Philippines·1 - 8 September 2024
A Surf Skate cultural dream adventure in Siargao, Philippines
YES, you’ve read it right — the legendary GRLSWIRL team is joining us in The Philippines! How did it happen? Last year, we left Siargao beyond inspired by its local community and vibrant skate culture (we didn’t expect to find a surf skate tropical heaven). In this pristine little island, amidst its crystal-clear waves and stunning nature, we uncovered a love for skateboarding that was simply contagious. Imagine kids playing from sunrise to sunset, crafting homemade skates, laughing and carving through the streets of General Luna – that's the level of skate stoke you'll feel the moment you set foot in Siargao. This got us thinking – what if we brought the GRLSWIRL energy to this dreamy place? Siargao isn't just the surfing capital of The Philippines; here, the magic of skateboarding unites people as much as these chicas do wherever they go. We chatted with Lucy, GRLSWIRL’s CEO, and she was immediately IN - bringing her co-founder Kelsey and their stoke and surfskate master Val, under one condition: GIVING BACK. We will be hosting an event for the kids in our retreat's neighborhood, providing them with free surf skate classes and a set of gear for them to access anytime. Limited spots are up for grabs, and this isn't just a surf-skate retreat – it's a chance to be part of something bigger, something that goes beyond the waves and leaves a positive mark on the community!
Siargao is a tiny teardrop shaped island known as the "Surfing Capital of the Philippines". The high number of breaks and its reliable surfing conditions all year round attracts surfers from across the world like a sacred pilgrimage. From the ever-popular Cloud 9 to Stimpy’s, this paradise island 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!
Punta Punta is a hidden gem in Cabitoonan village, minutes away from General Luna. Not long ago, it was a fishing and coconut farming community only accessible via boat or a long motorbike ride through jungle paths and wild pigs. As Siargao attracts more wanderers at heart, now neighborhood fishermen are your friendly boatmen taking you out to your favorite surf spots, and incredible individuals warmly invite you to experience their beautiful home and resilient way of life.
Siargao is just one of the 7,000 islands that make up the Philippines Archipelago - and each has its own distinct character and local charm. Hop onboard a traditional Filipino bangka boat and get ready to see where the magic is hidden! Play volleyball under the palm forest of Daku, take a dip in bath-tub clear waters, laze around on the white sand beach of Mam-on, sip fresh cut coconuts under the shade of a swaying palm, and get ready for cliff jump at sunset.
We believe that food is the best way to access a culture, bring together a community and fuel a mind-body experience. Using locally-sourced organic ingredients, we craft up plant-based island-inspired, mega delicious meals, snacks and drinks to power you through the day. Siargao is also known by its eclectic dining scene of international cooking and local recipes, with or without a modern twist!
Brace yourself for a rollercoaster of fun as we amp up your skills on both the waves and the pavement.Imagine cruising through different parks and bowls, tailoring the thrills to every skill level with the GRLSWIRL team and some seriously rad local skaters by your side. Cap off the retreat by participating in a community event, where you'll assist in teaching local kids everything you've learned (and trust us, it'll be a lot!).
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.
giulia_vallotto
Argentinian surfer, creator soul and ultimate jungle warrior reshaped her life by the Costa Rican sea over a decade ago on her search for a more simple life. She is the embodiment of fun and adventure and brings the high vibes and stoked into whatever she does. Be ready for some loud laughs, deep ocean conversations and a life-long friendship with who will turn your surf trip into a radical life-changing experience.
mona.picasso
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.
lucyjean333
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!
VALALALAFORGE
Co-founder of GRLSWIRL, has been owning the title of worlds okays skater since early 2000’s. She switched it up from the boardwalk of Venice, California and she now lives in Ericeira, Portugal — creating and carrying the GRLSWIRL spirit throughout Europe. A mama of a 3 year old, lover of van life and chronic entrepreneur. She is most happy when it’s sunny, her feet are sandy and there’s good burritos near by (preferably in hand).
KELSHARKIN
Airport transfers.
7-night accommodation at beachfront lodge Punta Punta.
4 surf-guided sessions with certified local surf instructors.
5 surf skate lessons adapted to your level.
Surf and skate video analysis and professional footage to take home.
All breakfasts and in house meals
Getting picked up in front of the hotel by boat to go surfing every morning.
Island hopping Mam-on boat trip.
Relaxation massage (60 minutes).
2 yoga flow sessions.
All yoga equipment.
Transportation to and from all activities.
Concierge services.
Daily cleaning services.
Welcome gift.
A life-changing week of connection, nature, culture and unforgettable waves.
International airfare.
Alcoholic beverages.
Medical Insurance.
Surf photography.
Meals in town
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$3,700.00/pp
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$3,900.00/pp
One of 2 private bedrooms in this beautiful 1 bath Surf Villa with floor to ceiling windows to bring the outdoors in. It features AC in both bedrooms, spacious outdoor private terrace, spa-inspired bathroom, high-powered ceiling fans throughout, high-speed wifi and pool access.
FROM$4,500.00/pp
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$4,500.00/pp
A SENSE OF HOME AMIDST AN ADRENALINE-FILLED ADVENTURE
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. Not long ago, this piece of paradise was accessible only by jungle road or private boat (still our preferred method of arrival), however, it remains a little secret – close to the action and far from the noise. From our plunge pool, you can see the epic barreling 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.
To get there you must fly into Manila, Cebu or Clark International Airport and then book a regional flight from your airport to Sayak Airport (IAO) via Philippine Airlines or Cebu Pacific. We advise you to check the regional flight schedules prior to booking your international flight to help avoid
an overnight stay in Manila/Cebu/Clark.
Upon arrival to 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).
Qualified travelers must also:
This retreat is for anyone who is able to catch waves on their own - all boards allowed -
Yes! We highly recommend to bring your own gear as we can't guarantee having access to equipment in good conditions. Bring the board you feel the most comfortable with.
Siargao is tear drop shaped island and one of the 7,000 that make up the Philippines Archipielago.
Known as the "Surfing Capital of the Philippines" the island boasts some of the most influential surf breaks in the world. Its reliable surfing conditions all year round offer something for all skill levels.
Siargao is every surfer's dream destination. Surrounded by crystal clear turquoise waters, covered in coconut palm trees, white sand beaches, picturesque islands, waterfalls, lagoons, and caves. Plus, the island boasts delicious local and international cuisine for every discerning palate.
Not much! The 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.
AWA Support
Typically replies within an hour