The Ultimate Guide to the Corn Islands, Nicaragua

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I spent time on both, and I can honestly say they each have their own vibe: Big Corn feels more local and lived-in, while Little Corn is the ultimate barefoot escape. Together they make the perfect duo for a laid-back trip.

Here’s my complete guide with how to get there, what to do, where to stay, and all the little things you should know before you go.

How to get to the Corn Islands

Getting to the Corn Islands takes some effort, but that’s part of why they’ve managed to stay so special.

Fly to the Corn Islands

The quickest and easiest way is by flying from Managua to Big Corn Island. The flight takes just over an hour and is run by the domestic airline La Costeña. Prices hover around $200–250 round trip depending on the season, and flights usually run once or twice a day. It’s a small plane, think propellers and just a handful of rows, so if you’re not a fan of tiny aircrafts, brace yourself. But honestly, the views of the Caribbean as you descend are worth it.

This is the only flight I’ve ever taken where they just left as soon as everyone had checked in. No point in waiting for the departure time. I loved it!

Getting to Corn Island by bus and ferry

If you’re traveling on a budget (and with patience), you can make your way overland. First, you need to get to El Rama by bus from Managua, which takes about 7 hours.

From there, it’s a two-hour boat down the river to Bluefields. Once in Bluefields, you catch the overnight ferry to Big Corn, which takes 6–7 hours. This route is cheaper, but it’s a slog, and schedules can be unpredictable. Unless you’re on a strict budget or love the idea of “earning” your island time, I’d recommend flying.

How to get to Little Corn island

To get to Little Corn Island, you’ll first need to reach Big Corn. From there, you take a panga, a small open boat, across the sea in about 30–60 minutes depending on weather.

When the water is calm, it’s a breezy ride. However, when the weather is rough it can honestly feel a bit scary. We took the last boat before they had to cancel it for a couple of days because of a storm, and it’s the first time I actually got a bit scared during a boat ride. But it was all fine, and they suspended the boat when the water was too rough to cross.

The boats usually run twice a day, once in the morning and once in the afternoon and it’s usually planned according to when the plane lands or leaves. The boat cost about $10 each way.

What to do on Big Corn Island - The Underrated Stop

A lot of travelers head straight for Little Corn, but I think Big Corn deserves at least a couple of days. It’s larger, has more local life, and it’s fun to circle the island and see what everyday Caribbean Nicaragua looks like. Plus, it has the best beaches of the two islands in my opinion!

Go beach hopping

Beaches are the heart of Big Corn, and there are plenty to choose from. Picnic beach is one of the most popular spots, with long stretches of soft sand, calm waters for swimming, and a handful of restaurants where you can sip a cold Toña (Nicaragua’s local beer) or dig into fried fish with plantains. For something quieter, head to Long Bay, where you’ll often share the beach with locals rather than tourists. Other favorites include Southwest Bay, Silver Sand Beach, and Playa Coco, each one with its own charm.

Snorkeling & Diving

The Corn Islands are known for their reefs, and Big Corn has some great snorkeling and diving opportunities. You can easily arrange a boat trip out to the reef. I had done my portion of snorkeling for a while in Belize and Honduras so I didn’t do it here, but every Hotel would be able to help you organize something.

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Book a Day Pass at Arenas Beach Hotel

If you’re looking for a bit of comfort, Arenas Beach Hotel offers day passes where you can relax in their loungers, grab a cocktail, and enjoy one of the best stretches of sand on the island.

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Grab a drink at the Floating Bar

One of my favorite things to do on Big Corn is to head out to the floating bar called Bit Coin Island Bar. It’s literally a bar anchored offshore, so you’ll need a short boat ride to get there. You will see the bar from Picnic beach so just wave at them and they’ll come and pick you up. If you can’t reach them just go to one of the nearby restaurants and they’ll help you.

