A small, relaxed beachfront hideaway on Nicaragua’s wild Pacific coast, with excellent surf right on the doorstep.
The creation of former yacht captain Damien and chef Katie, Mandla brings together their love of the ocean, good food and entertaining. Available for exclusive use for up to sixteen people, it’s a wonderful place to gather friends or family, where you can wake to the sound of palm trees rustling and waves breaking just a few feet away.
A rustic palapa decked out in blue and white textiles acts as the hub around which eight one-bedroom cabanas are spread among the gardens, with tall cacti leading the way to the oceanfront pool and bar where guests gather during happy hour.
What we love about Mandla
- The modern, lightly tropical design of the eight one-bedroom casitas, with air-conditioning, handmade beach-wood furniture and outdoor showers with volcanic-rock walls.
- The pool overlooks the Pacific, with a swim-up bar serving cocktails made with fresh tropical fruit, homemade syrups and infused spirits; the passion-fruit margaritas have developed something of a following.
- Katie’s cooking is a considerable step up from the usual surf retreat fare: menus are planned with guests before arrival, from tropical smoothie bowls served in coconut shells to beautifully presented sushi, fresh ceviche and South African beach BBQs.
- Some of the most consistent and uncrowded surf on Nicaragua’s Pacific coast – four breaks are spread along roughly a mile of beach, including one directly in front of Mandla, with waves for beginners and experienced surfers alike.
- Katie and Damien are excellent, friendly and knowledgeable hosts with an incredible eye for detail and instinct for looking after guests from years working on super yachts.
Surfing is a highlight of every stay at Mandla.
Most mornings begin early, when the surf is at its best; guests can paddle out directly from Mandla or head to one of the other breaks along El Tránsito’s beach. Damien and Katie work with experienced local instructors who know exactly where to go according to the conditions, whether you’re taking your first lesson or have been surfing for years.
Beyond the waves, ride horses along the beach and into the countryside, or head inland to Cerro Negro, one of Nicaragua’s youngest and most active volcanoes. After hiking up its steep black volcanic gravel slopes, descend by sandboard, reaching impressive speeds on the way down! Return to Mandla for a late lunch and a siesta, with time for another surf or a walk along the beach before sunset.
Another favourite outing is to take Mandla’s boat out through the surf to explore the nearby estuaries, stopping to fish and wakeboard along the way. End the day back on the beach with pizza and margaritas, watching the last surfers come in.
Mandla is located in the quiet beach town of El Transito, on the Pacific Coast of Nicaragua. Located just an hour’s drive from Managua, Nicaragua’s capital, Mandla is extremely accessible.
There are direct flights from Managua to Costa Rica, Cuba, Mexico, and Panama, meaning that a stay at Mandla can be easily combined with another Central American country.
When to Travel
Those who are looking for balmy sunny days to relax, enjoy good food and cocktails, and surf small but clean offshore waves come in November – March. Those coming on a surf trip should aim for the months of March – September when the swell gets bigger.
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