Playa Maderas is the most popular surf beach in the San Juan del Sur area, located about 14 km north of town along a rough road that requires a 4x4 or the shared shuttles that run daily from the town centre. The beach break here is consistent and relatively forgiving — peaks shift along the bay and there are usually waves suitable for beginners at one end while better surfers work the more powerful sections.
Several small surf camps and a handful of bars and guesthouses have grown up around the beach without overwhelming it. Boards can be rented on-site and lessons are available through the camps. Outside surf hours the swimming is pleasant; the bay is sheltered enough that currents are not a major hazard. The beach gets busy on weekends and during the high season (December to April), but even then it rarely feels overcrowded. Early morning sessions before the tour shuttles arrive are the best time for uncrowded waves.