Overview
Every Siargao retreat leaves us in awe of the vibrant local community and its incredible skate culture. There’s something so genuine and contagious about the love for skateboarding on this little slice of paradise. From sunrise to sunset, kids are skating through the streets of General Luna, some on homemade boards, their laughter filling the air. It’s that same electric energy you’ll feel the moment you arrive. Siargao may be the surfing capital of the Philippines, but here, skateboarding thrives just as much. When you blend the local vibes with the GRLSWIRL stoke, the energy is contagious. All GRLSWIRL team riders specialize in teaching beginners and will create a calm, patient, and supportive space for you to progress step by step. Whether you’ve never stepped on a board or you’re eager to level up your skills, this retreat opens the door to new possibilities. It’s more than learning to surf or skate, it’s about moving past hesitation, embracing community, and creating memories that you’ll relive forever. And yes, we're still all about GIVING BACK. During our retreat, we’ll be hosting a special event for the local kids, offering free surf skate lessons and providing gear they can continue to enjoy long after we're gone. Limited spots are up for grabs, and this isn’t just a surf-skate retreat. It’s an opportunity to be part of something bigger, something that goes beyond the waves and leaves a lasting impact on the community. Don’t miss out!
Highlights
Waves at your door
Wake up to the rhythm of the waves just outside your room, then hop on a local boat for a surf journey that feels straight out of a dream.
This Island Shreds
Where surf culture meets island streets. Kids glide through palm-lined roads on homemade boards, their laughter echoing through the tropics. Skating here is more than fun, it’s the heartbeat of the island.
Island-hop adventures
Island-hop across turquoise seas on traditional bangka boats, chasing waves, laughter, and incredible sunsets as you explore the beauty of the Philippines by water.
A postcard come to life
Lose yourself in some of the most breathtaking, untamed nature we’ve ever seen. Endless palm trees as far as the eye can see, stretches of powdery white sand, and water so blue it hardly seems real.
A surfing capital
From the ever-popular Cloud 9 to Stimpy’s, Siargao is filled with some of the most influential breaks in the world - and the local team is taking us to the sequestered spots where perfect peeling waves will set the stage for the most memorable sessions of our lives.
Community event
Together with the GRLSWIRL Team and our local partners, we host a skate day for local kids, sharing what we’ve learned, celebrating every small win, and gifting boards so they can keep rolling long after we’re gone. It’s pure joy, connection, and community: the heartbeat of every AWA x GRLSWIRL experience.
YOUR HOSTESSES
GIULIA VALLOTTO
Italian chica who left behind the fashion world in the big cities for a barefoot and raw new life in the jungle. Giulia is the team mamma, who can effortlessly drive around through the jungle large groups of women with one main goal in mind: make everyone have the freaking most unforgettable time of their lives. And she does it, gracefully, over and over again. Buckle up and let yourself adventure with the most radical and fun amazonian queen out there.
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Lucy Osinksi
Creator, CEO and Co-Founder of Grlswirl from Cornwall New York, she started skating in early 2017. Lucy fell in love with how empowered and liberated she felt from skating and passionately wanted to get others on boards in order to experience the same momentous feeling. She has taught hundreds of folks to skate of all ages, levels and backgrounds and is deeply passionate about sharing skate with others.
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Valeria LaForge
Grlswirl Team Rider, adventure enthusiast, born and raised in northern California. You will likely find her carving around barefoot, with a big smile and lots of energy. She’s constantly in search of the perfect pool bowl to skate, perfect left to surf, & perfect dance floor to boogie. She loves to travel and create community wherever she goes. She has plenty of enthusiasm and stoke to go around, come join the fun!
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What's included
What's Included
7-night stay at the beachfront lodge Punta Punta.
Airport transfers.
5 surf skate lessons adapted to your level.
4 surf lessons with a 2:1 student-to-coach ratio, tailored to your level by certified local surf instructors.
Surf and skate video analysis.
Professional surf video footage to take home.
Daily access to surf and skate equipment.
Yoga, stretching, breathwork, and guided meditations.
Island hopping Mam-on boat trip.
Daily local breakfast, lunch, and dinners (adapted to all diets).
Relaxation massage (60 minutes).
Transportation to activities.
Daily cleaning services.
Goodie bag.
An epic time with an inspiring community.
What's Not Included
International airfare.
3 dinners and 2 lunches in town.
Alcoholic beverages.
Medical Insurance.
Photography package.
A SENSE OF HOME AMIDST AN ADRENALINE-FILLED ADVENTURE
PUNTA PUNTA
Nestled between a sleepy local village full of groms waiting to give you a high five and the deep blue Pacific Ocean, lies Punta Punta Point.
From their plunge pool, you can see the epic waves at Cloud 9 and within minutes you can be at the best bars and restaurants General Luna has to offer. Yet, you won't hear more than a rooster's crow or splashing waves during your afternoon massage.
Punta Punta is the best of both worlds. Far away, but so close.
Accommodation
Shared Glamping Tents
With a view of the sea from your king-sized bed and palm-tree shade from your open-sky shower, this is a glamping experience you’ll never forget.
FROM$4,000.00/pp
Shared Glamping Bungalows
Glamping, elevated. Literally. These brand new glamping bungalows come with A/C, feature 360 glass windows, and huge rotating glass doors so you’ll never miss a moment of the tropical life during your stay. Step out onto your terrace and pick your surf spot of the day.
FROM$4,200.00/pp
Private Glamping Bungalow
Glamping, elevated. Literally. These brand new glamping bungalows come with king size bed, A/C, feature 360 glass windows, and huge rotating glass doors so you’ll never miss a moment of the tropical life during your stay. Step out onto your terrace and pick your surf spot of the day.
