Once a quiet fishing village, San Juan del Sur has grown into one of the most popular beach destinations on Nicaragua's southern Pacific Coast. Happily, the town has maintained much of the charm and laid-back atmosphere which made it famous, and the surrounding area remains as beautiful and wild as ever. The picturesque half-moon bay is ideal for swimming, and there are some lovely hotels and restaurants along the waterfront. The town is an excellent base for exploring other less known beaches in the region, some of which are great for surfing almost year-round. Other activities, some seasonal, include snorkeling, diving, sailing, whale-watching and zip-lining.