Not many people really think to visit Nicaragua, as it is one of the poorest countries in the Western Hemisphere. But like any other places in the world, there are hidden gems to this little country. Right off the coast of Nicaragua, there are two islands: the bigger one, called Big Corn Island, and the little one, called Little Corn Island. Through the program GIVE (Growth International Volunteer Excursion), I had the wonderful, life-changing opportunity to visit Little Corn Island.

With an area of 2.9 square kilometers, you can get around the whole Little Corn Island on foot in about 30 minutes. You can see the crystal blue waters of the Caribbean Sea all around the island.

1. Go Swimming

This is an obvious one. Swimming in the Caribbeans is like swimming in a swimming pool with little fish swimming around you. You can see to the bottom of the ocean due to its clear waters. Be careful because sometimes little jellyfish can sting you, but it’s only a prick. You can also go snorkeling deep in the ocean with a local guide. These locals are so accustomed to swimming that they can go into the underwater caves and stay down there for up to 2 minutes! He will lead you around the ocean, and you can see all kinds of underwater creatures, even sharks.

2. Scuba Diving

There are coral reefs all around the island where the fish all live, so if you want to see beautiful, colorful reefs with creatures all poking their head out of them, Little Corn Island is the perfect place to go scuba Diving.

3. Horseback riding on the beach

Ever pictured yourself riding a horse along the sandy beach watching the sunset? Because there are no cars on this island, the locals ride horses if necessary. It’s like being in a fairy tale.

4. Follow the local children on an adventure around the island

These little kids run around the island night and day! Their parents know that the island is safe so they give their children the freedom to roam about this little island. They will climb trees and pick mangos for you and even cut them up for you to eat. They are the sweetest people, and love to make friends.

5. Play volleyball with the local teenagers

There is a volleyball court somewhere inside the island, and the local boys love to play beach volleyball. Even when they are not playing volleyball, they love to spend time with new faces on the island.

6. Go to Tiki Bars

There are little bars/cafes around the island, and at night, there is live music and dancing everywhere. It may not be as crazy as some of you may be used to, but they definitely know how to show you a good time.

7. Eat cheap lobster

This island is surrounded by an abundant of lobsters that this luxury in other places is actually cheap to eat on this island.

8. Volunteer!

You can follow GIVE and read to the little kids on Little Corn Island. If you love to spend time with children, this would be the perfect opportunity for you. And when you aren’t reading or doing activities with them, you can go and explore the island and check off all the activities on this list.