Last Updated on March 30, 2025
Family-Friendly Travel At Rancho Santana: Nature, Adventure, And Comfort On Nicaragua’s Emerald Coast
Perched along Nicaragua’s breathtaking Emerald Coast, Rancho Santana is where rugged natural beauty meets refined luxury. Spanning 2,700 acres of rolling hills, lush jungle and tropical dry forest, and five untouched beaches, this residential community and resort invites travelers to experience Nicaragua in its most authentic and captivating form. Whether you’re soaking in sweeping ocean views, wandering along dramatic cliffs, or sinking your toes into soft silky sand, every moment here feels like a scene from a dream.
Tucked away in the country’s southwest region, Rancho Santana offers the perfect blend of seclusion and accessibility—just a two-hour drive from Managua and three hours from Liberia, Costa Rica. It’s close enough for convenience yet remote enough to feel like an escape.
But Rancho Santana is more than a luxurious getaway; it’s a place with purpose. Rooted in sustainability and community development, the resort is dedicated to preserving Nicaragua’s natural splendor while uplifting the people who call it home. From organic farming initiatives to conservation projects and meaningful local partnerships, every stay here contributes to something greater.
For travelers seeking a destination that’s as enriching as it is unforgettable, Rancho Santana delivers adventure, serenity, and a true sense of connection—both to the land and its people.
This article delves into why Rancho Santana stands out as a top choice for luxury family travel, blending natural beauty, exciting activities, and family-friendly amenities.
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Introducing Nicaragua: A Hidden Gem Of Central America
For many, the name Nicaragua still stirs outdated perceptions—echoes of past turmoil, political unrest, and natural disasters that once kept travelers at bay. But those who take a closer look will discover a country rewriting its story. Resilient and breathtakingly beautiful, Nicaragua is shedding its past reputation and stepping into the spotlight as one of Central America’s most exciting, underrated destinations.
Bordering Costa Rica—long revered as an eco-tourism paradise—Nicaragua offers a similar blend of stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and thrilling adventures, but with one major difference: it remains refreshingly untouched. Here, you won’t find the crowds that have overrun its southern neighbor. Instead, you’ll uncover vast stretches of pristine beaches, lush jungles teeming with wildlife, and colorful colonial cities brimming with history and culture—all waiting to be explored.
What was once a well-kept secret among seasoned travelers is now gaining momentum. Families, thrill-seekers, and luxury travelers alike are being drawn to Nicaragua’s raw beauty, authentic charm, and endless opportunities for adventure. The secret’s out—this hidden gem won’t stay hidden for long.
A Natural Playground For The Whole Family
Rancho Santana feels like your own private national park—wild, breathtaking, and full of adventure. Families can wander through lush jungle trails, where playful monkeys swing overhead, tropical birds flash brilliant colors, and exotic plants create a jungle wonderland. With five pristine beaches on the property, each with its own charm, kids can splash in tide pools, hunt for seashells, build epic sandcastles, or simply sink their toes into the warm, silky sand. And for the thrill-seekers? Some of Nicaragua’s most legendary surf breaks are just steps away, inviting both beginners and seasoned surfers to ride the waves of this Pacific paradise.
Rancho Santana offers a host of activities that cater to all ages and energy levels. Here are just a few family-friendly highlights:
Horseback Riding
Saddle up for an unforgettable adventure along Nicaragua’s breathtaking coastline. Whether you’re a first-time rider or an experienced equestrian, guided horseback rides at Rancho Santana offer a magical way to explore the landscape. Little ones can ride with assistance, while confident riders can gallop on a mesmerizing sunset ride along the shore. Imagine the rhythmic sound of hoofbeats mingling with crashing waves, the sky painted in fiery hues as the sun dips below the horizon—it’s the kind of moment that feels almost too cinematic to be real. One of the most unforgettable sights of our stay? Watching the horseback ride along the beach the evening of our arrival, their silhouettes dancing against the golden sands and rolling surf—a scene straight out of a dream.
Kids Club Passes
The Kids Club at Rancho Santana is anything but ordinary—it’s a paradise of creativity, adventure, and hands-on fun that keeps little explorers entertained while sparking their curiosity. Each three-hour session is packed with engaging activities, and honestly, we were blown away by the variety. If our schedule hadn’t already been packed with adventures, our kids would have happily gone back again and again!
