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Rise Up Surf

Rise Up Surf

Traveller (269)
Surf on our local beach
Pool & Beach (72)
Dining (11)
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About

5.0
#1 of 1 special resort in Chinandega
4.9 of 5 bubbles
Location
4.8 of 5 bubbles
Rooms
4.9 of 5 bubbles
Value
4.9 of 5 bubbles
Cleanliness
4.9 of 5 bubbles
Service
4.8 of 5 bubbles
Sleep Quality
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Surf in original locations, deepen your yoga practice, join the familia. We offer all-inclusive surf and yoga retreats in Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Guatemala and Barbados. Rise Up is for everyone; whether you are a solo-traveler, first time surfer, experienced wave rider or yogi beginner—everyone is welcomed as part of our familia. Our mission is to change the lives of others with once-in-a-lifetime surf coaching, yoga and adventure retreats—and we ensure that you are in for one of the best weeks of your life. All of our locations are perfectly isolated. They have been carefully selected with the intention of providing you a place to connect with nature, others, and yourself—all while improving your surfing on world class waves. Choose your adventure.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Yoga classes
Pool
Free breakfast
Beach
Boating
Free airport transportation
Full body massage
Yoga room
Fitness classes
Outdoor pool
Bar / lounge
Restaurant
Breakfast available
Outdoor dining area
Special diet menus
Hiking
Horseback riding
Entertainment staff
Airport transportation
Massage
Sun loungers / beach chairs
Laundry service
Room features
Air conditioning
Safe
Bottled water
Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL STYLE
Family
Mid-range
Languages Spoken
English, Spanish, German

Location

Punta Aposentillo, Chinandega Nicaragua
304Reviews9Q+A40Room tips
Traveller rating
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Detailed Reviews
Diana D wrote a review Apr 2021
5.0 of 5 bubbles
I’m on a cloud from my Rise Up trip to Nicaragua. Just caught up with a friend that said, “looked like you were living your best life.” And that is exactly what a week with Rise Up is, living the best most beautiful version of your life. Everything is taken care of so you can simply enjoy without stress or concern. The staff treats you like a queen yet are so personal you leave truly feeling like family and friends for life. The surf instruction and video analysis is so beyond helpful. I was really able to breakdown my bad habits with Fran and made so much progress in a week. The water was spectacular and it was awesome to see so many breaks and spots. The yoga was the perfect compliment to the hard work that surfing and paddling entails. Grace’s practice was individualized to each of us and helped restore tired muscles while preparing our strength for the next day of surfing. Yoga provided daily moments of calm that were need to balance out my overwhelming stoke and excitement from each adventure packed day. I am go go go and love that there was always something to do and see. Hiking a volcano after a tractor ride at dawn, horseback rides (and full on galloping runs :) on the beach at sunset with the Nicaraguan Disney prince that Norvin is. Sunsets never get old and are always such a beautiful moment to pause and connect with the familia. I love that sunset was a daily ritual to enjoy together. The entire staff is so warm, open and kind. Melky keeps you laughing and entertained at every hour of the day and also has some seeet dance moves. Alvaro & Fran will show you every plant, flower, animal and tree. Mateo takes the most awesome pictures- even of me and my fav surf doggy girl Roxy that I want to clone. Roxy’s dad Oscar was the kindest sweetest host. Explaining every beautiful healthy meal, always encouraging me to be brave and try new things like jumping from trees and standing up on a wakeboard. The food was amazing, healthy and delicious. I got massages as well from the incredible Yessenia and Melissa. The massages were an amazingly affordable add on that kept me relaxed and ready for more fun the next day. Corina and Phil hold it all together and provide the perfect structure to enjoy and always give you the option to make it work for you. Their flexibility and willingness to go out of their way for your benefit is unparalleled. I could go on and on about everyone and every detail of all that I loved from this retreat. As a female solo traveler, I never felt awkward or out of place. I felt safe, cared for and that I’ve got a big fam in Nica to go return to and visit. I will most definitely be back and hope to meet you there soon. - Dee
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Date of stay: April 2021Trip type: Travelled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lucik wrote a review Apr 2022
5.0 of 5 bubbles
I spent a week recently with Rise Up in Nicaragua. Where we stayed near El Tránsito beach The views were out of this world and the property was right on the sand. The rooms were spacious and beautifully decorated with a stunning bathroom and outdoor shower. The whole property is beautifully decorated and there are plenty of places to sit and relax as well as use the lovely pool to cool down. The surf coaches were amazing and extremely knowledgeable and enthusiastic – Kim and Novin you guys rock!!! There was a lot of attention paid to taking good footage to analyse which I found particularly helpful.

