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, Central America's largest country, offers adventure, wildlife, culture, and more. There are plenty of things to do in Nicaragua. The list includes active volcano hikes, world-renowned waves, and adrenaline-pumping activities.
When it comes to accommodations, there’s a wide variety of options. Whether you’re looking for rustic jungle vibes, luxury resorts, or beachfront Nicaragua hotels, it’s all possible. Narrowing down the best hotels in Nicaragua can be time-consuming, so we’ve compiled a list of great spots and organized them by the country's most popular destinations.
As a Guatemala-based eco-tour company, Naturally Smart Travel works directly with communities to create sustainable travel and tourism experiences. We can help you explore Nicaragua with highly personalised and consciously curated trips, tours, and itineraries. Keep reading to discover great Nicaragua hotels for every budget and style.
Awesome Accommodations in León Nicaragua
León is at the very top of the list when it comes to the best places to visit in Nicaragua. Home to a beautiful melting pot of cultures, the local population is a mix of poets, artists, activists, creative thinkers, and students.
León City, Nicaragua, is raw, gritty, and authentic. It’s not quite as polished as Granada, and yet it’s one of the top sites to see in Nicaragua, often 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 still evident here, especially in the street murals and art museums.
Nature and volcanoes surround León City, Nicaragua, and the Pacific Ocean is only 30 minutes away. So, how long should you stay here?! The answer depends, but five days is sufficient to explore the city, its nearby attractions, and experience local Nicaraguan culture, history, and food.
Hot tip: It gets hot here! Especially during the dry season, so it’s wise to find accommodations with a refreshing pool or air conditioning.
Affordable Stays in León Nicaragua
Poco a Poco Hostel
2da calle NO. Iglesia Bautista, media cuadra arriba
Meet new people, enjoy themed nights and good vibes. Built in a restored historic building, the rooms are clean, and the location is convenient. It's 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 available if needed. The nearby sister property is smaller and calmer, ideal for working; between the two, you've got the best of both worlds when it comes to good hotels in Nicaragua.
Hostal La Tortuga Booluda
If you’re hunting for a home away from home on your search for hotels in Nicaragua, you’ll find it here! This small family-run hostel is in a stylishly restored colonial house. The rooms are well-equipped, featuring private bathrooms and work desks. And it's centrally located.
Start your day with a fresh cup of Nicaragua coffee and the complimentary breakfast. The amenities to enjoy include a pool, air conditioning, a courtyard, a kitchen, a gym, a water filter, and a game room.
Bonus: They offer private Spanish lessons, too!
Mid-Priced Hotels in León Nicaragua
La Posada Del Doctor
Parque San Juan 50 metros al oeste
This 3-star bed and breakfast is within walking distance of some of the city’s main attractions, including some of the most popular things to do in Nicaragua.
Sleep well in the air-conditioned rooms and 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.
It's a guest favorite, checking all the boxes for a lovely stay when it comes to Nicaragua hotels.
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 TVs, terraces, and private bathrooms stocked with free toiletries.
There's a daily complimentary American-style breakfast. Check in with loved ones back home and the office with 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.
Higher-Priced Hotels in León Nicaragua
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 modern amenities you'd find at other Nicaragua resorts but with a more personal touch. The on-site restaurant serves traditional Nicaraguan and international dishes, all 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. On the long list of Nicaragua hotels, the Hotel El Convento boasts all the amenities and features for an exceptional stay.
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!
Mid-Priced Granada Nicaragua Hotels
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.
It has exceptional reviews and ratings. There are personalized concierge services, 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 Nicaraguan and French-inspired cuisine with local ingredients. And not all Nicaragua hotels offer such a delightful selection of vegan and vegetarian dining options!
Mombacho Lodge
This is a nature lover’s paradise, offering a little taste of rustic luxury. Sleep peacefully surrounded by trees and jungle. Tucked in a national park, it's within walking distance of the Reserva Natural Volcán Mombacho.
This eco-friendly mountain hotel has four private cabins built from local wood, with private bathrooms and decks. Sustainably minded, they use renewable energy and eco-friendly cleaning products. The restaurant and bar offer vegetarian cuisine made from locally sourced and organic food. There’s 24-hour round-trip airport transportation available and a local area shuttle.
The long list of tours and things to do in Nicaragua includes a guided night hike, ziplining, wildlife walks, canopy tours, and horseback riding. This isn’t one of your average hotels in Nicaragua!
Read more like this: The Top 3 Places To Visit in Nicaragua
Higher-Priced Hotels in Granada
Hotel Dario
This 5-star boutique hotel is a luxurious and rare find among the list of Nicaragua hotels. 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. It's like staying at top Nicaragua resorts, but with a more intimate and curated experience. 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 Nicaragua coffee grown on the slopes of Mombacho Volcano.
The rooms have air conditioning, WiFi, purified water, coffee makers, and local 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
Off-the-beaten-path Jinotega is a beautiful farming region in Nicaragua’s mountainous countryside. Situated in the Northern Highlands, Jinotega is 130km, about 81 miles, north of the capital. 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 for a digital detox, to recharge your batteries, and reconnect with the natural world.
Here are some of the best places to stay in and around Jinotega!
Mid-Priced Stays in Jinotega
Montebrisa Boutique B&B
This award-winning boutique bed and breakfast is tucked in the mountains and surrounded by a lush oasis. Built in a restored 1940s Art Déco villa, it's unlike other Nicaragua hotels.
Mornings here begin with a hearty cooked-to-order breakfast featuring local ingredients and coffee. After fueling up, stroll 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, daily housekeeping, and a 24-hour airport shuttle.
