Surf & Yoga Nicaragua: A Week of Waves and Wellness in Popoyo

A typical day at Surf & Yoga Nicaragua starts with coffee and fruit before a morning yoga class. The yoga shala is outdoors, surrounded by trees, and classes range from gentle hatha to more active vinyasa. After breakfast, you'll head out to one of the nearby surf spots — the camp is a short drive from several breaks, and instructors match the spot to your level. You'll surf for a couple of hours, come back for lunch, and then have free time. Some people go back for a second surf session in the afternoon, others read by the pool or walk to the beach for sunset. In the late afternoon there's often another yoga class, and dinner is served in the evening.

What sets this retreat apart is the surf programme: it includes video analysis and theory classes, not just time in the water. The instructors — Marcos is mentioned in reviews — take footage of you surfing, then sit down with you to break it down. That feedback loop is why guests report fast progress, even in a week. The camp also offers different packages depending on whether you're a beginner or advanced surfer, and you can add extra yoga or surf sessions.

The location, Popoyo, is a laid-back surf town on Nicaragua's Pacific coast. The beach is a few minutes' walk from the camp, and there are a few restaurants and bars nearby. The camp itself is modern and clean, with air-conditioned rooms, a pool, and plenty of communal space. It's not a luxury resort, but it's comfortable and well-maintained. The team lives on-site and creates a warm atmosphere — guests often mention the food, the staff, and the other travellers as highlights.

Yoga is suitable for all levels, including complete beginners. Classes are taught in English, and the instructors are happy to adjust poses for injuries or tightness. The surf programme is also open to all levels, from first-timers to intermediate surfers looking to improve. If you're an advanced surfer, you can opt for the advanced programme, which focuses on manoeuvres and wave selection. The camp provides boards and rash guards, though you're welcome to bring your own.

The retreat runs year-round, so you can choose the week that works for you. The dry season (November to April) offers smaller, cleaner waves and sunny days; the wet season (May to October) brings bigger swells and occasional rain. Either way, the water is warm enough for board shorts or a bikini. The camp can arrange airport transfers from Managua for an extra cost.

What's included

- Accommodation in modern, air-conditioned rooms - Daily breakfast - Daily yoga classes (usually one per day, sometimes two) - Surf sessions with instructors (typically twice daily) - Surfboard and rash guard rental - Video analysis and surf theory classes - Transport to surf spots - Vegetarian meals (depending on package)

What's not included

- International flights - Airport transfers (can be arranged for an extra cost) - Travel insurance - Additional meals and drinks - Personal expenses - Optional extra activities - Tips for staff