-table restaurant features freshly harvested ingredients.
The enjoyable activities include guided tours through the cloud forest, hiking, horseback riding, birdwatching, mountain biking, night walks, and coffee tours.
If you’re traveling in a group, there are on-site meeting and event spaces available, catering to all types of travelers looking for exceptional hotels in Nicaragua.
Photo Credit: Naturally Smart Travel
San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua Hotels
San Juan del Sur is the place to be if you’re looking for a beachside party town. Surfers can paddle out to great waves at the nearby Playas Hermosa and Maderas.
When you need a break from the water, head to the mountains to go horseback riding or hike to the iconic Jesus statue. You’ll also be able to find yoga classes in San Juan del Sur. This, of course, will help to balance out all the cocktails on catamarans, partying til’ sunrise, and pool crawling.
While the vibes are good here and it’s a safe place with a lot of tourists, it’s advised that you avoid going to the beach or the outskirts of town after dark.
Below, we’re sharing where to find the best hotels in Nicaragua, particularly in the hotspot of San Juan del Sur.
Photo Credit: Casa Oro Eco Hostel
Affordable Stays:
Casa Oro Eco Hostel
This full-service backpackers' hostel is on a mission to do good, setting itself apart from other hotels in Nicaragua. In fact, it was the first eco-hostel and surf school in San Juan del Sur.
Discover vibrant space and chill vibes while enjoying the WiFi, air conditioning, filtered drinking water, and free daily breakfast. Both dorms and private rooms are available. Further amenities include a shared kitchen, work desks, 24-hour security, yoga classes, and free hugs.
For fun in the sun, Casa Oro Eco Hostel offers beach shuttles, surf lessons, zip lining, catamaran sailing, sea turtle expeditions, boating, and fishing tours. All-inclusive options are available.
The menu at the on-site restaurant, Cafe Oro, features fresh local ingredients, often sourced from their organic farm, Rancho Regeneracion. The restaurant’s organic waste becomes compost for the farm.
Additionally, Casa Oro doubles as a recycling and composting center for the San Juan del Sur area. Natural building materials are repurposed, and waste is diverted from the landfill.
Mid-Priced:
Casa de Olas - Eco Rustic Hostel
This adults-only rustic hilltop retreat is surrounded by jungle. It’s a quiet hostel that has both free shuttles and a free daily breakfast. Choose between private and dorm rooms. There’s a communal kitchen, a pool table, and surf lessons are available.
After a day of sunshine, climb into a hammock and open your current read for a relaxing retreat. The stunning views can be appreciated from the infinity pool, terrace, lounge area, or the comfort of your room.
Photo Credit: Morgan's Rock Reserve & Ecolodge
Higher-Priced:
Morgan's Rock Reserve & Ecolodge
If you’re looking for exceptional hotels in Nicaragua, this luxury 4-star hotel stands out amongst the rest. This eco-friendly retreat has 15 spacious private bungalows and 3 villas, all constructed from natural materials. Make yourself at home with the modern furnishings, hanging daybeds, impressive views, walk-in showers, plunge pools, and terraces.
Located on 4,000 acres of expansive jungle, this luxury ecolodge is immersed in nature, tucked onto the hillside above the shoreline. Spend the day between the private beach on a mile-long stretch of sand on a protected bay, and exploring the hanging bridge and forest trails. Cool off by the main pool, which overlooks the ocean, or spoil yourself with a spa treatment.
This accommodation is focused on preserving the local ecosystem, wildlife, culture, and community. The water is heated from solar panels. This hotel not only hires local community members, but also buys directly from local producers, artisans, potters, fishermen, and farmers. The on-site open-air restaurant, La Bastide, features locally grown food, with about 60% sourced directly from its own organic farm.
Places To Stay in Managua
If you’re planning a trip to Nicaragua, you’ll most likely be flying in and out of the Augusto Cesar Sandino International Airport, located in Managua. This capital is the largest city in the country, home to about 1.5 million people.