In just one session, they crafted vibrant piñatas (stuffed with candy, of course!), saddled up for a horseback ride, and got hands-on with a beloved local tradition—making fresh corn tortillas from scratch, then devouring their delicious creations. And the best part? We even received photos of their adventures, capturing every joyful moment. It’s the kind of experience that leaves kids beaming and parents beyond impressed.
Sandboarding At The Ocean Dunes
Feel the rush of adventure as you glide down golden sand dunes—an absolute must for families who crave a little thrill! Whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned sandboarder, the soft, sun-warmed dunes provide the perfect balance of excitement and safety. But the real highlight? Racing down a towering 100-foot dune on a bodyboard, the salty ocean breeze whipping past as you carve your way to the bottom.
While this activity is generally recommended for kids 8 and up, we decided to let our fearless five-year-old, Olivia, give it a go—and she tackled it with pure joy. Watching her zip down the dunes, grinning ear to ear, then scramble back up (with more energy than us adults!) was one of the most rewarding moments of our trip. Not every little one may be ready for the challenge, but if you’ve got an adventurous spirit in your crew, this experience is pure magic.
Monkey Scouting And Birdwatching
Hop into a rugged, safari-style vehicle and set off on a wild adventure through the property, where expert guides will help you spot some of Nicaragua’s most fascinating residents. Keep your eyes peeled for howler monkeys lounging in the treetops and, if luck is on your side, the elusive spider monkeys swinging effortlessly through the dense canopy. They’re quick to disappear the moment they sense humans—so consider it a rare treat if you catch a glimpse!
But here’s a fun fact we quickly learned: howler monkeys have a rather messy way of defending their territory. If they feel disturbed, you might just find yourself dodging a surprise from above—yes, we’re talking poop and even urine!
For a more serene nature experience, grab a pair of binoculars (Rancho Santana has some to borrow, since you can’t bring your own into Nicaragua) and discover the rich birdlife of the region. From vibrant native species to seasonal migratory visitors, this birdwatching excursion is a peaceful, eye-opening way for families to connect with nature and appreciate Nicaragua’s incredible biodiversity. Whether you’re scanning the treetops for flashes of color or listening for the calls of exotic birds, it’s an experience that will have you seeing Nicaragua in a whole new way.
Bonfire At Santana Beach
As darkness fell, we made our way to the beach for a night straight out of a storybook. Just a short stroll from our residence, the bonfire spot awaited—a cozy haven where crackling flames, salty ocean air, and a sky ablaze with stars set the scene for pure magic.
We roasted marshmallows to golden perfection, swapped stories that grew more animated with each flicker of the fire, and let the rhythmic crash of the waves melt the world away. A few other families stopped by, their kids giggling as they toasted marshmallows, but before long, they wandered off, leaving us with the beach, the fire, and the quiet wonder of the night all to ourselves. There’s something special about a firelit shore, where time slows down, and the only thing that matters is the warmth of the flames and the people beside you.
Surf Lessons
Whether you’re catching your first wave or looking to take your skills to the next level, Rancho Santana has you covered with personalized surf lessons led by expert instructors. The resort’s consistent waves provide the ideal conditions for beginners and seasoned surfers alike, making it a perfect spot for families to learn together or get tailored one-on-one coaching to elevate their experience.
Our surf lesson was one of the highlights of our stay! We were blown away by the personalized coaching and attention to detail—it wasn’t just about learning how to ride the waves, but really building our confidence and refining our skills. We saw noticeable improvement by the end of the session, and compared to other lessons we’ve taken, this one truly raised the bar for quality instruction.
After our adrenaline-packed lesson, we headed straight to La Taquería, just steps from Los Perros Beach, to fuel up with mouthwatering Mexican tacos. The fresh, house-made tortillas and bold, vibrant flavors were the perfect post-surf treat. And the best part? The guacamole was made right at our table! We got to choose the heat level (we love it spicy!) and the ingredients—it was deliciously authentic. Ending our surf session with tacos? Pure brilliance!
Tiny Turtles, Big Impact
One experience that truly captured our imagination was the chance to participate in a turtle release. Rancho Santana is deeply committed to preserving local wildlife, including three species of marine turtles, and each year, they help hatch hundreds of turtles at the Playa Escondida sanctuary. The Playa Escondida beach—where the turtles are released—was actually our favorite spot on the property, with its serene beauty and untouched charm.
