You’ll be guided throughout the entire two-week journey by our experienced Trip Leaders and Coaches, all expert bodyboarders, qualified lifeguards, and fully trained in-house, who are personable, approachable, and as passionate about bodyboarding as they are about helping you improve. From wave selection to coaching, safety, and logistics, you’re in expert hands from start to finish. Some trips, not all, have celebrity bodyboarders Jay and Vicki Reale in attendance
Rob Barber is not only the Director of Bodyboard Holidays, he is also a former European and British Bodyboarding Number 1. After a remarkable 25-year career combined with his role as Head Coach for the British Surfing & Bodyboarding team, he was inspired to create unique bodyboarding experiences for like-minded people. A chance conversation at a bodyboarding contest in the UK gave him the tip off of the waves in this area of Nicaragua. That was back in 1998. Roll on to present day and he has held many trips to Nicaragua and received endless glowing reviews on the experience. While Bodyboard-Holidays took a hiatus from the visits to this region during and post the pandemic, they are now back and have things set up better than ever before.
Jacob has been voted as instructor of the year for 2 years in a row for good reason. Maturity beyond his years, strong in the water (he’s a triathlete as well as a bodyboarder), a great explainer and definitely the biggest fins out of any of the team (he’s a size 12 shoe and 6 foot 4 inches tall). Jacob flew through the 4 month instructor training course, climbed the ladder of achievement among his peers and now finds himself working on the Central America camps each winter. When he’s not working for Bodyboard Holidays he is training aspirant watersports and surfing instructors. He’s extremely safety conscious, knowledgeable and approachable. If you hear him being called ‘John John’ it’s because of his likeness to World surfing champion John John Florence!
João was born and raised in Portugal, he has lived in Porto since he was a child and enjoys bodyboarding the many and varied set ups! Starting bodyboarding at the age of 12 he now has over 27 years of experience as a bodyboarder. Even though Joao is a trained lawyer, he chooses to spend his time travelling the world teaching bodyboarding. His favourite part of working in the team is having the chance to share his passion for bodyboarding with the awesome people on Bodyboard Holidays Trips. João rips, he’s one of Portugal’s finest riders.
Jay Reale is a bodyboarding legend and one of the most accomplished figures in the sport’s history. Originally from Ocean City, Maryland, Jay has been riding waves since 1980, earning titles like U.S. Amateur Champion and competing in the world’s most iconic spots, including the Pipeline World Championships. Beyond his competitive success, Jay is known as a global ambassador for bodyboarding, with a career that spans magazine features, TV appearances, and worldwide travel. Jay now co-runs eBodyboarding.com, the largest bodyboarding shop in the world, combining his decades of expertise with a passion for supporting the bodyboarding community.
We’re incredibly lucky to have Jay join us on a select number of Bodyboard Holidays trips, where his unmatched expertise, fun personality, and passion for the sport take the experience to another level. Whether sharing tips in the lineup or stories from his incredible career, Jay brings an energy and enthusiasm that make every session unforgettable. Please check the dates section to see what trips Jay will be joining us on.
Vicki Reale is a pioneer in women’s bodyboarding, she’s famous for her fearless style and groundbreaking achievements. Born in Port Macquarie, Australia, Vicki quickly rose to prominence on the world stage, becoming the first Australian Women’s Pro Champion and competing in the World Surfing Games. Her travels have taken her to five continents, and she’s been a prominent figure in shaping the sport, even gracing the cover of Riptide Magazine as the first female bodyboarder to do so. Vicki now co-runs eBodyboarding.com, the world’s largest bodyboarding shop, where she helps riders of all levels gear up and stay stoked for the waves.
Having Vicki on a Bodyboard Holidays trip is an incredible privilege. Her wealth of experience, charming personality, and love for the sport make her an inspiring mentor and companion. Bodyboarding with Vicki is not just fun-it’s a chance to learn from one of the best in the game and share her infectious passion for the waves. Vicki joins us on a select number of trips, please check the dates section to see which ones.
NICARAGUA
Stay seven nights in spacious, fully equipped houses within a private, gated community just minutes from an epic bodyboarding wave. Enjoy ensuite or twin rooms, two pools, volleyball and ping pong, communal lounges, pushbikes, and Wi‑Fi. Nestled in lush surroundings, this chill base keeps you steps from the waves while offering comfort, community, and a relaxed tropical vibe.
EL SALVADOR
Spend seven nights in a laid-back surf-vibes hotel just steps from the beach and four amazing surf spots, surrounded by palms and hibiscus. Private and twin rooms are available. Enjoy two pools, river and ocean views, an on-site restaurant and bar, Wi‑Fi, and a relaxed, bodyboarder-friendly atmosphere where the family-run staff go out of their way to make your stay fantastic.