The food was out of this world and deserves a five star rating thanks to Veronica and Teddy for amazing meals. Also a massive thank you to Jenna for the daily yoga sessions which really helped with staying limber and injury free from surfing. The yoga classes were held overlooking the beach with stunning views.

Rise Up also organised activities including volcano boarding (I was such a wuss and there was nothing to worry about please go fast!! – You will regret it otherwise), as well as Wakeboarding which was such fun. We also went horseriding on the beach watching the sunset which was on a bucket list of mine for a long time.

We also learnt to make tortillas with a local lady and that was again a fantastic experience.

Philip the owner of Rise Up has created an amazing space and truly cares about his guests having a good time. I would highly recommend this place even if you are not a beginner like me there is plenty of good waves for intermediate surfers.

Thank you also to Rory for his great stories and wonderful energy (please stay injury free!!) And Matt for taking amazing photographs and Elton for taking brilliant videos. Also a massive thank you to Anna who is another instructor who although didn’t instruct me was a key reason for a fantastic Wakeboarding session. She is an absolute star. Also there are lots of people in the background working in the kitchen as well as keeping the rooms spotless to thank.

I’ve already started saving for my next trip! X
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Date of stay: April 2022Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Molly G wrote a review Aug 2021
5.0 of 5 bubbles
My time at Rise Up was nothing short of spectacular! Not only are you surrounded by lush jungle and epic surf breaks at the remote Costa Rica location, but also incredible people (both staff & guests) from all different backgrounds and walks of life.

The surf coaches, yoga instructor, videographer, etc. were all extremely welcoming, giving each individual a personalized experience with great attention to detail. And most importantly, they treat you like family as soon as your walk through the door. I highly recommend this trip for solo travelers, couples, and groups of friends who want to surf and adventure in rural areas.

And the waves did not disappoint! I found myself saying "these are the best waves of my life!!!" every time I ended a surf session. I honestly can't wait to book my next trip with Rise Up! Next up... Nicaragua :)
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Date of stay: July 2021
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BeataB wrote a review Feb 2020
Winterthur, Switzerland
5.0 of 5 bubbles
This is my 2nd but for sure not my last Rise Up Surf experience. After joining Riseup in Nicaragua 2018 I decided to stay with Riseup in Guatemala for this year’s adventure. And I loved it – from the moment you step out of the airport everything is taken care of. Corina, Fran and the entire Rise Up team made sure we all had the best time ever. From the top surf coaching by their team as well as local surf instructors, the perfectly matching yoga, the best food, super fun activities (wake surfing, boat trip, SUP, cooking classes…) to the accommodation, it was just perfect and my dream surf holiday. Oh and not to forget about all the awesome new friends from all over the world I made. I definitely recommend you to book with Rise Up Surf if you want to surf in a special part of the world with great people and progress your surfing no matter at what level you are at right now. But be aware that you might get addicted to staying with Rise Up or that you fall in love with any of the locations you stay at. It might change your life…😉 Thank you Rise Up, I’ll be back.
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Date of stay: January 2020
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
cybershaz wrote a review Apr 2020
Toronto, Canada
5.0 of 5 bubbles
I have stayed and surfed with the Rise Up crew a number of times in Nicarauga, and have great admiration for how they run their surf camps. When the opportunity came to join them 'on the road' in Barbados, I couldn't pass up the opportunity.

