Guest Reviews

This was my 4th camp with Pura Vida (3rd in Mal Pais) – this one was the best ever. The owner Tierza is a blast – amazing surf instructors. The outing to Cabuya was one of the best things I’ve done in my life. A blast every time – worth every cent –; memories and friendships that last forever. Michele, Davide and surf master Lucie are incredible instructors. Highly recommend.

Went with some friends for the surf and yoga New Years retreat with some friends. We had an absolutely phenomenal time. I never surfed before in my life. After 5 days I was able to get up on the board consistently and surf the whitewater waves in. I got the surfing bug! The accommodations are comfortable and food is fresh and healthy. The town is small, but has a relaxed vibe and there are great food options. Tierza is a fabulous host and she is completely dialed into the area. She was 100 percent present the entire time and really took excellent care of us. Her surf instructors, Lucie, Davide and Michelle are patient, funny, and friendly. If only all of my instructors were like them! The yoga setting was beautiful and serene. Highly recommend this pura vida adventure!

Davide was such a passionate, knowledgeable instructor. His ability to break down the technique of surfing into manageable chucks was impressive. Even more impressive was his ability to watch us surfing (often failing;), and find little tips to help us progress. We have taken lessons from other surfing instructors, but never have we had anyone near the caliber of Davide! Pura Vida Adventures instructors and location can not be beat

I was able to watch my son learn a whole new sport for years to come. What a relief this was to feel this freedom and learn the lessons of the sea with the guidance of Davide. You can feel the passion from Davide our instructor and it carried over into success for us! I was also very grateful he put safety front and center. He made it fun and creative with acronyms to remember the flow of all the moves that got my son over and over up on that board. Thank you!!!

Last year I attended my first Pura Vida Surf camp solo and it was an epic adventure. I feel like I learned some really great fundamentals that helped me continue to surf through the year. Then I returned a second time this year, this time with friends. It was even more amazing! Hotel Tropico Latino where the camp is located is fantastic; comfortable and eco-friendly. The spa treatments are great. Nothing beats an outdoor shower after a wrap. The surf instructors are all super top notch and really helped me figure out all the things I still need to work on. It’s actually great to surf the same break with the same instructors over time to see how I’ve improved (or not). I’m already planning my next surf trip back to CR.

I feel very lucky to have had this experience. All the details were taken care of so I could surf, beach, eat, relax and make new friends. Sara, our host, was extraordinary, and the whole team of skilled instructors made me feel safe while still pushing my boundaries for adventure. Pura Vida was a truly wonderful experience, and I’d highly recommend.

If you are looking for a week that will refresh you, energize your spirit and connect you with amazing human beings, look no further. I went on this trip with one of my dear friends, but could have easily showed up by myself and had a ball. Our hostess Sara was such a joy, and went above and beyond to make our experience delightful. The surf instructors (Luice, Michelle, Audrey and Davide) took a group of middle aged, inexperienced kooks and made us feel like REAL surfers by the end of the week. Daniel, our lovely yoga Instructor, led us through classes that were a great balance of relaxation, stretching and mindfulness. The INCREDIBLE, smart, funny and powerful women I met from Canada, California, South Carolina etc. made the week memorable and mean. The food was fresh, healthy and flavorful and the staff at the Tropico was so attentive. I am already dreaming of going back, hopefully soon.

Pura Vida Adventures puts on a fantastic week of surfing and yoga. All of the instructors and staff are highly competent and lovely people. The retreat caters to all levels of surfers and yoga practitioners–from very experienced to novice. If you like an active vacation full of adventure, fun people, delicious food and all around good vibes….. look no further. Pura Vida!!

My husband and I absolutely loved our time with Pura Vida Adventures. They truly offered an exceptional and unique experience. They have a terrific team of surf instructors who are able to help you learn and grow in your surfing ability and knowledge. They wonderfully orchestrated all the meals and added fun unexpected touches- we especially enjoyed the unique blends of fresh juices waiting on the table right after the surfing session! The hostess was extremely helpful- from answering questions about the trip to setting up reservations for activities during the downtime to clearly articulating the plan for the day. The entire week was well organized, well taught, and really just so much fun! You can’t beat the beautiful beach location either. The whole experience was a trip we’ll never forget and hope to take again!

When I first arrived at the camp I was really nervous about the surf part and very excited about yoga. After the first day of working with the amazingly talented surf instructors, I got up on my first wave on my very first try. I immediately started to understand how people get hooked on surfing. Although I was realistic about my comfort level and ability to swim and stay on the inside of the break, I hope someday to graduate to the outside. The conditions in Costa Rica are superb in that the temperature of the ocean is like bath water and the waves are not too big. I highly recommend this surf camp for all levels and although I only got to work with a handful of the instructors, I got to know most of them and they are all really great! I personally worked most with Michelle and Audrey, both of which are great for beginners. Looking forward to getting out there again in the next year or so while surfing locally when possible.

