Mukul Beach Golf & Spa - Ultra-Luxury Resort on Nicaragua's Emerald Coast

About Mukul Beach Golf & Spa

Mukul Beach Golf & Spa is Nicaragua's most exclusive resort, a breathtaking five-star property set along the pristine Emerald Coast in Guacalito de la Isla, Tola. Owned by the Pellas family — one of Central America's most prominent business dynasties — Mukul was designed from the ground up to be a world-class luxury destination that showcases the natural beauty and rich culture of Nicaragua.

The name "Mukul" comes from the Mayan word for "secret," and the resort lives up to this name perfectly. Spread across 1,670 acres of tropical forest that cascades down to a mile-long stretch of pristine Pacific beach, Mukul offers an experience of total seclusion and privacy. Every detail, from the handcrafted furnishings made by Nicaraguan artisans to the organic ingredients sourced from local farms, reflects a deep commitment to authenticity and sustainability.

Since its opening, Mukul has been recognized by publications such as Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, and Forbes as one of the finest luxury resorts in Latin America. It is a member of Auberge Resorts Collection, ensuring impeccable standards of service and hospitality.

Location

Mukul is located in Guacalito de la Isla, a private peninsula along the Emerald Coast in the Tola municipality of the Rivas department, southwestern Nicaragua.

Getting There:

• From Managua Airport (Augusto C. Sandino International): Approximately 2.5 hours by car heading south via the Pan-American Highway. The resort offers private luxury transfers.
• From San Juan del Sur: About 45 minutes north along the coast road.
• From Granada: Approximately 2 hours southwest by car.

The resort can also arrange private charter flights to the nearby Costa Esmeralda airstrip for guests who prefer to skip the drive entirely.

Rooms

Mukul offers 37 individually designed bohíos (villas) and beach houses, each one a masterpiece of Nicaraguan craftsmanship and contemporary luxury. Every accommodation is positioned to maximize privacy and ocean views.

Accommodation Categories

• Beach Bohíos: Spacious thatched-roof villas steps from the sand, featuring plunge pools, outdoor rain showers, handmade furniture, and sweeping Pacific views. Each bohío includes a private terrace and butler service.
• Hillside Bohíos: Perched on the forested hillside above the beach, these villas offer elevated ocean panoramas, private infinity plunge pools, and a sense of complete seclusion among the trees.
• Beach Houses: The ultimate in luxury, these multi-bedroom residences feature full kitchens, living areas, private pools, direct beach access, and dedicated staff including a personal chef.

All accommodations include Egyptian cotton linens, rain showers with locally sourced bath products, Nespresso machines, fully stocked minibars, and 24-hour butler service.

Dining

Mukul's culinary program celebrates Nicaragua's extraordinary agricultural bounty with menus that change seasonally.

• Don Vito's: The signature restaurant offering contemporary Latin cuisine prepared with ingredients from the resort's own organic farm and local fishermen. The open-air setting overlooking the Pacific creates an unforgettable dining atmosphere.
• Beach Club Bar & Grill: Casual oceanfront dining with fresh ceviche, grilled seafood, and tropical cocktails served with your feet in the sand.
• Rum Bar: An intimate venue celebrating Nicaragua's world-renowned rum heritage, featuring Flor de Caña aged rums and artisanal cocktails.
• Private Dining: The resort arranges bespoke dining experiences — on the beach under the stars, on a cliff overlooking the ocean, or in a candlelit garden setting.

Things to Do

Mukul's location on the Emerald Coast provides access to an extraordinary range of activities both on the property and in the surrounding region.

• Guacalito Golf Course: Play a stunning 18-hole, David McLay Kidd-designed championship course carved into the coastal cliffs — the only links-style course in Central America
• Mukul Spa: Experience the Spa Mukul, inspired by indigenous Nicaraguan healing traditions, offering treatments using local volcanic mud, honey, and tropical botanicals
• Surfing: Ride world-class Pacific waves at several beach breaks along the Emerald Coast — the resort provides boards and expert instruction
• Deep-sea fishing: Charter a boat for marlin, sailfish, dorado, and tuna in the rich Pacific waters
• Explore Granada: Take a day trip to the stunning colonial city of Granada — see our Granada colonial hotels guide
• Yoga and wellness: Join daily beachfront yoga sessions and meditation classes
• Horseback riding: Ride along the beach at sunset or through the surrounding forest trails
• Discover Nicaragua's highlights: Read our top 10 hotels in Nicaragua for more inspiration

Why Stay Here

Mukul Beach Golf & Spa represents the pinnacle of luxury travel in Nicaragua and, arguably, in all of Central America. What sets Mukul apart is its unwavering commitment to celebrating Nicaraguan culture and craftsmanship. Every piece of furniture, every treatment at the spa, every dish at the restaurant tells a story of this extraordinary country.

The resort achieves that rare balance of ultra-luxury amenities — a world-class golf course, a transformative spa, impeccable dining — with genuine warmth and authenticity. You are not staying at a generic luxury resort that could be anywhere in the world. You are immersed in Nicaragua, from the handwoven hammocks on your terrace to the Flor de Caña rum in your evening cocktail.

For travelers seeking a surf-friendly base in Nicaragua, Mukul also offers excellent waves without sacrificing luxury. And those exploring the broader region should consider combining a Mukul stay with time in Granada's historic hotels for a complete Nicaraguan experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Mukul from Managua?

The resort is approximately 2.5 hours by car from Augusto C. Sandino International Airport in Managua. Private luxury transfers can be arranged through the hotel. For a faster option, charter flights to the nearby Costa Esmeralda airstrip are available.

What is the best time to visit Mukul?

The dry season from November to April offers the most consistently sunny weather. However, the green season (May to October) brings lush landscapes, fewer guests, and reduced rates. Surfing conditions are best from March to November.

Is Mukul suitable for families with children?

Yes, Mukul welcomes families and offers a range of kid-friendly activities including surfing lessons, nature walks, and beach activities. Multi-bedroom beach houses are ideal for families who want extra space and privacy.

Is there a dress code at the restaurants?

The atmosphere is elegantly casual. Resort wear is appropriate for all dining venues. Don Vito's recommends smart casual attire for dinner.

Does Mukul offer wedding and event services?

Yes, Mukul is one of Central America's premier wedding destinations. The resort offers comprehensive wedding planning services with stunning ceremony locations on the beach, cliffside, or within the tropical gardens.