Nicaragua is known to be one of the best tropical countries in South America that offer diverse natural attractions for every tourist that visits the country. While mainland Nicaragua itself offers a lot of activities and sights to see for everyone, the islands off the coast of the country along the Caribbean Sea offers an entirely different experience than the mainland. Very interestingly, every visitor feels like they’re in an entirely different country when they are at one of the islands in Nicaragua. Get to know what more can the South American nation offer and check out the top islands in Nicaragua by reading on.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on March 13, 2023.
1. Little Corn Island, South Caribbean Coast Autonomous Region (from USD 195)
Little Corn Island is probably the best destination in the whole of Nicaragua. Exploring the island will surely give you an entirely different experience, especially that there are no cars or any other motorized vehicles available on the island. The main mode of transportation on the island is by way of long strolls. While walking around the island can be quite tiring, you will be surely relaxed with all of the fun things that you can do such as diving, snorkeling, swimming at the beach, hiking, sunbathing, and fishing. Accommodations on the island are also not a problem as numerous hotels can be found along the shoreline.
Yemaya Island Hideaway
Address: nestled right on the beach at the northern end of the island,Little Corn Island
18.11 km (11.3 mi) from South West Bay
2. Big Corn Island, South Caribbean Coast Autonomous Region (from USD 55)
Spend days of amazing fun and adventure as you get to explore the Big Corn Island in Nicaragua. On this island, a wide variety of fun water activities such as diving, snorkeling, fishing, sunbathing, beach volleyball, and swimming can be done on its amazing beaches. The fun never stops at night as you can relax, dance, gaze into the stars, have some cold drinks, and interact with the ever hospitable locals. The difference between the island’s younger sister, Little Corn Island, is that Big Corn Island has roads, cars, and more people.
Arenas Beach Hotel
Address: Southwest Bay
86 meters (282.3 ft) from South West Bay
3. Pearl Cays, South Caribbean Coast Autonomous Region
Known for its powdery white sand beaches, lined with lush palm trees and surrounded by crystal clear blue waters, the Pearl Cays is home to some of Nicaragua’s best beaches in the Caribbean. Start your amazing day tour at these island groups from the quaint town of Pearl Lagoon. When you get to the Pearl Cays, you are free to roam around, swim on its amazing crystal clear waters, have the tan that you are wanting, explore the island, and even more. The islands also make a great jump-off point for those who want to experience snorkeling and diving, especially with the island’s teeming marine life.
Pearl Cays
Address: South Caribbean Coast Autonomous Region, Nicaragua
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4. The Venada Island, Rio San Juan
If you are coming from the town of San Carlos in Nicaragua, then The Venada will be the first one that you will be encountering. The island is known for its fine, black sand and clear waters which are perfect for a day of fun water activities on the island. The Venada is also home to one of the most historic archaeological sites in Nicaragua which is the Goblin’s Cave or the Bat Cave Blanco. Located just right beside a lake, there are hundreds of images that can be seen on the cave’s sides. Get to experience both fun water activities and history as you visit the island.
The Venada Island
Address: Nicaragua
5. Miskito Cay, northeastern Caribbean
Situated between Honduras and Nicaragua, Miskito Cay is an untouched paradise that offers a very unique experience to everyone. The cay was known before as a sanctum for pirates. But today, the island can only be accessed by means of riding a boat and has no basic infrastructure like comfortable accommodation, electricity, and even potable water. But if you really want to experience the beauty of nature at its finest and get unplugged for at least a day, then you would surely want to spend the day at the warm, turquoise-colored waters of Miskito Cay.
Miskito Cay
Address: Northeastern Caribbean, Nicaragua
6. Islets of Granada, Lake Nicaragua
Islets of Granada is among the first places in Nicaragua to open its doors to the general public and just embrace tourism. The islands are known for their very rich history and the plaza and main church right at the heart of the town. Aside from that, tourists will surely enjoy the diverse attractions and activities that they will be doing while on the island. Today, Granada now provides a number of comfy accommodations, unique cuisines, and modern touch to your Nicaraguan experience.
Islets of Granada
Address: Lake Nicaragua, Nicaragua
7. Islas El Nancital, Nicaragua
Islas El Nancital, La Orqueta Acoyapa Chontales
Posted by Elvin R. Medina Sequeira on Friday, 3 April 2015
Located 34 kilometers (21 miles) away from the municipality of Acoyapa lies Islas Nancital in Nicaragua. If you want to experience something unique and different among the rest of the Nicaraguan islands, then Islas El Nancital is the best option for you. Aside from having great beaches, clear waters, and many other water attractions, the islands also belong to the route where migratory birds pass by. There’s also a very rich marine wildlife in the area, and several marine birds frequent the shores of the islands for some food.
Islas El Nancital
Address: Nicaragua
8. Rama Cay, Bluefields Lagoon
Complete your visit to Nicaragua by exploring Rama Cay at the heart of the Bluefields Lagoon. It has been home to the ancient Rama people for hundreds of years until a Moravian mission was established on the island come the year 1857. The beautiful island is laden with coconut, banana, mango, and breadfruit trees where you can just climb and pick out its fruits whenever you have a craving for it. The island truly is a breath of fresh air - and a taste of tropical fruits.
Rama Cay
Address: Bluefields Lagoon, Nicaragua
Marvel at the beauty of Nicaragua's islands
While the islands of Nicaragua might not be as affluent as the other islands in the Carribean, they still offer a very unique experience, especially for tourists on a budget. Make sure to explore these islands the next time you visit Nicaragua.
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