Updated 2026 Guide

Nicaragua Coastal Highway: Beaches, Route, and How to Get There

Discover what the Carretera Costanera is, which beaches it connects, how to get there from Managua, and when to book private transportation to explore the Southern Pacific with safety and comfort.

Local drivers who know routes, access points, and real travel times.
Private vehicles: Sedans, SUVs, Vans, and Minibuses.
Fixed pricing confirmed before the trip.
Pickups in Managua, Airport, Granada, or San Juan del Sur.

Explore the Coast with No Guesswork

Ideal for travelers who want to visit Southern Pacific beaches without worrying about backroads, schedules, parking, or night returns.

1
Depart from Managua or your hotel
We coordinate the pickup point and time.
2
Visit selected beaches
Maderas, El Remanso, Hermosa, El Coco, Brito, and more.
3
Return with private support
Comfortable, direct trip with a local driver.
Owned FleetInsured vehicles directly coordinated by us.
Verified DriversLocal team with extensive national route experience.
Bilingual ServiceClear communication in Spanish and English.
24/7 SupportIdeal for airport transfers, groups, and itinerary changes.
What it is

What is the Nicaragua Coastal Highway?

It is a road project designed to connect areas of the Pacific coast and facilitate access to beaches, coastal communities, and tourist destinations.

A New Route Along the Nicaragua Pacific

The Coastal Highway (Costanera) makes it easier to travel through coastal areas that previously depended on longer routes or less comfortable access points. For travelers, this means better planning, improved travel times, and more beach options.

Why the Coastal Highway is Changing Tourism

The highway is making it more viable to organize private tours, full-day escapes, and multi-beach routes. It also boosts local hotels, restaurants, surf schools, and tour operators.

Current Status

Status of the Nicaragua Coastal Highway in 2026

The Coastal Highway is advancing in phases. Some sections are already operational while others remain in development, so it's best to plan based on the exact area you wish to visit.
01

Operational Sections of the Coastal Highway

The most relevant progress for tourism is concentrated in the Southern Pacific, especially in areas near San Juan del Sur, Tola, El Remanso, Brito, and El Astillero. Before traveling, it’s advisable to confirm the final access status for each beach.
02

Total Length of the Coastal Highway

The extension varies depending on whether you are referring to operational sections, specific phases, or the complete project. For travelers, the important thing is to validate which part of the route is available for the beach they want to visit.
03

Pending Connections and Construction

The full project seeks to expand the coastal connection to more areas of the Pacific. This will make it easier to design routes between beaches, colonial cities, volcanoes, and national tourist destinations.
Location

Where the Coastal Highway Starts and Ends

It depends on whether we are talking about the complete project or the most relevant sections for tourism. Today, many travelers associate it with the Southern Pacific and the beaches near San Juan del Sur, Tola, Brito, and El Astillero.

Nicaragua Coastal Highway Map

In a final implementation, this section can include an embedded map or a custom image by zones. A technical blueprint isn’t necessary: users need to understand where they are going, which beaches they can visit, and the best starting points.

Beaches

Beaches Along the Nicaragua Coastal Highway

Not all beaches have the same profile. Some are best for surfing, others for families, others for relaxation, and others for private routes with several stops.
Surf & Atmosphere

Playa Maderas

One of the best-known beaches near San Juan del Sur. Ideal for surfers, foreign travelers, and those seeking a more active experience.
Quiet

Playa El Remanso

A great choice for couples, families, and beginner or intermediate surfers. Works perfectly on half-day routes from San Juan del Sur.
Nature

Playa Hermosa

Wide, relaxed, and attractive for walking, photography, and rest. Ideal for those who want more space and less noise.
Family Friendly

Playa El Coco

Recommended for families and travelers looking for a more accessible, comfortable beach suitable for spending several hours.
Exploration

Playa Brito

Interesting for surfers and travelers seeking less crowded beaches. Requires better route and schedule planning.
Extended Route

Majagual, Marsella, and Nacascolo

Good options for combining several stops into one private tour, especially if departing from San Juan del Sur or Rivas.
How to Get There

Getting to the Coastal Highway from Managua

From Managua, the most common way is to travel toward Rivas or San Juan del Sur and then connect with access points to the Coastal Highway beaches.
The general route is Managua → Southern Pan-American Highway → Rivas → San Juan del Sur or Coastal Highway beach access roads. Travel time depends on traffic, weather, exact starting point, and destination beach.

Getting There by Own Vehicle

You can do it if you have highway driving experience and confirm the route status beforehand. Check fuel, spare tires, weather, cash, and return time.

Getting There by Public Transportation

This can work for reaching major cities or points, but it isn’t always practical for visiting specific beaches or making several stops in one day.
This is the most comfortable alternative if you want to depart from Managua, the airport, Granada, or your hotel and arrive directly at the beaches. You can define the route, schedule, vehicle, and return without depending on separate buses or taxis.
Recommended Vehicle

Exploring the Coastal Highway: Sedan, SUV, or 4x4?

