Why Visit Costa Dulce?
Known as one of the best surf and yoga retreats in Nicaragua, Costa Dulce offers a unique blend of eco-luxury, personal growth, and cultural immersion. Guests enjoy daily yoga sessions, professional surf instruction, healthy farm-to-table meals, and the serenity of a private beach. But it’s more than just a retreat—it’s a community. With strong local integration, sustainable practices like reforestation, and bilingual staff who treat guests like family, Costa Dulce creates a truly personalized and unforgettable experience. It’s the ideal getaway for families, solo wellness travelers, yoga instructors looking to host retreats, or surfers chasing their next wave.
Getting to Costa Dulce from Managua Airport
If you’re flying into Managua, Nicaragua’s capital, getting to Costa Dulce is refreshingly easy. Upon arrival, a friendly Costa Dulce driver will be waiting at the arrival gate holding a sign with your name and the Costa Dulce logo. From there, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic 2 to 2.5-hour drive through Nicaragua’s lush landscapes and countryside. If you need to grab snacks or drinks, your driver can make a quick stop along the way. No navigating foreign transit systems or confusing directions—just a smooth, personalized start to your retreat.
Traveling from Costa Rica to Costa Dulce: A Step-by-Step Border Guide
Traveling from Costa Rica to Costa Dulce is an adventure in itself, and understanding the process will make your journey smooth and stress-free. Here’s a detailed, step-by-step breakdown of what to expect at the border:
First Stop: Costa Rica Customs
Your Costa Rican driver will stop here and direct you to the customs office. You’ll go inside for processing, and meet the same driver again once you exit. If you’ve been in Costa Rica for more than 12 hours, you’ll be required to pay a $10 exit fee.
Stop #2: The Border Drop Off
This is the final point for your Costa Rican driver. From here, you’ll need to walk about 100 yards toward the Nicaraguan customs building. It’s a straightforward walk, and signage will guide you.
Stop #3: Checkpoint
Have your passport ready to show to officers at this checkpoint. As you walk, you may encounter local porters with handcarts offering to assist with your bags. They can be quite helpful, especially if you’re overwhelmed or carrying heavy luggage. Tipping them $5–$10 is well worth the service.
Stop #4: Nicaragua Customs
You’re almost there! Upon entering the building, pay a $1 entry tax. Then proceed to the counter to pay the $13 entry fee and receive your passport stamp. It’s a good idea to bring small bills, as customs agents may not have change. Your bags will be scanned before you exit the building.
TIP: A Costa Dulce driver may be waiting right outside the customs building, but if not, don’t worry—sometimes they are only allowed to wait in the lot nearby. Customs agents may also ask for your accommodation details. Here’s what to tell them: “Hospedaje Costa Dulce, Km 14 carretera Ostional, San Juan del Sur. Propietaria: Patricia Jiménez. Contacto: 8277-8009.”
Last Stop: Parking Lot
If you don’t immediately see your driver upon exiting the building, walk to the parking lot at the end of the wall to your left. There you’ll reunite with your Nicaraguan driver and begin your relaxing drive to Costa Dulce.
Choosing Your Transportation Option
Costa Dulce offers multiple transport options to make your journey seamless. You can book a private taxi or join a shared shuttle, both arranged directly through the retreat. These options are especially convenient if you want a smooth hand-off at the border or airport.
Border Crossing Tips and What to Expect
To make your border crossing as smooth as possible, be sure to have your travel documents in order. This includes a valid passport with at least six months of validity, and proof of onward travel if requested.
Expect some waiting time—especially during peak travel seasons—and stay hydrated. Bring cash in small denominations for border fees or tipping drivers. SIM cards are available near the border, and you can exchange currency there as well, although we recommend doing so in advance for better rates. With these simple tips, your cross-border journey to Costa Dulce will be smooth, safe, and stress-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a passport/visa to visit Nicaragua?
You will need a passport with 6 months validity. Visas are available upon arrival for $10.
Are there any COVID travel restrictions
Nicaragua has lifted all COVID restrictions