I had visited Santa Teresa a few years before I found Pura Vida Adventures. I knew I would be back again one day..I couldn’t have asked for a more amazing way to find myself back in this magical surf town. I had essentially zero surfing experience. Surfing for me has been something I have wanted to try but was a bit reluctant. This is why I chose this adventure. Not only that I was really feeling a pull to surround myself with female energy and women that I would never have a chance to meet otherwise. Everything and everyone exceeded my expectations. Sara the camp hostess is amazing. She is kind and very knowledgeable. She made me feel comfortable and at home from the minute I arrived. I was looking for some spiritual experiences as well in this journey and she was so accommodating with my search for this. All of the surf team was amazing as well. They have amazing spirit and are there to cheer you on and see you succeed. Yoga was very much needed daily to stretch and align the body after putting it through wave after wave:) Cristina is such a gentle, grounding energy and that for me was essential. The resort is perfect along with all of the staff. The food is so flavorful and healthy. All that you need to nourish your body. Lastly..The sunsets are the most warming and over the top eye candy I have ever seen. The most relaxing end to such fun and rewarding days.

Hubs had some time off and asked me if I wanted to do anything and I said, “YES! I want to go some where ALL BY MYSELF!” I loved the idea of 7 days with some structured activities. I was looking for a week to unwind, bond with other awesome (I hoped!) women, read, meditate, practice yoga and the surfing thing was an added bonus (I originally was looking for just yoga, but heck, why not???). My week in Santa Teresa with Pura Vida Adventures gave me all of that and more – the women ended up being awesome after all! The instructors for both yoga and surfing were welcoming, knowledgeable and really willing to help us progress at any level. Sara was an absolute terrific host; I didn’t really have to think about or plan a thing. I felt really safe at all times and I spent a decent amount of time exploring on my own. Even though I didn’t fall in love with surfing, I would do this again. The only complaint I have is it has been terribly difficult to get back on track now that I am home!

I read an article about Pura Vida and have been stalking it for a year. I finally took the leap and it was life changing! I’m 53 with no surf experience but got right up and soon was catching my own waves, paddling and turning. Lucie, Audrey, Michelle and Davidae are the most knowledgeable, patient, friendly and fun team you could want. We had a group of varied ages and experience and they challenged us all! Sara is a master hostess and the most organized human I know! She takes care of everything so you’re free to relax and enjoy. The hotel and grounds are peaceful, clean and comfortable.. The staff is helpful and so friendly. I was thoroughly impressed with the fresh, clean delicious food at every meal! Tierza the owner of retreat company was there this week. She surfed and ate with us and has a truly uplifting, infectious energy which shows in all the people she has chosen to workwith. It’s hard to pick a favorite part but the women I met were inspirational, funny, warm and open. It’s amazing to me the universe put me exactly where I needed to be with people I need to have in my life. Take the leap! Do something for yourself and ride that wave into everything life has ahead of you!!

When David sent me the link for this yoga/surf trip in Costa Rica, I jumped right on it! My yoga/surf experience was minimal. Like many before me have stated, the women I met on this trip were the icing on the cake for what was already fun! There was something amazing about all of them, and as a group, we just clicked! I’m a grandmother and did not desire to begin a surfing career, I just wanted to learn something new. I was not the best but I learned a lot and definitely caught waves all by myself! The instructors were skilled (and fun) with even the most needy surfers. 🙂 The food was perfect, the zipline had a special perk, Sara is the best “handler” ever, and I have some new badass sisters. Highly recommend this experience. I came back energized!

This week completely exceeded my expectations. The surf instructors are truly patient, skilled and so encouraging. The food was fantastic and fresh and all able to be eaten while looking at the ocean. I felt completely spoiled for the week with all of Sara’s organization. She is amazing! I also loved being able to try some of the other fabulous restaurants in the area as well. It was a great week with 11 fabulous women!

I have been to this surf camp 7 times in the last 3 years………clearly I am a huge fan and can not say enough good things about the surf instructors, staff, the hotel and the one road little town I have fallen in love with. So many other travelers have given it 5 stars. I noticed one review that gave it 2 stars and they complained about not having a surf board they liked. Let me tell you that the quiver of boards offered is the best of any camp I have ever been too and when ever I have found a board at a local surf shop in town I wanted to try, the surf camp got it for me to use. Top notch service and worth every penny!!!

I loved just about everything Pura Vida Adventures offered! I joined a fantastic group of ladies from all walks of life. The surf instructors were amazing- super experienced, patient, attentive and kind. I was at first more excited about the yoga than the surfing, but was surprised to find that the surfing was the best aspect of the experience. The water was a perfect warm temperature with a long perfect stretch of soft sandy beach and the surf instruction was in depth and very helpful. The accommodations were beautiful, clean and comfortable. The staff at the resort were so friendly and attentive. The food was delicious!!! Santa Theresa is a quaint and fun town with awesome cafes and restaurants and cute surf stores and boutiques. Overall, it was an incredible restorative and fun vacation that I recommend to anyone of all activity levels! Thank you Pura Vida Adventures – I will definitely plan to return with more friends soon!!

