If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path surf town in Nicaragua, El Tránsito might be your perfect destination. This small fishing village on the Pacific coast in the León region has become a favorite among surfers, backpackers, and travelers who want to enjoy authentic Nicaraguan beach life without the crowds. Known for its consistent surf, laid-back vibe, and hidden beaches, El Tránsito is one of Nicaragua’s best-kept travel secrets.
This comprehensive El Tránsito travel guide covers everything you need to know before visiting: how to get there, the best places to stay (including the famous Free Spirit Hostel), top restaurants and cafés, things to do, and practical travel tips to make the most of your trip.
Table of Contents
- Is it Worth It to Visit El Tránsito
- ATMs & Money in El Tránsito
- How to Get to El Tránsito
- Best Places to Stay in El Tránsito
- Best Places to Eat in El Tránsito
- Best Things to Do in El Tránsito
1
Is it Worth It to Visit El Tránsito
El Tránsito offers the best of both worlds: a quiet, laid-back vibe with great waves and plenty of adventure. The beaches are long and uncrowded, sunsets are spectacular, and the community is welcoming. Surfers come for the consistent breaks, but even if you don’t surf, you’ll find tide pools, relaxed cafés, and a true sense of unplugging.
This is not a polished resort town, it’s rustic, friendly, and ideal if you’re looking for surf culture and genuine local charm.
2
ATMs & Money in El Transito
A small but very important thing to know!
There are no ATMs in El Tránsito. Withdraw cash in bigger cities like Managua or León before you arrive. Both USD and Nicaraguan córdobas are accepted.
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3
How to Get to El Tránsito
Reaching El Tránsito isn’t as straightforward as heading to more famous beach towns, but the journey is part of the adventure. This is, of course, unless you are ready to pay a much higher price for private transportation.
Get to El Tránsito by Public Transportation
The most affordable and authentic way to travel!
It’s a mission to get to El Tránsito by public transport but it’s definitely doable if you are well informed :
From Managua (Airport or Downtown)
Buses leave Managua (from Mercado Israel or Mercado Oriental) for El Tránsito at limited times each day.
- Mercado Oriental bus terminal: Direct bus, duration 1h45 to 2h30
- Monday to Saturday : 11:30AM, 12:30AM & 2:20PM
- Sunday : only at 11:30AM
- Mercado Israel bus terminal: Direct bus, duration 1h45 to 2h15
- Everyday : 12PM,1PM & 2:50PM
The cost should be around 30 cordobas.
If you cannot make it to one of these specific times : There is a bus approximately every hour going from Managua to Leon through the Carretera Vieja (which means old road). You ask to hop on that ride and to be dropped off at Kilometer 44 (Kilometro quaranta quatro).
From León
You have to pass through the Carretera Vieja by taking a bus from Leon to Managua and ask to be dropped off at Kilometer 44 (Kilometro quaranta quatro).
Once at Kilometer 44: There is still a 12 km stretch!
If your timing lines up with a bus coming from Managua, catch it! If not, you may see taxis that will offer the ride for something around $20 US or… you can try hitchhiking! Since El Transito is famous among backpackers, hitchhiking that route is very popular.
Depending on where you stay, it may be possible to arrange transportation with your accommodation from kilometer 44. I highly suggest you ask them.
From Granada, San Juan del Sur, Ometepe or anywhere else
You’ll need to pass through Managua or Leon to follow the previous detailed information.
Get to El Transito by Private Transportation
The easiest option : take a taxi or shuttle.
- Direct ride from Managua or Leon: takes about 1-1h15.
- Cost: between $50-$70 USD.
You can negotiate the price directly with drivers at the bus station or ask some help from your accommodation in El Transito.
If it’s your first time, or you’re traveling with surfboards or heavy bags, a private transfer will make things much easier but it does come with a cost.
Getting Out of El Transito by Public Transportation
To Managua from El Transito : direct bus from Monday to Saturday at 5AM, 6AM or 7AM & Sunday only at 6AM.
To Leon from El Transito : take a bus going to Managua, drop off at Kilometer 44 and then cross the street to wait for the bus to Leon that passes every hour or so.
If these schedules don’t work for you, you can:
- Take a taxi to km 44 (ask at the reception of your accommodation),
- Or hitchhike to km 44.
From there, you can easily catch one of the buses that pass about every hour on the Carretera Vieja, heading in your direction.
4
Best Places to Stay in El Tránsito
Most accommodations here cater to surfers and beach lovers, with a mix of lively surf hostels, all-inclusive surf camps, and laid-back guesthouses. Whether you’re after a budget-friendly dorm or a cozy private room, you’ll find something that fits your style.