The honest answer: it depends on the beach, the season, and the final access point.
VehicleBest ForIdeal For
SedanMain paved sections and destinations with simple access.Couples, executives, or direct transfers.
SUVLong routes, rainy season, extra luggage, or backroads.Families, travelers with luggage, and multi-stop tours.
Van / MinibusGroups, events, private tours, or corporate travel.Large families, delegations, tour groups, and weddings.
Trip Planner

The Best Coastal Beaches Based on Your Trip Type

Choosing the right beach helps avoid two classic mistakes: wasting time on the road or arriving at a place that doesn't fit your plan.
01

Beaches for Surfing

Maderas, El Remanso, Brito, and areas near Tola or San Juan del Sur are attractive options for those seeking waves and an active atmosphere.
02

Beaches for Families

El Coco, El Remanso, and areas with simpler access are usually better if you are traveling with children, seniors, or extra luggage.
03

Tranquil Beaches

Hermosa, Brito, and other less-crowded areas can work best for rest, photography, and connecting with nature.
Experiences

Things to Do on the Nicaragua Coastal Highway

Surfing and Surf Lessons

Several beaches near San Juan del Sur and Tola are world-renowned for surfing. If you are a beginner, it’s best to choose beaches with instructors or schools available.

Beach Day Trips from Managua or San Juan del Sur

From Managua, we recommend departing early and choosing one or two primary beaches. From San Juan del Sur, the route can be even more flexible.

Photography, Sunsets, and Nature

The coastal area offers open beaches, natural landscapes, and excellent sunsets. Morning light and late afternoon typically yield the best photographic results.

Restaurants, Hotels, and Recommended Stops

Availability can vary based on the season. If you are traveling in a group or want to have lunch at a specific spot, it’s best to confirm in advance.
Duration

How Much Time Do You Need for the Coastal Highway?

The ideal time depends on your starting point and how many beaches you want to visit. More stops don't always mean a better experience.
½

Half-Day Tour

Best if you are already in San Juan del Sur, Rivas, or Tola. You can visit one or two nearby beaches without rushing.
1D

Full-Day Tour from Managua

Ideal for departing early, visiting one or two beaches, having lunch on the coast, and returning in the afternoon.
2D

Two-Day Coastal Route

Perfect if you want to stay overnight in the area, watch the sunset, and explore multiple beaches at a calmer pace.
Safety

Is it Safe to Travel the Coastal Highway?

Yes, it is safe to travel the area, but it’s best to do so with planning: leave early, confirm your route, check the weather, and avoid driving at night if you are unfamiliar with the area.

Why a Local Driver is the Better Choice

A local driver doesn’t just drive. They also know the shortcuts, real travel times, the best stops, and common road conditions.

This is key if it’s your first time in Nicaragua, if you are coming from the airport, traveling with family, or wanting to visit several beaches in one day.

Private Service

Private Transportation to the Coastal Highway with Infinity Travels

We offer private transportation and personalized tours to Coastal Highway beaches for tourists, families, couples, groups, and corporate travelers.

Private Transfer from ManaguaPickup at your hotel, residence, airport, or agreed location.
Private Beach ToursFlexible route with selected stops and planned return.
SUVs, Vans, and MinibusesVehicle recommendations based on passengers and luggage.
Fixed Upfront PricingConfirm your route, schedule, vehicle, and rate before departing.
Practical Tips

Tips for Visiting the Coastal Highway

A good trip isn't just about the destination. It also depends on departure time, vehicle choice, and planning.

Bring Cash, Water, and Sunscreen

Not all local spots accept cards. Being prepared completely changes the experience.

Depart Early from Managua

Leaving between 6:00 a.m. and 7:30 a.m. is usually the best window to make the most of your day.

Check the Season and Weather

During the rainy season, some secondary access roads may require a high-clearance vehicle or extra caution.
Frequently Asked Questions

Coastal Highway Nicaragua FAQ

Straightforward answers to plan your transfer or private tour without wasting time.

Yes. We can pick you up in Managua, the airport, Granada, San Juan del Sur, Rivas, or your hotel, and take you to Coastal Highway beaches with a private vehicle and local driver.

You can visit beaches such as Maderas, El Remanso, Hermosa, El Coco, Brito, Marsella, Majagual, Nacascolo, and other areas near San Juan del Sur and Tola.

The usual route is Managua toward Rivas or San Juan del Sur, then connecting with beach access roads. Time varies based on traffic, weather, and destination beach.

Yes. It’s recommended to leave early and choose two or three primary stops to enjoy the day without it becoming a marathon.

It depends on the beach, season, and final access point. For secondary roads, rainy season, or family trips with luggage, an SUV is usually more convenient.

Yes, but planning is key: leave early, confirm your route, check the weather, and avoid night driving if you are unfamiliar with the area.

Pricing depends on your starting point, destination, number of passengers, and vehicle type. We confirm the fixed price before the trip.

Yes. We coordinate pickups at Managua International Airport (MGA) for direct transfers to San Juan del Sur, Rivas, Tola, or Coastal Highway beaches.

Yes. We coordinate SUVs, Vans, or Minibuses for families, tour groups, weddings, corporate delegations, and events.

Send us your date, starting point, the beaches you want to visit, number of passengers, and luggage info. We will recommend a vehicle and provide a quote.

Explore the Coastal Highway with Private Transportation

Send us your route, date, time, number of passengers, and beaches you’d like to visit. We’ll recommend the right vehicle and confirm the price before your trip.