Surfing Turtle Lodge

I was so excited to visit this place and so disappointed when I got there (Dec-2012). First of all, the location is amazing and secluded. Almost everything else related to the lodge itself is disaster. Don't believe propaganda on their website or promotion in other hostel across Nicaragua.

Before I start complaining I have to say that I'm not a spoiled city guy that needs all amenities and conveniences of modern world. I do a lot of hiking, sleeping/camping in bush, etc. But in this case, if I pay serious money for something, I expect quality and service!

Now my complains:

- They had guts to charge me forward $110 for two nights in private room that wasn't even ready when I arrived and complete disaster - no lock, no drapes to cover windows, ripped and dirty walls (see pics). It had nothing to do with "private". When I asked for refund because I wanted to stay just one night after what I saw, they refused with reason that it was paid over Internet. Compared to other places in Central and South America where I was staying it was one of the worst and not worth more than $15/night. If they charged that much, I wouldn't say a word.

- Food was at most mediocre and for the quality overpriced. Starved cat was literally putting paws in my plate trying to steal my food! Nothing against cats, almost every place I stayed at had one, but this was too much. On a positive side, they always had cold beer, but not really good selection of drinks.

- I didn't exactly felt that staff really cared much about people staying there. Whenever I asked for something I had an impression that I'm bothering them (except the guy whose name was I think Nick).

- I don't really play volleyball, but the net I saw was in awful condition (again, see attached picture),

- During day, when I wanted actually enjoy reading in hammock, there was really noisy generator running near by to ruin everything. They call themselves eco-friendly hostel, well, humor me more!

On a positive side:

- was lucky to see turtle release on a first night which was pretty cool,

- early morning walk along the beach was amazing.

I left the place after one night after being so disappointed and it was best thing to do. Definitely the worst place I stayed at in Nicaragua. If you really want to stay there, don't bother for overpriced room or cabin, scale down to dorm. As well, bring some of your own food.

To keep my review short just know Lanalees was dead on. The one and only reason I enjoyed myself was the beach wich was amazing. It became less amazing after a dead dolphin washed up in front the place and they just left it there. The kitchen is open at their convinience and although good it is overpriced. No electric all day and a few hours at night if you are lucky. The boat ride over may or may not cost you a few cordoba. Its really no wonder 2 of my 3 nights I was the only guest.

Where to begin? There's so much wrong at the Surfing Turtle Lodge.

First of all they don't have any boards that are in a decent shape, so forget about surfing (lessons) unless you bring your own board. Second, with no eggs or turtles, there is no hatchery. So they might want to rethink their name.

The Lodge is everything BUT ecofriendly. The solar panels on the beach are obviously just decoration, cause in the month that I spent volunteering there, they were not used. In stead - on the rare occasions there was power - they used a gasoline slurping generator which was faulty and literally made a hell of a noise (so forget about the tranquil environment they promise on their website). No electricity means no light or WIFI. They don't grow their own vegetables or spices as stated on their Facebook page. Beach volleyball and basketball sounds very nice, but it would be nicer if there was actually a ball that bounces and has air. As for the boardgames - none of them are complete. I didn't see any learning centre. They say they work with local students and volunteers to clean the land, but why then is the beach full with litter?

The website is a beautiful site - making the place sound like paradise - but unfortunately very misleading. Clearly the guy updating the website (and Facebook Page) hasn't visited the Lodge lately. It's easy to list all the amenities and activities you offer, but then you should also be able to offer them! If not, change the information on your site to reflect the real state the Lodge is in. Be honest to the people. This way guests won't leave disappointed.

I busted my ass off for them, trying to save whatever was left to save of this sham of a place. Most days I was on duty for 16 hours and in the end the guy in charge didn't even thank me.

As an ex-volunteer, I was greatly disappointed by the state the Lodge was in as well as in the management. Therefore I DO NOT recommend to 'volunteer' at the Lodge, unless you are prepared to WORK long days in unacceptable conditions and feel unappreciated.

As for staying at the Lodge, unless they seriously turn things around and do all the things they promise on their site, I'd recommend to stay away, because the place is everything BUT paradise. For in paradise at least there's light.

I spend a few days at the Surfing Turtle Lodge and it made my trip to Niacaragua one of the most memorable experiences.

This place is on an island, beach front property, and it feels like the whole beach is yours to explore and enjoy.

The hostel just opened in November last year, and it's simply affordable luxury. I highly recommend staying in the cabanas, they are a bit more expensive but you can share the cost with a friend and it's very private. On the other hand if you sleep in the dorms the view will leave you speechless. The sunsets are right on the ocean and stunning as well.

My favourite part is how nice and clean the bathrooms were. It's very rare I enjoy showering in hostels, but it was just fine.

Also there is a full bar and restaurant there so it's all taken care of. The seafood is excellent, and always fresh so try it for sure. They make really good fresh fruit juices, which are on the bar and not food menu so try them.

They have surfboards, boogie board and bikes for rent. Good place to learn how to surf...harder to bike because its so hot during the day.

If you do the night walks around the beach you will come across turtles laying eggs. Can't say i made it, because i was exhausted every evening, but i heard others talk about it.

Just keep in mind you have to take a boat and walk 1.5km to get there once you get to the island. Nice walk but have water!