Best resorts in Nicaragua

Nicaragua might not always get the spotlight it deserves—its flashy neighbors often steal the scene—but this Central American gem has quietly perfected the art of “vacation done right.” Though Nicaragua remains one of the poorer nations in Latin America, it boasts a rich history as a former colonial power.

The country once controlled a critical waterway, offering the fastest connection between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans before the Panama Canal existed. This legacy is reflected in Nicaragua’s architectural and cultural gems that house resorts today. You’ll particularly be mesmerized by the beautifully preserved Spanish colonial city of Granada.

Here, opulent churches and grand buildings have been transformed into some of Central America’s most atmospheric hotels. Just a short distance away, the vibrant beach town of San Juan del Sur has become home to one outstanding resort alongside several other upscale properties.

Meanwhile, Granada’s sister city, León, though less frequented by international tourists, offers colonial-style accommodations that are surprisingly comfortable. This impressive diversity is why Nicaragua deserves more acclamation for its impressive architectural upcycling. Here’s our list of the best resorts in Nicaragua;

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Yemaya Resort, Little Corn Island

Yemaya Resort is the brainchild of an experienced hotel operator known for “eco chic” resorts in Tulum, Mexico. His artistry shows in every detail of this thoughtfully designed property. Little Corn is tiny tropical island with no vehicles and just 1,200 residents. This location presented challenges during construction and occasional transit delays when the sea is rough.

However, those who make the leap to the resort will cherish the experience. Its 14 cabanas are scattered across seven acres of lush coconut palms, linked by winding paths that lead to several pristine beaches. There’s also a yoga platform nestled in the foliage, and the main building houses a restaurant and lounge. The restaurant is widely regarded as the best on the Corn Islands.

Multiple picture-perfect beaches invite safe swimming and snorkeling, and kayakers can easily paddle around the entire island. The staff can also arrange diving excursions to explore nearby reefs. For those seeking ultimate relaxation, a six-sided massage room under a palapa offers a variety of spa treatments.

Also Read: Best Colonial Towns in South and Central America.

Jicaro Private Island Ecolodge, Lake Nicaragua

Perched at the tip of the Asese Peninsula, Jicaro Private Island Ecolodge offers a tranquil escape from Nicaragua’s colonial city. The lodge occupies the 500-square-meter island of El Jícaro, set amidst the 365 islets of Granada’s Lake Nicaragua. Since its opening in 2009, this carefully designed luxury ecolodge has become a standout destination, rivaling even the most elegant hotels in Granada itself.

Visitors glide through the emerald forested islets as the calls of howler monkeys and the melodies of countless songbirds fill the air. For ardent fishing enthusiasts, there are some nearby islets that host simple fishing shacks. If you prefer to just kick back and relax, the resort offers an intimate, handcrafted retreat where gentle waves lap the shore.

Hotel Intercontinental Real Metrocentro, Managua

Hotel Intercontinental Real Metrocentro sits in the heart of Managua. Despite being famously dubbed the “city without a center,” it offers its most central and convenient location at this bustling eight-story landmark. Perfectly positioned for both business and leisure travelers, the hotel is close to the city’s top dining spots, shopping destinations, and nightlife.

Guests are welcomed through an impressive lobby. Its ceiling has a swirling Spanish colonial-style dome crafted from handmade bricks and adorned with elaborate chandeliers. Beyond the lobby lies an outdoor pool often regarded as one of the finest in Nicaragua. Dining options include the opulent Voltes Restaurant, featuring a popular buffet and French à la carte dishes.

There’s also the intimate Scenario Bar, known for its wine selection and occasional live music. The hotel offers a variety of room options, from modern, streamlined accommodations to more luxurious packages. These feature tasteful décor in warm oranges and calming greens, comfortable workstations, high-speed internet access, flat-screen TVs, multi-line phones, spacious bathrooms with rain showers.

Hotel La Recolección, León

Hotel La Recolección is a striking colonial-style retreat built from the ground up in the heart of Nicaragua’s vibrant second city. Its design draws heavily on traditional Spanish architecture, featuring arched doorways, petite balconies, and shuttered windows that evoke centuries of history. The creamy façade is offset by mud-red roof tiles sourced from La Paz Centro, a nearby town known for its artisanal craftsmanship.

Overlooking the golden La Recolección Church, a baroque masterpiece completed in 1786, the hotel feels deeply connected to its historic surroundings. León is home to some of the region’s most colorful colonial buildings and this resort resonates with this sentiment.

Architect Kelton Villavicencio envisioned a modern three-story hotel that would blend seamlessly into this historic landscape. The local artisans brought the vision to life, creating intricate wood fixtures and a spiral entry staircase. Every corner of the hotel, from corridors to rooms and bathrooms, showcases classic cement tiles in traditional red mud tones.

There are also artworks by local Nicaraguan artists to add whimsy and charm throughout. The ground-floor restaurant, La Esquina, serves breakfast with options ranging from American classics to typical Nicaraguan dishes like rice, fried plantains, and beans.

Thanks to León’s pedestrian-friendly layout and the hotel’s central location makes it easy to explore nearby attractions. The Central Plaza, León Cathedral, the Ortiz-Gurdian Foundation Museum, and the Museum of Legends & Traditions, La Perla Casino can be reached easily from the resort.

Conclusion

While Nicaragua might not possess the glitz and glamour of its more famous neighbors, the country punches above its weight class with these resorts.  The resorts here combine natural beauty, privacy, and just enough luxury to feel indulgent without the pretentiousness of some overhyped destinations.