Corn Islands
For latest information, go to www.bigcornisland.com.
If your idea of an island vacation includes facials, fancy hotels and a cement pond, head to somewhere else. If you are looking for adventure, solitude and great snorkeling or scuba diving then you would enjoy the Corn Islands.
The Corn Islands (Las Islas del Maíz) are two islands about 70 km east off the Caribbean coast of Nicaragua, constituting one of 12 municipalities of the Región Autónoma del Atlántico Sur department (RAAS). The official name of the municipality is Corn Island (the English name is officially used in Spanish-speaking Nicaragua).
Corn Islands consists of Big Corn Island (Isla Grande del Maíz; often simply referred to as Corn Island; Isla del Maíz), with an area of 10 km², and Little Corn Island (Isla Pequeña del Maíz), with an area of 2.9 km². The total area is 12.9 km².
The two Corn Islands are lush with exotic fruit trees, native palms and surrounded by white sand beaches. Corn Island’s six square miles of hilly interior taper down to white and gold beaches, mangrove estuaries, and azure waters. The best diving is found off the island’s wide northern end, where the coral reef supports dozens of coral species, sharks, snapper, parrot fish, angelfish and rays. The oblong southern end of the island shelters the best beaches. Barracudas, nurse sharks, green turtles, and spotted eagle rays are just some of the marine life that can be seen around the islands
Average year-round temperature is 85 degrees with fresh ocean breezes. You may find it unnecessary to have air conditioning when staying at hotels on the windward side of either island. May 15 - September 15 is considered the "rainy season" with afternoon showers almost daily. If you are traveling during this time, it is recommended that you bring clothes for exploring the island in wet weather.
A haven for pirates and buccaneers in the 17th century, untold numbers of shipwrecks and treasures still lay scattered along the turquoise shores of The Corn Islands. The local Islanders, descendant from the original British prospectors and freed slaves, make their living from harvesting lobster and fish.
Great Corn Island was originally colonized by the British, and most native islanders have more in common culturally with other English-speaking Caribbean islands than they do with the mainland of Nicaragua. Many have English surnames. Tourism on Great Corn Island is still in its infancy since most tourists gather on Little Corn. The people are typically friendly and genuine.
Almost everyone on the island speaks both passable Spanish and English. For most of those native to the island, English is their first language, although there are many inhabitants who have come over from mainland Nicaragua and consequently speak Spanish as a first language. There are also others who speak Miskito or other Caribbean languages or dialects. The English spoken, however, is heavily Caribbean, and real communication can be far from effortless.
History
Once known as the Skeleton Islands, the Corns were first occupied by a ferocious tribe known for their cannibalism. Later, they were safe harbors for English pirates. The Corn Islands, along with the eastern half of present-day Nicaragua, was a British protectorate from 1655 until 1894, a period when the region was called the Mosquito Coast. At one time, the islands were frequented by Caribbean pirates. In 1894, the Nicaraguan government claimed the area. The islands were given to the United States for a 99-year lease under the Bryan-Chamorro Treaty of 1914. The terms of the lease made the Corn Islands subject to American law but they remained Nicaraguan territory. With American acquiescence, the Nicaraguan government directed the islands' local administration. The U.S.'s right to the actual or potential use of the islands remained until April 25, 1971, when the lease was officially terminated by the abrogation of the Bryan-Chamorro Treaty under the presidency of Anastasio Somoza Debayle, on July 14, 1970.
Demographics
The total population of the islands numbered 6,626 as of 2005. Estimation by local authorities in early 2009 are 6200 for Corn Island and 1200 for Little Corn.
The islanders are English-speaking Creole people of mixed black heritage. In recent years there has been substantial internal migration by Spanish-speaking Mestizo people from Pacific Nicaragua, and, increasingly, by Miskito people from the Caribbean mainland around Puerto Cabezas. English, long the island's principal language, is being supplanted by Spanish and Miskito.
Getting There and Getting Around
La Costena Airlines flies to Big Corn Island from Managua (usually once in the morning and again in the afternoon). These are small dual prop planes and one way flights are around $110 US while round trips are around $165 US. You may have to stop at Bluefields before they continue to Corn Island. Be careful about how much luggage you bring since they weigh each passenger with their luggage before boarding. You will need a reservation in advance most of the time but you can change your return date with little trouble or fees as long as there is room on the plane. There are also ferries from Rama via Bluefields. This is an all-day plus overnight trip.