Hike to Mount Pleasant Hill

For a change of pace, trade the beaches for a bit of hiking. Mount Pleasant Hill isn’t a long trek, but it does give you panoramic views over the island and the sea beyond. On clear days, you can even spot Little Corn in the distance.

Rent a scooter or bike & circle the Island

The island is wrapped in a single road that loops around its coast, so the best way to explore is by renting a scooter or hopping on a bike. It only takes about an hour to go around, but of course, you’ll want to stop constantly. Each bend in the road reveals another cove, beach, or cluster of colorful wooden houses. It’s the kind of island where everyone waves when you drive past, and you’ll quickly notice that life moves at half speed here.

Best places to stay on Big Corn Island

Unlike Little Corn, Big Corn doesn’t really have a central town, so where you stay depends on the kind of vibe you’re looking for. The island is split into different areas, each offering a slightly different experience. The good news is that no matter where you end up, you’ll always be just a few minutes away from the beach.

Budget stays on Big Corn Island

If you’re traveling on a shoestring, Big Corn has a handful of guesthouses and hostels that offer a cozy, family-run feel. Corn Island Hostel Alal Suite and The Wave Hostel are popular budget-friendly options, with dorms and private rooms that work well for backpackers.

Mid-Range Comfort Hotels on Big Corn Island

For those who want a bit more comfort without breaking the bank, there are plenty of solid mid-range options. On the west side, Sunset Bay B&B (where we stayed) lives up to its name with some of the best evening views on the island. Hotel Casa Canada (east) is another good-value pick, offering oceanfront views and an infinity pool that’s hard to beat.

Boutique & Unique Stays

If you’re looking for something more boutique with character, Big Corn has a few gems. Paraiso Beach Hotel sits in lush gardens with easy beach access and plenty of charm. We came here all the time to eat, so even if you don’t stay here make sure to grab dinner here one day. La Princesa de la Isla is another standout, with Italian owners who’ve created a tranquil retreat blending European touches with Caribbean scenery.

Best places to eat on Big Corn Island

Food-wise, Big Corn Island doesn’t disappoint. While Little Corn gets most of the foodie attention, Big Corn actually has more variety, from tiny local comedores serving heaping plates of gallo pinto to restaurants where you can sit down for a cocktail and fresh lobster as the sun sets. Eating here is a mix of Caribbean flavors, Nicaraguan staples, and a few surprises you might not expect.

Best places to eat on Big Corn for those on a tight budget

If you’re traveling on a budget, you’ll love the comedores scattered around the island. For just a couple of dollars, you can dig into fried fish, rice and beans, and plantains—classic island comfort food. Comedor Doña Julia is one of the best for a homestyle meal that feels like it came straight from someone’s kitchen. Bar Victorias is a local favorite if you’re craving fried chicken, while Island Bakery and Sweets is the go-to for fresh bread and pastries in the morning.

Best places to eat on Big Corn for a bit more upscale vibe

For sit-down meals with a bit more flair, Restaurant Relax serves tasty seafood dishes in a laid-back setting, and Pizzeria Italia is the place to go when you’re craving a good pizza after too much gallo pinto.

If you’re after something a little more upscale, Arenas Beach Hotel has one of the better restaurants on the island, perfect for a sunset dinner with your feet in the sand. And for a fun night out, The Buccaneer is hard to beat—burgers, cocktails, and a lively social vibe that often lasts well into the night. I lost track of how many times we came back here! They both have a really good restaurant at the Hotel and a separat bar by the beach.

The top things to do on Little Corn Island

Little Corn is tiny, just 1.5 square miles, with no cars, no paved roads, and no worries. The only way around is by walking along sandy paths shaded by palms, and honestly, that’s part of the charm. Life here is stripped down to the basics: hammocks, coconuts, snorkeling, and fresh seafood.

