Surf & Yoga Wellness Escape in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica

The retreat is based at ICO Living Hostel, a 100-meter stroll from Playa Selina in northern Santa Teresa. The property is basic but comfortable—shared dorms with private bathrooms or private rooms with shared facilities, all with air conditioning and the kind of casual common areas where you'll naturally end up chatting with fellow guests over coffee. It's not luxury, but that's kind of the point: a simple base that puts the focus on the beach, the jungle, and the people you're sharing the week with.

Each day has a flexible arc. An inspirational wake-up call gets you going, followed by a relaxed breakfast (you're right near cafes and a well-stocked supermarket). The morning's anchor is a two-hour surf lesson with instructors certified by the International Surfing Association. Boards are provided to match your level, along with UV-protective shirts and specialized sunscreen. Whether you're catching your first white-water wave or linking turns on a green face, the teaching is patient and focused on having you feel confident in the water.

Midday, you might join an ice bath session to cool off and reset, or grab brunch at one of the nearby eateries. The afternoon could bring a guided ATV adventure, a visit to a hidden beach, or simply hammock time. As the sun drops, the group often heads out for a sunset tour—a kayak ride along the coast is a highlight—and evenings finish with the option of beach parties or a more mellow night under the stars. A schedule includes five yoga classes across the week, a kirtan session, a cacao ceremony, and a massage to help your muscles recover.

The magic here is in the community. Host Rox and her small team—including photographer Jemmi, who captures your surf sessions, and sound healer Sol—make sure you feel looked after from the moment you land. The practical stuff is sorted: airport pickup from San José is included, with a land transfer that takes about five hours or a quicker two-hour domestic flight option. The team is available virtually before you arrive and in person throughout, so navigating this new place feels easy.

What's included

- 6 nights accommodation in shared dorm or private room - Airport pickup and drop-off from San José (SJO) - 5 yoga classes - 4 surf lessons with ISA-certified instructors - 1 kirtan session - 1 relaxing massage - 1 cacao ceremony - 1 kayak sunset tour - 1 ATV adventure - 1 natal chart reading - 1 photoshoot at the beach - Water served throughout the day - Motivational audio sequences - Digital guide with local spots and waterfalls - Pre and post retreat support - Wi-Fi connection - Free parking

What's not included

- Travel insurance - Visa fees - Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) - Personal expenses - Additional activities not listed - Flights