99 Surf Lodge

99 Surf Lodge in Popoyo, Nicaragua, a Michelin Key Selected property, offers a "perfect mix of relax and adventure" in a stylish, unpretentious beachfront setting. It is widely praised for its exceptional service, prime surfing location, and outstanding dining experiences, making it a highly recommended destination for both romantic getaways and peaceful escapes.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for 99 Surf Lodge is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently describing their stays as "amazing" and "perfect." It boasts an "Excellent" rating of 8.8 based on numerous reviews, with high scores across cleanliness (9.0), staff & service (9.2), and location (8.6). Its selection as a Michelin Key property further underscores its quality and unique appeal.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently laud several aspects of 99 Surf Lodge:

• Location: Its direct beachfront access and proximity to renowned surf breaks like Popoyo main break and Santana Beach are major draws.
• Design: The hotel features a sleek, low-slung modernist and minimalist design that is both stylish and comfortable.
• Service & Staff: The staff receives exceptional praise for being friendly, accommodating, professional, and genuinely dedicated to guest satisfaction.
• Dining: The on-site restaurant, Taberna 99, is frequently highlighted for its incredible, five-star delicious, and reasonably priced food.
• Amenities: Guests appreciate the infinity pool, lounge areas, fitness center, and private verandas.

3. Room Quality

The rooms at 99 Surf Lodge are consistently described as good, very comfortable, and well-designed. They feature air conditioning, private bathrooms, and modern amenities, with some offering ocean views allowing guests to check surf conditions from their beds. Beds are noted for being particularly comfortable. Each room or suite also includes a private veranda, providing a space to enjoy the offshore breeze. Daily housekeeping is provided.

4. Dining Experience

The dining experience at 99 Surf Lodge, primarily at its restaurant Taberna 99, is a significant highlight. The restaurant is considered a "gastronomic staple in Popoyo surf town" and offers a "worldly cuisine" with a fusion of local Pacific flavors and Mediterranean influences. Guests rave about the quality, describing the food as "incredible" and "five stars delicious," with options like ceviche, wood-oven Italian pizza, and handmade desserts. Breakfast, though available for a surcharge (approximately USD 7 to 15 per person), is highly rated, with options such as tropical fruit plates, avocado toast, and omelets. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options are also available. Beachfront dining arrangements can also be made.

5. Service & Staff

The service and staff at 99 Surf Lodge receive near-unanimous praise, often cited as a key reason for a perfect stay. Guests consistently highlight the staff's friendliness, attentiveness, and accommodating nature. Many reviews mention staff going "above and beyond" to help, seeming to genuinely enjoy their work, and creating a welcoming atmosphere. The manager and staff are described as "lovely and dedicated."

6. Location & Accessibility

Situated directly on Popoyo, a legendary surf beach, 99 Surf Lodge offers an outstanding beachfront location. It's just a short walk from popular surf breaks like Playa Santana and Popoyo main break, making it an ideal spot for surfers. The area is described as developed enough to be hospitable but not overdeveloped. Santana Beach is less than 0.6 miles away.

While the location is secluded and offers a unique experience, some guests recommend a truck or AWD SUV for navigating the road conditions to the lodge. Augusto Cesar Sandino International Airport (MGA) is approximately 60 miles (130-minute drive) away, and the hotel offers a roundtrip airport shuttle service for a fee.

7. Value & Pricing

Guests generally find 99 Surf Lodge to offer great value, especially considering the overall package and amenities. While specific room prices vary, Nicaragua is often noted as offering better value in global travel. The food at Taberna 99 is also considered reasonably priced. For a full breakfast, there's an approximate fee of USD 7 to 15 per person.

8. Common Complaints

While reviews are overwhelmingly positive, a few minor suggestions or observations have been noted:

• Bedding: One guest suggested that the bedding could be cozier, with a thin sheet provided and extra blankets not offered upfront.
• Music: The background music choice was occasionally mentioned as not entirely matching the otherwise zen, yoga-surf ambiance.
• Road Conditions: Due to its somewhat secluded location, the road conditions leading to the lodge might be challenging, with a recommendation for a truck or AWD SUV.
• Room Crowding: Though the hotel is designed to not feel crowded, the description mentions it doesn't have "too many rooms (so it was never weirdly crowded)" which implies that it's a small boutique hotel.

Sources

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11. 99surflodge.com