Overview
Ride the Waves. Awaken Your Senses. Come Alive. Join us for a week in one of Costa Rica's most breathtaking surf playgrounds, where adventure, connection, and personal growth come together in ways that stay with you long after you leave. This all-inclusive retreat is designed for women who crave more: more adventure, more presence, more joy, and a deeper connection to themselves. Whether you're stepping onto a surfboard for the very first time or looking to refine your skills, there's a place for you here. Mornings begin in the ocean. Guided by our team of professional local coaches, you'll build confidence, develop a solid foundation, and progress faster than you ever thought possible. Every session is tailored to your level, allowing you to challenge yourself while feeling fully supported along the way. What happens beyond the waves is what makes the experience unforgettable. Shared meals that turn strangers into lifelong friends. Conversations that go deeper than expected. Women from all walks of life cheering each other on, celebrating wins big and small, and creating connections that continue long after the retreat ends. From the moment you inquire to the moment you return home, our intention is simple: for you to feel welcomed, supported, and genuinely seen. We believe great hosting is about creating the conditions for everyone else to shine. It's why so many guests tell us that while they came for the surf, it was the people they remember most. Every moment is thoughtfully designed to expand your comfort zone, awaken your senses, and reconnect you with the most vibrant version of yourself. A space where you don't need to perform, impress, or be anything other than who you are. Leave with more than just new surf skills. Walk away with a renewed sense of confidence, a heart full of connection, and memories that will continue to inspire you long after the last wave. All levels welcome. No prior experience needed.
Highlights
NOURISHING FOOD
One of the most underrated luxuries of retreat life? Not having to think about food. For an entire week, our private chef takes care of every detail, crafting delicious meals tailored to your needs and preferences. From energizing breakfasts to nourishing dinners, every meal is designed to help you feel your best while fully embracing the Pura Vida lifestyle.
ADVENTURE
We’ll practice restorative yoga, conscious breathwork, and gentle meditation, all tailored to support your surfing, deepen relaxation, and restore balance. Enjoy hammock siestas, ocean-view massages, and self-love rituals to pause, rest, and reset.
RELAXATION
We will practice restorative yoga, introduce meditation and explore conscious breath-work. All of our classes are tailored to benefit your surfing abilities, as well as promoting relaxation and rejuvenation. Our yoga teachers aim to help you develop strength, improve balance, relieve muscle fatigue, build focus and patience, create mental space and become more aware and in tune with your body. We will also enjoy hammock siestas amidst breathtaking jungle scenery, ocean view massage treatments and self-love practices to pause, rest and reset.
AUTHENTIC COMMUNITY
Travel solo without ever feeling alone. Join a group of inspiring women from around the world and experience the support, encouragement, and friendships that naturally unfold when adventure, vulnerability, and shared experiences come together.
PERSONALIZED SURF COACHING
Learn from a team of passionate local instructors dedicated to helping you progress with confidence. Through personalized coaching, video analysis, and small group sessions, you'll build a strong foundation and surprise yourself with what's possible in just one week.
PRIMER LOCATION
Call a stunning private villa home for the week, surrounded by lush jungle, ocean views, and nature in every direction. Wake up to the sound of howler monkeys, spend your days immersed in Costa Rica's wild beauty, and enjoy thoughtfully designed spaces to relax, recharge, and connect.
Thoughtful Hosting
From the moment you inquire to the moment you return home, our team is dedicated to making you feel welcomed, supported, and genuinely seen. Every detail is intentionally designed to create a safe, seamless, and unforgettable experience where you can fully relax and focus on yourself.
YOUR HOSTESSES
After so many years of living in this town and with the support of an amazing welcoming community, we’ve decided to shape what we call “our greatest week at home” to share the beauty and magic of this remote paradise with you.
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.
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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.
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A TYPICAL DAY ON RETREAT
• EARLY BIRD BREAKFAST
Wake up to the sounds of the jungle, sip on freshly brewed Costa Rican coffee, and enjoy fresh tropical fruit as the day slowly unfolds around you.
• SURF IS UP!
Load up the trucks, grab your board, and head to the beach with your new seasters. Glassy warm waves are awaiting, your coaches are ready, and another morning of laughter, learning, and celebrating each other's wins is about to unfold.
• POST-SURF SNACK
Fresh tropical fruit, ocean views, and that post-surf feeling that somehow makes everything taste better. Refuel, rehydrate, and celebrate the small victories that make surfing so rewarding.