FROM$4,600.00/pp
Gallery
TESTIMONIALS
From day one, I felt safe, cared for, pushed, and celebrated in every way. I was surrounded by the most authentically encouraging, supportive women I’ve ever met. I surfed waves I NEVER imagined I could catch and found myself skating with more confidence and skill thanks to the incredible instruction and attention from the team. Every meal was absolutely delicious, healthy, fresh, and made with love. The whole experience felt like a dream, beautifully balanced between adventure, rest, and connection. I left feeling stronger, freer, and deeply grateful. This is the most life-giving experience.
Chase - Philippines 2025
I progressed more in 4 days than I have in 30 years and I attribute it to that environment and the carefully planned process. The drone video surf analysis was key too! Every detail was planned and every outing was a dream experience - from Island hopping to surfing to just taking a tuk tuk into town. The whole retreat experience left me re-energized to find more of those moments of joy in life while balancing every day life. 100% recommend A Week Awake.
Brittany - Philippines 2025
LOVE this retreat! I went to the Philippines and it was the far best week in my life! A life changer!!! Good vibes, good food, good organized, beautiful people! I came home full of energy and ready for my next trip! I did things I never thought I would do! Skate and surf at my age ! WOW I am so proud of myself thanks to AWA
Camilla - Philippines 2025
FAQs
How do I reach Siargao and the venue?
To reach Siargao, begin by booking your international flight into one ofthe following major airports in thePhilippines:
- Manila (MNL)
- Cebu (CĐ•Đ’)
- Clark (CRK)
From your chosen international airport, book a regional flight to Sayak Airport (IAO), Siargao's local airport.
Domestic flights are available via Philippine Airlines or CebuPacific.
We advise you to check the domestic flight schedules before booking your international flight to avoid long layovers or overnight stays in Manila, Cebu, or Clark.
Once you arrive at Sayak Airport, grab your bags and exit the main door (there is only one). A driver will be waiting for you with a sign bearing your name (If you have any concerns please contact us).
Can you help me organize flights?
- Absolutely! Once your booking is confirmed, our team can help coordinate flights to make your journey smooth and stress-free.
At what time is check-in and check-out?
Check-in: from 3 PM
Check-out: from 10 AM
Is there an option without lodging if we live in the area?
No, we don’t offer a lodging-only option. Our retreats are fully immersive surfing and community experiences, and a big part of the magic comes from everyone sharing the same space and really dropping into the journey together.
Do I need to bring my own skateboard?
We highly encourage you to bring your own skateboard for the retreat, even if you’re a complete beginner. learning on your board from day one helps you build confidence, muscle memory, and familiarity that you can keep practicing with once you’re back home.
We also recommend bringing your own helmet and pads to make sure you have the perfect fit and the right protection throughout the trip.
And if you’re thinking of upgrading your gear before coming, you can use the code AWA30 for 30% off all GRLSWIRL equipment.
How much surfing/skateboarding experience should i have before i go?
None at all! This retreat is designed for women of every level, from total beginners to more advanced riders. Our experienced coaches personalize each lesson so you’ll grow at your own pace, feel supported, and have the best time no matter where you’re starting from.
How many times a day are skate sessions?
We offer one coached surf-skate session per day, usually around 2–2.5 hours. You’ll also have access to all the skate equipment for free skating anytime you’d like throughout the week.
What if i've never surfed before?
No problem at all! Our retreat is perfect for beginners, and so are these beaches. Our surf coaches will start with the basics and guide you step by step, teaching you everything you need to feel safe, confident, and ready to catch your very first wave.
Do I need to bring my own surfboard?
No need! We provide all the necessary surf equipment, including boards, leashes and wax. However, if you have your own gear and feel more comfortable using it, you're welcome to bring it along*.
*Take in consideration that you wont be able to take the domestic flight with boards over 7' so in that case you'll have to travel via land.
How many times a day are surf sessions?
You’ll have one coached surf session each morning, usually around 2 hours, for a total of 4 coached sessions during the week. You’re also welcome to free surf anytime you’d like, and all surf equipment will be available for you daily.
Im traveling solo. Will i feel out of place?
Not at all! The majority of our guests come solo, and our retreats are carefully curated as supportive and inclusive experiences for everyone. You'll have plenty of opportunities to connect with other like-minded women and most likely build friendships and bonds that will last a lifetime.
What is the typical age range of guests?
A lot of our first-time guests are concerned about this!
Our retreat welcomes women of all ages, starting from 18 and up. To give you an idea, about 80% of our guests are between 25 and 55 years old. We love witnessing the diversity and unique perspectives and experience that each guests brings to the group. We have created an inclusive environment that ensures that everyone feels valued and empowered, regardless of age.
How big are the groups?
We host a maximum of 12 guests in this experience.
Im nervous, should i do this?
We promise you’ll have an epic time. "It’s truly amazing and hard to put into words", our guests say...If you are feeling the call, just do it, let go of any expectations and let us host you during the time of your life!
Is there downtime?
Yes, we intentionally build in downtime for relaxation and reflection. You can spend your free time exploring the local area, enjoying optional activities, or simply unwinding on the beach or by the pool.
What happens if the weather and conditions are bad?
While we cant control the weather, we do our best to adapt to changing conditions Our experienced hostesses and coaches will adjust the schedule and activities accordingly to ensure you have a fun and safe experience, both in and out of the water.
What to pack?
Not much! Philippines is warm all year round, as is the ocean water temperature, which means you can pack light and easily bring everything you need in a carry-on.
While it gets cooler in the evenings than it is during the day you're still not likely to need anything more than a t-shirt and some longer loose fitting pants/skirt.
Keep in mind that the island community of Siargao is making an effort to reduce waste and create awareness towards responsible tourism, so we encourage you to ride the same wave.