The road system basically consists of a perimeter road that runs around the island. There are a few paved side roads but only the one to Picnic Beach is of significant length. There are many hiking trails into the center of the island and along the shore.
Getting around the island can be done by taxi (anywhere on the island for 15 cordobas =75 cents U.S.), by bus (anywhere on the island for 5 cordobas =25 cents U.S.) per person. You can rent bicycles,golf carts, cars or motorcycles.
More info on Getting to Corn Islands
Things to SeeThe island itself is quite picturesque. Hiking into the hills will bring you into tropical nature, there are two big beaches and lots of tiny and remote ones. A boat trip around the island will showcase its natural beauty.
Baseball is the number one sport on the island with even soccer a distant second. Going to a local game will put you right in the middle of real island culture. Baseball (or fast-pitch softball) is on Sundays and there are typically 3-4 games. The first game starts at 8:30 and is not very well attended. There is usually one men's game then one women's game alternating throughout the day. The final game is the highlight sometime around 3-4 depending on previous games. Soccer is also on Sundays and is just down from Casa Canada on the south end.
There is very little of historic or artistic significance except for a small pyramid at the top of Quinn Hill and of course, the numerous shipwrecks off the shore.
Things to Do
Snorkeling, scuba diving, and ocean fishing are all excellent. "Nautilus" , an island institution, can arrange any such trips (including scuba instruction). Visit the 400 year old wreck of a Spanish Galleon that lies in 15' of water off of Waula Point, Big Corn Island. You can clearly see 14 cannons and the original anchor. No known archaeological survey or salvaging has ever been done on this wreck. You may discover new bounty.
Snorkeling, Kayak rentals, and both sport fishing and fly fishing are available at "Anastasia's on the Sea." Also available is a snorkeling marine park designed to guide snorkelers to interesting coral formations. For a more personal touch find Dorsey right next to Cevas, (look for the sign on the beach that says "First class snorkeling, First class guide.) He is a great local guide and some of the best snorkeling on the island is right in front of his house. He will take 2 people out at a time for snorkeling and has great knowledge of the area. He also sells jewelry that he makes and some fruit. He is a wealth of information about the island.
Picnic Beach (the picnic center) is the cleanest and most beautiful, with fine sand and gentle waves. There are two restaurants, the Picnic Center which has thatch cabanas to sit under, and Arenas. Arenas has wonderful white cabanas and will bring food and drinks out to the beach. This beach is great when the sun is shining but in the evening and when it rains there are sand flies that bite. Most of the tiny and remote beaches are between Sally Peaches and South End.
One can arrange to travel by boat to Little Corn Island, a short (easily less than an hour) ride away. Anyone with a boat for hire will gladly make the trip.
Nightlife is mainly on weekends though they start on Thursday night till Monday morning (don't miss the "sexy dance at Nico's).
Renting a golf cart is a great way to see the island at your own pace. You can get them near the picnic center, and at the Sunrise Hotel. If you go to more remote parts, off the main road, be ready for kids to try and catch a ride with you. If you have the time, it is a delightful experience to give them a ride and hear their laughs and excited comments.
Visit the Bottle House on Little Corn Island, cultural center constructed of found bottles by Little Corn Island Artist, Jewelry maker & Mayor "Tall Boy." Go horseback riding and explore the interior. Try the famous coco bread! Scattered throughout both islands, you will find small, home-based bakeries. These family bakeries also have buns, tarts, soda cake and spicy meat patties. Hike to the highest point on Corn Island which is the Mt. Pleasant Tower. View the panorama of the island. You can find the trail at Sunrise Hotel.
Get hitched while here and have a Corn Island wedding. Ceremonies take place at the courthouse or in a decorated beach side tiki hut.
More info on Fishing
More info on Diving, Snorkeling
More info on Things to Do, See
Where to Eat
The best restaurants on the island for typical island cuisine are Casa Canada (South End), Restaurante Sabor at Sunrise Hotel (excellent breakfasts & Sunday Bar-b-q) --right next to Casa Canada, Seva's (Dos Millas) & Paraiso. Paraiso has a fantastic menu including deserts. The food is varied from pasta and bruschettas to traditional island dishes and fresh fish. They also make the best pina coladas and coco loco's they have plenty of fresh coconuts.