I didn’t have some long held desire to learn to surf. But for New Years this year I wanted to do get out of my comfort zone, try something new, and meet other awesome women. Pura Vida Adventures delivered on all of these. I had never surfed before but throughout the week I received EXPERT surf instruction. They have really hand picked a great crew. Surfing is challenging and I can’t imagine I would have learned so much so quickly with most lessons. Though I had never surfed before, the team made it approachable for a beginner. My group was full of beginners and by the end of the week we had all improved so much. Catching waves was awesome and empowering!!! But…. meeting other incredible women was a major highlight. I had a feeling the type of women that would be attracted to this would be people I would like to meet. We shared so much about life and had meaningful conversations and connections. I now have friends all over I can meet up with for a chat, surf, or anything really. Thanks for an excellent experience Pura Vida!

I initially booked this trip because I wanted to go somewhere tropical and learn how to surf and it ended up being the best decision ever!! I didn’t have to worry about anything all week because everything was planned and organized by Sara and Pura Vida. I’ve never surfed before in my life and the instructors were incredibly knowledgeable and fun to work with! They had us catching our own waves in no time! Every meal I ate at Tropico Latino was delicious and fresh! And I can’t say enough good things about how helpful and accommodating the entire staff of Tropico Latino and Pura Vida are. I still talk to the amazing group of people I met there and I can’t wait to go back!

Wow, what a fabulous week spent in a tropical paradise with the most amazing surfing lessons, spectacular food, lovely and safe grounds and a very gracious staff! Arriving single, it was super easy to make friends in this group of accomplished professionals. As a Kripalu-Certified yoga instructor, I’d like to add that the group’s private yoga teacher was superb. I’m so glad I went, and hope to go back as a more advanced surfer next year!

PS Horseback ride on the beach and waterfall/swim hike were real highlights:)

This is the kind of vacation that lingers in your mind for a long time! Everything was great.

Sara was wonderful and kept everything on track and flowing without a feeling of being constrained. She even found a guitar for me to play!

The yoga instructor was perfect with his calming insightful messages along with the sound of the ocean waves.

In the spa area I had one of the best massages ever!

The surf instructors were fun and informative. I’ve been surfing for a long time but learned new techniques and was encouraged to go past my comfort zone. I was rewarded with catching some bigger waves.

All the other gals that came on this trip were a blast to be around. They all had interesting stories of where they’re from and what they do, all of us uniting as surfers!

There were other fun surprises but I don’t want to give it all away, you have to go there!

I am a young 30-something working professional that needed more than just a getaway vacation. I was looking for an experience that was both unique and revitalizing – Pura Vida Adventures proved to be just what I was looking for. It is the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation.

The retreat is hosted through a hotel called Tropico Latino that is just breathtaking. The hotel itself is a series of independent buildings nestled into the natural landscape of the costa rican beach creating a minimalist environment that is both beautiful and comfortable. And the food they serve is FANTASTIC – everything is incredibly fresh; I loved all the fresh fish and smoothies!

Getting to Santa Teresa itself requires a bit of coordination, but Pura Vida did everything within their power to make the trip smooth. I chose to travel solo for this experience and I felt at ease the entire time thanks to our designated “cruise director,” Sara and Pura Vida Adventure’s travel coordinator, Kathy. She even helped me book my airline tickets!

The retreat itself is incredibly well organized thanks to Sara. She made sure everything ran smoothly and on time from start to finish. During the retreat, she also took great care to make sure that everyone’s needs were met and that everyone was receiving the experience they were hoping for, which I really appreciated. I wanted to make the most of my time in Santa Teresa so I wanted to do a bit more than some of the other women in my group – Sara helped me organize these extra-curricular activities (I chose horseback riding and zip lining). She arranged everything – advised me on the best time to go, told me which companies to use and even transport. I highly recommend both activities but if you have to choose one, DEFINITELY go zip lining. The company Pura Vida recommends is fantastic – they were very detail oriented, made sure everyone felt comfortable and were incredibly funny!

Now to the best part – the surfing. This is the meat and potatoes of the experience and the entire retreat itinerary is scheduled around the best times to surf. I had been surfing a bit being from Florida but never received formal lessons. I LOVED how methodical and analytical they were with their surfing instruction. I give credit to the surfing instructors for really being the heart of the experience: Lucie and Davide. You can tell they have great passion for the practice and truly enjoy sharing it with others. They teach you everything you need to know to develop into a great surfer – from proper paddle technique, to reading waves, to appropriate surfing etiquette when you are out there with other surfers. They will vary the surfing experience to your appropriate experience level which was great because it allowed you to surf different kinds of waves on different beaches. The hotel is right on Santa Teresa beach which allows for maximum time in the water which is great, they take us to playa Hermosa to ride white water waves to get great practice popping up with just an infinite number of waves (it is a BEAUTIFUL beach) and apparently we got to experience a special treat given the time of year and weather and they drove us out to a beach called Cabuya where you get to ride crazy long waves so you get great practice turning.