I have surfed Barbados numerous times, but it was an incredible change to be there with Rise Up owner, Phil, who is Bajan. Barbados while beautiful, can be expensive, a challenge to get around, and have very busy surf breaks. Rise Up took the friction out of the planning and stay!

The Location: We stayed in a gorgeous (that's not even strong enough a word) villa on the west coast. This place was incredible with a living room open to a pool, amazingly appointed bedrooms, and tons of space to relax. It was a short walk to the beach.

The Food: The culinary team was spectacular with every meal being locally inspired and more than enough for everyone. I came down with a flu part-way through and they went out of their way to make me soup, special tea, and made sure I had everything I needed.

The Surf: We surfed a number of amazing breaks all around the island, depending on the swell direction. With a local guide we always found the best spot, and also the crew took pics and did video review. As always we were divided into groups by ability so everyone got the waves they wanted.

The Team: What can I say ... the best team ever! From Phil & Corina, to the amazing surf guides (hello Fran & Matt!), to Blair's yoga. It's all incredible. The RU crew is an extended family and always there to take care of you.

What an amazing week with amazing people. Thank you!
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Date of stay: May 2019
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Marte A wrote a review Apr 2020
Stavanger, Norway
5.0 of 5 bubbles
My experience with Rise up in Barbados was amazing. Like always, the daily schedule is planned to get the as much surf and best surf possible with experienced the surf coaches. They always took us to the best location, even when it meant driving across the beautiful island.
They offered daily yoga classes, took us on boat trips, to watch the sun sets and to experience the local Bajan cuisine.Phil and Corina are the sweetest and most accomodating hosts and they do everything to make their guests have the best time.
The villa was beautiful and spacious with a with a swimmin pool you could belly flop into from the living room.

Thank you Corina, Phil, Kaia and the rest of the crew for making me feel part of the family and giving me an amazing and unforgettable experience.
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Date of stay: May 2019
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Oceanspirit78 wrote a review Dec 2020
Jupiter, Florida
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Rise Up Surf is my go to retreat for surf, yoga, fun excursions, and give back. I have been several times to Nicaragua and once to their Costa Rica destination. Every time I go it is a totally new and different experience and I have NEVER been disappointed and have always felt very safe. I have traveled with one other person a few times, went with a larger group of friends, and recently went with my family which includes my 8 and 10 year old kids. They had the best time and had the most amazing instructor, Melquing, who went above and beyond every single day to make their experience memorable and enjoyable.

The people and new friends I have met each time have always been so incredible. *The owners are sweet, kind, mellow, and very accommodating. They are eco friendly and support the locals with jobs and they do a lot to build up and empower the community. *The surf coaches are so friendly and amazing and have been with them for years and are some of the best people I have ever met. They accommodate beginners to advanced (adults and children) and always take their guests to multiple beautiful uncrowded locations throughout the week. They provide numerous boards to use or you can bring your own. They do a video analysis and offer advice on what you can do to improve and meet your personal surfing goals. You also get photos at the end. Depending on the tide you can surf a couple times a day and it’s always so much fun. *The yoga instructors have always been kind, caring, intuitive, and are always perfection. Classes have ranged from a vinyasa flow to yin/restorative to Yoga Nidra, depending on the guests desires for the day.

Food is included (3 meals plus a sunrise snack) and can be customized to your dietary needs and is always fresh and locally prepared. The accommodations are always right on the beach and beautiful. Excursions include horseback riding on the beach, volcano hiking or boarding, and boat trips through the estuary. You can get a massage, have beach bon fires, evening or sunrise surf sessions, relax by the pool, cocktails, games, books, buy locally made jewelry, etc. Your days are planned out and you just get to sit back and enjoy the ride.