Nautilus restaurant offers gourmet island fusion dishes, pizza and vegetarian dishes. The cook at the Picnic Center does an excellent job with local dishes, going to great length to prepare them correctly. Lobster fishing is a huge part of the island's economy, and lobster is on the menu at almost every restaurant. When the lobster are in season, lobster dishes cost $5 to $8, and are available at all local restaurants. Lobster is the primary industry in the Corn Islands, so lobster and conch are plentiful. When the lobster season closes in early March, the lobster dishes tend to go up slightly in prices but are still reasonable in price. For a very inexpensive lunch or dinner check out one of the little taco stands on the beach on the south end near Long Bay. They have fried tacos with salad that are excellent. There isn't a name on the establishment but a taxi driver told us the locals call it "specitos" because the owner wears glasses.
It is not unusual to wait 40-60 minutes after ordering to receive one's meal. Everything is prepared from scratch after you orde, so order before you get too hungry and be prepared to pass some time waiting. After you place your order, typically the chef will make a trip on his bicycle to fetch the needed ingredients for the dish you have chosen. This is typical of the relaxed pace everywhere on the island. It will be unusual to see anyone in a hurry to get anywhere or do anything.
Also, do not miss the coconut bread (pan de coco), especially the sweet (dulce) variety. It is typically sold in small shops or from their houses by the ladies who make it. Local fruit is incredible in its variety and freshness. You can get coconuts and mangos almost anywhere for free. Ask someone at your hotel to cut one down and you can drink the milk straight from the coconut.
Be sure to eat a “rundown” which is the official meal of Corn Island. It is a stew consisting of either seafood or meat added to breadfruit, cassava, plaintains, coco, banana and sweet potato. It is cooked in coconut milk and fresh, local herbs.
More info on Restaurant Information
More info on Hotel, Accommodations Information
Money
Officially, the Nicaraguan Córdoba is the legal tender but most stores, restaurants, and taxis will gladly accept U.S. dollars as well. Like the rest of Nicaragua, if there is the tiniest tear on the bill (or pen marks, or any other disfigurement) the bill will not be accepted. The ATM at the Banpro bank accepts VISA and MASTERCARD as well as some hotels and tourist services.
Life is a bit more expensive on Great Corn than on the mainland and Little Corn is even more expensive.
Click here for the maps of the Corn Islands.
If your idea of an island vacation includes facials, fancy hotels and a cement pond, head to somewhere else. If you are looking for adventure, solitude and great snorkeling or scuba diving then you would enjoy the Corn Islands.
The Corn Islands (Las Islas del Maíz) are two islands about 70 km east off the Caribbean coast of Nicaragua, constituting one of 12 municipalities of the Región Autónoma del Atlántico Sur department (RAAS). The official name of the municipality is Corn Island (the English name is officially used in Spanish-speaking Nicaragua).
Corn Islands consists of Big Corn Island (Isla Grande del Maíz; often simply referred to as Corn Island; Isla del Maíz), with an area of 10 km², and Little Corn Island (Isla Pequeña del Maíz), with an area of 2.9 km². The total area is 12.9 km².
The two Corn Islands are lush with exotic fruit trees, native palms and surrounded by white sand beaches. Corn Island’s six square miles of hilly interior taper down to white and gold beaches, mangrove estuaries, and azure waters. The best diving is found off the island’s wide northern end, where the coral reef supports dozens of coral species, sharks, snapper, parrot fish, angelfish and rays. The oblong southern end of the island shelters the best beaches. Barracudas, nurse sharks, green turtles, and spotted eagle rays are just some of the marine life that can be seen around the islands
Average year-round temperature is 85 degrees with fresh ocean breezes. You may find it unnecessary to have air conditioning when staying at hotels on the windward side of either island. May 15 - September 15 is considered the "rainy season" with afternoon showers almost daily. If you are traveling during this time, it is recommended that you bring clothes for exploring the island in wet weather.
A haven for pirates and buccaneers in the 17th century, untold numbers of shipwrecks and treasures still lay scattered along the turquoise shores of The Corn Islands. The local Islanders, descendant from the original British prospectors and freed slaves, make their living from harvesting lobster and fish.
Great Corn Island was originally colonized by the British, and most native islanders have more in common culturally with other English-speaking Caribbean islands than they do with the mainland of Nicaragua. Many have English surnames. Tourism on Great Corn Island is still in its infancy since most tourists gather on Little Corn. The people are typically friendly and genuine.