Yoga was scheduled around surfing and oh man is restorative yoga great for sore muscles! The hotel provides wonderful outdoor, open-air yoga studios so you can watch and listen to the waves during the yoga session. It is was always the cherry on top on the end of a great day. I did not participate in as many yoga session as some of the other girls in my group because I chose to extend some of my surfing sessions on beaches that were a bit far, but the yoga I did participate in I enjoyed very much.

One final comment that I think is very telling to the quality of Pura Vida adventures – I ended up meeting different girls participating in different surfing camps or surf/yoga retreats throughout my experience, which makes sense given the area. Santa Teresa is known for their great surfing conditions so there are many surfing camps that have apparently sprung up over the years. And just scanning the surf in the morning, it became pretty apparent that they are not all created equal. One of the girls I spoke with said she would be eager to return to Santa Teresa but would be willing to try a different retreat. Contrast that experience with my own – by the end of my 6-day trip, I felt like I had become part of a little Pura Vida Family, there was not a dry-eye among us that morning as we all said our farewells. I will absolutely be returning to Pura Vida Adventures – this alum is ready to become a lifetime member!

The Pura Vida Adventure surfing retreat this week was a first-rate experience. The instructors are not just talented surfers, but also expert teachers. I came to appreciate them even more as the week went by because of how consistently they each rooted for us, while adapting instruction to diverse skill levels and surf conditions.

A program host, familiar with the local area, created a warm and supportive wrap-around experience and was one of the reasons this program is such a class act.

I had invested some time researching surf retreats and chose this one, in part, because of its really good, free instructional videos on youtube, and am grateful the actual program reflected that level of quality and fun.

It also attracted such an impressive cohort of kind students from all across the world.

Best surf camp ever. A+ all around. Well organized. Sara was excellent at communicating and herding the cats. She made the trip such a breeze with her organizational skills that you were able to enjoy the trip and focus on fun and surfing. The “Julie of the Love Boat”. Top-notch instruction from instructors (Lucie, Davida, Celine, Audrey, Michele, and Pricilla) who take pride in their work. Great one-on-one instruction and videos. Perfect way to up your surfing game. Plus you get great food, massages, and much needed restorative yoga. Definitely a repeat place. I’m missing them already.

Pura Vida Adventures is such an amazing camp for new and experienced surfers. I’ve been back to camp 5 times over the last 10 years. Each time, I think it is perfect and each time, it gets better and better. The staff and instructors are top notch and take special care of each surfer. Tropico Latino is right on the beach and has comfortable accommodations with the spa located within the resort. The food is delicious and healthy and the on site yoga is perfect for the post surf stretch and restore. I’ve taken all kinds of people with me, from teenage daughters, never ever surfers to very experienced coed groups and everyone has a fantastic time. We can’t wait to go back again!

Good waves from clean-smooth conditions up to big and challenging. Fun hostess (Sara) and instructors (all of them). They were flexible and did a great job adapting the original itinerary to our group. Cool hotel and town. Daniel was a fun yoga instructor.

I jumped last minute into one of the March co-ed surf camps in Costa Rica and had a fantastic experience. I can’t recommend this camp highly enough. You are going to have a blast, your surfing is going to improve, you are going to enjoy connecting with new people, and you are going to love Santa Teresa. The setting, the coaching, the conditions, the food, the group, the communication, the logistics – everything was additive and excellent. Sara, our host was a ninja level cat herder – she communicated clearly, was responsive to needs and inquiries, and was a pleasure to have around. She even got out and surfed with us a couple times! She advised us and led group outings for meals outside of the hotel so we got to experience the awesome food and vibe in Sta Teresa. The coaches were genuinely enthusiastic when we got waves or improved – they gave encouragement and specific feedback (often out in the water, but also through super helpful video analysis sessions). My surfing confidence and performance improved so much thanks to the coaches. The surf conditions were consistently very good – and we benefited greatly from having the local coaches read on sets coming in and where they like to peak/break. Daily yoga was thoughtfully tailored for us (read: completely exhausted from surfing hard everyday) and consisted of a lot of Yin/restorative work. My partner was not able to join me on the trip, but even as a solo traveller everyone made me feel at home and part of the group. The staff at the Tropico Latino is friendly, warm, knew everyone by name, and made me feel completely at home. Don’t hesitate book a camp now – bring your partner, a big family/friend group, or go solo – you are going to love it and leave with a full heart and a smile too big for your face!

