Corn Islands, Caribbean archipelago 50 miles east of Nicaragua.
The Corn Islands comprise two main land areas: Big Corn Island and Little Corn Island, separated by about 8 miles of Caribbean water and located off Nicaragua's eastern coast. Big Corn Island is the larger and more developed of the two, while Little Corn Island is smaller and less built-up.
British colonists settled here in the 17th century and established agricultural plantations that shaped early development. This colonial foundation left lasting marks on the population, language, and cultural ties of the islands.
Residents speak English Creole and Spanish, and their daily life reflects a blend of Caribbean and mainland Nicaraguan customs that you can see in buildings, food, and how people interact. This mix shapes the character of the islands in visible, everyday ways.
Visitors most easily reach the islands by flying to Managua and taking regional flights to Big Corn Island, then transferring by boat to reach Little Corn Island. Plan extra time for travel between the islands, since there are no direct road connections.
Little Corn Island has no motorized vehicles, and visitors navigate the entire island on foot using natural paths, creating a slower, quieter rhythm than typical tourist destinations. This absence of cars leaves the island with a sense of calm not found in most populated areas.
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