Almost everyone on the island speaks both passable Spanish and English. For most of those native to the island, English is their first language, although there are many inhabitants who have come over from mainland Nicaragua and consequently speak Spanish as a first language. There are also others who speak Miskito or other Caribbean languages or dialects. The English spoken, however, is heavily Caribbean, and real communication can be far from effortless.
History
Once known as the Skeleton Islands, the Corns were first occupied by a ferocious tribe known for their cannibalism. Later, they were safe harbors for English pirates. The Corn Islands, along with the eastern half of present-day Nicaragua, was a British protectorate from 1655 until 1894, a period when the region was called the Mosquito Coast. At one time, the islands were frequented by Caribbean pirates. In 1894, the Nicaraguan government claimed the area. The islands were given to the United States for a 99-year lease under the Bryan-Chamorro Treaty of 1914. The terms of the lease made the Corn Islands subject to American law but they remained Nicaraguan territory. With American acquiescence, the Nicaraguan government directed the islands' local administration. The U.S.'s right to the actual or potential use of the islands remained until April 25, 1971, when the lease was officially terminated by the abrogation of the Bryan-Chamorro Treaty under the presidency of Anastasio Somoza Debayle, on July 14, 1970.
Demographics
The total population of the islands numbered 6,626 as of 2005. Estimation by local authorities in early 2009 are 6200 for Corn Island and 1200 for Little Corn.
The islanders are English-speaking Creole people of mixed black heritage. In recent years there has been substantial internal migration by Spanish-speaking Mestizo people from Pacific Nicaragua, and, increasingly, by Miskito people from the Caribbean mainland around Puerto Cabezas. English, long the island's principal language, is being supplanted by Spanish and Miskito.
Getting There and Getting Around
La Costena Airlines flies to Big Corn Island from Managua (usually once in the morning and again in the afternoon). These are small dual prop planes and one way flights are around $110 US while round trips are around $165 US. You may have to stop at Bluefields before they continue to Corn Island. Be careful about how much luggage you bring since they weigh each passenger with their luggage before boarding. You will need a reservation in advance most of the time but you can change your return date with little trouble or fees as long as there is room on the plane. There are also ferries from Rama via Bluefields. This is an all-day plus overnight trip.
The road system basically consists of a perimeter road that runs around the island. There are a few paved side roads but only the one to Picnic Beach is of significant length. There are many hiking trails into the center of the island and along the shore.
Getting around the island can be done by taxi (anywhere on the island for 15 cordobas =75 cents U.S.), by bus (anywhere on the island for 5 cordobas =25 cents U.S.) per person. You can rent bicycles,golf carts, cars or motorcycles.
More info on Getting to Corn Islands
Things to SeeThe island itself is quite picturesque. Hiking into the hills will bring you into tropical nature, there are two big beaches and lots of tiny and remote ones. A boat trip around the island will showcase its natural beauty.
Baseball is the number one sport on the island with even soccer a distant second. Going to a local game will put you right in the middle of real island culture. Baseball (or fast-pitch softball) is on Sundays and there are typically 3-4 games. The first game starts at 8:30 and is not very well attended. There is usually one men's game then one women's game alternating throughout the day. The final game is the highlight sometime around 3-4 depending on previous games. Soccer is also on Sundays and is just down from Casa Canada on the south end.
There is very little of historic or artistic significance except for a small pyramid at the top of Quinn Hill and of course, the numerous shipwrecks off the shore.
Things to Do
Snorkeling, scuba diving, and ocean fishing are all excellent. "Nautilus" , an island institution, can arrange any such trips (including scuba instruction). Visit the 400 year old wreck of a Spanish Galleon that lies in 15' of water off of Waula Point, Big Corn Island. You can clearly see 14 cannons and the original anchor. No known archaeological survey or salvaging has ever been done on this wreck. You may discover new bounty.
Snorkeling, Kayak rentals, and both sport fishing and fly fishing are available at "Anastasia's on the Sea." Also available is a snorkeling marine park designed to guide snorkelers to interesting coral formations. For a more personal touch find Dorsey right next to Cevas, (look for the sign on the beach that says "First class snorkeling, First class guide.) He is a great local guide and some of the best snorkeling on the island is right in front of his house. He will take 2 people out at a time for snorkeling and has great knowledge of the area. He also sells jewelry that he makes and some fruit. He is a wealth of information about the island.
