Calala Island. A luxury, ultra all-inclusive, private Island resort hidden in the undiscovered Caribbean. Experience the coming together of unspoilt paradise and barefoot luxury. With only 5 luxury beachfront suites, exclusivity comes as standard; and with a team of 25 staff for a maximum of 10 guests, we ensure your every desire is met, seamlessly.
We had such a wonderful week’s stay on Calala for our honeymoon! It is a really impressive place - super beautiful and very well looked after. The staff are excellent and very attentive. It all feels very special because you are one of very few guests there. The food is absolutely amazing. Breakfast and lunch are ordered from menus and dinner is set, although dietary requirements are of course catered for. I don’t want to spoil any surprises for upcoming guests!! But I will say that the little gifts left by housekeeping on a night were very sweet and much appreciated.
The journey to get there is long but soooo worth it. Claudia called us the night before to run us through everything step by step so we knew what to expect, which was great and much appreciated. Gives you an idea of how great the management is here! Claudia had thought of everything and reassured us completely.
The only possible ‘cons’ are exactly what you’d expect from a desert island. Yes there are flies but Calala do everything they can to manage them, including providing their own island-made bug spray in all rooms and throughout the island. It is pretty unavoidable given the location and setting. Some guests seem to complain about a lack of air con - that is right but there are fans, and how much can you possibly expect from solar power…?! We weren’t ever overly hot so I wouldn’t worry about it.
We wouldn’t hesitate to go back. A truly special place.
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Date of stay: May 2022Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
This is the ultimate all-inclusive luxury vacation. With a maximum occupancy of 8 guests in total, this is your opportunity to vacation on your own private island. No expense was spared when the owners developed this oasis in the middle of the tropical South Caribbean. On the same note, no stone is left unturned by the onsite GMs who literally have thought of everything to make this amazing experience perfect. The attention to detail is mind blowing. The whole team (approx. 24 service staff) are friendly, attentive and accommodating to each and every desire you have throughout your stay. The food is first rate and the carefully orchestrated menus are delicious and presented in exquisite fashion. We were able to kayak around the island, snorkel, island hop to neighboring islands, going fishing, and witness the hatching of 113 endangered sea turtles. We leisurely strolled on the well manicured pathways throughout the island and enjoyed rum tasting . Everyday the staff had a special island drink of the day and would always make drinks to order. This is truly Heaven on earth. You literally have the entire island to yourself. I cannot say enough about how amazing this experience was and how it exceed all our expectations. The warmth of the Staff lead by the GMs is priceless. If you are even contemplating booking this - DO IT - I promise you will not regret it.
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Date of stay: November 2021
Value
Rooms
Service
Room Tip:Each room is a private ocean front hut - you cannot go wrong.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Calala island was beyond any dream I could ever have imagined.
I checked all the reviews before booking and none of them will ever be able to summarize how truly amazing this experience is.
The staff, the atmosphere, the activities, the FOOD! Everything was undeniably perfect.
The journey to Calala may not be easy, but oh is it worth it 10x over. We arrived and were greeted by everyone on the island with smiling faces. Those smiles never faded. The genuine appreciation and care that the staff expressed was shocking. I left Calala in tears, not because I was sad about leaving but because I was genuinely going to miss all the wonderful people I had met and made lasting connections with.
Any desire on Calala is met – and then some. You wouldn’t even need to know you wanted something before they had it in your hand or at your door. You arrive and are taken care of! From the luxuries like sunset cocktails and specially modified meals, to the forgotten necessities like bug spray or allergy medicine – the Calala team is ready for you.
The island itself is beyond beautiful and the moment you arrive you realize just how underpriced this experience is. Everything is so clean and brand new we’d forget that we were out on a island practically in the middle of no where. How they kept the island so well maintained and pristine is beyond me! It goes to show how hard they work, because at all times the entire island looked post-card worthy.
The food! OH THE FOOD! Undeniably some of the best meals I have had in my life. Incredible diversity, beautiful plating, and extraordinarily flavorful dishes. I couldn’t compliment the chefs enough. My fiancé and I cleaned every plate and by the end of the trip probably didn’t fit into some of our bathing suits! Haha. Not a single meal was missed – and we have NO regrets about that!
