Where to eat on Little Corn Island

Where to eat on Little Corn Island

On Little Corn Island, you’ll find a variety of dining options ranging from local eateries serving traditional Nicaraguan cuisine to beachfront restaurants offering international dishes. Here are some popular places to eat on Little Corn Island:

• Turned Turtle Restaurant: Located at Little Corn Beach and Bungalow, Turned Turtle Restaurant offers a picturesque setting right on the beach. They serve a variety of dishes including seafood, pasta, salads, and vegetarian options. Don’t miss their famous lobster dinner.
• Yemaya Island Hideaway & Spa: This upscale resort features a restaurant with a stunning ocean view. Enjoy a meal at Yemaya’s restaurant, where you can savor fresh seafood, gourmet cuisine, and creative cocktails in a relaxed and elegant atmosphere.
• Café Desideri: A cozy café located near the dock, Café Desideri is a popular spot for breakfast and lunch. They serve delicious coffee, smoothies, sandwiches, salads, and baked goods. It’s a great place to grab a quick bite before heading out to explore the island.
• The Little Corn Beach and Bungalow Bar: In addition to Turned Turtle Restaurant, this beachfront property also has a bar where you can enjoy refreshing drinks and cocktails while soaking up the sun on the beach.
• Habanero’s Mexican Kitchen: If you’re craving Mexican cuisine, head to Habanero’s for tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and other Mexican specialties. They also have a selection of cocktails and beers to complement your meal.
• Comedor Iris: For authentic Nicaraguan food at affordable prices, check out Comedor Iris. This local eatery serves hearty meals like gallo pinto (rice and beans), grilled chicken, fried plantains, and fresh seafood.
• Cool Spot: Located in the heart of Little Corn Island, Cool Spot is a popular hangout spot offering a relaxed atmosphere, cold drinks, and simple yet tasty food options like burgers, sandwiches, and seafood dishes.
• Café Tranquilo: This café offers a laid-back vibe and delicious food in a cozy setting. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner at Café Tranquilo, where you can choose from a variety of dishes including omelets, sandwiches, pasta, and seafood.

These are just a few of the dining options available on Little Corn Island. As you explore the island, you’ll discover more restaurants, cafes, and beach bars offering a diverse range of culinary experiences.

Where to stay on Little Corn Island?

On Little Corn Island, you’ll find a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly hostels to upscale resorts. Here are some places to consider for your stay on Little Corn Island:

1. **Little Corn Beach and Bungalow**: This beachfront property offers rustic yet comfortable bungalows and rooms right on the sand. Enjoy stunning ocean views, hammocks on your private porch, and easy access to the beach. The property also features a restaurant and bar.

2. **Yemaya Island Hideaway & Spa**: For a luxurious stay, consider Yemaya Island Hideaway & Spa. This upscale resort offers spacious and beautifully designed suites and villas with ocean views. Enjoy amenities such as a spa, yoga classes, and a beachfront restaurant.

3. **Derego’s Little Corn Beach and Bungalow**: Located on a quiet stretch of beach, Derego’s offers cozy bungalows and rooms with sea views. Relax in a hammock on your private balcony, dine at the on-site restaurant, and take advantage of the snorkeling and diving opportunities nearby.

4. **Three Brothers Guesthouse**: This budget-friendly guesthouse offers simple yet comfortable rooms with either shared or private bathrooms. It’s located just a short walk from the beach and close to restaurants and shops.

5. **Farm Peace & Love**: Experience sustainable living at this eco-friendly farmstay. Stay in a rustic cabin surrounded by lush gardens, enjoy farm-to-table meals prepared with organic ingredients, and participate in activities like yoga, permaculture workshops, and farm tours.

6. **Ensueños Beachfront Cabinas**: These beachfront cabins offer basic yet cozy accommodations with stunning ocean views. Relax in a hammock on your private porch, swim in the clear waters, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of this secluded property.

7. **Carlito’s Sunrise Paradise**: Located on the east side of the island, Carlito’s offers affordable beachfront cabins with breathtaking sunrise views. Wake up to the sound of the waves, explore the nearby beaches, and unwind in a hammock under the shade of palm trees.