• SIESTA TIME
Take a well-deserved pause. Book a massage, lounge by the pool, curl up with a book, or retreat to your room for some quiet time. This is your invitation to slow down, recharge, and simply be.
• TROPICAL LUNCH
Gather around the table for a nourishing meal prepared by our in-house chef. Fresh, vibrant, and thoughtfully crafted to fuel your body and support your daily adventures.
• SURF & OCEAN KNOWLEDGE
Beyond catching waves, you'll deepen your understanding of the ocean itself. Learn about wave reading, surf theory, ocean safety, and surf etiquette, building the knowledge and confidence to continue your surfing journey long after the retreat ends.
• TIME FOR YOU
Join a yoga class, wander through the charming boutiques of Santa Teresa, watch the sun melt into the Pacific, or simply do absolutely nothing at all. This time is yours. For one week, there is nowhere to rush to and nothing you need to manage.
• CANDLELIGHT DINNER
As the sun sets, we'll gather for a beautiful meal where stories are shared, laughter comes easily, and friendships deepen naturally. It's often around this table when guests realize they came for the surf, but it was what they learned about themselves through the women around them that they'll remember forever.
And then, before you know it, you'll be waking up excited to do it all over again.
✨ And somewhere between the surf sessions, shared meals, jungle sunsets, and conversations that linger long into the evening, you'll remember what it feels like to be fully present, fully alive, and completely yourself.
What's included
What's Included
Roundtrip airport transfers (for guests traveling within our scheduled group transfer times).
6 nights of ocean-view accommodation in a breathtaking private villa.
Daily personalized surf coaching with certified local instructors.
Surf video analysis sessions.
Surf theory workshops covering wave reading, ocean knowledge, etiquette, and safety.
Professional surf footage to take home.
An unforgettable local adventure experience.
3 yoga, movement, or meditation sessions.
Daily breakfast and lunch thoughtfully prepared and adapted to all dietary needs.
5 chef-prepared dinners crafted by our private in-house chef.
Fresh drinks and healthy snacks available throughout the day.
All surf and yoga equipment provided.
Transportation to all retreat activities.
Personalized hosting and concierge support throughout your stay.
A community of incredible women from around the world.
Daily housekeeping services.
An exclusive welcome goodie bag.
A real good time.
What's Not Included
International and domestic airfare.
Travel and medical insurance.
One dinner in town.
Alcoholic beverages.
Professional photo package.
Gratuities and tips.
"Nestled in the heart of Playa Hermosa "
YOU'LL BE STAYING HERE
THE VENUE
Check the surf from bed!
Tucked into the lush jungle canopy, this spacious yet grounded hidden villa feels like a secret carved into nature. Built downward into the hillside, it blends seamlessly into the wild, offering rare peace, total privacy, and sweeping ocean views. Just a 10 min walk and 2 min drive from the beach.
FULLY IMMERSE IN NATURE
The amazing view from the top offers a moment of stillness every time you go up or down the stairs. The house invites you to contemplate, and find yourself in a constant state of meditation - everything you need to unwind and recharge soaking in the sights and sounds of the Pacific Ocean.
Accommodation
Master Suite
King-size bed with A/C and ceiling fans, high-speed WiFi, panoramic ocean views, en-suite bathroom with jungle-view soaking bathtub.
FROM$4,900.00/pp
Private Room
King-size bed with A/C and ceiling fans, high-speed WiFi, panoramic ocean views, and private en-suite bathroom.
FROM$4,700.00/pp
Shared Room
Twin beds with A/C and ceiling fans, high-speed WiFi, panoramic ocean views, and shared bathroom.
FROM$4,300.00/pp
Gallery
TESTIMONIALS
I arrived feeling so nervous as a beginner surfer, wondering if I would be the worst surfer, the biggest body, the only mom. And let me tell you, none of that mattered. The only thing that mattered was the incredible love, warmth, and acceptance I was met with from the moment I arrived. This retreat truly brings out the best in people. I met the most amazing group of women, all with different stories, strengths, and perspectives, and I feel so lucky to have shared this experience with them. I’m already dreaming about my next trip.
Cass
This was my first time in Costa Rica and my first ever surf retreat - and it completely exceeded my expectations! As a beginner, I learned so much in just one week and came home feeling energized, inspired, and even more motivated to keep surfing. All of the coaches were incredibly knowledgeable and encouraging, which made such a difference for someone still building confidence in the water. Everything about the experience was outstanding, from the beautiful accommodations to the delicious food and the group of women who traveled from all over the world and made the week so special.