There is so much to say about this island I could write a book, but honestly you need to experience it yourself. I honestly believe Calala is underpriced after experiencing all they have to offer. There is a slim chance that I will ever be fortunate enough to experience something like this again.
Thank you to everyone at Calala for this life changing experience. I wish I could better dictate just how much everything meant to me. These stories/memories will last my lifetime!
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Date of stay: June 2021Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip:Let this be your sign: book the trip
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
What can I say that can possibly express the incredible adventure that is Calala Island? Claudia and Leon are more than hosts, treating us all as genuine friends and making us feel welcome and cared for at all times. Their kind, humble and attentive team took care of our every need in this immaculately managed island paradise.
There is such a wealth of great information contained in the reviews already written by others that I will not duplicate here. There is also a great deal of information supplied well in advance on what to expect from the entire experience (thank you Mandy!), the night before arrival, and immediately upon arrival (thank you Claudia!). I do highly recommend taking advantage of these resources and asking questions so you know exactly what to expect.
A couple of highlights for me: The boat ride in and out is almost a rite of passage, an exhilarating adventure that I will likely not soon forget. Darting through the coastal lagoons off eastern Nicaragua and then across to Calala was an unforgettable thrill. We saw monkeys, turtles and a host of local fishermen on our journey. If that's not your thing, there is a helicopter that will drop you on the island for an additional cost.
The hosts and their team were simply amazing. Just one example: after we arrived we realized that we left a bag behind in our hotel in Managua. A simple text message was all it took to have the bag picked up in Managua (thank you Nestor!) and on the next boat out to Calala. The spa services were as good as it gets. We both had multiple relaxing massages, just steps from the mangroves with cool Caribbean winds blowing through. We enjoyed three fishing trips, snorkeling, paddle boarding, kayaking and swimming in the warm waters. The cooking class was so informative and enjoyable, as was the variety of delicious and beautifully presented meals we enjoyed throughout our stay. Coming back from both breakfast and lunch to a freshly cleaned room with thoughtful gifts and towel animals was a wonderful touch that further enhanced our experience. As issues come up, as they always do, they are dealt with immediately and seamlessly simply by sending a quick text message. There are too many other things to mention that all add up to an unforgettable experience; things such as immaculate grounds, beautiful clean pool, delicious cocktails, musical entertainment, hermit crab races, rum tasting etc. 11/10 to all of the the staff
To every single one of our dearest Calala family, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for making our week the experience of a lifetime! Your generosity, kindness, relentless efforts and warm hearts made our time with you truly magical. Every detail, every moment, every warm smile will live with us always. We very much hope to see you again one day <3
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Date of stay: December 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
This is a hard review to write, so many things great and some glaring issues. The staff overall was wonderful with standouts Ivan and Mike. They all work long hours and are very pleasant.
Leon was delightful and easy to talk to. The food was mostly good but far from Michelin star quality but I was never hungry! I really enjoyed fishing. The logistics getting to the island was very smooth and I enjoyed the adventure of the boat ride. The stars were stunning and I had a great time getting to know the other guest. The island is beautiful and its a unique experience. I think a realistic price point would be 700-900 per night.
The bugs were relentless. They were in everyone's rooms and you could not sleep without them even with the doors closed all day and the lights off even thought they fog the island daily. One couple had the inside of their room fogged and some people looked like they had chicken pox after a few days with everyone bathing in all kinds of bug repellent. Everyone had tons of bugs in their rooms. One couple ate the cost of a plane ticket and left the island 3 days early because of this. I dont see how they can take steps to avoid this at times. The nights were very hot, set your thermometer at home to 82 and try to sleep. I cant ding them for this though as I knew this would be the case going in.
We saw rats but it was no big deal to us and never saw them when we were eating or in our room.
I am glad I had the experience but cancelled my return trip.
After a long day of traveling the 45 minute phone call the night before you go to the island would be appreciated as an email.
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Date of stay: January 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Let me start by saying this was the most amazing place to visit to celebrate my birthday.
After a long flight to manigua my husband and I arrived at our hotel. Claudia called us and walked us through the next morning Itinerary to get us to the island. She is amazing! It started at 5 am with a cab, then a prop plane ride (a little sketchy and scary), followed by another cab, then a 2.5 hour ponga boat ride. After 5 hours we arrived.
