Nicaragua might be Central America’s most geographically diverse country. Nestled between El Salvador and Honduras, to the north, and Costa Rica, on its southern border, the nation lives up to its moniker as the “Land of Lakes and Volcanoes.”
Unspoiled Nicaragua, a country of nearly 6 million inhabitants, is also rich in history and culture. And blessed with sun-drenched beaches on both its sun-drenched Pacific shore (the “Emerald Coast”) and its Caribbean oceanfront, the land is a beachcomber’s paradise.
Located 2½ hours from the capital of Managua is a truly unique hotel, the Aqua Oceanfront Resort. Sitting on a lush jungle hillside, it may be best described as “luxury treehouse living.” If your childhood dream was to build a treehouse, but your parents never allowed that, you’re in luck: Aqua will fulfill your fantasy with the bonus of adult amenities like yoga classes, paddle boarding and a beach bar.
The treehouse-schemed villas are designed to commingle harmoniously with the forested backdrop, where spider and howler monkeys swing from branches, and parrots replace their squawks with kissing sounds to wake you up in the morning.
Most rooms have sequestered plunge pools, expansive terraces and Pacific Ocean views, providing an elevated vantage point of eye-popping, burnt-orange sunsets.
There are various room types in the terraced lodging. Intimate hideaways range from resort-view treehouse studios, targeted at active couples and solo travelers who might spend less time in their rooms. By contrast, the two- and three-bedroom suites (1,400 and 1,800 square feet, respectively) come well-equipped for families seeking a jungle getaway. These apartment-like homestays feature king beds and queen beds along with two twins, spacious kitchens and signature Jacuzzi-size pools.
The beach bar, which also serves as the hotel restaurant, serves breakfast, light lunches and dinners, highlighted by local ingredients and the catch of the day. A daily happy hour offers light meals and two-for-one drinks. All-inclusive hotel rates include meals and beverages.
The spa offers a simple range of treatments such as aromatherapy, massages, facials and body scrubs. Massages may also be can also be taken on the beach. Excursions include surf lessons, fishing trips and snorkeling outings; and as the sky turns orange, a sunset cruise captures the last hours of daylight.
With its calm waters, the family-friendly beach resort is a perfect place for parents to lounge around the beach bar as their children frolic on the private beach. The resort is ideal for retreats, weddings, anniversaries and group events, from 12 to 125 guests
Responsibly built to tread lightly on its natural surroundings, Aqua Oceanfront Resort is the quintessential eco-lodge accommodation.
