Overview
This edition isn’t really about age. It’s about having enough life behind you to know what makes it feel bigger. One spectacular week away from routine. One very untamed corner of Costa Rica. And the space to do something challenging, ridiculously fun, and entirely for yourself. This one is for the women who know that 50 is nowhere near the end of the adventure. For those who still want to learn new things, use their bodies in new ways, laugh a lot, meet women they somehow have a million things to talk about with, and come home with a few very good new stories. For this Surf Immersion edition, we’re heading back to Pavones, our favorite place on earth. A place where sloths move slowly through the treetops, monkeys swing overhead, and you fall asleep and wake up to the sound of waves rolling down the point. The kind of place that reminds you how good it feels to slow down. You’ll wake up and walk barefoot to the ocean. Pick mangoes from the trees. Watch wild horses wander past. Eat ridiculously good food, nap in hammocks between surfs, catch sunsets overlooking the point, and ride long, warm waves that give you time to breathe, find your feet, and actually enjoy the ride. And yes, we’re going to get really into the surfing. Surfing might just be the best medicine Costa Rica has ever given us. It keeps you curious, strong, playful, and wonderfully present. It reminds you that there is no age at which you stop being allowed to learn, fall, laugh, and try again. Every session is tailored to your level, with beginners 100% welcome, enough challenge to surprise yourself, and personalized support so you can really enjoy the ride. Because perhaps what you want now isn’t less adventure. Maybe it’s adventure with a little more freedom in it. Less proving. Less performing. Less waiting for the perfect moment. More choosing the things that make life feel full. We made this week for exactly that. ✨ Exclusively for women 50+. ✨ Limited to 11 spots. ✨ All surf levels and boards welcome.
Highlights
Wild, Untamed Nature
Wake up to wild horses grazing outside your room, spot sloths moving through the treetops, watch toucans soar overhead, and pick mangoes straight from the trees. Pavones is one of those rare places where nature still calls the shots, the ocean sets the rhythm, and every day feels like a reminder of how beautiful it is to be alive.
PRIVATE CHEF
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.
RESTORING PRACTICES
We take recovery just as seriously as adventure. Expect restorative yoga, breathwork, meditation, and sessions tailored to benefit your surfing abilities, as well as promoting relaxation and rejuvenation. We will also enjoy hammock siestas amidst breathtaking jungle scenery, ocean view massages, pool time, slow dinners under the stars, and self-love practices to pause, rest and reset.
Epic waves
There aren't many places left like this one. With waves that seem to go on forever, you'll have the rare opportunity to practice, experiment, and progress on a single ride. It's the kind of wave that rewards patience, flow, and connection, making it one of the most magical places on earth to learn and fall in love with surfing.
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.
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.
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
All AWA retreats are held by women who know how to create a space where adventure feels safe, growth feels playful, and strangers somehow become your people before the first dinner is over. Throughout the week, you’ll be supported by AWA’s hostesses and a carefully selected team of local surf coaches who know Pavones deeply. They understand the wave, the lineup, the rhythm of the town, and the tiny technical shifts that can completely change the way you surf.
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.
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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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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.
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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 beachfront accommodation steps from Pavones' legendary point break.
Daily personalized surf coaching with certified local instructors, keeping groups intimate with a 2:1 guest-to-coach ratio.
Surf video analysis sessions.
Surf theory workshops covering wave reading, ocean knowledge, etiquette, and safety.
Professional surf footage to take home.
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.
A magical Horseback riding experience.
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.
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.
Oceanfront living
Where the jungle meets the sea.
Call a stunning oceanfront lodge home for the week, located directly in front of Pavones' legendary point break.
These pristine seaside condos meet every expectation of excellence. A zen-like peacefulness and feeling of refuge is present everywhere on the property. Each detail offers welcoming and ultra-comfortable living spaces, while seamlessly integrating with the magnificent local ecosystem.
Fall asleep to the sound of waves rolling down the point and wake up to one of the most spectacular surf shows on earth, right outside your window.
Accommodation
Shared Room
Shared room with 2 twin size beds - A/C - Wifi - Shared Bathroom - Terrace overlooking the garden or ocean.
FROM$3,900.00
Private Room
Private Room with a queen-size bed - A/C - WiFi - Private Bathroom - Terrace overlooking the garden.
FROM$4,500.00
Private Suite
Private Room with a king-size bed - A/C - WiFi - Ensuite Bathroom - Terrace overlooking the garden.
FROM$4,800.00
Gallery
FAQs
How big are the groups?
We host a maximum of 11 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*.
*Keep in mind that the internal flights in CR won't allow you to travel with a board bag bigger than 7 feet.
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 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. 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 WiFi available at the retreat location?
Yes, WiFi is always available at our retreat locations.
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 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. 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.
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!