Free Spirit Hostel
The most iconic spot in town, Free Spirit Hostel is the heartbeat of El Tránsito’s backpacker scene. With dorms and private rooms, a pool, daily yoga, surf lessons, and plenty of group activities, it’s the perfect place to meet other travelers and fully embrace the surf lifestyle.
Fun fact for Canadians: This hostel is owned by a group of Québécois and often buzzing with travelers from Québec!
Other Great Options in El Tránsito
- Solid Surf Camp – A lively, social camp with surf packages and group meals included.
- Nimbu Surfhouse – A smaller, more relaxed spot with private rooms and a chilled vibe.
- Alive Beach House – A mid-range choice offering ocean views, surf lessons, and a touch of extra comfort.
5
Best Places to Eat in El Transito
While El Tránsito is best known as a laid-back surf town, its food scene is small but steadily growing. You’ll find a mix of traditional Nicaraguan cuisine and traveler-friendly favorites like smoothies, burgers, and pizza.
Travel tip: Most restaurants in El Tránsito are cash-only, so make sure to bring córdobas or small USD bills.
El Ancla Bar y Comedor – Best Local Food in El Tránsito
From the outside, El Ancla looks unassuming, but don’t be fooled. This spot is hands down the most recommended restaurant in town, and for good reason. For around $5 USD, you’ll get generous plates of fresh, local food that never disappoints.
Must-try dishes:
- Pescado a la Plancha (grilled fish) – fresh and flavorful, a local favorite.
- Pollo a la Plancha (grilled chicken) – simple but perfectly seasoned.
If you want to taste the best authentic Nicaraguan food in El Tránsito, this is your place.
Comedor Doña Urania – Local & Affordable
Similar in vibe to El Ancla, Doña Urania offers warm hospitality and hearty meals. The menu is a bit more varied, with a wider price range, but dishes like Pollo a la Plancha are about the same ($5 USD).
While we personally preferred El Ancla, Doña Urania is a great choice if you’re staying a few days and want to try different spots for cheap eats in El Tránsito.
El Oso Café y Bistro – International & Plant-Based Options
If you’ve been traveling through Central America and are craving something different, El Oso Café y Bistro is a refreshing change. The menu includes international favorites, plant-based meals, homemade drinks, and sweet treats.
It’s one of the best restaurants in El Tránsito if you’re looking for vegetarian or vegan-friendly options.
Olas Clandestinas – Pizza & Burgers by the Beach
For a laid-back evening, head to Olas Clandestinas, a beachfront bar and restaurant known for its wood-fired pizzas, juicy burgers, and cocktails. The ocean view makes it one of the best places in El Tránsito for a casual dinner at sunset.
Surf Coffee – Best Coffee in El Tránsito
Need a caffeine fix before hitting the waves? Surf Coffee is the go-to spot for your morning latte, fresh smoothies, and light breakfasts.
Bonus: It’s one of the few places in town with air conditioning, making it the perfect spot to cool down and relax.
6
Best Things to Do in El Tránsito
Whether you’re chasing waves, exploring nature, or enjoying the laid-back vibe, El Tránsito offers unforgettable experiences.
Surfing – The Main Attraction
Surfing is the heart of El Tránsito. With consistent waves for all levels, it’s a prime spot for beginners and experienced surfers alike. Most hostels and surf camps offer board rentals, lessons, and guided surf sessions, so you can hit the waves even if you’ve never surfed before.
Even if surfing isn’t your thing, being in Nicaragua’s surf capital is still an amazing experience. You’ll love watching the action, relaxing on the sand, and soaking in the coastal atmosphere.
Explore the Tide Pools
At low tide, head to the rocky sections of the beach to discover natural tide pools. They’re perfect for a quiet dip, cooling off, or just lounging in the shallow water. It’s completely free, just walk left along the beach until you find them!
Yoga & Wellness
Many surf hostels, including Free Spirit Hostel, host yoga classes and wellness activities, making it easy to unwind after a morning of surfing or exploring. Whether you’re into meditation, stretching, or simply relaxing, there’s something for every traveler.
Sunset Watching
One of the simplest yet most magical things to do in El Tránsito is watch the sun set over the Pacific. Grab a drink, find a spot on the beach, and let the sky turn into a stunning display of colors. Sunsets in El Tránsito are unforgettable.
Final Thoughts
El Tránsito is one of Nicaragua’s hidden gems, where surf culture blends seamlessly with local life. It may not be the easiest town to reach, but that’s part of its charm. Whether you’re catching waves, practicing yoga, or simply relaxing by the ocean, El Tránsito is a place that leaves a lasting impression.
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