Corn Islands

Travel Guide

A boat named IN GOD WE TRUST anchored near a colorful house by the sea.
A sandy beach with palm trees, a clear blue sky, and ocean waves.
A beach with clear turquoise water, sandy shore, and scattered rocks.
A sandy beach with a goat lying down, boats in the water, and a cloudy sky.
A beach with palm trees, a hut, and a boat on the water.

Located off Nicaragua’s Caribbean coast, these two tropical islands offer white-sand beaches, swaying palm trees and warm waters.

Surrender to the beauty and the relaxing pace of life of Nicaragua’s Corn Islands. This impossibly scenic pair of islands draw visitors looking for beachside bliss. Lounge on spectacular stretches of sand, go diving in coral reefs or simply sit back and enjoy ocean views from the comfort of a swinging hammock.

Big Corn Island, also known as Great Corn Island, is the larger and more developed of the two Corn Islands, though it is still decidedly laid-back and low-key. Laze on the sand at the beaches here, including Sally Peachy Beach and Picnic Beach, and snorkel among schools of fish.

For something more active, follow the paths that lead to the summit of Quinn Hill, which, at 370 feet (113 meters) above sea level, is the highest point on Big Corn. Enjoy views out over the ocean from the top. If your visit coincides with the rainy season, which typically lasts from May to November, bring your raincoat and be prepared for muddy tracks.

Catch a panga (boat) to the jungle-clad Little Corn Island for a stay in a rustic and pristine environment. Enjoy the tranquility of this car-free destination. Bring your scuba gear and dive to reefs and swim through underwater caves. Float past hammerhead sharks at the Tarpon Channel and see porcupine puffer fish at the White Holes dive site off the north of the island. Fishing charters can also be arranged from Little Corn.

Popular daytrips include boat tours out to Pearl Cays, a chain of unspoiled and often deserted tropical islands. Back on the Corn Islands, taste regional cuisine, such as just-caught lobster cooked to perfection in fresh coconut milk and spices.

Fly to the Corn Islands from Nicaragua’s capital city, Managua. Remember that Little Corn Island has limited electricity and Wi-Fi is also scarce.

Visit these idyllic tropical islands and experience true serenity.

Arenas Beach Hotel

Arenas Beach Hotel

3.5 out of 5
Southwest Bay Corn Islands Corn Islands
$78 nightly
The price is $90 total per night from Sep 21 to Sep 22
$90 total
Sep 21 - Sep 22
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this beach hotel in Corn Islands. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (266 reviews)
"Overall would recommend if you appreciate value and you are not pretentious. The staff is friendly. Some are more attentive than others. The facility is clean. It is not extremely modern. It is not ran down. The handle in the shower needed to be adjusted."

Reviewed on Sep 7, 2026

Arenas Beach Hotel
Yemaya Reefs, a Small Luxury Hotel

Yemaya Reefs, a Small Luxury Hotel

3.5 out of 5
Northern End Corn Islands
$120 nightly
The price is $138 total per night from Sep 21 to Sep 22
$138 total
Sep 21 - Sep 22
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this beach hotel in Corn Islands. Enjoy 2 restaurants, a beach locale, and 2 bars/lounges. Popular attraction Turtle Hill is located nearby.
9.2/10 Wonderful! (120 reviews)
"The manager was very kind and made sure we had a great time!"

Reviewed on Aug 11, 2026

Yemaya Reefs, a Small Luxury Hotel
Emerald Luxe Suites

Emerald Luxe Suites

3 out of 5
South End Corn Islands South Caribbean Coast
Fully refundable
$45 nightly
The price is $51 total per night from Oct 12 to Oct 13
$51 total
Oct 12 - Oct 13
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Corn Islands. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions Sally Peachy Beach and Karen Tucker Municipal ...
9/10 Wonderful! (28 reviews)
"It had wonderful views"

Reviewed on Sep 1, 2026

Emerald Luxe Suites
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Tropical Paradise. Little Corn Island

Tropical Paradise. Little Corn Island

RAAS RAAS
Stay at this vacation home in Corn Islands. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attraction Turtle Hill is located nearby.
10/10 Exceptional! (1 review)
"Very secluded and plenty of spacious. Loved the big screen tv and the hammocks."

Reviewed on Jul 21, 2024

Tropical Paradise. Little Corn Island
Silversands retreat cabana

Silversands retreat cabana

Big Corn Island RAAS
Stay at this vacation home in Corn Islands. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a garden. Popular attractions Sally Peachy Beach and Karen Tucker Municipal ...
Silversands retreat cabana
The Lighthouse Hotel & Spa, paradise island retreat Little Corn island Nicaragua

The Lighthouse Hotel & Spa, paradise island retreat Little Corn island Nicaragua

Corn islands Lighthouse Hotel & Spa
Stay at this cabin in Corn Islands. Enjoy breakfast (surcharge), a garden, and patios. Popular attraction Turtle Hill is located nearby.
The Lighthouse Hotel & Spa, paradise island retreat Little Corn island Nicaragua
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Corn Islands attractions

Frequently asked questions

Is Corn Islands worth visiting?
Corn Islands is worth visiting for its standout attractions and experiences. Travelers can explore Little Corn Island and visit the Lighthouse, which are among the destination's primary highlights. These offer travelers specific sights and activities to enjoy during their trip.
When is the best time to visit Corn Islands?
The best time to visit Corn Islands is from November through March, when the climate is most comfortable for exploring. For fewer crowds and better value, the warmer months of May through August are a good option, offering a different experience with generally pleasant conditions.
What is Corn Islands known for?
Corn Islands is known for Little Corn Island, a tranquil destination in the Caribbean Sea off Nicaragua. Travelers can explore the area's natural beauty, including the Lighthouse and Turtle Hill, which offer scenic coastal views.
What is a good itinerary length for Corn Islands?
A good itinerary length for Corn Islands is two to three days to explore Little Corn Island, see the Lighthouse, and visit Turtle Hill. An extended stay of four to five days allows for more relaxed enjoyment of the beaches and natural areas, giving travelers more time to soak in the island atmosphere.
What are the top things to do in and around Corn Islands?
Corn Islands offer natural beauty, scenic viewpoints, and local landmarks for travelers to explore:


How do I plan a trip to Corn Islands?
To plan your trip to Corn Islands, search for flights and places to stay on Expedia in advance. You can explore attractions like Little Corn Island, the Lighthouse, and Turtle Hill. When planning outdoor activities, aim for early morning or late afternoon to enjoy the best conditions. Consider booking a rental car if you plan to explore beyond walking distance.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Corn Islands?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Corn Islands by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Corn Islands with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Corn Islands trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Corn Islands?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Corn Islands can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Corn Islands trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Corn Islands trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Corn Islands trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Corn Islands trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Corn Islands?
If it's your first trip to Corn Islands, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Corn Islands hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Corn Islands hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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