Had a wonderful time celebrating my 40th birthday with Pura Vida Adventures. As a newbie to surfing, I received wonderful instruction from the friendly coaches and also enjoyed the Yoga sessions that complimented the surfing sessions perfectly. Couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful setting with the warm waters, clear blue skies, and breezy beaches. Delicious food at the hotel as well as surrounding restaurants. Wonderfully accommodating hotel staff and excellent spa (Pina gave the best deep tissue massage ever!).

I am so glad I booked the surf excursion to Santa Teresa Costa Rica, what a great time and the surf break was amazing. The Pura Vida Adventures group was such a great group. Sarah and the team took such great care of us and always there if we needed anything. Whether you’re wanting to learn how to surf for the first time or at the competition level the surf coaches are able to work with all experience levels. I have been surfing for 20 years and never got any coaching. Having pro surf coaches was pretty cool. Just the slight changes that they pick up on made a huge difference in how a surf. Celine and Davide where my coaches and I could not thank them enough for the great experience. Lucie, Audrey, Pricilla, and Michelle were also great coaches and always giving you pointers. I can’t say enough about the Pura Vida Adventures team, the food was fantastic on the resort and in town, Yoga helped every day get ready for the next surf session, and the resort was very peaceful.

My best friend and I had been wanting to try a surf/yoga retreat for quite a few years and finally it all came together with Pura Vida Adventures. We are both in our 50’s and have surfed a little, but never have learned so much and progressed so quickly. Our incredible instructors, Lucie and Davide, were expert instructors. They provided consistent and positive feedback after each run. They were also very aware of the group’s skills levels and the different surf conditions during the week. I also appreciated how they focused on safety and surfing etiquette.

The camp is run very efficiently, and we felt “taken care of” every step of the way – from the meals, to the massage, to the yoga, to explaining the town, extra outings, etc. The location is beautiful and has a simplicity about it. Sunsets were amazing, and it was a perfect place to just relax and take it all in after a full day!

We live in San Diego and are committed to continue our surfing journey (once the water warms up!). At Pura Vida Adventures, we were primarily surfing the whitewater and feel like we have a very solid foundation to move towards catching some green waves.

We would definitely recommend Pura Vida Adventures and hope to make it back some year!!!

Visited Pura Vida Adventures end of March to April. Didn’t know what to expect since I was traveling solo and had no idea what a retreat was like. I had zero surfing experience and some yoga practice. From day one Sara had everything very organized. I was very surprised actually how organized. You didn’t have to worry about a single thing! She suggested restaurants, what activities to do in the area, and other ideas to use your free time. The schedule lay out was well planned and I believe a great balance between relaxing and action packed.

In regards to surfing, since I had no experience I was nervous about getting out there. However, every single instructor was so helpful and encouraging. Michelle and Audrey were the 2 instructors I worked the most with and they were awesome. They really watched you and helped to correct your form and give you pointers. I loved every moment of it. I was excited every day to get in the water and learn something else new about surfing.

The yoga instructor Cristina kaylani was amazing. Her free spirit and humor made every yoga class enjoyable. I truly enjoyed all the classes.

The area around the hotel was great. Everything is walkable. So many healthy and delicious options. Whatever you want, there is a restaurant there. Hotel was also very well maintained and you are right on the beach.

Overall I would highly recommend PVA to anyone looking for a solo or friends vacation. I met so many new people on this trip and loved getting to know everyone. A truly wonderful experience. I am already thinking about when I can come back! Thank you PVA!

I have never surfed before and it’s been on my bucket list for a long time. Through a quick google search of all-women surf camps, Pura Vida seemed like the perfect combination of surf lessons and sessions, resort/ spa setting, good food and an all around fun nonjudgemental vibe.

I was not disappointed. Kathy, the travel liaison, can help with all logistical aspects of the journey. When it comes to herding cats, Sara, the camp host, is full of enthusiasm, patience, and kindness. She will point you in the direction of a delicious local meal, best swimsuit selection, or just have a coffee and a chat with you during downtime. The surf instructors are top-notch, world class surfers with a genuine passion for teaching and seeing you progress. They will push you to your limits and lift you up when you get discouraged. There was a well-balanced amount of structured activities and free time. Daily yoga sessions are suitable for all levels and are ideal for stretching those sore surfing muscles. The spa offers all types of body treatments and massages using natural and organic products and the rooms are clean and comfortable. My only complaints are that I wish it lasted longer and that I already miss my new camp friends!

I am a three time PVA alum – having brought my (male) significant other now in as a two time alum on their co-ed adventures, converting him to a fan as well.

The company founder has assembled an amazing package of adventure, athletic fun, great travel and food, and top notch staff – unbeatable value and great times for a week.

The “camps” always attract an interesting crowd and mix of people – fun from morning to night – I cannot recommend this group enough.

I have taken two trips to Mal Pais and a recent adventure to Bali – I can’t wait for my next adventure.

