Refugio de Vida Silvestre La Flor
Eighteen kilometers (11 miles) south of San Juan del Sur is one of Nicaragua's most fascinating beaches -- and that's not because of its breaks or palm trees. Playa La Flor is a 1.6km (1-mile) stretch of wildlife preserve and scene of nighttime arribades, or mass turtle hatchings. Twenty thousand olive Ridley turtles nest on the beach every year, and 45 days later, their offspring hatch and break for the water. This happens from July to February, though the best time to see the nesting is in August or September. Always go with a reputable guide and be aware of turtle-watching etiquette, like not using the flash on your camera. Besides turtles, the reserve has an abundance of birds in the estuary and the mangroves at the south end of the beach. To the north, you may see hundreds of hermit crabs scuttling up the beach at sunset. Park rangers give instruction in Spanish, and camping is allowed during the hatching at $25 per night per group. There is a small hut that sells some basic supplies, but it is best to come prepared, especially with insect repellent and a mosquito net. Hostel Casa Oro, 1 block west of the plaza (tel. 505/8458-2415), organizes excellent evening excursions, including a brief pre-tour video explaining the turtle hatching and how to act responsibly while witnessing an unforgettable sight.
Eighteen kilometers (11 miles) south of San Juan del Sur is one of Nicaragua's most fascinating beaches -- and that's not because of its breaks or palm trees. Playa La Flor is a 1.6km (1-mile) stretch of wildlife preserve and scene of nighttime arribades, or mass turtle hatchings. Twenty thousand olive Ridley turtles nest on the beach every year, and 45 days later, their offspring hatch and break for the water. This happens from July to February, though the best time to see the nesting is in August or September. Always go with a reputable guide and be aware of turtle-watching etiquette, like not using the flash on your camera. Besides turtles, the reserve has an abundance of birds in the estuary and the mangroves at the south end of the beach. To the north, you may see hundreds of hermit crabs scuttling up the beach at sunset. Park rangers give instruction in Spanish, and camping is allowed during the hatching at $25 per night per group. There is a small hut that sells some basic supplies, but it is best to come prepared, especially with insect repellent and a mosquito net. Hostel Casa Oro, 1 block west of the plaza (tel. 505/8458-2415), organizes excellent evening excursions, including a brief pre-tour video explaining the turtle hatching and how to act responsibly while witnessing an unforgettable sight.
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