Picnic Beach (the picnic center) is the cleanest and most beautiful, with fine sand and gentle waves. There are two restaurants, the Picnic Center which has thatch cabanas to sit under, and Arenas. Arenas has wonderful white cabanas and will bring food and drinks out to the beach. This beach is great when the sun is shining but in the evening and when it rains there are sand flies that bite. Most of the tiny and remote beaches are between Sally Peaches and South End.
One can arrange to travel by boat to Little Corn Island, a short (easily less than an hour) ride away. Anyone with a boat for hire will gladly make the trip.
Nightlife is mainly on weekends though they start on Thursday night till Monday morning (don't miss the "sexy dance at Nico's).
Renting a golf cart is a great way to see the island at your own pace. You can get them near the picnic center, and at the Sunrise Hotel. If you go to more remote parts, off the main road, be ready for kids to try and catch a ride with you. If you have the time, it is a delightful experience to give them a ride and hear their laughs and excited comments.
Visit the Bottle House on Little Corn Island, cultural center constructed of found bottles by Little Corn Island Artist, Jewelry maker & Mayor "Tall Boy." Go horseback riding and explore the interior. Try the famous coco bread! Scattered throughout both islands, you will find small, home-based bakeries. These family bakeries also have buns, tarts, soda cake and spicy meat patties. Hike to the highest point on Corn Island which is the Mt. Pleasant Tower. View the panorama of the island. You can find the trail at Sunrise Hotel.
Get hitched while here and have a Corn Island wedding. Ceremonies take place at the courthouse or in a decorated beach side tiki hut.
More info on Fishing
More info on Diving, Snorkeling
More info on Things to Do, See
Where to Eat
The best restaurants on the island for typical island cuisine are Casa Canada (South End), Restaurante Sabor at Sunrise Hotel (excellent breakfasts & Sunday Bar-b-q) --right next to Casa Canada, Seva's (Dos Millas) & Paraiso. Paraiso has a fantastic menu including deserts. The food is varied from pasta and bruschettas to traditional island dishes and fresh fish. They also make the best pina coladas and coco loco's they have plenty of fresh coconuts.
Nautilus restaurant offers gourmet island fusion dishes, pizza and vegetarian dishes. The cook at the Picnic Center does an excellent job with local dishes, going to great length to prepare them correctly. Lobster fishing is a huge part of the island's economy, and lobster is on the menu at almost every restaurant. When the lobster are in season, lobster dishes cost $5 to $8, and are available at all local restaurants. Lobster is the primary industry in the Corn Islands, so lobster and conch are plentiful. When the lobster season closes in early March, the lobster dishes tend to go up slightly in prices but are still reasonable in price. For a very inexpensive lunch or dinner check out one of the little taco stands on the beach on the south end near Long Bay. They have fried tacos with salad that are excellent. There isn't a name on the establishment but a taxi driver told us the locals call it "specitos" because the owner wears glasses.
It is not unusual to wait 40-60 minutes after ordering to receive one's meal. Everything is prepared from scratch after you orde, so order before you get too hungry and be prepared to pass some time waiting. After you place your order, typically the chef will make a trip on his bicycle to fetch the needed ingredients for the dish you have chosen. This is typical of the relaxed pace everywhere on the island. It will be unusual to see anyone in a hurry to get anywhere or do anything.
Also, do not miss the coconut bread (pan de coco), especially the sweet (dulce) variety. It is typically sold in small shops or from their houses by the ladies who make it. Local fruit is incredible in its variety and freshness. You can get coconuts and mangos almost anywhere for free. Ask someone at your hotel to cut one down and you can drink the milk straight from the coconut.
Be sure to eat a “rundown” which is the official meal of Corn Island. It is a stew consisting of either seafood or meat added to breadfruit, cassava, plaintains, coco, banana and sweet potato. It is cooked in coconut milk and fresh, local herbs.
More info on Restaurant Information
More info on Hotel, Accommodations Information
Money
Officially, the Nicaraguan Córdoba is the legal tender but most stores, restaurants, and taxis will gladly accept U.S. dollars as well. Like the rest of Nicaragua, if there is the tiniest tear on the bill (or pen marks, or any other disfigurement) the bill will not be accepted. The ATM at the Banpro bank accepts VISA and MASTERCARD as well as some hotels and tourist services.
Life is a bit more expensive on Great Corn than on the mainland and Little Corn is even more expensive.
Click here for the maps of the Corn Islands.