For more information on the accommodations, head over to the respective destination pages.
Our expert instructors provide daily tuition tailored to your ability, from complete beginner to advanced, across both Nicaragua and El Salvador. You’ll receive hands-on guidance in the water, beach-side tips, and detailed video analysis to accelerate your progress. A pre-arrival form helps us assess your level so you start in the right group, while daily sessions are adapted to the swell, tide, and conditions, ensuring you’re always in the best spot.
Our dedicated photographers and coaches capture every session from land and water, providing a full photo and video package for your two-week adventure. You’ll leave with at least one epic shot to frame, plus plenty of footage to track your progress, relive your waves, and share the highlights of your ultimate Central American bodyboarding experience.
You will need to arrange your own flights into Managua International Airport (MGA), Nicaragua but out of San Salvador International Airport (SAL) in El Salvador.
We highly recommend that you have a read of our ‘How to book a flight’ blog to help you organise the best flights for your holiday.
Please arrange your flight to Nicaragua to arrive before our 14.00 transfer from the airport, and your flight from El Salvador to leave after 10.00 when we drop you back at the airport on departure day.
If you want to arrive earlier before the trip begins and book a night at an airport hotel to recover from your travel, that’s fine. If you’d like to tag extra days on to the end of your trip, we can help you to arrange that. Many guests choose to arrive early to relax and sleep off the jet lag or to enjoy some cultural experiences before the bodyboarding bonanza begins. We’ll let you know where and when to meet us on the first day of the trip or how to book extra nights in the accommodation at the end.
You will need to arrange your own flights to Managua International Airport (MGA), Nicaragua.
We highly recommend that you have a read of our ‘How to book a flight’ blog to help you organise the best flights for your holiday.
Please arrange your flights to arrive before our 14:00 transfer from the airport and after 10:00 when we drop you back at the airport on departure day.
If you want to arrive earlier before the trip begins and book a night at an airport hotel to recover from your travel, that’s fine. If you’d like to tag extra days on to the end of your trip, we can help you to arrange that. Many guests choose to arrive early to relax and sleep off the jet lag or to enjoy some cultural experiences before the bodyboarding bonanza begins. We’ll let you know where and when to meet us on the first day of the trip or how to book extra nights in the accommodation at the end. If you’re after something slightly longer, you may be interested in our Nicaragua and Costa Rica Bodyboard Tour.
If you arrive at an airport other than at Managua, you will need to make your own way to our accommodation.
If your flight includes a stop, please allow enough time to make your connection and factor in short delays. If you’re flying from Europe, your stop will often be in the U.S.
It’s best to book a ticket that transports your luggage directly to the airport in Managua if possible. If you’re transiting through the U.S. you will most likely need an ESTA visa. Ask your travel agent.
When you walk through arrivals at Managua Airport and step outside the doors (after collecting your bags) your driver will be there to meet you, please keep an eye out for him. He will be holding a sign with ‘Bodyboard Holidays’ on it. Once your bags are loaded, they will take you to the accommodation, which is approximately 2.5 hours away.
Airport transfers, in an air conditioned minibus, are included in the price if you can make the times that we have available.
The (inclusive in price) airport pick up and drop off times are:
14:00 on arrivals day, from Managua airport, Nicaragua
10:00 arrival at San Salvador airport, El Salvador, on departures day
If you can’t make the transfer we can arrange your pick up at a charge of $100 each way. If you share a transfer this price will be split between the passengers. We will try our best to group you together to keep the cost down.
You will also need to arrange flights between the two destinations. Please chat to us and we will help you plan your flights to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey. It’s very straightforward and we have done it many times.
NICARAGUA
In Nicaragua, all meals are included and are freshly prepared onsite by our private chef and served at the villa. Expect hearty breakfasts, relaxed lunches, and social dinners featuring a mix of local and international dishes such as fresh fish, grilled meats, tacos, burgers, pasta dishes, salads, and plenty of veggie options. Hot coffee, fresh juice, and water are available throughout the day, with optional evenings out to explore local restaurants if you choose. All meals are inclusive on this trip.
EL SALVADOR
Your week in El Salvador includes hearty breakfasts like traditional beans and rice, eggs on toast or international favourites such as pancakes with fresh fruit, perfect fuel for dawn patrols. Lunches and dinners are for you to decide on and purchase, either eat at the hotel or adventure further to the awesome local restaurants, featuring fresh, simple, energy-packed dishes including burritos, tacos, quesadillas, grilled meats, seafood, and salads. Optional evening meals in the village let you sample local flavours, best enjoyed with a cold Salvadoran beer.
NICARAGUA
This is a fully all-inclusive trip, covering your accommodation, meals, transport, coaching, and activities. Nicaragua represents outstanding value, allowing you to enjoy a first-class bodyboard lifestyle without the need to constantly dip into your wallet.