The best time to witness these magical turtle hatchings and releases is from October to January, but unfortunately, we visited at the end of March and missed out on this incredible moment. It’s definitely at the top of our list for next time though—there’s something so special about being part of such a meaningful conservation effort and witnessing the turtles’ journey firsthand.
Comfortable And Spacious Accommodations
Rancho Santana offers a range of accommodations that are perfect for families, with options to suit every need. From charming garden-view casitas to expansive ocean-view residences, there’s plenty of space for everyone to relax and recharge. Many of the accommodations come with fully-equipped kitchens, making it easy to whip up meals for picky eaters or kick back and order in for some extra downtime.
We had the pleasure of staying in a stunning three-bedroom, three-bathroom superior beach access residence, and it was an absolute dream. Each morning, we were greeted by the soothing sounds of birds chirping and the sight of waves crashing on Santana Beach just outside our window. Our residence was mere steps away from our favorite infinity pool, and just a few more paces took us to the soft sands of Santana Beach—making it the perfect home base for both relaxation and adventure.
Tranquil Pools For Relaxation And Play
The pools at Rancho Santana may be small, but they never felt crowded—always offering the perfect spot to relax and unwind. Whether we were cooling off after a day of adventure or soaking up the sun with a good book in hand, there was always plenty of space to enjoy. The intimate size of the pools only added to their charm, creating a peaceful, almost exclusive atmosphere that made every dip feel special.
Our absolute favorite was the infinity pool, where we could gaze out over the ocean as we swam. But we also loved the pool with the bar, perfect for grabbing a refreshing drink , and the small pool at La Boquita restaurant, where you could take a dip and enjoy a delicious meal at the same time—talk about the best of both worlds!
Dining For All Tastes
Rancho Santana delivers a culinary experience that caters to every craving, whether you’re hankering for fresh seafood, traditional Nicaraguan flavors, a comforting pizza, or something in between. From casual beachside bites where the ocean breeze accompanies each mouthful, to elegant farm-to-table dining with locally sourced ingredients, every meal is designed to be a delicious experience. The variety of options means you’ll never have to choose between casual and gourmet—the best of both worlds is always on the menu.
La Boquita – Casual Eats with a View
For a relaxed, family-friendly meal, La Boquita is the place to be. The internationally inspired menu features everything from wood-fired pizzas to paellas, sushi, and charcuterie boards. Set on a breezy terrace, it’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset while enjoying a delicious meal. Be sure to grab a seat overlooking Playa Rosada for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
La Finca y El Mar – Farm-to-Table Dining with a Nicaraguan Twist
Located in the Clubhouse, La Finca y El Mar is the resort’s signature restaurant, offering a refined menu inspired by local ingredients. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, this elegant yet welcoming eatery serves fresh seafood, expertly grilled meats, and farm-fresh salads infused with Nicaraguan flavors. Guests can also enjoy a curated selection of wines and cocktails while taking in stunning ocean views. Even if you’re staying outside of Rancho Santana, you can book a reservation for a memorable dining experience. We had many of our meals here, as it was quick and convenient while we were having fun and La Taquería and La Boquita required more planning as they need shuttle service to get to them.
El Café – Coffee, Smoothies, and Light Bites
Conveniently located at The Inn, El Café is the perfect grab-and-go spot for freshly brewed coffee, homemade pastries, and sandwiches. Whether you need a quick breakfast before heading out for an adventure or an afternoon pick-me-up, you’ll find a selection of locally roasted coffee, fresh juices, and sweet treats. Don’t miss the watermelon banana smoothie—it’s a refreshing favorite!
La Taquería – The Ultimate Post-Surfing Taco Spot
Just steps from the waves at Playa Los Perros, La Taquería is a must-visit for anyone craving fresh, flavorful tacos. Whether you’ve just finished a surf session or are simply in the mood for delicious Mexican-inspired street food, this casual beachside spot delivers. Think house-made tortillas, perfectly seasoned meats, and vibrant toppings—all best enjoyed with a cold drink and a view of the ocean.
Crossing The Costa Rica-Nicaragua Border: What To Expect
Crossing the border between Costa Rica and Nicaragua is an essential step for travelers exploring both countries, and while it’s relatively straightforward, it’s important to be prepared. Here’s everything you need to know to help make the journey smoother, with tips on what to expect, the process, and useful advice for families.