8. **Grace’s Cool Spot**: This hostel offers budget-friendly dormitory beds and private rooms with shared bathrooms. It’s located in the heart of Little Corn Island, close to restaurants, bars, and shops.

These are just a few options for accommodation on Little Corn Island. Whether you’re looking for a luxury resort experience or a budget-friendly hostel, you’ll find plenty of places to stay that suit your preferences and budget. Be sure to book in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.

What to do on Big Corn Island

Big Corn Island, located just north of Little Corn Island, offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some things you can do while exploring Big Corn Island:

• Beach Relaxation: Big Corn Island boasts beautiful beaches with soft white sand and clear turquoise waters. Spend your days lounging on the beach, swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the stunning Caribbean scenery.
• Scuba Diving and Snorkeling: Explore the vibrant underwater world surrounding Big Corn Island. Join a scuba diving excursion to discover colorful coral reefs, underwater caves, and a diverse array of marine life. Snorkeling is also a popular option for those who prefer to stay closer to the surface.
• Fishing: Big Corn Island is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts. Charter a boat or join a guided fishing tour to try your hand at deep-sea fishing or reef fishing. Catch marlin, tuna, snapper, and more in the rich waters surrounding the island.
• Island Exploration: Rent a bicycle, scooter, or golf cart to explore Big Corn Island at your own pace. Visit local villages, historic sites, and scenic viewpoints. Don’t miss the chance to hike to the top of Mount Pleasant for panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea.
• Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in the local culture of Big Corn Island. Visit the island’s museums, art galleries, and cultural centers to learn about its history, traditions, and Afro-Caribbean heritage. Sample traditional dishes like rundown (coconut stew) and seafood platters at local restaurants.
• Water Sports: In addition to diving and snorkeling, Big Corn Island offers a variety of water sports for adventure seekers. Try kayaking, paddleboarding, windsurfing, or kiteboarding in the island’s warm waters and gentle breezes.
• Boat Tours: Take a boat tour around Big Corn Island to explore its coastline, hidden coves, and offshore islands. Many tours include stops for swimming, snorkeling, and beach picnics on secluded shores.
• Nightlife: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Big Corn Island. Enjoy live music, dancing, and cocktails at beach bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. Don’t miss the opportunity to try the island’s famous rum punch and other tropical drinks.
• Shopping: Browse local shops and markets for unique souvenirs and handmade crafts. Pick up colorful textiles, wood carvings, jewelry, and other treasures to remind you of your time on Big Corn Island.
• Relaxation and Wellness: Unwind and rejuvenate with yoga classes, spa treatments, or meditation sessions on Big Corn Island. Many resorts and wellness centers offer holistic therapies and wellness retreats in a tranquil island setting.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Big Corn Island has something for everyone to enjoy. Take your time to explore the island’s natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture during your visit.

Where to eat on Big Corn Island

On Big Corn Island, you’ll find a variety of dining options offering a mix of local Nicaraguan cuisine, seafood specialties, and international flavors. Here are some popular places to eat on Big Corn Island:

1. **Miss Bridget’s Café**: This cozy café is known for its delicious breakfasts, including pancakes, omelets, and traditional Nicaraguan dishes like gallo pinto. They also serve sandwiches, salads, and freshly baked pastries throughout the day.

2. **Desideri Restaurant & Pizzeria**: Located on the beach, Desideri is a popular spot for Italian cuisine and wood-fired pizzas. Enjoy a variety of pasta dishes, salads, and seafood specialties while taking in panoramic ocean views.

3. **Big Fish Grill**: As the name suggests, Big Fish Grill specializes in fresh seafood dishes. Try their grilled fish, lobster, shrimp, and ceviche, served with sides like rice, beans, and plantains. They also offer burgers, sandwiches, and vegetarian options.

4. **Cool Spot Bar & Restaurant**: This beachfront restaurant offers a casual atmosphere and a diverse menu featuring Caribbean and international dishes. Enjoy seafood platters, burgers, wraps, and salads while sipping on cocktails and listening to live music.

5. **Comedor Yemaya**: Located at Yemaya Island Hideaway & Spa, Comedor Yemaya offers gourmet cuisine with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Indulge in dishes like grilled lobster, coconut curry shrimp, and ceviche while dining in a beautiful oceanfront setting.

