Overview
Some experiences stay with you forever, not because of where you went, but because of who you shared them with. This retreat was born from years of listening to the incredible women who’ve joined us. Some dreamed of returning one day with their daughters, while others wished they could experience this chapter alongside their own mothers. So we created a week dedicated to one simple intention: creating space to reconnect through adventure, laughter, and unforgettable shared moments. We’re bringing you to one of our favorite places on Earth: Pavones, a hidden corner of southern Costa Rica where lush rainforest spills into the Pacific and life slows to the rhythm of the tides. Home to some of the longest warm-water waves in the world, it’s where we’ve taught our own children to surf and watched them fall in love with the ocean. With forgiving conditions, warm water, and uncrowded lineups, it’s the perfect place to build confidence, celebrate first rides, and experience the magic of learning side by side. Throughout the week, our local coaches will guide you through unforgettable surf sessions while our team creates space for adventure, creativity, rest, and meaningful connection. Every detail has been thoughtfully designed to support not only your surfing journey, but the relationship you share. This is so much more than a surf retreat. It’s a chance to press pause on everyday life, cheer each other into waves, laugh a little louder, and create memories that will become part of your family’s story for years to come. ✨ Minimum age: 8 years old.
Highlights
Core memories
Some of life’s greatest gifts aren’t things—they’re the memories we create together. This week is about stepping away from everyday routines and sharing experiences you’ll remember forever. Celebrate first waves, cheer each other through challenges, laugh until your stomach hurts, and discover new sides of one another. You’ll leave with a deeper connection, a renewed appreciation for your relationship, and stories you’ll be telling for years to come.
Wild, Untamed Nature
Wake up to monkeys in the trees, scarlet macaws soaring overhead, horses wandering past your room, and dolphins in the distance. Surrounded by lush rainforest and the Pacific Ocean, Pavones is one of Costa Rica’s last truly wild places. Here, nature sets the pace, life slows to the rhythm of the tides, and every day feels wonderfully alive.
Legendary waves
There are few places left in the world quite like Pavones. Home to some of the longest warm-water waves on Earth, it’s the perfect place to learn, progress, and fall in love with surfing. Long, forgiving rides give you time to breathe, experiment, and build confidence in every session. It’s the same lineup where we’ve taught our own children to surf and watched countless guests catch the best waves of their lives.
PERSONALIZED SURF COACHING
With an exceptional 1:1 to 2:1 surfer-to-coach ratio, every surfer receives personalized guidance, encouragement, and support in the water. Our experienced local coaches adapt each session to every age, confidence level, and goal, creating a safe, playful environment where everyone can thrive. When daughters feel safe, they become brave. And when moms know their daughters are truly cared for, they allow themselves to fully enjoy their own waves too.
YOUR HOSTESSES
GIULIA VALLOTTO
Born in Italy and raised in the fast-paced world of fashion and design, Giulia eventually followed the pull of the ocean and swapped the concrete jungle for the real jungle life. As one of AWA’s co-founders, she brings warmth, vision, and a whole lot of heart to everything she does. With a gift for gathering women in meaningful ways, she’s all about creating spaces where laughter, depth, and wild adventure naturally unfold. Equal parts grounded and playful, she’ll remind you what it feels like to come home to yourself, and have a damn good time while doing it. She’s here to hold space, stir your soul, and remind you that life gets a little more magical when you let it.
giulia_vallotto
MONA PICASSO
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
Delilah Hutchins
Delilah is a competitive longboard surfer based in Costa Rica, where she has lived and trained since the age of 13. She began longboarding at 12, and has spent the past several years competing and traveling for surf events around the world. Alongside competition, Delilah coaches surfers through longboard clinics and retreats.
Over the last five years, Delilah has worked with surfers at every stage, from complete beginners to those learning to cross-step and nose ride.
When she’s not training or competing, you'll find her making jewelry, writing, playing music, and spending time with friends, family, and her dog.
delilah.hutchins
WHAT TO EXPECT
No two days are exactly the same, but here's a glimpse into the rhythm of life at AWA. Every retreat unfolds in its own unique way, blending adventure, surf progression, meaningful connection, and plenty of time to slow down, be present, and simply be.
Previous
Next
A typical day on retreat
• EARLY BIRD BREAKFAST
Wake up to the sounds of the jungle and start your day with Costa Rican coffee, tropical fruit, and light bites. Fuel for your surf adventure ahead.
• MORNING SURF SESSION
Head to the beach with your local coaches, who will select the best spot and timing based on conditions and your level, often leading you to the longest, most unforgettable waves. Surf time can go up to 4 hours, with a beach picnic break for rest and hydration in between.