Explore the Beaches

I personally preferred the beaches on Big Corn Island, but the ones on Little Corn island definitely has its own charms as well. Otto Beach on the north side is a favorite, it’s wild and natural, with hammocks strung between palm trees and plenty of space to find your own patch of sand. Pelican Beach is a bit more central and social, while Vocal Beach and Hidden Beach live up to their names with quieter, more tucked-away vibes. No matter where you end up, the swimming is beautiful, and you’ll likely feel like you have the place to yourself.

Snorkeling & Diving

Little Corn is one of the best spots in Nicaragua for underwater adventures. The reefs are close to shore, which means you can often see rays, turtles, and schools of colorful fish with just a mask and snorkel. If you’re curious about diving or ready to get certified, this is one of the most affordable places in the Caribbean to do it, other than Utila in Honduras. A couple of dive shops operate on the island, and their relaxed, welcoming vibe makes it easy for beginners and seasoned divers alike. I didn’t dive here, but based on my research there is no need to book anything in advance, just talk to the different dive shops when you get here and pick the one you prefer and schedule a dive or snorkel trip with them.

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Fishing Trips

For a taste of island life, you can arrange a fishing trip with a local. Heading out in a small boat, learning traditional techniques, and maybe bringing back your own catch for dinner is a memorable way to spend a few hours. We had pretty bad weather for most of our time on Little Corn Island so the boats were suspended because of the rough see, so unfortunately I didn’t get to do this. However, I would love to do it when I come back one day!

Yoga & Wellness

If you’re craving a slower kind of activity, several guesthouses and retreats on Little Corn offer daily yoga classes. Practicing with the sound of the ocean in the background is about as peaceful as it gets. Check the bulletin boards at restaurants or check with the locals for updated times and locations.

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Slow Down & Do Nothing

Honestly, the real highlight of Little Corn is the chance to do nothing at all. My days often fell into a gentle rhythm: mornings with coffee and fresh breakfast, a dip in the ocean or reading in a hammock, and evenings walking barefoot to dinner under the stars. Time slows down here, and that’s exactly why people fall in love with Little Corn.

The best places to stay on Little Corn Island

Little Corn may be tiny, but it has a surprising variety of places to stay—everything from rustic beach huts to boutique eco-lodges and barefoot luxury resorts. Since there are no cars and no “main town” in the traditional sense, the island is divided into a few areas: west (close to the dock and more restaurants), east (quieter beaches), and north (secluded, with a mix of eco-lodges and resorts).

Budget Stays

If you’re traveling on a tight budget, Grace’s Cool Spot is a classic choice with basic cabins right on the sand, where you can fall asleep to the sound of the waves just a few meters away. On the east side Sunrise Paradise also offer simple, affordable rooms with a relaxed, local vibe. For something social and centrally located, Christina’s Guest House (west) is a solid backpacker pick.

Mid-Range Comfort

We stayed at the Los Delfines close to the dock and most of the restaurants and loved out time here! Other options for those who want comfort without breaking the bank is, Las Palmeras which has cozy bungalows in a central spot, while Sunshine Hotel (west) offers clean, airy rooms close to the dock and restaurants. The Lighthouse Retreat (west) is another great mid-range option, especially popular with travelers who like a boutique feel without the luxury price tag. Casa Paraiso is also a longtime favorite right on the sand, with that perfect balance between rustic charm and modern comfort.

Boutique & Luxury

If you’re ready to splurge, head north. Ensueños is a lovely eco-lodge tucked into nature, perfect if you want a peaceful escape with direct beach access. Derek’s Place Ecolodge is another northside gem, blending sustainability with comfort. And then there’s Yemaya Reefs, the island’s luxury pick. Think private villas, paddleboards at your doorstep, excellent food, and the kind of barefoot luxury that makes you want to stay forever.

No matter where you sleep, part of the magic of Little Corn is being steps from the sea, waking up with the sound of the waves, and feeling like you’re a world away from everything else.

