OCTOBER IN PHILIPPINES with Josie Prendergast | 2 SPOTS LEFT!
Costa Rica·December - February
All-Inclusive Women’s Surf & Yoga Retreat in Santa Teresa. A beginner-friendly surf experience mixing adventure, nourishment, and community
This is the ultimate radical and soulful all-inclusive experience for every woman craving the thrill of adventure and to awaken their senses in one of the most undeniably stunning surf playgrounds of Costa Rica. During this week, you’ll immerse yourself in the “Pura Vida” lifestyle as you dive deep into our unparalleled surfing program. Whether you're just starting out or aiming to improve your skills, our lineup of professional local coaches is committed to mindfully providing you with the most solid surf foundation possible, allowing you to learn progressively and fast. Get ready for the most authentic local experience and let our team share the magic that Santa Teresa has to offer. AWA will leave you overwhelmed with joy and expand your body, mind and soul while living the relaxed lifestyle of this unique laid-back destination.
Healthy, tropical, and nourishing meals. We celebrate food with enthusiasm so we carefully custom curate a healthy, energizing and nourishing menu for every retreat, always adapting to any dietary restrictions. Experience the purest and most delicious flavors of Costa Rica prepared and served by our in-house chef Barbara Dewhurst and her talented team of local women. We only eat local, organic and fresh ingredientes, from exotic fruits to local fish caught that morning.
Every moment is an adventure with us! We like making the rules and love breaking them so we can take you beyond your expectations and inspire you to explore the world in new, wild and radical ways. This is the time to challenge your limitations, try new crazy things and take our fears head on together. Be ready to hike through hidden waterfalls, search for natural tide pools on a secret stunning beach, fly deep into a natural reserve on ziplines and gallop down the beach on a horse as the sun kisses the sea.
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.
We deeply believe in the transformative power of sisterhood and the individual strength that comes from belonging to an authentic community. At our retreats, women of diverse backgrounds and ages come together through their shared love for surfing, adventure, and personal growth. Sharing passions and visions with others is such a beautiful way to connect and empower ourselves. We are committed to keep creating supportive and safe spaces where all 'seasters' can flourish, finding joy in learning new things and cultivating genuine connections, that will last a lifetime.
Personalized in depth coaching. Surfing isn't just a hobby here—it's a way of life. That's why we're fully dedicated to ensuring THE ULTIMATE surfing experience for you. Whether you are ready to catch your very first waves, gain more confidence in the water, transition to riding a different board, learn new maneuvers and tricks, or cross-step on a longboard, our fun team of surf instructors will adapt to your level and personal goals working daily by your side to help improve your skills and take your surfing to the next level.
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.
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
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6 night accommodation at breathtaking private beachfront villa.
Daily surf lessons adapted to your level, with certified local instructors.
Photo & video review sessions.
Underwave training workshop.
Theoretical surf workshops.
Professional video footage to take home.
Daily local breakfast and lunch adapted to all diets.
5 special dinners catered by our in-house chef.
Daily drinks and snacks.
1 dinner in town.
Yoga, stretching, guided meditations or sound journey.
All surf and yoga equipment.
Massage treatment.
Adventure experience.
Transportation to activities.
Ground transportation from/to Cobano or Liberia Airport.
Concierge services.
Daily cleaning services.
Goodie bag.
A real good time.
International and domestic airfare.
Alcoholic beverages.
Medical Insurance.
Tips.
Experience the luxury of beachfront living at this magnificent villa on a pristine stretch of a secluded beach. The AWA Villa is a 7000-square foot architectural gem, with spacious guest suites and sweeping ocean views at every turn. This exotic home is virtually resting on the untouched sands of Mal Pais beach, with direct private access to the ocean.The property is minutes from several of the best surf breaks in Costa Rica, as well as picture-perfect spots for snorkeling and swimming.
Queen or King-size bed, A/C, ceiling fan, balcony and private bathroom.
