5 Day Earth Connection Surf & Yoga Retreat in Costa Rica

The Earth Connection retreat at Cuatro Vientos is designed for travelers who want to experience Costa Rican life from a local perspective. The property sits in the center of Malpaís, a small town right next to Santa Teresa, and it's a short walk to the beach along a lush, leafy path. The complex itself has a big garden, a new yoga deck with views of the property, a fully equipped kitchen, and shared lounge and co-working areas, giving it a communal feel that's easy to settle into.

The retreat package includes two surf lessons with local instructors—equipment provided—taught at nearby spots like Playa Carmen or Santa Teresa beach, depending on the conditions. The surf lessons are practical and hands-on, with guides who have grown up on these waves. You'll also get two yoga classes on the deck, where the sessions might be yin, hatha, vinyasa, or integral yoga, all led by experienced teachers. The welcome rebirthing breathwork session is a unique addition; it's an active breathing practice that aims to bring about deep relaxation and clarity. A 60-minute massage with Brinel, a therapist the team highly recommends, helps ease any muscle soreness from the surf.

The Tortuga Island trip is a full-day boat excursion with a delicious lunch on a stunning white-sand beach. You'll have time to snorkel, swim, or just laze in the shallows. Beyond the included activities, the team offers a wide range of optional extras at an extra cost, from stand-up paddleboarding at Cabo Blanco to a bioluminescence night paddle, waterfall treks, fishing trips, Spanish classes, and ATV rentals. The common thread is that everything is easy to arrange through the host, and they'll even help with recommendations and discounts at local restaurants.

One unique element is the emphasis on ceremonies and alternative healing. The property regularly hosts cacao ceremonies, sound bathing with Tibetan bowls, Reiki sessions, and aura readings. While these aren't all included in the base package, they're easy to add on, and guests who've joined them often mention them as highlights. The retreat is open all year round, with flexible dates, and the team encourages you to add extra nights if you want more time to decompress.

What's included

- 4 nights in private accommodation - 3 breakfasts at La Esquinita - 1 welcome Rebirthing Breathwork session - 2 surf lessons with equipment - 2 yoga classes on the deck - 1 60-minute massage - 1 full-day Tortuga Island trip with lunch - Transportation to activities during the retreat - 100 MB Wi-Fi - Parking space - Luggage storage - Pre and post advice from the team - Discounts at local restaurants - Welcome gift - Optional ATV and bike rentals (extra)

What's not included

- Meals (only breakfast is included) - Travel insurance - Flight costs - Additional activities not listed in the itinerary - Extra nights - Airport transfers (shuttle from San Jose is included in some packages)