RAAS     - Corn Islands

Also known as Islas del Maiz, these palm-fringed islands off the Caribbean coast are popular with Nicaraguan vacationers. In centuries past, they were also popular with buccaneers, who used them as a base for raiding Caribbean shipping. Today, those looking for a non-resort island experience will enjoy them, but, as with other areas on the Caribbean coast, they are far removed from Nicaragua’s principal attractions.

There are two islands: Great Corn (Isla del Maize Grande) and Little Corn (Isla del Maize Pequeña). Great Corn is the primary destination for travelers, as it has several hotels, good beaches, excellent fishing, crystal clear water and diving (gear can be rented locally, but much of it is old and not in the best condition). Great Corn can be reached by plane from Managua and Bluefields and by boat from Bluefields. Little Corn has no facilities, no electricity and no cars. What it has is quiet beaches and good coral (the reef off of Great Corn was damaged by Hurricane Joan in 1988). Boats provide transportation between Little Corn and Great Corn. 225 mi/360 km east of Managua.