Guest Reviews

Went to The New Year’s Co-Ed Surf retreat. Had a great time! The entire crew is super friendly and supportive. Tierza and Scott will go that extra mile to make sure your individual experience is just right. The other gem Sara, I cannot say enough wonderful things about her, was on top of everything and made sure we all were fed, and ready for surfing or yoga or whichever destination we were headed to! I love Costa Rica so it’s really hard for me to have a negative anything to say about the place. The ocean is strong and it was good for me to step back a little with surfing. Celine was a wonderful support in her surf instruction. (Actually all the instructors were tops). I had a few surgeries in the last couple of years and if anything, this trip gave me the confidence to get fully back into my work outs at home. I think I had been more fearful of reinjuring myself but when I arrived home I realized that I’ve indeed become stronger! Yoga everyday at the retreat was amazing. The instructor, Rebecca, is just lovely and having done yoga prior to my injuries, she made me feel ready to get back into my practice. For all of this I’m grateful. I hope to surf again soon! Thanks guys for a great trip and for helping me get some confidence back!

Pura Vida is the best surf camp and not only for beginners. I’ve been going to them for over 10 years and their expert instructors always push me and improve my surfing with their endless tips and pointers. They teach all skill and age levels and the student/teacher ratio is purposely low. Pura Vida uses professional videos to analyze the strengths and weaknesses of each student which rapidly increases awareness and improvements. And if the waves aren’t quite right, they’ll bus the students to a different beach. Malpais has many prime surf spots, the weather is always wonderful, and the crystal clear water is beautiful. And Tropico Latino is a gem, located right on the beach with fabulous food, wonderful staff, and serene yoga pavilions. A perfect place for the perfect surf experience – I’ve ridden the best waves of my life here.

Best vacation of my life! The hotel, staff, food, beach, surfing, and everything else was nothing short of incredible. They make something as hard as surfing fun and easy and provide an experience you’ll never forget. Highly recommend!

I’ve never surfed before and I can’t imagine trying it out any other way! Pura Vida Adventures is a real first class group of people with big hearts and adventurous spirits!

Surfing, yoga, adventures, new life long friends! This is my 2nd trip to PVA. I was a little hesitant to compare the two trips.., not wanting to over anticipate the fun and excitement trying to recreate an experience that comes with a vacation like Costa Rica,,, Once again, a GREAT vacation!! Pura Vida Adventures, amazing surf instructors… truly caring and supportive!! Will be back, again and again!!

I am more than grateful that I spent this adventureous „Surfsgiving“ week with full of surfing, yoga, meeting new friends, great food, a lot of laughing, zipline activity, Video analysis and pictures. I have never expected that it is possible to teach me pop up on a surfboard within one week, but the amazing instructors from Pura Vida Adventures makes dreams alive. Thank you so much for your patient and passionate way of teaching which is outstanding!!! I joined the camp as a swiss woman by myself and left the camp filled with life changing Ocean experiences and a lot new Friends. During the surf week Pura Vida Adventure took care of all we need, from food till massages. With this week-long experience you made my start into surfing and much more! THANK YOU!! And hopefully see you again. Pura Vida, Caroline alias Mariposa

Don’t know really where to begin. I was at the surf camp this week (11/11/17) and can’t say enough about Pura Vida Adventures. I came to this surf camp not knowing anyone and never have picked up a board. Also add to that I am older than the “normal” new surfer. The staff at PVA helped me prove you are never too old to learn something new. From the first person I came in contact with (❤️Sarita❤️) to the instructors Helen, Audrey and Anne. I could have never accomplished this goal without you. Helen, the videos helped immensely. Audrey, your patience got me up and surfing. Thank you all!! PS Tropico Latino was wonderful. Absolutely loved my bungalow. Restaurant was excellent.

When I first went to PVA ten years ago, I was only focused on learning to surf- no more no less. But after that first trip, beaming from having surfed my first outside waves, I knew I’d return but not just for the perfect waves, fabulous surf instruction and delicious food. I’d go back to be with amazing people I met and surfed with while at PVA. Before PVA, I never vacationed in the same place twice but Santa Teresa draws you in and the PVA crew keeps you coming back. I never expected that I would return year after year and whenever I could get away to surf, laugh and unwind with my friends- new and old. PVA gave me what I originally wanted- the skills and the confidence to surf different breaks around the world. But even better and completely unexpected, PVA introduced me to some of the best people I know- people who are a part of my life everyday- whether we are surfing together in Costa or on opposite coasts planning our next surf adventure. There are a ton of surf camps out there but this is the one you want. It’s just better. And you will get so much more out if than you could ever expect….

