Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Dale Dagger's Surf lodge is the first and finest surf tour of its kind in Nicaragua. The lodge itself is located ON the beach, centrally located within fourteen different surf breaks, two of those being world class. It is a four bedroom custom built beach house with private bath in each room, two singles beds, AC, ceiling fans, WIFI and two rooms have private beach side entrances. Located in a village of pure Nicaraguan culture, this beautiful hotel will help you feel the comforts of home with a dose of adventure.
30 meters South of Gaviota Restaurant, Playa Gigante Nicaragua
Dale Dagger Surf Lodge
265 reviews
Getting there
Somewhat walkable
Places to stay are graded on a 0-100 scale. The higher the grade, the easier it is for travelers to find restaurants and things to do within walking distance.
This summary was created by AI, based on recent reviews.
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Dale Dagger Surf Lodge receives high marks for its outstanding service, with many guests praising the expert surfing guidance and the warm, accommodating staff. The amenities, including the surf experience and excellent food, are often highlighted as a key part of the lodge's appeal. Cleanliness is another area where the lodge shines, with travelers regularly noting the spotless rooms and pristine grounds.
Reviewers also find the rooms comfortable and well-equipped, especially appreciating the air conditioning and communal areas. For many travelers, the lodge represents exceptional value, offering a top-notch surf experience at a reasonable price.
Rooms
Comfortable
Value
Exceptional
Cleanliness
Immaculate
Service
Attentive
Amenities
Comprehensive
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I can’t say enough about Mike and his surf lodge. This is my second trip here. From the moment you arrive to your departure the stoke and love of surfing is all around you. The thoughtfulness of every detail handled in a way that surf and surfing is the focus of everything you do. If you are a weekend warrior or a frothing ripper Mike will accommodate your group. If you are a surf and turf eater or veg the food is so fresh, clean and delicious. Every detail is geared toward you having the best surf sessions all week. Once back at the lodge between surfs there are so many places to chill and talk about all things surf. From the couches to hammocks in the shade chillin’ between sessions is the way. The staff reflects Mikes attention to you having a wonderful trip from his choice of surf guides to the cleanliness of your room and lodge and the preparation of food and snacks are unmatched at this level. Mikes surf knowledge and understanding of the breaks in this area are coupled with a deep insightfulness of the ever changing moods of Mother Nature. You can check the surf report but know that he will not steer you wrong. I feel a deep sense of calm here juxtaposed to the awesome rip-able surf you have off the boat multiple times a day. If you are looking for a great surf adventure without the hassle of finding transportation, lodging, food and what breaks are working in your area this lodge is for you. Relax and surf all week knowing that they have your best story in mind.
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Date of stay: June 2023
Value
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Service
Trip type: Traveled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Mike H, Owner at Dale Dagger Surf Lodge
Responded Jul 23, 2023
Thank you so much for the love and support. I really appreciate the kind words! It is always a pleasure hosting you at the lodge my friend. Thanks for everything. Much love!
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From the amenities to the staff this lodge is nothing short of amazing. Mike and his crew are meticulous in taking care of your surf mission, they load you up with delicious food, give you phenomenal advice on what spots work best, and even get in the water with you to make sure you’re scoring. They put thought into every part of your trip and accommodate to every ask. His surf guide Heyner is a shredder and will give you the local knowledge needed to get into the perfect spot. Highly recommend taking their advice, as they prove their expertise and that they know best. Ice cold brews on the house, and ice cold rooms when you need rest make this place a must go when coming to Nicaragua. All inclusive lodging, no need to worry about a thing other than what perfect waves you plan on tackling that day.
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Date of stay: August 2024
Value
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Trip type: Traveled with friends
Room Tip:Â Listen to Mike, Heyner, and the crew. They will put you on to your perfect session. Ask for...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Mike H, Owner at Dale Dagger Surf Lodge
Responded Nov 7, 2024
It was a pleasure hosting you at the lodge. Thank you for the loyalty, love and support! We really appreciate you!
