Astillero is a fishing village located between Gavilan and the Chacocente turtle sanctuary. Astillero is a somewhat hidden surfing destination, and the best location is at the north end of the bay. There are several hostels for backpackers, and the Bahia Paraiso Hotel Restaurante is located right on the beach, on a good spot for surfing, fishing and boat trips.
Perhaps the most famous surfing spot in Nicaragua, Popoyo offers surfers large reef breaks, sometimes unpredictable in size. Due to the easy access and inexpensive accommodation facilities, Popoyo attracts large numbers of surfers. The renowned Popoyo Surf Lodge is a local surf camp, located on Playa Guasacate, amidst 14 acres of tropical gardens. Good surfing spots also are available across the road at the Guasacate beach breaks.
The Playa Santana beach breaks are hollow and peaky, ideal for those who don't like crowds nearby when surfing. These spots are generally populated with locals. Various house rentals are available near the beach, with access to wireless Internet and clubhouses. The Surf Sanctuary is a hostel located near the beach breaks, for easy access to the surfing spots.
Playa Gavilan is a fairly new surfing destination in Nicaragua. The breaks of Popoyo are easily accessible from Playa Gavilan, the location being thus perfect for those who want to avoid the crowds in Popoyo but still surf there.
