The best time to visit is during the dry season, between November and May when the weather is sunny and dry, with the most ideal months being December to April for surfing and the best temperatures. The peak tourist season is between December and April, so if you want to avoid crowds, consider visiting earlier or later in the dry season.

For the best surfing conditions, plan to visit in the dry season (November – May), with consistent swells and good winds.

Prices for accommodations may be lower in the shoulder season, November and May.

The official language of Nicaragua is Spanish, which is spoken by the majority of the population. In Play Gigante, English proficiency varies depending on where you are. In places frequented by tourists, such as restaurants, hotels, and tour operators, many staff members speak at least basic English to accommodate international visitors. If you want to immerse yourself in the local culture and be able to talk and interact with local people, you should be able to speak some Spanish. We recommend you get a good guidebook and familiarize yourself with common phrases such as hello, goodbye, please, thank you, excuse me, and numbers 1-10.

El Gigante is known for its relaxed atmosphere and is generally considered safe. It has a small, close-knit community where people tend to look out for one another and the local community is welcoming and friendly. As with most destinations, stick to well-traveled areas and avoid walking alone late at night. Petty theft can occur, so secure your belongings.

No, it is not recommended to drink tap water directly. While some locals may drink it without issues, visitors are advised to stick to bottled or filtered water to avoid potential stomach discomfort or waterborne illnesses. Some hotels and establishments offer filtered water for guests. Ask if it’s safe for drinking.

Nicaragua observes Central Standard Time year-round. The country does not adjust to daylight saving time.

The official Nicaraguan currency is the córdoba (it is sometimes referred to as a peso). It is made up of 100 centavos. Money is denominated in notes of 10, 20, 50, 100, and 500 córdobas. Coins are made of 1 and 5 córdobas and 50 centavos.

U.S. dollars are widely accepted, such as in many hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is always a good idea to carry small denominations, as getting change in USD can sometimes be difficult. To avoid unfavorable exchange rates, consider exchanging some money into córdobas at banks or authorized exchange offices. Always check the current exchange rate before making transactions.

There are no ATMs in the village. Be sure to bring enough cash. The closest ATMs are in Rivas, about a 45-minute drive away.

Local cuisine includes fresh seafood (grilled fish, lobster, and ceviche) and traditional Nicaraguan dishes like gallo pinto (rice and beans). Small restaurants and beach bars serve international and local fare.

Traditional desserts include Tres Leches Cake, a soft sponge cake soaked in three kinds of milk. Pio Quinto is a dessert made of sponge cake soaked in rum syrup, topped with cinnamon and custard. Rosquillas is another popular sweet treat that is a ring-shaped cookie made with cornmeal and cheese.

Yes, most accommodations and some cafes offer Wi-Fi, but the connection might not be as fast or reliable as in larger towns.

For emergencies, dial 128.

The nearest hospital is in Rivas, about a 45-minute drive. For minor injuries or illnesses, some accommodations may have basic first aid supplies.