Corinto

With a length of just under a mile, El Cardón is a small rocky island off the coast of Corinto. It was once the home of Rubén Darío, Nicaraguan poet whose poems do not lack depictions of this small paradise. Today, the only sign of man is the iconic white lighthouse, so anyone visiting by boat will mostly encounter unspoilt nature, with the backdrop of crashing waves and squawking seagulls.

Stretching for several miles, Corinto's sandy beach provides ample space for riding the waves of the Pacific, or wading through the water as you look for the best sunset-watching spot. There are several bars, restaurants and shops along the beach to attend to your needs.

In the 19th century, Corinto was a central element in the first projects by the Nicaraguan government to construct rail lines in the country. As a result, León and Corinto were among the first cities connected by rail, with the port as the terminus of the line. In today's Corinto, a well-kept locomotive bears witness to that era, standing adjacent to the Museo Municipal, where further relics are on display.

With such close proximity to the ocean and fertile tropical farms, you'll find some of Nicaragua's real treasures along the stalls of this market. It is also a great place to mingle with locals and get a true glance at local daily life.