Andrew Hall

You may know Nicaragua for its affordable living and quaint colonial cities.  But have you ever considered the country as a contender for island living?

If not, then it’s time you did.  Nicaragua has a number of great island options for those looking to buy their very own private island.  Or at least a sizeable lot on a larger isle.

Here are a few reasons Nicaragua is such a fantastic choice for those considering island life.

1.  Much of Nicaragua is still undiscovered.  At least…for now.

Located just south of Costa Rica, one of Central America’s biggest tourist draws, Nicaragua has historically flown just a little further under the radar.  Not known as a vacation hotspot like some of its neighbors, the country has attracted a more adventuresome breed of pioneering expats.

However, even so, the vast majority of expats and retirees have gone elsewhere when seeking their dream destination in Central America.  That is, until recently.

The Nicaraguan government has been investing significantly in its country’s future as a tourist destination and expat haven.  They’re spending much-needed dollars on infrastructure and getting the word out about factors like the country’s affordability and safety.

As a result, more and more North Americans are adding Nicaragua to their short list of places to live abroad.  There are still plenty of isolated properties and real estate bargains to be had.  But those wanting to buy an island in Nicaragua while it’s still up-and-coming (before it truly arrives) had better act fast.

2.  Speaking of bargains, Nicaragua offers a lot of island bang for your buck.

Generally speaking, island properties are more expensive than their mainland counterparts.  One reason is because of their scarcity.  You can always tack on more floors to a high-rise condominium development.  You can’t construct a new island.

However, while islands are more expensive in comparison to other properties, Nicaraguan islands are a steal compared to the rest of the Caribbean.

Not only is the real estate itself affordable, but the cost of living in Nicaragua is another thing that makes buying an island there an appealing option.  Most couples can get by on as little as $1200 per month.

Zsuzsa Poor

3.  The archipelagos of Nicaragua offer the quintessential island experience.

Since Nicaragua borders Costa Rica, it offers much of the same natural beauty, great surfing, and near-perfect weather as its more popular (read: more expensive and crowded) neighbor.

Many of its islands are inhabited by nothing but lush vegetation and a myriad of rarely seen wildlife.  Their beaches offer wide stretches of golden sand.  The waters are calm.  There are great spots for diving, fishing, and more.

The more populated islands are equipped with a few restaurants, reggae bars, and humble tourist accommodations.  But even those areas still offer that Robinson Crusoe solitude just a few yards off the beaten path.  

There’s also a lot of authentic culture in Nicaragua.  The locals are friendly, as are the relatively few expats who call the country home.  The lifestyle is laid-back, and the pace is as slow as you could hope for.

4.  With two oceans and a gigantic lake, there are plenty of island options available.

The islands of Nicaragua don’t get a tremendous amount of press, compared to some of their Central American competitors like Ambergris Caye, Belize, and Roatan, Honduras.  But the country actually has a surprising number of islands to choose from.

There’s the Corn Islands in the Caribbean, with their beautiful unspoiled beaches and glistening turquoise water.  On the Pacific side of the country, Lake Nicaragua (the largest in Central America) also has a number of options, such as Ometepe Island.

For those who prefer a private island all to themselves, rather than a small lot on one of theses more populated choices, there are hundreds scattered throughout both oceans.  You can find one that’s completely untouched or even an island complete with a guest house, docks, a swimming pool, and a full-time caretaker.

Kristian Golding

5.  Buying an island in Nicaragua can be relatively painless.

Finding your dream property is the first hurdle to overcome in the buying process, and luckily there’s quite a bit of inventory available on the islands of Nicaragua.  You’ll need to understand the nature of Central American real estate, as realtors and firms don’t work together in cooperation like they do in first-world countries.

Once you find a property, you’ll need to do your due diligence before you sign on the dotted line.  Research things like any zoning issues, whether the island has any problems with erosion, and what you’re allowed to build on the property.

Note: This type of investigation is best handled by a qualified attorney who has LOTS of experience with land transactions (and islands, in particular) in Nicaragua.  It’s so important to thoroughly research the title to ensure there are no other liens or claims to the land and that the seller does indeed have the ownership rights to be able to sell the land in the first place.  Once you’re comfortable proceeding, the rest is about what you’d expect.

Do know that it’s buyer beware, so all the work you and your attorney do on the front end is absolutely invaluable in exchange for the peace of mind you’ll have when you’re confident in knowing the property is yours fair and square.

Alba Sud Fotografia

There are a lot of great island options in Central America, and Nicaragua is only one of many.  If you’re interested in the concept of island living, but want a place that’s a bit more established in terms of infrastructure and commerce, take a look at Boca Chica, Panama.

Map of Nicaragua

Nicaragua Fast Facts

• Population: About 5.99 million
• Typical temperature: There are three temperature zones in Nicaragua. In the lowlands (Pacific and Atlantic coast) temperatures vary roughly between 72° F at night and 86° F at daytime (22° C – 30° C). Temperature can reach 100° F in May (38° C). The central part of the country is about 9° F (5° C) cooler, and in the mountains in the north it’s about 18° F (10° C) cooler.
• Nearest airport with U.S. flights: Managua
• Nearest U.S. consulate: Managua