6. **Habanero’s Mexican Kitchen**: Craving Mexican food? Head to Habanero’s for tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and other Mexican favorites. Don’t forget to try their homemade salsas and margaritas for a true taste of Mexico.

7. **Alcime’s Place**: This local eatery serves authentic Nicaraguan food at affordable prices. Try their traditional dishes like fried chicken, grilled fish, rice and beans, and plantains, served with homemade sauces and fresh juices.

8. **Lobster Inn**: As the name suggests, Lobster Inn is known for its delicious lobster dishes. Feast on grilled lobster, lobster thermidor, or lobster pasta while enjoying views of the ocean from their waterfront location.

9. **Sunset Shack**: Located on the west side of the island, Sunset Shack is a popular spot to watch the sunset while enjoying drinks and snacks. They offer a relaxed atmosphere, cold beers, and tasty bar bites like nachos, wings, and fish tacos.

10. **Pelican House Restaurant & Bar**: This beachfront restaurant offers a laid-back vibe and a menu featuring Caribbean and international cuisine. Enjoy dishes like conch fritters, jerk chicken, and seafood pasta while sipping on cocktails and soaking up the island atmosphere.

These are just a few options for dining on Big Corn Island. Whether you’re craving local specialties, international flavors, or fresh seafood, you’ll find plenty of delicious options to choose from during your visit.

Where to stay on Big Corn Island

Big Corn Island offers a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are some places to consider for your stay on Big Corn Island:

1. **Paraiso Beach Hotel**: This beachfront hotel offers comfortable rooms with ocean views, as well as a restaurant, bar, and outdoor pool. It’s located close to the airport and within walking distance of shops and restaurants.

2. **Yemaya Island Hideaway & Spa**: For a luxurious stay, consider Yemaya Island Hideaway & Spa. This upscale resort offers spacious and beautifully designed suites and villas with ocean views. Enjoy amenities such as a spa, yoga classes, and a beachfront restaurant.

3. **Sunrise Hotel**: Located on the east side of the island, Sunrise Hotel offers affordable rooms with basic amenities. It’s a great option for budget-conscious travelers looking for a clean and comfortable place to stay near the beach.

4. **Hotel Arenas Beach**: This beachfront hotel offers simple yet comfortable rooms with private balconies or patios overlooking the ocean. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a restaurant, bar, and outdoor pool, as well as easy access to the beach.

5. **Mayo’s Place**: This guesthouse offers budget-friendly rooms with basic amenities, including private bathrooms and air conditioning. It’s located in the heart of Big Corn Island, close to shops, restaurants, and the beach.

6. **Elsa’s Place**: Located on the south end of Big Corn Island, Elsa’s Place offers cozy cabanas and rooms with ocean views. Guests can relax in hammocks on their private verandas or take a short walk to the beach.

7. **Sunrise Paradise**: This beachfront property offers simple yet comfortable rooms with ocean views. Guests can relax on the beach, swim in the clear waters, and enjoy stunning sunrises over the Caribbean Sea.

8. **Hotel Morgan**: This family-run hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms with basic amenities. It’s located in a quiet area of Big Corn Island, close to the airport and within walking distance of restaurants and shops.

9. **Hotel Casa Canada**: This boutique hotel offers spacious rooms and suites with modern amenities and Caribbean-inspired décor. Guests can enjoy a restaurant, bar, and outdoor pool, as well as easy access to the beach.

10. **Little Hill Cabins**: Located on a hillside overlooking the ocean, Little Hill Cabins offers rustic yet charming cabins with stunning views. Guests can relax in hammocks on their private balconies or take a short walk to the beach.

These are just a few options for accommodation on Big Corn Island. Whether you’re looking for a luxury resort, a budget-friendly guesthouse, or a beachfront hotel, you’ll find plenty of places to stay that suit your preferences and budget. Be sure to book in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.

How to get to the Corn Islands

Getting to the Corn Islands takes a bit of effort since they are located far away from the other main tourist attractions. 

You can opt to go by flight from Managua or you can take the bus and boat route. 

