Calala Island, Nicaragua
Calala is one of the Pearl Cays, a string of pocket-sized islands off Nicaragua’s Caribbean coast. It’s an hour’s flight from Managua to Bluefields, then around two hours by boat – a spectacular journey past fishing villages, through mangroves and out into open sea.
The four stunning suites are built from sustainable hardwoods, and sit on powder-soft white sand a pebble’s throw from the dazzlingly blue water. With open ocean views in front and palm forest behind, each one is completely private. They each come with a king-sized bed covered in crisp white linens, handcrafted furniture and floor-to-ceiling windows lined with gauzy curtains.
Dining can be arranged in various places around Calala island: on your terrace, in the restaurant, at the pool bar or on the beach. The chef designs the four-course dinner menus around market-fresh produce and the catch-of-the-day, giving it a gourmet twist. You can also enjoy coconut water, fresh from the trees on the island.
You can enjoy a visit to a spa palapa, tucked into the mangroves. There are complimentary kayaks, paddleboards and dinghies, along with fishing, snorkelling and visits to local communities. Extras include diving and deep-sea fishing. The island is also a nesting site for critically endangered hawksbill turtles and in season you might be lucky enough to see them hatch.
