Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
( 8980-2951; Gato Negro, 100m S)
Organizes half-/full-day trips to less-crowded, outlying
beaches such as Hermosa and Yanqui for US$25/45 per person, shuttles to nearby spots
(US$5 to US$10), rentals (US$10 per day) and lessons (US$30 per hour).
Swimming & Diving
The beach in town is OK; head to the northern end for the best swimming - and watch for
boat traffic.
Neptune Watersports
(
www.neptunewsn.com
;
Mercado 1c O, 10m N; 2-tank dive US$85)
Check here for dives and boat
excursions.
DIVING
Hiking
The
Old Lighthouse Hike
takes you up an obvious trail that begins at the fishing port. It
crosses private property, so you'll need to request access on the trail, and possibly pay for
the use.
Sound like too much work? Try the
antennas trail
: ask the driver of any Rivas-bound
bus to let you off at 'Bocas de las Montañas.' Follow the dirt road through jungle and pas-
ture up to the radio antennas, from where you have similarly stunning views. This is a ser-
ious, all-day proposition - take plenty of water, a sun hat and snacks.
A slightly less hard-core expedition starts at the north of town, heading for the spectac-
ular lookout at the Christ of Mercy Statue. Cross the pedestrian bridge north of town and
follow signs up.
toward Rivas, passing the Texaco station, and make a left after the bridge. Pass a school
and then a gate on your right. Continue to the old farmhouse; if anyone's around, you
should ask permission to cross the land. Follow the irrigation pipes to the river, where
you'll find the stone, showing an enormous and elaborate hunting scene.
Biking
je Elizabeth, perfect for the dirt roads heading to the northern and southern beaches. You
can take your bike on buses that run between SJDS and El Ostional, as well as the little
river ferry at the northern end of the SJDS beach.