Flights and customs are easy and Rise Up has someone waiting for you at the airport to take you to the resort so you don’t have to worry. We did have to get the rapid Covid test for the airline but that was a simple enough process.

If you want to give back to the community you can check bags full of clothes, toys, shoes, etc to donate. You can also ask what the current Rise Up Kids International project is and how you can be involved.
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Date of stay: December 2020Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Christian P wrote a review Jul 2021
Nashville, Tennessee, United States
5.0 of 5 bubbles
The lodging at Encanta La Vida resort, organized by the Rise Up Staff was truly magical. From the fresh, healthy food at every meal to swimming in the pool as monkeys swing from the trees over your head. It was nestled into the jungle but only a 5 minute walk to one of the surf breaks. But by far the best part about Rise Up was their staff - Matt Boyle especially. Not only is he hilarious but he sounds like he could write a book on surfing with all of his technical knowledge. We were in such fun, capable hands from start to finish!
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Date of stay: June 2021
4.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Erica wrote a review Mar 2020
New York City, New York
5.0 of 5 bubbles
If you're looking for a really fun and awesome surf retreat, look no further! Rise Up is the place to go. Northern Nicaragua is the place to go if you want to surf uncrowded waves and have spots for all levels of surfing. While February might not be the prime swell season for the area due to onshore winds and small swell, Rise Up took us to some breaks that were still super fun and perrrrrfect for longboarding.

The owners, coaches and staff were incredibly kind, helpful and you could tell were genuinely stoked to be part of the Rise Up family. The surf coaches were fantastic at improving your surfing through video analysis and feedback in the water. The resort was a great eco resort that was quiet and tucked away and less than a minute walk to the beach. Not to mention the food - garment food on every level from delicious breakfasts post surf to raw deserts.

From the moment you step off the plane to the moment you leave, the Rise Up family makes sure all your needs are met! I highly recommend the retreat and look forward to returning!
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Date of stay: February 2020
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sean B wrote a review Dec 2020
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Put simply, Rise Up is a best-in-class operation. I first visited Rise Up in November 2018 so as a repeat guest, I had an idea of what to expect. I can honestly say I have been blown away by both my experiences as they’ve been everything I expected and more. Besides access to the world class, consistent surf (and 80+ degree water temperatures!), the surf coaching is personalized and wholistic. In addition to the coaching you receive in the water, there are also video analysis and surf theory sessions which were tremendously helpful in not only helping me improve my surfing over the course of the week, but also giving me a clear idea of what I need to work on to take my surfing up a level. Additionally, your instructors are truly “locals” when it comes to understanding the multitude of surf breaks and what break may offer the best conditions on any given day. Besides the surf, I really enjoyed the yoga as it was a nice change of pace from what I do at home and what you’ll find in most yoga studios. I would be remise if I didn’t mention the food as well, which is truly out of this world. The food is fresh, healthy, creative and delicious and overall geared at providing you the fuel necessary to get the most out of your surfing, yoga and overall adventure! Rise Up is one of the few vacations I’ve gone on where I actually felt healthier upon returning home.

While the above review hits on the major, individual components of my experience, my favorite part of the Rise Up experience is the family atmosphere that is present from the moment you arrive. Between sitting down to share meals, traveling in the truck to various surf locations, surfing, and of course listening to copious amounts of reggaeton, it is impossible to ignore the genuine kindness and upbeat nature of the people around you, which to me to Rise Up’s “special sauce”.

Given the current travel climate, it’s worth noting that while obviously international travel is more complex at this moment in time due to COVID-19, Rise Up does everything in their power to make your travel as seamless as possible (input on flights, information on COVID test requirements, forms that need to be completed, private shuttle to/from airport etc.).

Both of my experiences at Rise Up have been everything I wanted and more and I’m beyond stoked for my next visit!

