Corn Islands

Travel Guide

Photo provided by Nicaraguan Tourism Board
Photo provided by Nicaraguan Tourism Board
Corn Islands
Photo by Mike  Leeson
Photo by Katie Collins

Located off Nicaragua’s Caribbean coast, these two tropical islands offer white-sand beaches, swaying palm trees and warm waters.

Surrender to the beauty and the relaxing pace of life of Nicaragua’s Corn Islands. This impossibly scenic pair of islands draw visitors looking for beachside bliss. Lounge on spectacular stretches of sand, go diving in coral reefs or simply sit back and enjoy ocean views from the comfort of a swinging hammock.

Big Corn Island, also known as Great Corn Island, is the larger and more developed of the two Corn Islands, though it is still decidedly laid-back and low-key. Laze on the sand at the beaches here, including Sally Peachy Beach and Picnic Beach, and snorkel among schools of fish.

For something more active, follow the paths that lead to the summit of Quinn Hill, which, at 370 feet (113 meters) above sea level, is the highest point on Big Corn. Enjoy views out over the ocean from the top. If your visit coincides with the rainy season, which typically lasts from May to November, bring your raincoat and be prepared for muddy tracks.

Catch a panga (boat) to the jungle-clad Little Corn Island for a stay in a rustic and pristine environment. Enjoy the tranquility of this car-free destination. Bring your scuba gear and dive to reefs and swim through underwater caves. Float past hammerhead sharks at the Tarpon Channel and see porcupine puffer fish at the White Holes dive site off the north of the island. Fishing charters can also be arranged from Little Corn.

Popular daytrips include boat tours out to Pearl Cays, a chain of unspoiled and often deserted tropical islands. Back on the Corn Islands, taste regional cuisine, such as just-caught lobster cooked to perfection in fresh coconut milk and spices.

Fly to the Corn Islands from Nicaragua’s capital city, Managua. Remember that Little Corn Island has limited electricity and Wi-Fi is also scarce.

Visit these idyllic tropical islands and experience true serenity.

Arenas Beach Hotel
Arenas Beach Hotel
3.5 out of 5
Southwest Bay, Corn Islands, Corn Islands
Stay at this 3.5-star beach hotel in Corn Islands. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (193 reviews)
"It was a Great Stay."

Reviewed on Jun 21, 2025

Arenas Beach Hotel
Yemaya Reefs, a Small Luxury Hotel
Yemaya Reefs, a Small Luxury Hotel
3.5 out of 5
Northern End, Corn Islands
Stay at this 3.5-star beach hotel in Corn Islands. Enjoy a beach locale, room service, and onsite spa services. Popular attractions Turtle Hill and Lighthouse ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (91 reviews)
Another Day in Paradise
"Yemaya Reefs is perfection. From the door-to-door service from Big Corn airport (definitely worth it to reserve transportation through Yemaya as opposed to finding a taxi from Big Corn airport to the harbor and then finding a water taxi) to the welcome drinks to every member of the team greeting ..."

Reviewed on Jun 18, 2025

Yemaya Reefs, a Small Luxury Hotel
Emerald Luxe Suites
Emerald Luxe Suites
3 out of 5
South End, Corn Islands, South Caribbean Coast
Stay at this 3-star hotel in Corn Islands. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions Sally Peachy Beach and Karen Tucker ...
"Beautiful sunset view"

Reviewed on Dec 23, 2024

Emerald Luxe Suites
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Reviews of Corn Islands

4.4
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
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5 - Excellent 40%
4 - Good
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4 - Good 60%
3 - Okay
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4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

Have them contact me so I can explain the problem with their taxi service they provide

Cities near Corn Islands