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I was lucky enough to experience this fantastic place for a week in August this year. Mike and the team made sure everything went smoothly from the first day to the last with excellent transportation. Mike and Heyner's expert knowledge was put to the test everyday and we were able to get fantastic waves multiple times a day with a good captain hauling us all around. Heyner and Mike took time to load up supplies, make sure the boards were good to go, take photos, and surf along side us. When not surfing we were eating or resting. The chef made amazing food for each meal and even prepared meals when myself or others had to depart early. Yorlene made sure everything was spotless and our clothes were good to go each day. Mike, his crew, and family have created an awesome environment that made for incredible trip. I can not wait to return!
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Date of stay: August 2024
Value
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Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Traveled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Mike H, Owner at Dale Dagger Surf Lodge
Responded Nov 7, 2024
It was an epic week with you brother! I really appreciate you taking the time to leave this review and giving people an idea of what to expect. Until next time my friend! Thank you for the love and support!
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Not only does this lodge draw me back yearly over the past 10 years, but my friends and I feel like part of the community when we stay here. Mike and his staff make everyone feel welcome, from helping arrange airport transportation to letting guest help design the meals (especially if you help catch the meals!). While the Lodge primarily caters to surfers, offering twice daily boat trips to the best local surf spots, the possibility exists for hiking, paddle-boarding, and fishing. Centrally located in Playa Gigante, the lodge is on the beach and you can walk anywhere in town in minutes. Food is over the top and I always end up gaining weight on my trips. Great common room with a large TV with a great library of DVDs and books. Such a special place and not pretentious at all!
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Date of stay: November 2022
Rooms
Cleanliness
Service
Room Tip:Â The two rooms on the beach have great wave noise at night if you forgo the AC
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Mike H, Owner at Dale Dagger Surf Lodge
Responded Feb 8, 2023
Thank you for the kind words John! It means a lot brother! I really appreciate your friendship, support and loyalty to the lodge. Thank you for taking the time to write this epic review and for being such an amazing person. I'm really looking forward to trading off some bombs during the 2023 surf season with you soon! Much love to you and your family!
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From the moment you arrive Mike and his staff at Dale Dagger Surf Lodge welcome you and take care of everything you could possibly want. Typical day: first breakfast, coffee, walk out the back door onto the beach and swim to the panga boat and cruise to one of the dozen world class surf spots within 30 min. Score epic waves with your crew for 2 hours then jump back in the boat and cruise back to the lodge for second hot breakfast and check conditions and then back in the boat for an afternoon session. Then lunch and an evening evening session. You finish up the day watching sunset eating dinner drinking Victoria, flor de Cana, and reviewing surf photos from the day. Call your crew, pack your bags, and get down to Nica at the Dale Dagger lodge!
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Date of stay: May 2023Trip type: Traveled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Mike H, Owner at Dale Dagger Surf Lodge
Responded Jun 22, 2023
Thank you so much for the kind words! You nailed the daily surf routine perfectly. Rinse and repeat for the dream! Thank you for the love and support!
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If your searching for a surf trip to Nicaragua your search stops here!!! First class all the way! Mike and his staff are top notch. Boat trips to the best surf breaks, with some of the most delicious meals you will ever eat. Mike and the crew go above and beyond to make your trip the best possible surf trip you can have. I am an intermediate surfer and Mike and his surf guide Heyner (who I can't say enough nice things about and rips) do an awsome job at getting you in the right spot and pushing you to your best. The house is kept immaculately clean and accommodating. Awsome! Awsome! Awsome trip!
Again if your looking for a surf trip to Nicaragua, Dale Dagger Surf Lodge is your spot!
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Date of stay: April 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Traveled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Mike H, Owner at Dale Dagger Surf Lodge
Responded Apr 22, 2024
Thank you for taking the time to leave this epic review Joe! I really appreciate the kind words and stoke! It was our pleasure hosting you at the lodge and we look forward to sharing waves with you again in the future. Thank you for the loyalty, love and support! Much love!
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The Dale Dagger Surf Lodge was an epic time. If all you need is some tasty waves and cool Tona buzz, this is the spot. Really, a class crew all around. Mike and his family and crew all make you feel welcome and prepared for each surf spot. Not only is the location and proximity to some of the hottest surf spots in Nica (an easy boat ride;. away); the food was phenomenal and lodging was clean and very homey. I was not in the best of surf shape, but Mike and his team was always there for an assist (when the wave breaks here, don't be there, true words turtle, true words). Finally, the travel experience was into Nica could not have been easier. We flew into Costa Rica and Mike took care of all the travel arrangements, all we had to do was wake up and get in a van. Thanks Ya'll, see you next year!