Alexia
AWA unlocks a new level of the divine feminine. As an independent girl who has traveled for surf before, joining this retreat took everything to the next level. I was beyond impressed with how the surf experience was curated. No matter your level, the guidance, waves, board selection and more was all perfectly aligned to the individual. This is HUGE because it allows everyone on the trip to succeed in their own way.
Carly
I have now been on 3 AWA retreats! I cannot speak highly enough about Giulia, Mona, Mariano and their amazing team of chefs and amazing instructors. Every detail is carefully thought out. You don’t have to worry about a thing while you’re there! These will be experiences you will never forget for the rest of your life. Don’t think twice, just book it!!!
Talia
I just finished my second AWA retreat and am already planning my next one. Guilia, Mona, and Mariano have created something really, really special. They make it so easy to have a truly unforgettable experience - thanks to their energy, passion, and vision. They have created a space where adventure, encouragement, and unrelenting joy meet the challenges of learning to surf. It's this really unique approach that allows to you deeply connect with them, the other surf seasters, and nature. The coaches they selected for us were top-notch. They were highly skilled, patient, and incredibly supportive but made sure that we had fun! One of my favorite parts of the retreats was the food. Barb the chef, along with her team, are amazing! Every meal was super fresh, delicious, healthy and often made with items from her own garden. It added another layer of magic to an already extraordinary experience.
Serenity Gardner
FAQs
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 10 guests in this experience.
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 surf level do i need to participate in the retreat?
None! Our retreat is designed for women of all surf levels, from beginners to advanced surfers. Our team of experienced surf coaches will tailor personalized lessons to meet your individual needs.
What if i've never surfed before?
No problem at all! Our retreat is perfect for beginners and so are these beaches. 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.
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.
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.
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.
How to get to the AWA Villa?
This AWA Villa is located in Playa Hermosa, Mal Pais, on the south western coast of the Nicoya Peninsula, about 10 minutes north of Santa Teresa. Find below the detailed information on how to get to us from your preferred international airport.
PLANE
There are currently two domestic airlines providing daily flights from San José and Liberia to our closest local airport: Cóbano. The flight is approximately 30 minutes and it costs something between $100-$130.
We recommend Costa Rica Green Airways which operates out of the separate domestic airport, a five-minute walk from San Jose's main terminal (SJO). As they operate out of a different airport, you are not connecting, instead, you’ll first need to go through Immigration and collect your luggage. Upon leaving Arrivals, walk straight ahead to the main boulevard, turn left, and you will see the Domestic Terminal located 500 feet ahead. If in doubt, an airport official will be able to point you in the right direction. Book here: CR Green Air
The AWA team will arrange your airport transfers to make your arrival and departure seamless. Upon landing, your driver will be waiting with a sign displaying your name, and you’ll enjoy a short 30-minute ride to the villa.
Whenever possible, we’ll also coordinate shared rides with other guests arriving at similar times.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The above plane option won’t work for those who are travelling with surfboards bigger than 7’0.
PUBLIC SHUTTLE
We include roundtrip public shuttle transportation to the villa from either San José (SJO) or Liberia (LIR) airports. These shuttles depart daily at 6:30am from San José and 9:00am from Liberia. An additional 3:00pm departure is available from both airports, though it requires a minimum of 4 passengers and doesn’t always run daily. The journey takes about 5 hours from either airport and includes a scenic ferry crossing and driver change in Paquera (if traveling from San José).
If these shuttle times don’t align with your flight itinerary and you prefer a different schedule, we’ll be happy to assist in arranging a private shuttle at an additional cost.
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. Checl-out is at 10:00 AM.
We'll provide recommended flight windows and coordinate group airport transfers to make your travel as seamless as possible.
Is there an option without lodging if we live in the area?
No. We host fully immersive retreats and surfing progression experience so we encourage everyone to share the same space and that way deeply drop into the whole experience.
How much cash 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 Santa Teresa accept major credit cards, and there are ATMs nearby should you need additional cash during your stay, so there's no need to carry large amounts 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. ATMs are readily available in most towns and are a convenient way to withdraw local currency if needed.
If you are coming from a country outside of the US, we recommend exchanging your money outside of the airport as the airport charges the highest exchange fee.
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.
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!
