Laguna de Apoyo is the warmest body of water in Nicaragua. It is surrounded by mountains in all directions, and has one of the most relaxed vibes of anywhere that I have been thus far. I highly recommend this to anyone in the Granada/Masaya area if you're looking to just relax, swim/kayak, read a book, or have a cold one. Since I stayed at Hostel Oasis in Granada there was a day trip shuttle that included the entrance fee, a bus ride to the laguna (30 mins), and use of all of their sister hostel's (Paradiso) equipment right on the lagoon.
Six kayaks, inner-tubes, beach-balls, a raft...where to start!? I decided to grab my camera and make my way in a kayak across the lagoon. After paddling for about 30 minutes I realized that I was only 1/4 or 1/3 across and decided that I would just relax for a minute and take a few good photos/videos. Then I paddled back to the beach and swam a little in the greenest and warmest water that I've seen in years. I had a beach-side snack and read some more of my book while lounging in the shade before dipping in the water again to chase fish and look at the floating volcanic rocks (pumice). I couldn't help but think of the Monty Python and the Holy Grail reference when I saw these odd stones.
I felt like I didn't have to worry about a thing while I was sitting there and would have loved to stay for a week...perhaps when I head back down I will! If you are traveling with a significant other, this seems to be the place for couples. If not, 9$ a night at the laguna with slightly expensive but good food won't hurt either. You can also bring your own food in and save a bunch while you're there. If you ask I believe there is a short hike up one of the surrounding mountains that would give you a great view of the whole lagoon, something I will definitely look for if I return.
Six kayaks, inner-tubes, beach-balls, a raft...where to start!? I decided to grab my camera and make my way in a kayak across the lagoon. After paddling for about 30 minutes I realized that I was only 1/4 or 1/3 across and decided that I would just relax for a minute and take a few good photos/videos. Then I paddled back to the beach and swam a little in the greenest and warmest water that I've seen in years. I had a beach-side snack and read some more of my book while lounging in the shade before dipping in the water again to chase fish and look at the floating volcanic rocks (pumice). I couldn't help but think of the Monty Python and the Holy Grail reference when I saw these odd stones.
I felt like I didn't have to worry about a thing while I was sitting there and would have loved to stay for a week...perhaps when I head back down I will! If you are traveling with a significant other, this seems to be the place for couples. If not, 9$ a night at the laguna with slightly expensive but good food won't hurt either. You can also bring your own food in and save a bunch while you're there. If you ask I believe there is a short hike up one of the surrounding mountains that would give you a great view of the whole lagoon, something I will definitely look for if I return.