Best places to eat on Little Corn Island

Despite the island’s tiny size, the food scene is surprisingly diverse, with everything from beachfront grills and family-run comedores to cafés serving up fresh smoothies and homemade coconut bread.

Local Favorites

If you want hearty, affordable island meals, The Shack is a classic, serving up fried fish, gallo pinto, and other Nicaraguan staples at great prices. Rosie’s is famous for fresh lobster cooked to order, grilled, buttered, or with garlic sauce. You’ll also find Melissa’s Restaurant and Panadería y Restaurante Gloria serving homestyle dishes that feel like they came right from a local kitchen. Don’t miss the chance to buy coconut bread from women selling it in small stalls.

Beachfront Dining

For a more sit-down experience, Turned Turtle Bar & Restaurant is one of the island’s long-standing favorites. With its beachfront setting, varied menu, and consistently good food, it’s the kind of place you’ll return to more than once. El Bosque is another solid pick, with a cozy atmosphere and great seafood dishes. Another favorite of mine was Desi Social for a good meal and cozy vibe!!

Cafés & Chill Spots

If you’re in the mood for something lighter, Tranquility Café and Driftwood Café (sometimes called Driftaway) are perfect for smoothies, breakfasts, or a lazy afternoon coffee. Both spots are laid-back, friendly, and great for taking a break from the heat of the day.

Things You Need to Know before visiting the Corn Islands

Life on the Corn Islands is easy, but there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind:

• Bring cash. Big Corn has a couple of ATMs, but they don’t always work. Little Corn has none at all. Bring enough to cover your stay.
• Power cuts happen. Don’t panic if the electricity goes out for a while, it’s normal. Most hotels have backup generators.
• On Little Corn Island the power is cut every day from 07:00 AM to 13:00 PM. At least it was when we stayed there. Just head to one of the beaches or a nearby restaurant if you need power.
• Travel light. Dragging a big suitcase across sandy paths on Little Corn is not fun. A backpack or small roller is way easier. Also keep in mind that there are strict weight restrictions on the flight to Corn Island so you might need to leave something behind at a Hotel on the mainland. We left some stuff at our Hotel in Granada.
• Wi-Fi is patchy at best. If you’re looking to disconnect, you’re in the right place. If you need to work remotely, it might be frustrating at times but we made it work.
• Sandflies are a thing. Especially at dawn and dusk, so bring repellent.

What is the best time to visit the Corn Islands?

It’s a tropical climate so your can experience rain year around, but there is a specific rainy season that it’s recommended to avoid.

Dry season: March - May

Rainy season: October - November

The rest of the year is basically shoulder season where rain is possible but not intense.

How long to stay on Corn Islands?

I fell in love with both Corn Islands and honestly can’t recommend them enough. We spent 10 days split between Big Corn and Little Corn, and I easily could have stayed much longer.

How much time you’ll need really depends on whether you’re visiting just one island or both. Since getting there requires a domestic flight, it’s worth planning enough days to make the journey worthwhile.

If you can, I recommend booking flexible tickets, I didn’t, and I deeply regretted it when I wanted to extend my stay. No matter how much time you have, even a couple of days will give you a taste of the islands’ charm, but if you want to experience both Big and Little Corn without rushing, give yourself at least a week.

Final Thoughts – Why the Corn Islands Stole My Heart

The Corn Islands are not luxury. They’re not polished. They’re not even easy to get to. And that’s exactly why I loved them. They’re slow, simple, and unforgettable. For me, they were the part of my trip that I still dream about the most.

So if you’re wondering whether the Corn Islands are worth the effort to reach, my answer is simple: absolutely. Just don’t be surprised if you plan to stay for a few days and end up staying for a few weeks.

I hope this guide helps you plan your trip to the beautiful Corn Island!

If you have any questions about Corn Island, Nicaragua or travel in Central America in general, don’t hesitate to reach out to me on social media. I would love to connect and help out!

-Ingrid

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