Las Peñitas

Las Peñitas is the beach León goes to, twenty kilometres west of the city at the end of a paved road, a long strip of dark grey volcanic sand with a beach break that works for surfing and a line of hostels, hotels and beachfront restaurants behind it. The neighbouring village of Poneloya is the older resort, with weekend houses from the days when it was the fashionable escape. At the southern end the Juan Venado estuary begins, and boats and kayaks leave from there into the mangroves. The sunsets are the other reason people stay. Currents on this coast are strong and drownings happen; the beach is not supervised and the safe swimming areas change.

What you actually see

• Dark volcanic sand - the long grey beach and its surf break.
• The estuary mouth - the start of Juan Venado at the southern end.
• Beachfront hostels - the accommodation strip behind the sand.
• Pacific sunsets - the evening view that fills the beach bars.

When to go

December to April for dry weather; surf is bigger from March to October. Weekends bring Nicaraguan visitors from León. Holy Week fills the whole coast completely.

Honest expectations

Currents here are dangerous and there are no lifeguards; local advice on where to swim matters and should be taken seriously. The sand is dark and gets very hot underfoot. Facilities are basic and rubbish on the beach is a recurring problem.

Nearby

Juan Venado reserve is adjacent; León lies inland.