Managua offers nature, culture, entertainment, and restaurants, making it an easy stop for a day or two before heading off to explore the rest of the country. There are three natural reserves close by that are ideal for birdwatching, spending time in nature, and hiking to waterfalls.
To finish our list of the top hotels in Nicaragua, here are our picks for places to stay in Managua.
Photo Credit: La Bicicleta Hostal
Affordable Stays:
La Bicicleta Hostal
Reparto San Juan. Del Hotel Los Robles 2 1/2 c. abajo. Casa #7
This vibrant and eco-friendly hotel emphasizes sustainability with its initiatives that include recycling programs and energy-efficient practices. Catering to budget-conscious travelers, you can choose from a range of accommodations, from shared dormitories to private rooms
Located in the heart of Managua, La Bicicleta Hostal is known for its welcoming communal spaces, including a garden and a shared kitchen. When it comes to hotels in Nicaragua, having proximity to local attractions is essential, and this makes La Bicicleta Hostal an ideal base for exploring Managua.
La Posada del Arcángel
Located in the heart of Managua, this charming hotel is known for its welcoming atmosphere. There are a variety of accommodations from standard rooms to spacious suites. Guests can enjoy amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a restaurant serving local and international cuisine.
The convenient location is near several cultural and historical attractions. Additionally, La Posada del Arcangel provides services such as airport transfers and tour arrangements, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay for travelers.
Photo Credit: Hotel Los Robles Managua Nicaragua
Mid-Priced:
Hotel Los Robles Managua Nicaragua
Avenida Los Robles, del Hospital Monte España 2 cuadras y media al Norte
Colonial architecture blends with modern comforts at this charming boutique hotel. The beautifully decorated rooms feature traditional Nicaraguan furnishings.
There’s a swimming pool, a lush garden, a cozy lounge area, and a complimentary breakfast.
Situated in a tranquil residential area, it offers a peaceful retreat while still being near various attractions and dining options. It’s an easy yes for hotels in this capital city!
The Best Western
Managua is often a place you land in and take off for your next destination. However, if you’ve got an early or late flight, getting a hotel in Managua can ease the transition of travel.
The city can often have gridlocked traffic in a sea of concrete. So, if you’re looking for hotels in Nicaragua that are near the airport, the Best Western is a great option. It’s located just across the street from the airport!
Rest easy with the two outdoor pools, free WiFi, and air-conditioned rooms. The on-site restaurant, La Pérgola, has an international menu and a buffet-style breakfast.
Wishing You an Exceptional Stay at the Top Hotels in Nicaragua
Thanks for reading our guide to the top hotels in Nicaragua. We hope you’ve found just the place you’ve been hoping for!
Naturally Smart Travel is a Guatemalan-based eco-tour company focused on sustainable and community-based travel and tourism. We often host and explore the lush country of Nicaragua on our curated trips, tours, and itineraries.
Get in touch, and start planning your dream trip or itinerary to Nicaragua today!
FAQS:
What Time Zone Is Nicaragua in?
The time zone in Nicaragua is Central Standard Time (CST) year-round.
There is no Daylight Saving Time in Nicaragua.
When Is the Rainy Season in Nicaragua?
The rainy season is from May to October, bringing frequent afternoon showers. This means slippery, muddy trails and more mosquitoes. However, traveling during the rainy season also translates to lush greenery, fewer crowds, and lower prices!
Will My Phone Work in Nicaragua?
Yes, most international phones will work in Nicaragua; however, roaming charges can be high.
Consider purchasing a local SIM card before traveling or at the airport, but make sure your phone is unlocked to use international SIM cards.
You can also connect to local WiFi networks available in many hotels and restaurants.
Do I Need Travel Insurance for Traveling to Nicaragua?
Having travel insurance is always a wise idea when traveling abroad! It will cover you in case of unexpected situations and give you peace of mind along your journey.
What’s the Cost of Living in Nicaragua?
The cost of living in Nicaragua is fairly cheap, especially when compared to Europe and North America.
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