Costa Rica is so beautiful and the people are so welcoming. From the second I arrived at Pura Vida Adventures, I felt so welcomed and at home. The hotel was the perfect combo of luxe, jungle living. Steps from the ocean, the property was exactly what I was hoping for. The pool was a nice touch and the open air restaurant on-site was fresh and delicious. Now for the surfing and yoga! I was a beginner at yoga at the time and Cris was an amazing instructor. I felt completely comfortable and excited to push myself to learn more. The open air yoga studio overlooking the ocean was so peace during each morning yoga sesh. So, even though I have lived in San Diego my whole life, I waited until my 30s and going to Costa Rica to learn to surf. Crazy! But I am glad I did, because the rolling waves in Costa Rica were so perfect to learn on. The small groups at Pura Vida coupled with the super experienced instructors really helped me feel like I was getting one-on-one attention. I was so proud of myself for pushing through my fear and riding waves in. By the end of the week, I was both refreshed (mind) and exhausted (body). With two small kids at home and a demanding job, Pura Vida was the perfect getaway to reenergize my mind and spirit. I also loved heading into town- such a quant place with good restaurants and fun people. We also zip-lined one day, which was so amazing – Starting at the top of the jungle canopy with the most amazing ocean view, and working our way down to the beach! When I got home, I bought a surf board and began surfing in San Diego. Although, I must say, I like the waves in CR better. 🙂

No longer am I content to lie on a beach. Or visit family. Or visit other cities. Why would I when I can be zip-lining, hiking, hiking, eating delicious fresh food, doing yoga — all in addition to surfing at a spot that’s great for any level. And then there’s the volcano: Swimming in a volcano is definitely in the top 3 of coolest things I’ve ever done. Since my first Pura Vida adventure, I have been back several times; I can’t wait to go again.

Over 7 years I went to this camp 8 times. Enough said! I had never surfed before and by the end of the first week, not only did I have a mass of new friends, but I was out in the green waves with some help from their excellent instructors. And not only that but the week was so much fun I was dying to go back. And go back I did. Costa Rica is beautiful, magical. I love the hotel where its held with amazing beach front property and staff that will feel like family by the time you leave. The instructors and hostess of the camp ARE THE BEST and I love them all so much. I always felt safe, happy, supported, challenged and most of all empowered, confident and inspired after every visit. Just. Go.

Pura Vida Adventures has created a dream come true vacation for our family. My wife and I first attended 2 1/2 years ago during a Coed New Year’s surf camp. I was a bit skeptical going to a Central American country and learning to surf. My wife was insistent and I’;m glad she was. This experience has changed our lives. Beginning with the thrilling trip from San Jose to Santa Teresa, we couldn’t have imagined a more exciting, fun, and inspirational vacation. You arrive at the wonderful Tropico Latino resort which is located surfside in a beautiful tropical paradise. Quaint bungaloos are spread throughout the property. An open air restaurant sits in the middle of the resort. A few steps further and you are on the beach staring at a beautiful rock formation and perfect waves. You are greeted by Sara with a fresh tropical smoothie and you settle in to hear about your week. The staff is what makes Pura Vida what it is. Each day is carefully organized to maximalize not only your surfing, activities and meals but also your down time, yoga and spa time. (The massages are AWESOME!) So we come to surf. The waves and beach are perfect for beginner and experienced surfers alike. The instructors are hand picked because of their love for the sport and their talent as an instructor. This group is the best. They break down the process that makes getting up on your board easier. It does take a lot of determination, practice and patience but everyone gets up and what a thrill it is. As your skills progress, they will take you out to the green where the waves break. The paddle out can be exhausting but the reward is a fabulous experience. Typically you have 2-3 surfers per instructor. You never feel alone and they teach you the tools you need. I can’t say enough about how this group exceeded my expectations. Tierza is the lifeblood of this experience. It is her baby but has surrounded herself with a group of people who share her enthusiasm and love. While the surfing is what brings us together, it is the friendships and relationships that develop over the week that brings us back. We have had the good fortune to attend 3 times, twice with just the two of us and once with our 4 adult children. We look forward to returning this Thanksgiving for another adventure. I can’t think of another place I’d rather go. If you are looking for a vacation full of excitement, beauty, and serenity, this is the place for you. PVA has touched our soul and we are grateful to all involved in making these trips the priceless gems that they are.

More than an amazing vacation, a life changing experience ! Pura Vida has been a life changing experience. I went there the first time after a pretty traumatic experience and found everything I was looking for and so much more… A passion for surfing, a peaceful, relaxing and healthy vacation, friends for life, a home away from home, a fun loving and supportive surfing family. Just go !