Sean
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Date of stay: November 2020
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jacquelyn L asked a question Aug 2024
Santa Cruz, California6 contributions4 helpful votes
Are the wave in Nicaragua longboard or short board waves ?
smoore020390 asked a question Feb 2019
New York City, New York2 contributions2 helpful votes
Are alcoholic drinks included in the packages? If not how much are drinks?
Answer from Phillip S
Chinandega, Nicaragua
We include local rum and local beer. Speciality drinks and wine are extra. Send us an email with any further questions.
smoore020390 asked a question Feb 2019
New York City, New York2 contributions2 helpful votes
Are alcoholic drinks included in the packages? If not how much are drinks?
Answer from Boolie33
Boston, Massachusetts30 contributions6 helpful votes
We didn’t pay extra for alcohol, but when we went there was a promotion going on, so I’m not sure what is standard. That being said, we didn’t know if alcohol was covered or not, so we stopped at a gas station on the way there and for under 10$(US) we got a handle of rum, some chips and mixers. The juice was more expensive than the booze. Aka, I wouldn’t worry about alcohol. If you want a definitive answer, email them, they’re great about answering questions.
Answer from dsm348
New York City, New York1 contribution
if they haven’t surfed before and they are only 11 and 13, I’d advise against it. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a great place for most people, surfing beginners included. It just depends on how mature your kids are and if they can handle not having WiFi, dealing with mosquitoes, being around a lot of alcohol, and going through some learning pains both mental and physical.
Answer from Phillip S
Chinandega, Nicaragua
Hello and thank you for writing. In answer to your questions: 1. We do not provide air dryers but feel free to bring your own 2.you need extra cash for shopping in Leon, extra drinks if you decide to go out and our market. Otherwise all is included 3. The most important things for the local charity are school supplies for primary school or sporting supplies. Hope this help and please feel free to reach out if you have any other questions. Have a great day and hope to see you soon, Phil
babybluebent wrote a tip May 2024
Ventnor, NJ22 contributions13 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Book your trips out early because their camps fill up."
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Wade H wrote a tip Apr 2024
Ottawa, Canada1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"This location was slightly far from any kind of stores. Bring everything you need with you. "
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T8385GLelainew wrote a tip Feb 2024
2 contributions1 helpful vote
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Not all the rooms have outdoor showers so be sure to specify if you want (or don't want) one."
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kittyworldwide wrote a tip Feb 2024
Redondo Beach, California5 contributions3 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"There are no shopping opportunities near the resort. Make sure to bring all toiletries that you need. Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash ar"
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Emma R wrote a tip Dec 2023
Gillette, New Jersey2 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Airport transfers were smooth but just a reminder too consider an extra 3.5+ hours to your travel day. "
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There are more places to choose from in the Chinandega area.
LOCATION
NicaraguaChinandega DepartmentChinandega
NUMBER OF ROOMS
10
Prices are provided by our partners, and reflect average nightly room rates, including taxes and fees that are fixed, known to our partners, and due at time of booking. Please see our partners for more details.
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RISE UP SURF (Chinandega) - Specialty Resort Reviews & Photos - Tripadvisor

Frequently Asked Questions about Rise Up Surf
What are some of the property amenities at Rise Up Surf?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free breakfast, a pool, and an on-site restaurant.
What food & drink options are available at Rise Up Surf?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge during their stay.
Is parking available at Rise Up Surf?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Rise Up Surf?
Conveniently located restaurants include Al Cielo Hotel y Restaurante, Pasta La Vista, and Restaurante Y Pizzeria Las Dunas.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Rise Up Surf?
Yes, guests have access to a pool, fitness classes, and yoga classes during their stay.
Does Rise Up Surf have an airport shuttle?
Yes, Rise Up Surf offers an airport shuttle for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Does Rise Up Surf have airport transportation?
Yes, Rise Up Surf offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Rise Up Surf?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English, Spanish, and German.
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