• POST-SURF RESET
Rehydrate with coconuts, enjoy tropical snacks, and relax on the beach or by the pool. Let your body rest as you immerse yourself in the magical nature around you, savoring the present moment and feeling deeply alive and awake.
• RECOVERY TIME
Soothe your muscles with a massage, take a dip in the ocean-view pool, or join an optional ice bath session to support physical restoration and reset your nervous system. Some moments are shared, while others are intentionally created just for moms… and just for daughters.
• NOURISHING LUNCH
Dig into a fresh, locally sourced meal crafted with love by our in-house chef. Wholesome, nourishing and beyond tasty!
• CREATIVE & CONNECTION MOMENTS
Beyond surfing, this is where the magic continues. Playful, hands-on and creative experiences invite you to slow down, laugh and connect, sometimes side by side, and sometimes in special spaces designed separately for moms and for daughters.
• SUNSET YOGA, SURF, OR BEACH HANG
Ease into the evening with a gentle stretch session, an optional sunset surf, or a simple beach visit to watch the waves, connect with the local surf community, and soak in the magic of the setting sun.
• SURF VIDEO ANALYSIS
Join your surf head coaches for a fun and encouraging full video review of the morning session. Get personalized feedback on every wave you caught. Professionally filmed and packed with insights, progress, and memories you'll keep forever.
• CANDLELIT DINNER
Close out the day with a soulful, slow dinner under the stars, sharing stories, laughs, and reflections surrounded by your new extended family.
What's included
What's Included
Roundtrip airport transfers (for guests traveling within our scheduled group transfer times).
6 nights of beachfront accommodation steps from Pavones' legendary point break.
Daily personalized surf coaching with certified local instructors.
Optional daily free surf sessions, a lot of surfing!
Superb in-water coaching and in-house surf theory sessions.
Daily video analysis sessions and professional surf footage to take home.
3 yoga or movement sessions.
All surf and yoga equipment available throughout the week.
Daily nutritious breakfast, lunch and dinner prepared by our in-house chef with the freshest and most native ingredients.
Fresh coffee, tropical fruit, healthy snacks, and drinks available throughout the day.
Nature and adventure experiences, including river hikes, nature walks, boat rides, snorkeling, and seasonal whale watching.
A local cultural experience to connect with the roots and community of Pavones.
Transportation to all retreat activities.
Personalized hosting and concierge support throughout your stay.
Daily housekeeping service.
Overnight security guard.
An exclusive AWA welcome goodie bag.
A life changing week of nature, connection and endless joy!
What's Not Included
International and domestic airfare.
Travel and medical insurance.
One dinner in town.
Alcoholic beverages.
Professional photo package.
Gratuities and tips.
The AWA Lodge
Where the jungle meets the sea
For one unforgettable week, call a beautiful oceanfront lodge home. Located directly in front of Pavones’ legendary point break, you’ll wake to perfect waves, spend afternoons watching surfers from the pool, and fall asleep to the sound of the Pacific. Every moment invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and simply enjoy where you are.
Accommodation
Twin Room - Sleeps 2 (Mother & Daughter)
Perfect for pairs who love having their own space to unwind. Featuring two comfortable twin beds, this room is ideal for mothers and daughters who want to share the experience while each enjoying their own bed. A cozy, comfortable option designed for restful nights after full days of adventure.
FROM$7,400.00/pp
Master Suite - Sleeps 2 (Mother & Daughter)
Share every moment—even your room. Our most spacious accommodation features a luxurious king bed, perfect for mothers and daughters who are happy to share a bed while enjoying extra space and comfort. A beautiful option for younger daughters or those wanting a cozy week together.
FROM$7,800.00/pp
Private Room - Sleeps 1 (Mother or Daughter)
Your own private sanctuary. Enjoy the comfort and privacy of your own queen room—ideal for solo guests, teenage or adult daughters wanting their own space, or mothers who prefer a peaceful retreat at the end of the day while sharing every adventure together.
FROM$4,500.00/pp
Gallery
TESTIMONIALS
This was absolutely one of the best trips of my life. To share an action-packed surf week with my daughter in one of the most beautiful places in the world, made it even more special. l almost want to call it a trip of a lifetime, but now ! know we'll be back for many more with the AWA crew. What stood out most was how well the team could read the group and understand what each person needed. That kind of care is rare. Giulia and Mona brought such lively personalities, warmth, and love to the week. They were just as much a part of the experience as the activities themselves. And having Delilah as our surf host was such a gift. Learning from an elite competitive surfer was incredible, but watching how kind, patient, and encouraging she was with my daughter, who is only 10, is something I'll never forget. My daughter is in awe of her and can't stop talking about how cool Delilah is. I could not recommend this trip more.