This is my second trip with a Pura Vida Adventures and it was everything and more. You know you have had a great adventure when you are still reliving the trip and feeling the high a month after you are back. This time it was in Bali and everything was spot on. Due to all the research done by Pura Vida Adventures and Victoria Ross it was a trip of a life time. Add to that it was a great group of people and you have got a perfect time!

I just got back from my third trip with Pura Vida Adventures and every time I go I’m reminded of how special the retreat is. I always go by myself to recharge and to do the things I love to do: surfing and yoga. This retreat has the perfect mix of scheduled group activities and alone time to read, walk around town or do other things. Sara, the host, is everything you want in a host. She is super organized, open and friendly, she’s a problem solver and if you find yourself sitting next to her during a meal, she’s got a lot of fun and interesting Costa Rica stories to tell. The instructors are all amazing and I mean it. They’ve worked with the same instructors all three times I’ve been there. They know how to work with both beginners and more advanced surfers. They‘re supportive, have great energy and give good feedback. I always felt 100% safe with them in the ocean even when we paddled out where the bigger waves are. Lastly, the retreat participants are always an interesting mix of women with different backgrounds from all over North America. I always come back feeling inspired and empowered by what women can do. I will for sure be back. Also, Santa Theresa is a hidden gem and it’s absolutely worth a visit.

One thing to be aware of is, it’s not the easiest place to get to (and that’s why it’s a hidden gem). If you’re lucky you might only have to transfer once but if you’re further away you have to make two stops and that can turn into a full day of travel to get there.

I just got back from my third trip with Pura Vida Adventures and every time I go I’m reminded of how special the retreat is. I always go by myself to recharge and to do the things I love to do: surfing and yoga. This retreat has the perfect mix of scheduled group activities and alone time to read, walk around town or do other things. Sara, the host, is everything you want in a host. She is super organized, open and friendly, she’s a problem solver and if you find yourself sitting next to her during a meal, she’s got a lot of fun and interesting Costa Rica stories to tell. The instructors are all amazing and I mean it. They’ve worked with the same instructors all three times I’ve been there. They know how to work with both beginners and more advanced surfers. They‘re supportive, have great energy and give good feedback. I always felt 100% safe with them in the ocean even when we paddled out where the bigger waves are. Lastly, the retreat participants are always an interesting mix of women with different backgrounds from all over North America. I always come back feeling inspired and empowered by what women can do. I will for sure be back. Also, Santa Theresa is a hidden gem and it’s absolutely worth a visit.

One thing to be aware of is, it’s not the easiest place to get to (and that’s why it’s a hidden gem). If you’re lucky you might only have to transfer once but if you’re further away you have to make two stops and that can turn into a full day of travel to get there.

My husband and I just returned from one of the co-ed “Surfsgiving” weeks and we loved everything about the experience.

Sara is an absolute gem who radiates positivity and warmth. She is so organized, knowledgeable, and funny – and strikes just the right balance between organized activities and unstructured time (to do things like hang out on the amazingly comfortable hammocks and gaze at the most stunning sunsets you’ve ever seen). She’s a blast to chat with and gave us wonderful tips to make the most of our visit.

The surfing instructors are amazing. I was a bit anxious about surfing, as I don’t spend much time in the ocean. Miraculously, they had me standing up on the board on Day 1 – with improvements every day thereafter. I feel stronger than I have in months! The instructors really tune in to your specific ability level and needs. Our group included complete beginners (like me) and expert surfers – all of us left feeling like our skills had grown. I worked mostly with Audrey, Ramon, and Lucie – all had different styles and all were terrific.

The yoga – taught by the incredibly soulful Daniel – was another highlight. His classes – taught in a beautiful open room facing the ocean – are infused with beautiful messages about gratitude, nature, and openness, and also helped counteract some of the soreness from daily surfing. The cacao ceremony was another unexpected treat.

The staff at reception and in the rooms, restaurant, and spa were so friendly, responsive, and talented. The rooms are huge. A few small modifications (like a shelf to put things on in the shower) could make the rooms even more comfortable. The deep tissue massage by Pima was heaven. The food was OUTSTANDING. And the staff went to such great lengths to set up a beautiful Thanksgiving meal for us right on the beach.

Overall – this trip was the perfect “reset” that we needed after a stressful few months, and we feel so grateful to have been able to do it in such an exquisitely beautiful setting, with such fun and wonderful hosts, and surrounded by an absolutely hilarious group of travelers who quickly became friends. Don’t hesitate to book this trip – you will not regret it!

From start to finish, this was an incredibly vacation. My wife and I were new to surfing, but the amazing instructors had a thoughtful, encouraging approach that had us loving every minute of it and enjoying every day. I even made it out to the green waves by the end of the week! Sara –; who coordinates the entire week – is a ray of sunshine, incredibly well organized, and makes everyone feel fantastic. I’d highly recommend this trip for anyone!

