Hola Ola
There’s a really nice vibe at this family run hostel. There's a good mix of socialising and chilling meaning you can sleep tight without worrying about loud music. Set up on a small hill and only a short walk to town, about 10 to 15 minutes. The walk is safe during the day although they don’t recommend walking back home alone at night. Not to worry though as the hostel has a free shuttle that leave on the hour from town and the hostel until midnight. 

All in all It’s a great place for a solo traveler as they organise lots of social bonding activities such as: communal dinners, beach trips, sunset fest, monday bonfire nights, surf lesson packages… 

Surf
This is the main activity to do in San Juan Del Sur although, oddly, you can’t actually surf on the main beach here. You’ll have to get a shuttle to beaches nearby which are usually a 20 to 30 minutes ride away.

Sunday funday
The other BIG attraction here is the infamous Sunday party. It’s a boozy pool crawl which takes place between four places: Pachamama, Hotel Ana Mar, Naked Tiger Hostel and lastly Arribas bar which is the only place without a pool. 
You’ll have to pay $30 for a bracelet and the privilege to spend money getting wasted at all these venues, it’s a win win situation for the organiser that’s for sure! You’ll also be given a branded tank top of the event so you can keep promoting their party even after you’ve left San Juan del Sur.. 
All the tickets go on sale at 9:30am at Pacha Mama hostel, make sure to get there on time to avoid long queues.
The party itself is A-okay, expect mainstream music & lots of drunk backpackers - with the right crew of people it can be fun though!
Cost: $30 includes a tank top and free entrance to all the venues listed above
Where: Tickets go on sale at 9:30am from Pachamama hostel and the party officially starts at 1pm for the same hostel as well

Sunset fest
This is the more relaxed weekend party in San Juan. This beach fiesta is organised by Hola Ola hostel and cost $15 to attend if you are staying at the hostel or $20 if you’re not. This includes transport to the beach and a free burger (veggie options included). The entertainment consist of a a local band, DJ, beach volleyball and various games. . The party starts at around 1:30pm and goes on until 8pm. When the night comes a big fire pit is lit and the DJ will start blasting some tunes until at least 8:30pm. It's not a late one but that’s so you keep some energy for Sunday Funday. 
Cost: from $15 includes transport and a burger
Departs: Pick up from the Hola Ola hostel

Ding repair cafe
This is the best brunch spot in town. The lovely decorated cafe makes the most exquisite meals and also have poached eggs on the menu. If you’ve traveled on this side of the world you will know these eggs are a rare find! They also sell Nicarguan organic kombucha. 
Click here for directions

Simon Says
This is a quirky little hippy hotspot which serves nice meals and great smoothie. Try their speciality one with avocado, it’s delish’!
Click here for directions

¡Salud Kitchen
This cosy little restaurant offers delicious home cooked meals and freshly prepared drinks and juices. I had the fish tacos which were absolutely exquisite! 
Click here for directions