This place was breathtaking. We stayed in the master suite for 5 nights and enjoyed every minute. It was so nice with only 4 guest villas at most 3 other couples. There were more then 29 staff members on the island to take care of your every need. They have truly thought of every detail on the island.
We are a little adventurous and not ones to just lounge. There is so much to do on this tiny island. We enjoyed paddle boarding, cooking classes and learning the local flavors, fishing, touring deserted islands, fabulous massages, rum tastings, and even watching a beautiful sunset on a sandbar on the middle of the ocean. And they even had a special birthday dinner which was above anything I could imagine. Thanks to everyone!!!!
The staff is absolutely amazing! We saw “Crab” climb and cut coconuts from the tree. Cito made the most delicious pina coladas from scratch. We nicknamed him “Mr Personality” he had such great stories. We learned so much about Nicaragua from him. Ruben he is the man! He took us to the private islands and fishing . Nicaraguan style not like fishing at home. He even got the chef to cook one of the fish for lunch. We requested it cooked local style which was wrapped in banana leaves!! Omg so delicious.
Actually all the food was delicious my other favorites were the lobster club sandwich, lobster pizza, eggs Benedict and the key lime pie! Our favorite dinner was when they cooked all local food. The flavors were fabulous!
I could go on and on and there were so many special moments.
In summary The staff goes above and beyond for everyone. Such an absolutely magical place. My recommendation is to stay a minimum of 4 nights preferably 5, we saw so many only stay 3. Too hard to get to and short for only 3 nights, especially considering the last day we had to leave the island at 5:00am to catch the only flight out on the single engine plane back to Managua.
Many thanks to all the staff that made my birthday so special! Claudia and Leon you truly made our time on the island extra special. Hope to see you guys soon. Thanks James and Christy
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Date of stay: February 2022Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The closest to my own private island I will ever get—- but likely much better when considering the service and the company you get to keep while there. My husband and I visited Calala for our anniversary and were blown away with the location and service. Everyone on staff was so lovely to us and provided us with everything and more than we had hoped for. They truly do live up to being “ultra-inclusive” and did not skimp on what was included. The food, drinks and company were all top notch! The drinks were creative and delicious, the meals were fresh and very desirable (If you like fish don’t miss out on the fresh ceviche) and the meals in the evening were absolutely 5 star in presentation and taste. Pairing this with the gorgeous island environment and the view it creates a relaxing vacation that you don’t want to end. The Cabana’s beautifully incorporate the natural environment and the view from them is spectacular! Everything seems to have been constructed very intentionally to preserve the integrity of island living but also make you feel like you are living in luxury. For such a small island they also pack in the experiences quite well. They took us on the most fun fishing outing I, personally, have ever been on. Moreover, the spa services were wonderful, massages are always a treat but the facials were also delectable.. literally… the chocolate scrub smelled scrumptious. On top of this we were there during the incredible nesting and hatching season for the sea turtles. I had only dreamt of ever getting to watch these adorable creatures hatch and I was so in awe that I got to experience it several times during our stay on the island. Such an incredible thing to witness! To top all of this I have to circle back to the amazing staff. Each and every one of them made you feel like you were being treated by some very generous long lost friends. They all did an excellent job of creating a friendly and fun environment with engaging conversation and heartfelt care. I do miss them dearly because of this! All in all this was an incredible stay so do not miss it! I can’t wait to go back!
