5-Day Vibe Higher Adventure: Surf, Yoga & Self-Discovery in Santa Teresa

The Vibe Higher retreat is run by Rox, who calls herself an emotional experience designer. Her approach is personal from the start: she talks with you before you arrive to understand what you're hoping to get from the week, and she encourages you to share an emotion you'd like to feel during your stay. The schedule balances adrenaline with reflection—mornings might start with a surf lesson as the sun comes up, and evenings end with a sunset kayak or a cacao ceremony. You're never just sitting around; you're doing things that create shared memories with the group.

Santa Teresa is a beach town on the Nicoya Peninsula, with a single main road running parallel to the ocean. The retreat hostel is in the northern part, a short walk through jungle to the beach. You're close to the natural pools at Rocamar and Playa Hermosa to the north, and Malpaís to the south—good if you want to rent a bike and explore on your own between activities.

The included activities are specific and varied: three surf lessons with ISA-certified instructors (boards and rashguards provided), three yoga classes, a kirtan session, a cacao ceremony, a natal chart reading, a kayak sunset tour, a beach party or moontribe, and a photoshoot on the beach and in the waves. A digital guide points you to local spots and nearby waterfalls, and the team sends motivational audio sequences. The idea is to pack a lot into five days without making it feel rushed.

Unlike many retreats, meals are not included. The hostel has a fully equipped kitchen where you can cook, and the surrounding streets are full of cafes and restaurants. This keeps the price lower and lets you eat whatever you feel like each day, from a quick breakfast bowl to a sit-down dinner with new friends from the retreat.

What's included

- 4 nights accommodation in shared or private rooms - Airport pickup and drop-off (SJO) - 3 yoga classes - 3 surf lessons with ISA-certified instructor - 1 kirtan session - 1 cacao ceremony - Natal chart reading - Kayak sunset tour - 1 beach party or moontribe - Photoshoot at the beach and in the waves - Welcome gift - Digital guide with local spots and hiking trails - Motivational audio sequences - Pre- and post-retreat support from the team - Water served throughout the day - Parking and Wi-Fi

What's not included

- Flights - Travel insurance - Visa fees - Meals and drinks - Airport transfers from Liberia (LIR) - Optional activities and private transportation