Rebecca
This happened right as my daughter, Maddie, was getting ready to move out on her own. It felt like the beginning of a whole new relationship with her as a young adult. I wanted her to experience what it’s like to be fully surrounded by supportive, encouraging women. She had just started surfing, and I knew this was going to be her thing. I’m not really into surfing myself, but I love being around women who surf, there’s something incredibly powerful about it. Everyone encouraged me to paddle out, float in the lineup, and be part of the experience. I ended up filming Maddie popping up on a wave and sailing right past me, her face completely glowing. That’s a moment I’ll remember forever.
Jaennaea
I was really scared of the ocean at first and didn’t think I’d surf. But after watching everyone for a few days, I knew I wanted to be out there too. With the support of my daughter, the coach, and a few amazing women, I was given the space to go at my own pace and find my own calm. I ended up riding a few waves on my belly, and it was wonderful. It honestly felt like being in an amusement park again, like I was a little kid. On the last day, Mona and I caught waves together, me on the nose of the board and she behind, laughing and screaming all the way to shore. We rolled onto the sand, hugged each other, and just felt so free. It’’s the most fun I’ve had in ages.
Lucy's mum
FAQs
What ages is this retreat designed for?
This experience is designed for mothers and daughters aged approximately 8 years and up. Our activities are thoughtfully created to feel engaging, empowering and enjoyable for a wide range of ages, allowing both mothers and daughters to be challenged, inspired and fully included throughout the week.
Is this suitable if my daughter is a teenager?
Absolutely. In fact, this experience becomes especially meaningful during the teenage years. It offers a rare opportunity to step away from daily routines, reconnect without distractions, and create new memories together during a stage of life that often moves by far too quickly.
Do we need previous surfing experience?
Not at all. Whether it’s your very first wave or you’ve surfed before, this retreat is designed to meet you where you are. We keep our groups intentionally small, allowing our experienced coaches to provide personalized guidance so both mothers and daughters feel safe, supported and confident in the water.
Will mothers and daughters always surf together?
Yes! sharing waves together is one of the most special parts of the experience, and we’ll make sure there are plenty of opportunities for that throughout the week.
That said, if a mother and daughter have very different surfing abilities, there may be a few sessions where they surf at separate breaks or with different coaching groups. This allows each of you to receive the level of instruction, wave selection and support that’s best for your progression and enjoyment.
Our goal is to strike the perfect balance: creating meaningful moments in the water together while also giving each of you the best possible surfing experience. Because at the end of the day, the memories you’ll make together matter just as much as the waves you catch.
Are there activities designed separately for moms and for daughters?
Yes. While the heart of this retreat is the time you spend together, we intentionally create a few moments during the week that are designed exclusively for mothers and exclusively for daughters. These dedicated sessions encourage individual reflection, meaningful conversations and personal growth, making your shared experience even more special.
Can one parent join with more than one daughter?
Absolutely. One mother is welcome to attend with multiple daughters, provided they all fall within the recommended age range.
Can daughters attend without their mother (or vice versa)?
This retreat is intentionally designed as a shared mother and daughter experience. For that reason, participation is reserved for mother–daughter pairs (or family equivalents such as a grandmother, aunt or legal guardian attending with a daughter figure).
What if we have different surfing abilities?
That’s completely normal—and one of the things we plan for. Every participant receives coaching tailored to their own level, allowing each person to progress at their own pace while still enjoying the experience together.
Is this retreat only about surfing?
Not at all. Surfing is just one part of the journey. Throughout the week you’ll also enjoy movement sessions, creative workshops, nature adventures, nourishing meals, meaningful conversations and plenty of unstructured time to simply laugh, explore and reconnect together.
How to get to Pavones?
While Pavones feels wonderfully remote, getting here is easier than most people expect. There are two main options depending on your travel style, budget, and schedule.
FLY TO GOLFITO (Recommended)
The easiest and most convenient way to reach Pavones is by flying from San José International Airport (SJO) to Golfito with SANSA Airlines:
- Flight time: Approximately 30 minutes
- Typical cost: $130–$150 USD one way
After arriving at SJO, you'll clear immigration and customs before making the short walk to the domestic terminal where SANSA operates.
We recommend allowing at least 1.5 hours between your international arrival and SANSA departure to ensure a stress-free connection.
Airport Transfer from Golfito
Roundtrip airport transfers are included for guests arriving within our scheduled group transfer times.