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Date of stay: September 2021Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Calala Island is an adventure getting there, and an oasis upon arrival. After a short flight from Managua to Bluefield, a quick taxi ride to a boat, and a boat ride to the island you are ready for a drink and the beautiful island surroundings. (We did get to see monkey's in a tree on the boat ride) and our captain was a great navigator. It is a bumpy trip just to be aware. But you will be greeted by the entire island staff and welcomed with a fresh coconut. The staff pay attention to detail and every detail is impeccable. Your bungalow/cottage is done with romance in mind and ties back into the nature of the island. You can have morning coffee delivered every day and breakfast at your chosen time. Claudia and Leon will make you feel at home. All of the staff on Calala work to make sure you feel special, and you will never go without a drink in your hand and a warm greeting or conversation. Get a massage and facial from Karen, she is top notch, and that just adds to your relaxation. Food is delicious, staff is fabulous, book this experience for a fabulous getaway! After our 5 days on the island we had an extra afternoon in Managua, and decided to venture out with Nestor in his taxi to see a live volcano. Masaya Volcano is located just 20 minutes away from the city of Managua and well worth the visit. This beautiful National Park also has a museum, and restaurant on site. The views and various places to walk, and over look the volcano are amazing. We went at dusk and got to see the volcano, and then the lava in a closer to dark view. Well worth the trip, and Nestor knows it well, so you have a personal guide. Nestor works for Calala and you will get to know him as he guides you from hotel to the airport and back again. Just more of the great Calala service.
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Date of stay: February 2022
Value
Rooms
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I booked this holiday way back in time when the world was emerging from the covid lockdowns and then for one reason or another had to delay our dates. The whole thing was completely out of character for me - a spontaneous booking to an island in the middle of nowhere and somewhere hot. I am normally happier somewhere hiking a trail in the mountains. So I was a little nervous that I would be too hot, bored etc. I have to say though that this was the most relaxing holiday I have ever had and I REALLY loved it. The travel to get there can seem daunting but you need to believe that the holiday starts at Managua airport with a fascinating journey by plane and boat. Like anyway, you do have to relax and take things as they come because you can't control the weather etc. There is insect repellant and sunscreen available in the rooms so don't feel you need to carry lots with you. The staff are really lovely and the rooms very comfortable. Once you get there, sit back, order a drink and enjoy! The most challenging thing will be deciding what coffee to have for breakfast or whether you can ever eat again.
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Date of stay: February 2024
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
From the moment we landed in Managua, we knew that this was going to be a trip that we would never forget. The trek to get from Managua to Calala Island (~5 hrs), although daunting at first, was the best way to start to appreciate the beauty and remoteness of this special place. The night before our arrival, Claudia called to give us a run down of the next morning’s transfer to Calala Island. We felt safe and on track for the entire journey. We were escorted the entire way, and greeted by the remaining staff on the dock as we arrived. To our surprise, we were the only guests staying on the island for the weekend we were there. We were already realizing a bucket list destination…. But to have it to ourselves was another level. We had our orientation with Claudia and Leon who were an incredibly lovely and welcoming couple who manage the island operations. They showed us our (upgraded!) Suite , as well as the pool, the restaurants, and the spa. The island is only 11 acres big, so it takes no more than 15 minutes to walk around the entire perimeter. While drinking our freshly opened Coconuts, and eating baked coconut chips, we were presented a list of activities and excursion options for the next 3 days. In fairness, the weather can be a little bit unpredictable, so there were a number of short storms or periods of heavy rain ; however, most of it passed by pretty quickly. We opted to do the Rum Tasting, the Cooking Classes (sushi), and the Island Hopping. There were plenty of other things to do, but this is the ideal place to just veg out and have a drink. The pool is an awesome spot to spend the entire day. There are so many great things about this property , it’s too tough to pick one thing that stands out. The food was perfectly curated to our desires , and we had a great variety of local cuisine, and some modern fine dining. The People are who really make this an unforgettable experience! There are 25 people in total who work day and night to keep this island running. From Shorvin to Ruben to name a few, they were the heart of the property. It was incredibly easy to communicate with the rest of the staff as well as Claudia / Leon via WhatsApp . Whether it was our AM coffee being ready when we wake up, or our custom pizzas, the staff did whatever it took WOW us. We were sad to leave and hope to be able to return again , and show others what a special little gem in the NiCaribbean.
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Date of stay: October 2021
Rooms
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip:All Rooms are Great, but the upgrade to the master is worth it
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Peter,
There are a few different options from the UK. Please contact us directly and we will be happy to assist.
We look forward to welcoming you in 2023!
Regards,
Calala Island
There are more places to choose from in the Calala Island area.
PRICE RANGE
C$5,004 - C$5,835 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
LOCATION
NicaraguaSouthern Atlantic Autonomous RegionCalala Island
NUMBER OF ROOMS
5
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
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