I am a young 30-something working professional that needed more than just a getaway vacation. I was looking for an experience that was both unique and revitalizing – Pura Vida Adventures proved to be just what I was looking for. It is the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation.

The retreat is hosted through a hotel called Tropico Latino that is just breathtaking. The hotel itself is a series of independent buildings nestled into the natural landscape of the costa rican beach creating a minimalist environment that is both beautiful and comfortable. And the food they serve is FANTASTIC – everything is incredibly fresh; I loved all the fresh fish and smoothies!

Getting to Santa Teresa itself requires a bit of coordination, but Pura Vida did everything within their power to make the trip smooth. I chose to travel solo for this experience and I felt at ease the entire time thanks to our designated “cruise director,” Sara and Pura Vida Adventure’s travel coordinator, Kathy. She even helped me book my airline tickets!

The retreat itself is incredibly well organized thanks to Sara. She made sure everything ran smoothly and on time from start to finish. During the retreat, she also took great care to make sure that everyone’s needs were met and that everyone was receiving the experience they were hoping for, which I really appreciated. I wanted to make the most of my time in Santa Teresa so I wanted to do a bit more than some of the other women in my group – Sara helped me organize these extra-curricular activities (I chose horseback riding and zip lining). She arranged everything – advised me on the best time to go, told me which companies to use and even transport. I highly recommend both activities but if you have to choose one, DEFINITELY go zip lining. The company Pura Vida recommends is fantastic – they were very detail oriented, made sure everyone felt comfortable and were incredibly funny!

Now to the best part – the surfing. This is the meat and potatoes of the experience and the entire retreat itinerary is scheduled around the best times to surf. I had been surfing a bit being from Florida but never received formal lessons. I LOVED how methodical and analytical they were with their surfing instruction. I give credit to the surfing instructors for really being the heart of the experience: Lucie and Davide. You can tell they have great passion for the practice and truly enjoy sharing it with others. They teach you everything you need to know to develop into a great surfer – from proper paddle technique, to reading waves, to appropriate surfing etiquette when you are out there with other surfers. They will vary the surfing experience to your appropriate experience level which was great because it allowed you to surf different kinds of waves on different beaches. The hotel is right on Santa Teresa beach which allows for maximum time in the water which is great, they take us to playa Hermosa to ride white water waves to get great practice popping up with just an infinite number of waves (it is a BEAUTIFUL beach) and apparently we got to experience a special treat given the time of year and weather and they drove us out to a beach called Cabuya where you get to ride crazy long waves so you get great practice turning.

Yoga was scheduled around surfing and oh man is restorative yoga great for sore muscles! The hotel provides wonderful outdoor, open-air yoga studios so you can watch and listen to the waves during the yoga session. It is was always the cherry on top on the end of a great day. I did not participate in as many yoga session as some of the other girls in my group because I chose to extend some of my surfing sessions on beaches that were a bit far, but the yoga I did participate in I enjoyed very much.

One final comment that I think is very telling to the quality of Pura Vida adventures – I ended up meeting different girls participating in different surfing camps or surf/yoga retreats throughout my experience, which makes sense given the area. Santa Teresa is known for their great surfing conditions so there are many surfing camps that have apparently sprung up over the years. And just scanning the surf in the morning, it became pretty apparent that they are not all created equal. One of the girls I spoke with said she would be eager to return to Santa Teresa but would be willing to try a different retreat. Contrast that experience with my own – by the end of my 6-day trip, I felt like I had become part of a little Pura Vida Family, there was not a dry-eye among us that morning as we all said our farewells. I will absolutely be returning to Pura Vida Adventures – this alum is ready to become a lifetime member!

I was on the hunt for a week away from my regular routine of life, something to help me recharge and also refocus. On a bit of a whim, I decided to book a retreat with Pura Vida Adventures. From the moment I arrived until the moment I left, the experience was simply amazing. Tierza and the team are incredibly welcoming, friendly, and encouraging. I had never stood up on a surfboard before but within days I was paddling out to the outside and riding waves I had only ever watched from the shore. As a complete beginner, full credit has to go to the team for the quality of instruction along with the video coaching and tips while out on the water. The daily yoga was also the perfect way to recharge for the next day, and with lots of great dining options nearby, plus the beautiful sunset each night, every day with PVA truly felt like a gift. I came to PVA as a solo traveller looking for a change of pace and a refreshed perspective on my daily life. I left with new friends that will last a lifetime, renewed energy and gratitude, and a brand new passion for surfing. It seems like such a small and trivial thing to learn how to pop up onto a surfboard and catch a wave, but through PVA it was a life-changing experience that I’ll never forget.