FROM$4,900.00/pp
Queen or King-size bed, A/C, ceiling fan, balcony and shared bathroom.
FROM$4,700.00/pp
Queen or King-size bed, A/C, ceiling fan, balcony and shared bathroom. Beds are booked on a first come first basis.
FROM$3,900.00/pp
WHY SANTA TERESA?
Located at the far tip of the wild Nicoya Peninsula along the Pacific Ocean, one of the 5 Blue Zones of the world. The jaw-dropping beaches of Santa Teresa are pure sun, sand and surf, fringed by green palm trees and lush jungle-draped coastal hills.
- A variety of beach, reef and point breaks, ensuring there's something perfect for everyone - from beginners catching their first waves to experienced surfers mastering their skills. - The warm and glassy waves here are consistent year-round, offering a pleasant surfing experience whenever you visit. This is a great spot for learning but can also provide a challenge for those seeking bigger waves, on relatively easy paddle-outs. - The medium/low crowds and the spread out line-up will make you enjoy the waves without feeling overwhelmed.
PERFECT FOR SOLO TRAVELERS! Feeling hesitant about venturing solo into the unknown? Most women take the leap alone and find it's the best decision they've made, even if they were nervous at first. We've crafted it as the ultimate no-brainer adventure — a retreat where you're spoiled like a queen at every moment. It's the perfect mix of top-notch planning + spontaneous fun, expertly orchestrated by local hosts. Get ready to make unforgettable memories with your new favorite crew.
"Its' waking up every morning toot the sound of howler monkeys and crashing waves. It's the fresh tropical fruit, mangos, bananas and coconuts that practically fall out of trees. It's the international mix of locals who have embraced Costa Ricas' "pura vida" lifestyle of relaxed living and became a community. It's the live reggae band that makes you want to dance like it's a Saturday night on Monday. It's watching the most stunning sunsets at the beach every night, it's simplicity, its freedom, it's joy, It's the VIBES! Oh the vibes..."
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
This AWA Villa is located in Mal Pais, on the south western coast of the Nicoya Peninsula, about 7 minutes south 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
On arrival into Cóbano, one of our taxi drivers will be waiting for you with a sign with your name. The ride to the AWA Villa is only 30 minutes.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The above plane option won’t work for those who are travelling with surfboards bigger than 7’0.
PUBLIC SHUTTLE
We can coordinate transportation to the Villa from SJO or Liberia via land on public shuttle. You'll be collected from your preferred airport and driven directly to us. These shuttles operate regularly early in the mornings so if your itinerary doesn't match this pick up time, we can also schedule a private shuttle for you.
Let us know if you need assistance booking any legs of this commute. We are here to support you and can’t wait to meet you!
Check-in is at 3PM.
Check-out is at 11AM.
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.
This depends on personal preferences but honestly not much as its super easy to pull out money from a local ATM.
Here are a few things you might need cash money for:
- Local souvenirs for friends and family.
- Tips. While tipping is not mandatory in Costa Rica, it is highly appreciated and to the discretion of each traveller. If you want to tip, we will collect cash money for surf coaches, cleaning or cooking staff members.
Most tourism businesses accept US dollars and cards. There are ATM's available in the area. You can also exchange your USD for colones (local currency) at most grocery stores.
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.
This experience is all-inclusive so you really dont need to pay for much unless you want to take it to the next level. Here are a few things that most of our guests end up spending on:
- Photography package ($200).
Our talented artists will be capturing you and the crew in and out of the water daily so you don't even have to worry about bringing your phone everywhere. Be ready to collect some of the most amazing tropical memories of your life!
- Extra Massage ($100).
- AWA Tee ($40).
- Alcoholic Beverages.
- Shopping! Santa Teresa is known for its beautiful, chic and stylish boutiques with products and designers from all places. Beach outfits, jewelry, art, bathing suits, natural beauty products, local coffee. No doubts you'll want to hit some of our favorite local stores while visiting Santa Teresa.
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.
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!
We host a maximum of 10 guests in this experience.
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