Stress-Free Travel: A shuttle with Rancho Santana picked us up directly from our hotel near Costa Rica’s Guanacaste airport. They handled everything, from the paperwork to the logistics, making the process incredibly easy and stress-free.
Exit Costa Rica: The exit from Costa Rica was quick and simple. We presented our passports for a quick stamp at immigration. There was no exit fee for us, though it’s always good to be prepared in case it’s required. After finishing the exiting process, you need to proceed to the Nicaraguan side for entry.
Bike Taxi for Luggage: We were able to use the bike taxis at the border, which not only transported our luggage but also gave us a lift to the next checkpoint. It was a fun, convenient way to navigate the busy border area!
Entry to Nicaragua: Once we arrived on the Nicaraguan side, we had our passports stamped and our bags scanned. We paid the entry fee, which was around $13 + $1 USD each. Having the exact amount in US dollars was key, as some border officials may not have change. $1 USD is paid upon entering Nicaraguan customs, with the remainder paid when dealing with the border agent before entry.
Checkpoint Stops: As we were going through the process, there were a few quick checkpoints along the way (eg. to check our exit stamps, passports, travel cards). Our driver with Rancho Santana was incredibly helpful, explaining everything and making sure we didn’t miss any important steps. The entire process felt smooth, with no hassle or confusion.
Final Shuttle to Rancho Santana: Once we completed all border formalities, we were whisked away by the shuttle on the Nicarauga side to Rancho Santana. The eco-friendly luxury resort was just a couple hour drive from the border, and we were able to settle in and start our vacation without any further delays.
Rancho Santana’s Shuttle Service Made It EASY!
The shuttle service provided by Rancho Santana was a huge convenience, as it took care of all the details and allowed us to simply relax and enjoy the journey.
What You CANNOT Bring Into Nicaragua
Important! Before you head to Nicaragua, make sure to avoid packing the following items, as they are not allowed through customs:
- Drones
- Professional camera equipment
- Binoculars
- Vapes
- More than three personal electronics per person (e.g., laptops, iPads, etc.)
These restrictions are important to be aware of to ensure a smooth border experience and avoid any unexpected surprises.
Tips For A Smooth Border Crossing
- Have cash ready: Make sure to bring enough cash for any border fees. USD is widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to have small bills for ease as border agents may not have change.
- Prepare for the heat: The border area can get quite hot and crowded, especially during peak travel times. Wear comfortable clothing and keep water on hand to stay hydrated.
- Check your documents: Double-check that your passport is in order and valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Nicaragua. It’s also helpful to have printed copies of any onward flight details, hotel reservations, or transportation confirmations.
- Expect some wait time: While the crossing is generally efficient, you may experience some waiting, especially during busy hours. Have some snacks and entertainment (especially for kids) to make the wait more comfortable. We were lucky and only had around a dozen people in front of us.
- Use the shuttle service: If you’re unfamiliar with the process or want a more relaxed experience, consider booking the Rancho Santana shuttle service. These services are typically more convenient, as they handle the logistics of crossing for you, can provide guidance along the way, and help you skip any scammers at the border that pretend to want to help you.
Creating Memories To Last A Lifetime
Rancho Santana strikes the perfect balance between adventure, relaxation, and luxury, making it an idyllic escape for families seeking to create unforgettable memories. Whether you’re hiking through breaktaking trails, riding the Nicaraguan surf, or simply savoring a wood-fired pizza as the sun sets, each day in this paradise feels like a unique experience. It’s a place where kids can immerse themselves in nature, discover new adventures, and enjoy the great outdoors, while parents find their own slice of tranquility, reconnecting in the midst of stunning surroundings.
With a blend of family-friendly activities, spacious accommodations, and world-class service, there’s something for every member of the family, from the tiniest explorers to the most seasoned adventurers.
What sets Rancho Santana apart is its commitment to sustainability, local culture, and community development. By choosing this hidden gem on Nicaragua’s Emerald Coast, families not only experience top-tier luxury and adventure but also play a part in preserving the region’s pristine beauty and rich heritage.
Ultimately, Rancho Santana is more than just a resort—it’s a place to grow, connect, and experience the pure magic of nature. Whether you’re seeking thrilling adventures, peaceful relaxation, or a little of both, this extraordinary destination will leave you with cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
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