VISA
A tourist visa entry fee of $10 USD is payable in cash on arrival at the airport.
FOOD
All meals are included and freshly prepared onsite by our private chef, so there’s no need to budget for food during the trip. Everything is taken care of, leaving you free to focus on surfing and relaxing. If you choose to eat out one evening, allow approximately $25 USD including drinks.
DRINKS & SNACKS
Budget around $20 per day for optional extras such as a cold beer at the beach club, snacks, or a post-surf doughnut from the local bakery, purely optional treats after long, wave-filled days.
EL SALVADOR
Famous as Bitcoin Beach, El Salvador is one of the few countries in the world where Bitcoin is accepted as legal currency. Prices in the area remain low, yet you can enjoy a high standard of living, making this coastal pocket a true value-for-money paradise.
VISA
Tourist visa entry fee is $12 USD, payable on arrival at the airport.
FOOD
Breakfast is included, and we highly recommend sampling the excellent on-site restaurant for lunch and dinner, with a menu tailored to suit all tastes. Alternatively, head into the village to explore local options. From $3 pupusas for dinner to beachfront fine dining at around $16 per meal, food is a real highlight of the trip.
DRINKS & SNACKS
Budget approximately $10–$20 per day for drinks, ice creams, snacks, and cocktails.
NICARAGUA
When you’re not bodyboarding, there’s plenty of time to relax. Chill by the pool, stretch out in a hammock, or recharge between sessions. If you’re keen to explore more, Nicaragua offers an incredible range of adventures beyond the waves.
All activities are optional and some incur extra charges. For example, you can:
Whether you’re after relaxation or adventure, there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences to round out your trip.
EL SALVADOR
When you’re not bodyboarding, you’ll have free time to relax by the pool, unwind with some surf-inspired yoga or kick back in a hammock with a good book. Or, if you’ve still got some energy, there’s plenty more to see and do in the area! All activities are optional and some incur extra charges. For example, you can:
There are a host of further surf-inspired activities below which have the costs associated with them:
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All trips must be paid in full no later than 12 weeks from start date. We can’t guarantee your place until we have received a payment from you. Once you have made a payment, you’ll then be sent a trip confirmation email with all details on.
Yes definitely! We pride ourselves on being super welcoming and friendly. Most of our guests arrive solo and leave with a host of new bodyboarding buddies.
Due to this trip being in high demand and having limited spaces, we can only hold your space for up to 24 hours without payment.
You are welcome to attend for a shorter period to suit your personal schedule, however the package price will remain the same.
Group booking discounts are available, please contact us for more information.
ASAP! These holidays fill up quickly and, with limited spaces available, sell out fast. We operate on a first come first serve basis. If you want to secure your place on the trip, it is advised that you pay as soon as you can.
If you are based outside of the UK and would like to book or chat through the holiday details, we can be contacted through our online chat.
If you wish to bring a non-bodyboarding partner with you, that is absolutely fine, however, the price stays the same.
We have a great mix of all ages from young whipper-snappers to silver surfers.
The gender ratio at the moment is around 60% men to 40% women. However, this is constantly changing and Bodyboard Holidays is inclusive to all.
The accommodation has acceptable WiFi which can be used for video calls, emails etc. It would not be strong enough to support the downloading of films and large files.
You’ll be asked to fill in an enrolment form as part of the booking process. You’ll signify which level of bodyboarder you are. You may be in a different group suited to your ability, however, there will be plenty of time to see each other back at the accommodation and during our social evening meals.
We choose the time of year and location for our holidays based on local knowledge and historical swell data. In the event of flat waves or stormy conditions, we will offer alternative activities and day trips to help you get the most out of your holiday.
We may also adjust the format of the week, for example, choosing to run more bodyboard sessions on the days that the waves are at their best.
Please visit our Terms & Conditions for more information.
NICARAGUA
Expect uncrowded, sand-bottomed waves that are fun, bowling, and perfectly peeling, just like the photos. Conditions are clean over 320 days a year, with warm tropical water and generally chest- to overhead-high surf, delivering all-day bodyboarding in relaxed, uncrowded line-ups.
EL SALVADOR
El Salvador offers a fun mix of clean, warm tropical waves, from beach breaks to peeling point breaks all day long in uncrowded line-ups. With consistent variety close to camp, it’s a true bodyboarding mecca for riders of all levels.
We do not offer a discount for bringing your own equipment.
Remember to check the baggage size and weight allowance with your airline, as well as reading their guidance for carrying bodyboards. Baggage handlers can be unforgiving, so a tough bag and intelligent packing are a must.
