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Nicaragua’s Corn Islands
Nicaragua’s golden Caribbean kernels—The Corn Islands—dwell just 43 miles east of the steamy Atlantic Coast.
In terms of climate and culture, they are a world away. Ocean breezes keep things cool.
The atmosphere is relaxed and reggae-rich. Creole English is commonly spoken in lieu of Spanish.
Yoga, Scuba, Hiking and Fishing
The first European sailors named the area “the Skeleton Islands”—once home to a fearsome tribe of cannibals known as the Kukras.
In the 16th century, the islands became a base for marauding English pirates.
Today, friendly fishermen, coconut farmers, yoga instructors, and dive operators inhabit these shores.
Big Corn Island
Big Corn Island’s four-square miles of hilly interior slope down to white and gold sand beaches, mangrove estuaries, and clear waters.
The best diving is found off the island’s wide northern end, where the coral reef supports:
- Hammerhead Sharks
- Snapper
- Parrotfish
- Angelfish
- Eagle Rays
- Green Sea Turtles
The oblong southern end of the island shelters its best beaches.
Little Corn Island
Little Corn Island, twenty miles to the north, is accessible by ferry—forty minutes from Big Corn.
Overall, Little Corn is the more pristine and enjoyable island. Here you’ll find wide beaches and six miles of honeycombed coral reef.
What to do in Nicaragua’s Corn Islands
The entire island—all 1.1 square mile of it—is free of cars and most other motorized transportation.
Visitors can dive, kayak, fish, snorkel, and hike.
Privately guided dive tours can be arranged from either island.
What is the Weather Like?
The Corn Islands host tropical warmth year-round, with daytime highs hovering around 28-30 °C (82-86 °F) and nights only slipping to about 22-24 °C (72-75 °F).
Rain is never far off — the wettest stretch runs roughly June through October, when afternoon storms transform skies and sea in equal measure. The period from December to March is relatively drier and more comfortable, offering clearer skies and gentler humidity. Sea temperatures stay inviting nearly all year, making snorkeling, diving or simply floating idyllic any season.
Getting There
Regularly scheduled flights connect Brig Bay airfield on Big Corn Island with Managua and the coastal town of Bluefields.
Flight times to and from the capital average 75 minutes.
The Corn Islands are an emerging travel destination—accommodations are basic, but improving.
Start your journey today
LANDED delivers the finest in custom, private travel to Central America, South America, and Antarctica. These regions are our passion; we know them first-hand and by heart. Speak with one of our travel designers and let us create a tailored itinerary for you in Nicaragua’s Corn Islands.
How to combine Nicaragua’s Corn Islands
Have some extra time? Here are some options for you to combine with.
