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Best time to visit

Dry season, green season and turtle season, month by month.

Last checked: October 2026

When is the best time to visit San Juan del Sur?

December to April is the dry season: the most sun, the calmest planning and the busiest town. May to November is the green season, with fewer visitors, green hills and the sea turtle nesting season at La Flor. September and October are the wettest months, so pick those only if you're flexible.

The detail

MonthsWhat to expectGood for
December to AprilDry, sunny, about 5 to 9 rain days a monthBeach days, boat trips, first visits
May to AugustGreen season starts, rain most daysQuieter beaches, lower demand, turtles from July
September to OctoberWettest months, around 18 to 21 rain daysTurtle nesting peak, flexible travelers
NovemberRain easing, about 12 rain daysGreen hills with less rain

How Mantra helps

[Which boat tours run all year, and any green-season prices or departure changes.]

In the green season we plan around the weather.

[Morning departures and a backup day where we can.]

Tell us your dates and we'll suggest the best days for a boat trip, or let Mantra Vacations plan the whole trip around the season.

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What is the rainy season like in San Juan del Sur?

The rainy season runs from May to November. It brings heavy showers rather than nonstop rain on most days, but September and October can have 18 to 21 rainy days. Dirt roads to the beaches turn muddy, and storms can build fast and last several days.

The detail

  • September averages about 10.5 inches (267 mm) of rain.
  • The town and the new coastal highway stay usable. The road to Playa Hermosa is the one that needs a 4x4.
  • Nicaragua gets tropical storms and hurricanes in this season. Watch the U.S. National Hurricane Center forecast before and during your trip.
  • Pack a light rain jacket, dry bags for phones and quick-dry clothes.

How Mantra helps

[If weather cancels a boat trip, we move it to another day or refund it: our policy.]

Rainy afternoon? Our land tours keep the day going: the Friends Tour waterfall and beach dinner, or a day trip to Masaya, León or Rivas.

Ask us on WhatsApp what the weather looks like for your dates.

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How hot is San Juan del Sur?

It's hot all year. Daytime highs sit around 86 to 90°F (30 to 32°C) in the dry season, with March the hottest of those months. Nights stay warm, around 75°F (24°C). The sea is about 79°F (26°C) in January and warmer later in the year. The sun is strong, with a UV index of 10 or more.

The detail

Plan outdoor activity for the morning or late afternoon. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and more water than you think you need. Afternoon breezes along the coast help, but midday on a boat is the strongest sun you'll get.

How Mantra helps

The Blue Tour stops at a beach, so you get time out of the sun, and includes one beer per person.

[Shade, water and drinks on each boat tour.]

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