The Surfing Pelican Hostel

Our project is a beachfront eco-hostel on Nicaragua’s Pacific coast focused on community, creativity, sustainability, and good vibes. We work with natural and recycled materials whenever possible, the property runs on solar energy, and every volunteer leaves a real impact on the space.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want more than just free accommodation. Here you can learn practical DIY and building skills, contribute creatively, meet people from all over the world, and enjoy a slower beach lifestyle surrounded by nature.

The work is flexible and hands-on, and volunteers are encouraged to choose projects they genuinely enjoy. Whether it’s restoring structures, painting, decorating, gardening, organizing spaces, or creating something completely new, there is always room for initiative and creativity.

Outside of volunteering, life here is social and relaxed. We spend afternoons surfing, watching sunsets, going out to local rodeos or bars, cooking and eating together, making bonfires, having craft nights, movie nights, game nights, and enjoying the simple beach lifestyle.

We also have 3 dogs on the property, homemade Italian meals available every day, and a friendly international atmosphere where people quickly feel at home.

If you are open-minded, easygoing, creative, and excited by the idea of helping create a meaningful place for future travelers, you’ll probably love it here.

Hi! I’m the founder of the project and originally from Italy. I started this place with the idea of creating more than just a hostel — I wanted to build a welcoming space where travelers from all over the world can connect, create, learn new skills, and feel at home by the ocean.

The environment here is very relaxed, friendly, and community-oriented. We work together, share ideas, go on adventures, and try to create an atmosphere where everyone feels included and appreciated.

Volunteers are treated with respect, flexibility, and honesty. I understand that everyone has different personalities, energy levels, and skills, so the goal is never perfection but creating a positive environment where people feel comfortable contributing in their own way.

Communication is very important here. We try to keep expectations clear, maintain a fair balance between work and free time, and make sure volunteers still have plenty of time to enjoy the beach, surf, explore, relax, and socialize.

Volunteers are encouraged to share ideas, be creative, and take initiative on projects they are passionate about. Many people become close friends here, and we try to make the experience feel more like a shared adventure than simply an exchange of work for accommodation.

We also share many moments outside of work: family-style meals, bonfires, movie nights, craft nights, trips into town, sunsets, and spontaneous activities are all part of daily life here.

And of course, our 3 dogs are also part of the team and will probably become your new best friends.