Big Corn Island, Nicaragua
Each stop in Nicaragua is different than every other, but never so much as on the picturesque Corn Islands, which lie roughly 45 miles off the Caribbean coast. A quick plane ride from the mainland takes one from the bustling capital city of Managua to a tropical island paradise complete with white sand beaches, pristine water in varying shades of blue and green, coconut palms, and an overwhelming sense of calm. The two islands are aptly named Little Corn and Big Corn, and while both are at or near the top of every tourist’s list of places to go, they are not crowded or inundated with travelers.
While it is larger than Little Corn, Big Corn Island is still quite small, with an area of only about four square miles. The local islanders live on the interior and the hotels and restaurants form the perimeter along the island’s main road. One particular restaurant on the northeast coast of the island, Dos Millas Seva’s, allows patrons to sit across the road in small straw hut-style dining areas right on the beach.
There, diners can sit, shaded from the sun, and look out into the vastness and vibrancy of the Caribbean. The restaurant offers a delicious menu featuring local bounty of the sea, such as lobster and shrimp, along with Nicaragua’s world-renowned rum, Flor de Caña. All of this costs right around 400 cordobas per person, or 14 American dollars. It simply cannot be beat.
If getting into the water is on the agenda, there are several options available. One option is to simply dive into some of the most beautifully warm and crystal clear water in the world and just drift under the sun. If getting a little bit deeper is in order, Dos Tiburones dive shop on the north side, offers snorkeling and scuba diving tours seven days a week. Tonya, the shop owner, has assembled an excellent team of skilled locals who know all the best spots to explore and see some of the Caribbean wildlife, like sea turtles, rays, and even sharks.
The dive shop also has a bar where customers can enjoy an cold refreshing bottle of Nicaragua’s famed domestic beer, Toña, but only after the dive. Waivers signed before the outing stipulate that customers are prohibited from drinking prior to diving, and for good reason. Don’t worry, the wonderful staff can fetch a fresh coconut right off the palm that can be enjoyed smack dab in the middle of paradise while the crew readies the boat.
Be aware, however, that weather can impact when and where to dive, so careful trip planning is crucial for the optimum diving adventure. Also, don’t plan on bringing anything on the boat that shouldn’t get wet, because it will.
For anyone looking to escape their daily grind and get away from their cubicle, Nicaragua offers some extraordinary experiences. From big cities and small villages, to a tropical island paradise, every destination provides a something unique. Most of the country is perfect for delving in and feeling the true rhythm of the culture, but the Corn Islands are ideal for capturing a genuine island vibe that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Time seems to move more slowly on the island, which makes it a wonderful place to sit back, relax, and revive the soul. But don’t be afraid of deviating from that minute-by-minute schedule. The island doesn’t care about time, and neither should you. Just dig your feet in the sand, grab a cocktail, and allow the sun to set on all of your worries.
¡Viva Nicaragua!