Flight

Flying is definitely the fastest way to getting to the Corn Islands. La Costeña is the only airline offering flights from Managua to Big Corn Island. They fly twice a day. Lugage is limited to 15 kgs per person and they will charge for each extra kilogram. You can have an ATR-42 plane with 50 seats or a Cessna 208 with availability for 12 passengers. To be honest, the flights feel a lot like busses in the air. There are not even allocated seats. Prices depend on the season and on your booking time, but take 160$ (€150) – 200$ (€ 185) into account. The flight to Big Corn Island (CIS) lasts about 75 minutes.From the airport you can take a taxi for 1$ per person to the port. Every morning and every afternoon there is a boot from Big Corn to Little Corn island. The departures of the boats are well aligned with the arrival times of the flight, so you can be certain to catch the panga (the local boat). The panga lasts around half an hour, but prepare for a wet adventure. The boat goes pretty fast, soaking up a lot of water on the way. It depends on where you’re seated, but you can catch a lot of water, so prepare yourself for that, by placing electronic devices in a water bag or even wearing a rain poncho. 

The price for the panga around the Islands also depends on what time you are taking the boat. 

Panga from Big Corn Island to Little Corn Island at 10:00 A.M. (20$) and at 16:30 A.M (10$). Panga from Little Corn Island to Big Corn Island at 6:30 A.M. (10$) and at 2:00 P.M. (20$). 

Going from Managua to Little Corn Island takes up to 4 hours and a half. 

Bus and boat

Traveling from Granada to the Corn Islands involves a combination of bus and boat transportation. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make the journey:

1. **Granada to Managua**: Start your journey by taking a bus from Granada to Managua, the capital city of Nicaragua. Buses from Granada to Managua depart regularly throughout the day from the Granada bus terminal. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.

2. **Managua to El Rama**: From Managua, you’ll need to travel to El Rama, a port town on the Caribbean coast of Nicaragua. Buses from Managua to El Rama depart from the Mercado Roberto Huembes bus terminal in Managua. The journey takes approximately 6 to 7 hours, depending on road conditions and stops along the way.

3. **El Rama to Bluefields**: Upon arriving in El Rama, you’ll need to transfer to a boat or ferry to continue your journey to Bluefields, another port town on the Caribbean coast. Boats and ferries depart regularly from El Rama to Bluefields, with the journey taking approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on weather and sea conditions.

4. **Bluefields to the Corn Islands**: Once you arrive in Bluefields, you’ll need to catch a boat or ferry to the Corn Islands. There are regular boats and ferries that travel between Bluefields and the Corn Islands, specifically Big Corn Island. The journey takes approximately 5 to 6 hours, depending on the type of boat and sea conditions.

It’s important to note that travel schedules and availability of transportation can vary, so it’s a good idea to check in advance and make reservations when possible, especially for longer legs of the journey such as the boat from Bluefields to the Corn Islands.

Additionally, weather conditions can affect boat travel, particularly on the Caribbean coast, so it’s advisable to plan for potential delays and be flexible with your travel itinerary.

Overall, while traveling from Granada to the Corn Islands via bus and boat can be a long and somewhat complex journey, it offers a unique opportunity to explore different regions of Nicaragua and experience the natural beauty of the Caribbean coast.

What is the recommended travel time for the Corn Islands?

2-3 Days:

• Relaxation: Perfect for a short getaway to relax on the beaches, snorkel, and enjoy the laid-back island vibe.
• Activities: You can explore both islands, spend time on the beach, and enjoy some local food. A few days would allow you to get a good feel for the islands.

4-5 Days:

• Exploration: Enough time to fully explore both islands, including some off-the-beaten-path spots.
• Diving/Snorkeling: If you’re into diving or snorkeling, you’ll have time to explore multiple sites around the islands.
• Cultural Immersion: You’ll have the opportunity to engage more with locals, perhaps take a fishing trip, or visit a few more restaurants and bars.

1 Week or More:

• Deep Exploration: If you want to dive deep into the island culture, spend more time diving, or simply relax without any rush, a week or more would be ideal.
• Relaxation and Adventure: A longer stay allows for a mix of relaxation and adventure, with enough downtime to unwind fully.

Considerations:

• Travel Time: Keep in mind the travel time to and from the islands, as this can take a day depending on your starting point.
• Weather: The weather can influence how much you enjoy your stay, so check the forecast.

If you’re looking for a mix of relaxation and exploration, 4-5 days is a good amount of time to stay.