If your flight times fall outside of the scheduled group transfer times, no worries at all. We can help arrange a private transfer for you:
- Approximately 1.5-hour scenic drive
- $100 USD per vehicle (up to 4 guests)
Whenever possible, we'll coordinate ride shares with other guests arriving around the same time so you can split costs and start making friends before the retreat even begins.
When should I arrive and depart?
We recommend arriving on the official start date of the retreat and departing on the official end date. There is no need to arrive a day early or stay an extra night afterward unless your travel schedule requires it or you'd simply like a little extra buffer time before or after the retreat.
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM on arrival day. The first afternoon is intentionally relaxed, giving you time to settle in, meet the group, and ease into the experience. We'll gather for a welcome circle to go over the week ahead, followed by a cozy dinner together.
On departure day, we'll share one final morning together with optional activities and our last breakfast as a group before heading to the airport. Check-out is at 10:00 AM.
If you arrive before check-in or have a later departure after check-out, you're welcome to enjoy the property's common areas while you wait. We'll also be happy to recommend nearby cafés, restaurants, and relaxing spots where you can unwind, grab a meal, or make the most of your time in paradise until your room is ready or it's time to head to the airport.
What if I've never surfed before?
No problem at all! Our retreats are perfect for beginners and so are the locations we select. Our team of surf coaches will start with the basics, teaching you everything you need to know to catch your first wave safely and confidently.
What surf level do I need to participate in the retreat?
None! The majority of our retreats are designed for women of all surf levels, from beginners to advanced surfers. Our team of experienced surf coaches will tailor personalized lessons to meet everyone's individual needs. Plus, there are waves for all tastes!
Can I bring my own surfboard?
YES! You can bring your own board or pick your perfect match from our quiver. We suggest you travel with your own board if you are feeling comfortable surfing with it. Keep in mind that the internal flights in CR won't allow you to travel with a board bag bigger than 7 feet.
How big are the groups?
We host a maximum of 14 guests in these experiences.
What's the water temperature?
It’s typically around 79-84°F (26-29°C), making it comfortable for surfing without a wetsuit.
Is there an option without lodging if we live in the area?
No. We host fully immersive retreats so we encourage everyone to share the same space and that way deeply drop into the whole experience.
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.
Is WiFi available at the retreat location?
Yes, WiFi is always available at our retreat locations.
What documentation is required before arriving at the retreats?
Once you complete your booking, you'll be asked to review and accept our Terms & Conditions and Liability Waiver. Our booking system will then guide you through a guest information form, where we'll collect important details such as medical information, flight details for airport transfer coordination, dietary preferences, and emergency contacts.
After booking, you'll also receive your Welcome Kit, which includes a pre-retreat checklist and everything you need to prepare for your trip. We recommend completing and submitting all required information as early as possible so you can relax and focus on getting excited for your adventure.
How much extra money should i bring?
While most retreat activities, meals, and scheduled experiences are included, you may wish to budget for a few optional extras during your stay to take it to the next level:
- Spa treatments and massages
- Surf Photography Package
- AWA Merchandise & Apparel
- Additional beverages, smoothies, coffee, or snacks
- Souvenirs and local artisan shopping
- Optional excursions or activities not included in your retreat package
- Gratuities for staff and service providers
As a general guideline, many guests spend anywhere from $50–$300+ throughout the week, depending on their personal preferences and participation in optional offerings.
For your convenience, we recommend bringing a credit or debit card for larger purchases and, if you wish, a small amount of cash (USD or CRC) for gratuities, local vendors, or incidental purchases.
Most businesses in Pavones accept major credit cards, but there are no ATMs nearby so its always a good idea to carry additional cash with you.
To help keep your retreat experience as seamless and stress-free as possible, any extras or purchases made throughout your stay can be added to your guest account and conveniently settled by credit card at checkout through our website (transaction fees may apply).
What is the local currency and where should i exchange money?
The local currency in Costa Rica is the Costa Rican Colón (CRC). However, U.S. Dollars are widely accepted throughout the country, including in many shops, restaurants, and tourism-related businesses. If paying in USD, please note that change is often given in Colones. There are no ATMs in Pavones, so we strongly recommend withdrawing any cash you may need before leaving San José, ideally at the SJO airport or during your travels before arriving in town.
Is Costa Rica safe?
While Costa Rica is the safest country in Central America, and therefore a perfect destination for first-time solo travelers, it's always important to use common sense.Tuck away valuables when you're in public, put your phone away when you're not using it, and leave your nice jewelry at home. Always know where you're going, avoid isolated areas, and stick with a group when you're out at night.
I'm 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!
