Protecting Nicaragua's Coastline

The pioneers of the surfing industry have also been pioneers in ocean mapping, climate tracking, and ocean conservation. Naturally, surfers were the first group of tourists to venture into Nicaragua, putting its beautiful, undeveloped beaches on the map for ocean lovers worldwide. In the past 20 years, tourism in Nicaragua has increased nearly tenfold, bringing much needed economic development. In the same period, Central America's most impoverished nation – home to mangroves, turtle nesting beaches, coral reefs, and endless waves – has suffered the effects of climate change more than all but two countries in the world (per the Global 2013 Climate Risk Index).

Surfing has driven much of the tourism and economic growth along the Pacific coast, but a low cost of living has also made Nicaragua a popular destination for retirees who do not surf and for developers who threaten to close surf breaks. The surfing community is uniquely positioned to help the people of Nicaragua protect their raw coastline from the twin threats of overdevelopment and climate change. Firmly rooted in Nicaragua, Paso Pacífico's work to strengthen ecological and economic resiliency is protecting coastal communities and the coastlines themselves from the extreme weather that comes with climate change. As Nicaragua simultaneously experiences the cultural change that comes with rapid development, Paso Pacífico is also uniquely positioned to help empower surfers locally and illustrate the surfing community's commitment to ocean conservation internationally.

Economic development and the growth of Nicaragua's surfing culture are not slowing down. This is why we work with the international surfing community as well as Nicaragua's local surfers to advocate environmental conservation from ridge to reef. We use the principles of geotourism – combining destination stewardship with cultural exchange – to guide our programs, designed to protect Nicaragua's natural beauty and biodiversity, strengthen coastal communities, and help international visitors get the most out of their experience.

Protecting Nicaragua's Coastline: Ocean Conservation Education & Action 
Paso Pacífico conducts scientific surveys to assess marine health, employs rangers to protect marine wildlife, engages thousands of people in beach clean-ups, educates children about coastal ecology, and supports a grassroots ocean conservation movement growing along Nicaragua's coastline.

Promoting Surfing's Commitment to Ocean Conservation: Surf Ambassadors 
Our education and leadership programs strengthen the capacity of surfers and environmental advocates locally and help them champion the surfing community's commitment to ocean conservation internationally. Building the capacity of local leaders, we are increasing the sustainability of our own ocean conservation programs and gaining the momentum required to ensure a sustainable future for watermen and the marine creatures who share the waves with them. Eager to see young Nicaraguans share the global spotlight with their fellow surfers as ISA returns for the World Juniors and continues its Olympic bid, we are strengthening our focus on local leadership development and international networking. We aim to help the next generation of surf champions share the surfing community's inspiring stories of cooperation and conservation.