The Best Snorkeling and Diving Spots in Nicaragua

Just 17 miles from the picturesque Little Corn Island off the Caribbean coast lies the most famous diving spot in Nicaragua. A rock and coral formation pokes out above the waves, and you can dive down to see reef sharks, turtles and eagle rays.

On the north side of Little Corn, this spot is great for both snorkeling and diving. There is great coral here, and plenty of docile nurse sharks to spot.

As you might expect from the name, Shark Hole is the place to be for shark spotters. It’s home to a series of tunnels that you can explore alongside reef sharks, eagle rays and glass-eye sweepers.

This crater lake is the largest in Nicaragua and offers good freshwater diving. If you are an experienced diver you might be able to dive with scientists to observe some of the ten undescribed species that live in the lake.

Another crater lake, Xiloá sits in the crater of a volcano some 20 kilometres north of Managua, within easy reach of the Nicaraguan capital. It’s a beautiful spot for weekend getaways and you can dive its depths.

This 22 cay archipelago is home to white sand beaches, clear water and plenty of sea life. You’ll need to take a boat from Pearl Lagoon to get here, but it’s worth the journey. Snorkelers will have a great time looking at dolphins, sea turtles and manta rays.

This beach near San Juan del Sur is a popular nesting site with turtles and a famous spot for surfers. It’s also great for snorkeling if you swim out past the break zone where the visibility is better.