Firstly, pack your board(s) in a protective, padded board bag, and write FRAGILE and TOP LOAD ONLY on it with a permanent marker. Make sure you wrap your towel and clothes around your board inside the bag for added protection. Place your shampoo and other wet toiletries in a separate sealed bag in case of leakage. We also recommend locking the zips on your bag with a padlock.
Many nations can visit Nicaragua and El Salvador for up to three months without a visa. However, entry into the country may be refused and airlines may turn you away if you have less than six months left on your passport or if you don’t have an onward ticket.
Please check international travel requirements for your nationality. Please contact your travel agent or airline if you are unsure or have any further questions.
You may also need an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation). If you are travelling through America you should take a look at this website: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/
There are now enhanced security requirements to travel through the U.S using the Visa Waiver programme. There is a charge for the ESTA. If you are unsure, please contact your travel agent or the company that you purchased your air ticket from for further information.
If you’re not a British national, please check international travel requirements for your nationality.
It’s a good idea to carry photocopies of your important documents and guide books and pack them separately. We also suggest scanning copies and emailing them to yourself for extra reassurance.
If you are under 18, we will need to chat to you on the phone and you will need to be accompanied on the trip by a parent or guardian throughout the holiday. If you are 60 or over we’d love to chat with you about the trip before you book. Please contact us via our online chat.
On the day you travel please keep your mobile phone handy so we can stay in touch in case of delays and flight changes. Please inform us if you’re early or delayed for any reason.
If you need help booking your flight then just drop us a line or read our helpful blog post about booking flights.
If you can’t find our representative at the airport, stay there and wait, they won’t be far away. Our transfer representatives will have access to your arrival details. However, if you’re having difficulties finding them follow the instructions in your pre-arrival email. One of the team will locate you. Upon booking the trip the trip leader will share their direct mobile number so that you can contact them if you need them.
As with any holiday, full travel insurance is a requirement for all guests booking a trip with the company.
Please also ensure that your policy covers you for ‘disruption to travel’ and ‘cover for cancellations’ as standard.
For further help please read our helpful blog post about travel insurance.
You may need to add additional cover for surfing or bodyboarding, it is essential that your insurance policy covers you for all activities during your stay. Failure to take out travel insurance breaks the contract between Bodyboard Holidays and the client.
If you are joining one of our trips and you are native to the country of its location (i.e you live in Lisbon and are joining our Portugal trip) you do not need to take out medical travel insurance. This is as long as you have your own personal health-care plan or are covered by your country’s National Health Service. Although, we kindly request that you still take out trip disruption and cancellation insurance to cover all possible eventualities.
NICARAGUA
The local currency in Nicaragua is the Nicaraguan Córdoba, but US dollars are widely accepted, especially in coastal and tourist areas. We recommend bringing small-denomination USD in cash, as it’s easy to use for extras like drinks or snacks.
It is better to get your money changed before the trip as the banks and ATMs in both El Salvador and Nicaragua charge a lot for withdrawing money, and on top of this, the nearest ATM to the camp is a taxi ride away, so please come prepared!
EL SALVADOR
Since 2001, El Salvador helpfully incorporated the United States Dollar as its national currency. You can pick up US dollars from travel agencies, banks or post offices before you come, or there are exchange facilities in airports as well as ATMs. Recently the country became unique in its recognition of Bitcoin as a national currency. We have always used US dollars when in El Salvador and they are accepted everywhere.
NICARAGUA
Nicaragua is generally a safe and welcoming country for travellers, particularly in coastal regions where surf tourism is well established. The local communities are friendly, laid-back, and accustomed to visiting bodyboarders and surfers.
At our camp, safety is a real standout. We stay within a private, gated community with controlled access, and the area is quiet, relaxed, and very well looked after. Crime is nonexistent, and guests regularly comment on how safe and comfortable they feel. It’s common for accommodation owners in the area to leave homes and vehicles to be left unlocked, allowing you to fully relax and focus on the waves.
EL SALVADOR
El Salvador has changed dramatically in recent years and is now considered one of the safest countries in Central America for travellers, particularly in coastal and surf-focused regions. Tourism has grown quickly, and visitors consistently report feeling welcomed and comfortable.
More specifically, El Zonte is a well-established surf village with a relaxed, close-knit community where wave riding is part of everyday life. It’s known for its friendly atmosphere, low crime, and strong local presence. Guests regularly comment on how safe and at ease they feel walking around the village, day or night.
We are a UK based company that delivers trips all over the world welcoming travellers of all nationalities.
If your circumstances change and you can’t join the trip, please let us know as soon as possible via email. Your cancellation notice will start from the date we receive it.
Cancellation terms:
We hold part or full costs, depending on when you cancel:
Cancellation may fall under the terms and conditions of your holiday insurance policy and you may be able to claim.
Please take a look at our Frequently Asked Questions videos.
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