Operation Nicaragua:
Playa Colorado, Nicaragua
ISLA’s surf lifesaving development initiatives in Nicaragua have epitomized a collaborative and phased approach toward enhancing water safety along the country’s shores.
Since 2009, ISLA has partnered extensively with the Nicaraguan government, the Nicaraguan Red Cross, and diverse non-governmental entities to pioneer sustainable lifeguard operations. Beginning with a ISLA Basic Open Water Lifeguard Academy in 2012, a diverse range of Nicaraguan trainees, including civil service members and Red Cross volunteers, were equipped with vital lifesaving skills. Graduates of these programs became safety ambassadors, spreading their expertise and resources throughout Nicaragua and notably reducing drowning incidents.
This success propelled ISLA into its third phase in 2023, launching an Instructor Academy that empowered local lifeguard instructors, certified under ISLA’s standards, to lead lifeguard academies. Collaborating closely with the Nicaraguan Red Cross, this approach embodies a sustainable training model, fostering a culture of safety across Nicaraguan coastlines through ongoing education and local empowerment.
This year, ISLA once again joins forces with Nica Heartbeat in Playa Colorado, Nicaragua, for a Lifeguard Instructor Academy. Utilizing ISLA-trained Nicaraguan Instructors from 2023 & 2024, the collaboration emphasizes sustainable development and local empowerment. Their goal: enhancing water safety along Playa Colorado’s coastline and fostering a culture of safety in Nicaraguan coastal communities.
Join ISLA to save lives with our 15th operation in Nicaragua! Be part of our legacy by aiding lifeguard operations in Playa Colorado with Nica Heart Beat. Your commitment can safeguard lives along Nicaragua’s coast—join us in this meaningful journey.
Stories from the frontlines #islanicaragua
Operation Nicaragua
October 7 - 17, 2025
Coming Soon!
Location
City: Playa Colorado, Tola
Information
Application Window: July 13 - July 27, 2025
Applications Due: July 27, 2025
Applicants Notified: By July 28, 2025
Operation Leader: MSO Emilio Cavazos
ISLA Gnar-Factor 1.75
Max Number of Volunteers: 10
Cost: Airfare + $750
Oh!… and did we mention that our ISLA Team will once again be staying at the fabulous 4-star, ocean front Casa Colorados!!!
Join ISLA and be part of our mission to save lives and elevate lifeguard operations in Nicaragua! Partnership with Nica Heartbeat in Playa Colorado offers a unique chance to directly contribute to water safety efforts along Nicaragua’s stunning coastlines. As a volunteer, you’ll be conducting a ISLA Instructor Academy and then work alongside the newly certified local instructors to conduct a 3-day Basic Open Lifeguard Academy, further strengthening lifeguard capabilities in the county.
Your involvement goes beyond volunteering—it’s about becoming a vital force in a community-driven initiative. Joining ISLA in Nicaragua means immersing yourself in a culturally rich experience while making a significant impact. Your dedication will help create a safer environment for all who cherish Nicaragua’s captivating coastal beauty.
Important Dates & Itinerary
Monday, July 13, 2025
Volunteer Applications Open
Sunday, July 27, 2025
Volunteer Applications Close
Monday, July 28, 2025
Selected Volunteers Notified
Sunday, August 3, 2025
$250 Non-refundable Deposit & Membership Due
Sunday, August 10, 2025
Airfare Purchase Due
Sunday, August 24, 2025
Travel Insurance Due
Sunday, September 14, 2025
$500 Non-Refundable Operation Donation Due
Sunday, September 28, 2025
ISLA Exams Due
Tuesday October 7, 2025
ISLA Team Arrives in Augusto Cesar Sandino International Airport (MGA)
October 8, 2025
Travel to Playa Colorado / Prep Day
October 9-11, 2025
Conduct ISLA's Instructor Training Academy
October 12-14, 2025
Conduct ISLA Basic Open Water Course
October 15, 2025
Surf Day/Excursion Day
October 16, 2025
Travel to Managua
Friday, March 17, 2025
ISLA Team Departs
Operation Donation Amount
$750 USD
Included in the Operation Donation
- Lodging for the duration of the operation
- Lunch during Volunteer Instructor Portions (approximately 6 days)
- In-country ground transportation
- Full ISLA uniform
- Equipment donations
NOT Included in the Operation Donation
- Round Trip Airfare to (MGA) Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (tickets from LAX range from $400 – $800 USD)
- Visa Fee (varies by country)
- Travelers Insurance (varies)
- 1 Year ISLA Membership ($50)
- Optional extended travel
Language Requirement
*There is no language requirement for this operation, although lifeguards who are bilingual Spanish, and have training experience will be given priority in the application process.
What else is included?
Transportation: we work with our hosts, close relationships and sponsors, etc. to get this covered. Usually for the entire trip from airport to airport
Food: We work with our host, sponsorship, and friends to cover food during the work portions of ths trip. usually about half of the meals are covered for the whole trip
Housing: We work with sponsord, our hosts, etc. to get this sponsored during the work portions of the trip.
Experience: ISLA trips are generally cheaper than typical Travel, and allow you to make lifeling friends while making a difference. you ALSO gain professional knowledge of others while sharing your own skills.
Operation Nicaragua Media
Est. 2009
"Every superhero has an origin story, Nicaragua is ours!"
News
ISLA's 1st FundraiserLifeguards cycle coast-to-coast to promote ocean safety.
Operation Details >
Photos
Lifeguard AcademyNicaraguan Red Cross lifeguards train to meet international standards.
Operation Details >
Photos
Behind the ScenesSpring BREAk!!! Here's a taste of some of the fun in Nicaragua.
Operation Details >