Pura Vida Adventures is an excellent vacation option for couples at the coed camps, girls trip, or even a solo adventure. I just went last week and had an amazing time. We had 6 girls in our camp two I knew and three I had never met before. The instructors make you feel so safe and learning is the best time you will have. The girls were all fun and so interesting to learn what they did for a living. Every person is excited with each success. It doesn’t matter if it’s you or someone else you are just so happy to see amazing people be the best they can be. The coaches are fun and laughter abounds

My wife suggested we take this trip to Costa Rica with Pura Vida Adventures over the New Year. I had only been surfing a few times in the past, and it sounded like fun. The instructors are amazing – so patient with beginners like me. Highlights included beautiful beaches, perfect weather, warm water, great surf, amazing yoga, and healthy food. It’s now obvious why people go back year after year….highly recommended!

My wife and I joined up with Pura Vida Adventures for their co-ed New Years week in 2018/2019. It was sweet!

It’s basically and almost inclusive week at a relaxed hotel in the beach, with authentic and cool surf and yoga instructors. So cool, I feel like I am hanging out with my family.

Their instruction and suggestions for improvement were spot on, making my surf game way better than when I arrived.

Add relaxing yoga, good food, and other fun guests… it is a recipe for awesome.

My wife and I have a special affection for this yearly event. We are just winding down our 8th annual trip. There are few places that I have been where the excitement for the next trip starts on the way to the airport back home.

The NYE camp is one of several co-ed camps run per year and it’s a great time to be in Costa Rica. Pura Vida Adventures (PVA) is a fully immersive surf, yoga and communing with nature experience. We always meet new friends, catch up with a few alumni.

Whether you are new to surfing or are nearly a pro, you will get the same level of attention and TLC from the team of world class instructors. Everyone roots for each other and we all celebrate the individual ‘first time up’, wicked run, and spectacular wipeouts. A very supportive and encouraging environment with no pressure. No big egos here. Everything is at your own pace.

A great balance of physical adventure, mental relaxation, culinary exploration, and communion with nature.

The rooms are comfortable, clean and air conditioned. The hotel staff is great, especially Evelyn at reception.

Tierza,the owner, is inspiring and upbeat and she gets everyone energized.

Sara the camp hostess is endearing and she is always there to do the little things that make your experience that much more fun. She makes recommendations, will adjust schedules, and knows her way around town.

Instructors know what they are doing. But they keep if fun and light hearted. They work with all levels of experience and fine tune to your capabilities to gradually improve your form, technique and skills to get the best ride.

Very Chill, Pura Vida!

John from Hoboken

My wife and I did a week surf/yoga camp with Pura Vida Adventures. In short, it was awesome. The hotel they use is secure, calm, and beautifully nestled in the jungle by the beach. It was almost all inclusive, excluding only cocktails. The local surf spots are quite nice, too. What made the camp awesome for me was the people who run it! The directors, surf instructors, and yoga teachers are so helpful, sweet, and authentic that I feel like I am vacationing with my family!

And, of course, my surfing has improved quite a bit, and I am catching multiple big green waves per session, thanks to the helpful input and criticism of my guardian angel instructors!

If you choose Pura Vida Adventures, you won’t regret it

A wonderfully orchestrated, thoroughly enjoyable adventure! The entire Pura Vida team was fantastic from start to finish, seamlessly coordinating a week filled with camaraderie, great adventures and wonderful memories!

If you are thinking about booking this trip-do it! You will not regret it! Sara is the best host! She is warm, welcoming and made you feel at ease immediately. Sara went above and beyond for all of us! Our surf instructors are the coolest, nicest people who became friends. Love you, Davide and Lucie! They were super patient and helpful- they knew when to push you and when you needed to rest!

I felt very taken care of and would love to come back! Thanks for an incredible week I will never forget!

Pure and simple I had an amazing time at Pura Vida Surf Camp & Yoga. I had never surfed before and got up on the Board on the first day, thanks to all of the great instruction. The instructors are experienced, have wonderful personalities and truly care that you have fun. The ratio of students to teachers is perfect. While your are matched up with an instructor for your 3 hour sessions they all work together throughout the day helping you with tips, suggestions and instructions. Davide was my primary instructor, so patient and passionate, as were all of instructors for the week. They are a great team of surf instructors, I feel spoiled. Sara, who coordinates everything, makes your life in Costa Rica and at the Tropico Latino a breeze. The staff at the Tropico Latino are excellent, the food is great, the fish is fresh, the fruit smoothies are refreshing. It is one of my favorite weeks of my life. I am so thankful Tierza created such a wonderful camp/spa retreat. I had a wonderful time with my fellow chicas in the unbelievable life changing adventure. I am 55 and hooked.

An amazing week, I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. The location, hotel and food were excellent, but the staff members at Pura Vida made this experience exceptional. Thanks to all who made this trip so memorable!

I came to this camp with 2 hours of previous surf experience and left able to surf unbroken waves all on my own. Amazing and caring instructors, delicious food and 10 new friends!

This has been my favourite vacation ever!