If you’d like, the tour desk can help arrange personalized adventures, including white water rafting, Indigenous weaving workshops, waterfall hikes, Nicaragua coffee museum tours, and more.
Hotel Cafe
Hotel Cafe is on a mission to support the region's socio-economic and cultural development, leading the way in eco-friendly hotels in Nicaragua.
Exceptional hospitality meets sustainable tourism while also being a guest favorite. 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.
It's within walking distance of popular attractions and sites to see in Nicaragua, like the historic cathedral, the entrance to the Peña de la Cruz mountain, and Nicaragua 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.
Read more like this: “The Food of the Gods” Chocolate Making Process From Bean to Bar
Higher-Priced Hotels in Jinotega
Vera Eco-Resort
Km 143.5 Carretera Matagalpa El Roblar, Comunidad La Grecia, San Ramón
Travel with purpose at this top-rated accommodation located in a cloud forest. There are 27 bedrooms across 9 unique villas, and a full daily breakfast is included. The amenities are stacked: an on-site restaurant, free WiFi, a spa, a multi-use sports court, and a 24-hour fitness facility. There are 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; there’s an all-inclusive option and access to the best things to do in Nicaragua.
Not only is this a great place to relax and reset, 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. The activities include guided tours through the cloud forest, hiking, horseback riding, birdwatching, mountain biking, night walks, and Nicaragua coffee tours.
This family-run establishment operates with a deep connection to the environment. The farm-to-table restaurant features freshly harvested ingredients. If you’re traveling in a group, on-site meeting and event spaces are available, catering to all types of travelers looking for exceptional Nicaragua hotels.
San Juan del Sur Hotels
San Juan del Sur is the place to be if you’re looking for a beachfront Nicaragua 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 for horseback riding or hiking to the iconic Jesus statue. It's also a haven for yoga and wellness. This, of course, will help to balance out all the cocktails on catamarans, partying til’ sunrise, and pool crawling.
The vibes are good here, and it’s a safe, touristy place; however, avoid going to the beach and the outskirts of town after dark.
Below, we’re sharing where to find the best spots to stay in San Juan del Sur.
Affordable Stays in San Juan del Sur
Casa Oro Eco Hostel
This full-service backpackers' hostel is on a mission to do good, setting itself apart from other hostels and hotels in Nicaragua. In fact, it was the first eco-hostel and surf school in San Juan del Sur.
The space is vibrant, and the vibes are chill. There's WiFi, air conditioning, filtered drinking water, free daily breakfast, and both dorms and private rooms. 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. And 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, where natural building materials are repurposed, and waste is diverted from the landfill.
Mid-Priced Stays in San Juan del Sur
Casa de Olas - Eco Rustic Hostel
This adults-only rustic hilltop retreat is surrounded by jungle, with private and dorm rooms.
It’s a quiet hostel offering free shuttles and a free daily breakfast. 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 afternoon. With stunning views from the infinity pool, terrace, lounge area, or the comfort of your room.
Higher-Priced Hotels in San Juan del Sur
Morgan's Rock Reserve & Ecolodge
If you’re looking for exceptional Nicaragua hotels, this luxury 4-star hotel stands out. It's an eco-friendly retreat with 15 spacious private bungalows and 3 villas, all constructed from natural materials. Vacation mode awaits with 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 in a protected bay and exploring the hanging bridge and forest trails. Cool off by the main pool, overlooking the ocean, or spoil yourself with a spa treatment. It goes beyond typical Nicaragua resorts for an unforgettable experience.
This accommodation focuses on preserving the local ecosystem, wildlife, and Nicaraguan culture and communities. This beachfront Nicaragua hotel not only hires local community members, but also buys directly from local producers, artisans, potters, fishermen, and farmers. The water is heated by solar panels. The on-site open-air restaurant, La Bastide, features locally grown food, with about 60% sourced directly from its own organic farm.
Hotels 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 the capital, Managua. It's the country's largest city and 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 out to explore the rest of the country. Three natural reserves are close by, ideal for birdwatching, spending time in nature, and hiking to waterfalls.
To finish our list of Nicaragua resorts, hotels, and hostels, here are our picks for hotels in Managua, Nicaragua, near the airport.
Affordable Hotels in Managua Nicaragua Near Airport
La Bicicleta Hostal
Reparto San Juan. Del Hotel Los Robles 2 1/2 c. abajo. Casa #7
This vibrant, eco-friendly hotel emphasizes sustainability. Its initiatives 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, making this an ideal base for exploring the capital.
La Posada del Arcángel
Centrally located, 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 historical attractions and popular sites to see in Nicaragua. Additionally, La Posada del Arcangel provides services such as airport transfers and tour arrangements, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay for travelers.
Mid-Priced Hotels in Managua Nicaragua Near Airport
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 sites to see in Nicaragua 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 Nicaragua hotels 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. When researching hotels in Managua Nicaragua near airport, this is a solid choice.
Wishing You an Exceptional Stay 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 Guatemala-based ecotourism company focused on sustainable, 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 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.
Is Nicaragua Safe To Travel?
The answer to the question: Is Nicaragua safe to travel to? It's generally yes. Tourists can safely travel to Nicaragua, but being mindful and taking a degree of caution is necessary.
The safest areas are the popular tourist destinations like Granada, León, Jinotega, and San Juan del Sur. However, it's recommended you check with your government for the most up-to-date travel information and advisories.
*This post contains affiliate links, which, if you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