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Date of stay: November 2022Trip type: Traveled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Mike H, Owner at Dale Dagger Surf Lodge
Responded Dec 7, 2022
Thank you very much Chris! I really appreciate you taking the time to leave this epic review. It was our pleasure hosting you and your all star crew at the lodge. It was an amazing week filled with great waves, cold beers and good times. I look forward to sharing some more waves with you again in the future. Much love!
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Others have said it: Mike works tirelessly to ensure his guests needs are met. The staff goes above and beyond to make sure you have a great time. And of course, there’s waves. Check out the website for info on the waves and what to expect.
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Date of stay: August 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Traveled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Mike H, Owner at Dale Dagger Surf Lodge
Responded Aug 18, 2023
Thank you for the kind words Jake! I really appreciate it my friend! It was a great week with you and your crew. Thank you for setting it all up and rounding up a solid group of guys. Thank you for the loyalty and support my friend!
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Spent a good amount time researching for an all inclusive surf trip for my 40th birthday with friends. Needless to say, with covid and organizing around people's schedules this trip has been 3 years in the making. I chose Dale Daggers Surf lodge, in which Mike and his team did not disappoint! They are truly dialed in on giving their guests an amazing experience. The only thing you need to worry about is your surfing. Our driver was waiting for us at the airport with a cooler of cold drinks and got us to the lodge swiftly where we were heated by Mike and his crew. The boat was ready for our first sunset session of the week right off the plane. The lodge was immaculate with 4 separate rooms each with their own private bathroom. The rooms and bathrooms were cleaned daily and beds made. Hammocks out back to relax in the shade between surf sessions or in the evening on a quiet beach in a small fishing village. The beach scattered with pangas of the local fisherman. The meals were homemade amazing and never ate the same thing twice. The local knowledge of our guides always made sure you were in the right spot at any break as well as what break to hit based on the type of wave you want to ride and tide and wind conditions. We had waves everyday day. If you weren't surfing it wasn't because of lack of waves. And there's a great variety of waves to ride. You can surf till you can't surf no more, chill at the lodge or mingle with the locals and other travelers in the area. The attention to detail and how accommodating the team was, was impeccable! This camp is everything you can ask for in making your trip a truly memorable one! I know I'll be coming back for sure! You just gotta check it out for yourself, you won't be disappointed.
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Date of stay: April 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Traveled with friends
Room Tip:Â Don't forget your sunscreen!
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Mike H, Owner at Dale Dagger Surf Lodge
Responded May 25, 2023
Thank you Cory! I really appreciate the kind words and love. Thank you so much for choosing us. It was an absolute pleasure hosting you and your crew at my lodge. Thank for the love and support brother! Much love!
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Dale Daggers Surf Lodge is the premier surf lodge in Nicaragua hands down. Full service surf experience including transport to/from Managua airport, boat transport to the breaks, drinks, food, board storage/maintenance and even minor ding repair when needed. The owner Mike was fantastic, extremely accommodating, unmatched local knowledge. Waves were solid, surfed 2 sometimes 3 sessions a day and we were able to score 3 sessions with the waves to ourselves when it was going off. Heyner the surf guide is awesome! And he rips! So fun to watch, even more fun surfing with him. The hot breakfasts and dinners were great, we were always looking forward to the next meal, and they never disappointed. All of this packaged in an amazing little surf lodge on the beach with great views. We truly enjoyed it, and already planning on our next trip back.
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Date of stay: August 2024
Value
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Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Traveled with friends
Room Tip:Â Bring cash, American bills $20 and under works great. Local places and bars for food and drinks.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Mike H, Owner at Dale Dagger Surf Lodge
Responded Nov 7, 2024
We can't wait to have you back to the lodge for another Nicaragua surf adventure. Thank you for the kind words and epic review! Until next time!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
There are more places to choose from in the Playa Gigante area.
LOCATION
NicaraguaRivas DepartmentPlaya Gigante
NUMBER OF ROOMS
4
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