As I write this review I’m planning my 3rd trip to Pura Vida. There are a lot of these camps springing up, but I can’t help myself from wanting to go back here. A big international trip can be scary, especially for a woman traveling alone, but after spending time with the crew at Pura Vida, I’m worried that going anywhere else would be a waste of my precious vacation time & money. The vibe at camp is super nurturing and inclusive, and both times I went I came away changed a little for the better. You can join all the activities, or none at all and sleep on a hammock all day. One woman decided day 1 she didn’t like surfing, and just shopped, got massages, and sipped cocktails the rest of the week. We still enjoyed meals and other relaxation time with her when we weren’t surfing. If you’ve come to be a better surfer, it doesn’t get much better than this. Perfect waves in crystal blue waters, expert instruction, and video feedback sessions. I’m not a great surfer, but my husband has been floored at the increase in knowledge and skill both times I’ve come home from camp. And the food…omg the food. Tropico Latino has an incredible chef, and the menu changes often. The meals are super tasty, made from fresh ingredients, and good sized portions. A lot of sites recommend not eating raw veggies and salads in Costa Rica, but you don’t have to worry about that at the hotel. It’s hard to convey the way this place touches your soul without sounding cheesy, but it’s true. This specific location in the world is magical, and simply being there opens you up to finding yourself. Expect to find a warm welcome, a safe place to learn and grow, and other fantastic women to laugh and relax with. I’ve made many friends from these trips, and keep in touch with several back home as we plan more surf trips together. I hate to spread the good word and fill up the camp too much, but it’s only fair to share the love of a place that made such a huge impact on my life. If you’re on the fence about where to go for a surf camp, I hope you let this review tip you in favor of Pura Vida. It’s a life-changing week you’ll never forget.

I first came to Pura Vida Adventures in 2014 for their New Years Eve surf retreat – I’ve been back 3 times since. Everything from the setting to the instructors to the hotel to the surf lessons to your fellow campers makes this place special. The first time I went I was just looking to learn how to surf and was taking a solo vacation for the first time and wanted an environment where I could meet people easily. I made friends on that trip that I’ve returned to Pura Vida with now several times. The surf lessons are the best I’ve ever come across. The first time I went I had never surfed before in my life – now I plan surf vacations around the world every time I have a chance. The great thing is that this place has something for everyone. If you are dying to learn how to seriously surf, you can do that here. If you want a tropical vacation with some yoga and surfing mixed in then you will have a great time. The staff really takes care of everyone from making dinner reservations to planning excursions. If you have been pondering this trip for awhile or looking at the website and wondering if it’s worth it…I’m here to tell you that it is! I’m planning trip number 5 to Pura Vida this New Years so I should know.

Incredible and life changing retreat full of amazing women supporting all levels and abilities through an incredible surf adventure. Tierza is the heart and soul of this retreat and has surrounded herself with the most incredible team of fun and inspiring surf instructors. The beach setting is phenomenal which you enjoy from the early morning surf or beach facing yoga through to the outstanding beauty of the sunsets that leave you breathless. Highly recommend this but be warned it’s addictive – I have been back 3 times and the fact that so many guests return is testament to how unique and wonderful this whole experience is.

For a whole week I got to eat delicious food, spend time in hammocks on a beautiful beach, drink as much as I wanted, surf my butt off, get in touch w/my inner Yogi, meet so many incredibly smart, fun, sweet, amazing, ripped women AND lost 2.5 lbs??? BEST. VACATION. EVER.

Just a quick note from the jan 6th camp resident surf diva….thanks for a great week…needed to be in the space and in the water more than on waves this time around so thanks for letting me do my thing…and i got good waves anyway!!! costa has always been such a grounding place for me…dont know how i came to be so lucky to have access to this obscure slice of the world that seems to get me and give back me no matter what but i will take it….and of course a lot of that has to do with the people there…you guys are amazing and i miss you and think of you always.

Hola Tierza! Your passion for what you do comes through in every aspect of the Pura Vida Adventures guest experience. Truly. I feel very privileged to have experienced such a rare and exceptional trip — one that I will certainly treasure for a lifetime. The memories it gave me, the friendships it created, and the existing bonds of friendship it strengthened are already paying dividends back home in the ‘real world’. I really can’t say enough about your extraordinary team…Kathy, Sara, Kalyani, Helen, Ale, and Evelyn of Tropico Latino…I love them all! I meant what I said when I thanked you for creating this business of yours. It is no small feat to have a vision and implement it so masterfully. It takes courage, confidence, faith, perseverance, sacrifice, and passion. THANK YOU.

Each and every staff member conducted themselves with professional passion. While having a ton of fun in the water, you learn surfing and safety skills which culminate in success. Thanks Tierza and company.

I’ve been to Pura Vida twice, once alone and once with a friend. I will definitely be back, whether I have a travel buddy or not! You get to stay in a beautiful place and play outside with cool people all day. In between, you get to eat beautiful food, swim the pool, relax in a hammock … what more could you want in life? I was also quite scared of surfing and got a lot of solid and confident instruction that not only got me upright on a board, but also helped me feel more comfortable out there. This is an amazing small business with a really personal feel to it. As long as it’s an active vacation you’re seeking, you will not be disappointed if you take this trip.

Pura Vida Adventures completely exceeded all of my expectations. Great solo trip. The surfing instruction was my favorite experience. I came down a bit nervous and left planning my return! I met amazing women, the food was excellent but the planning and organization that this group executes is as good as it gets. The yoga and spa were just more icing on the cake.

Best trip in ages! Such a beautiful part of Costa Rica and the team was amazing! Everything was perfectly organized and executed and everyone’s passion for surfing, yoga and life was totally contagious. Hope to see you again very soon!

After having a postcard stuck on my “vision board” for years, I finally made it a priority to travel all the way to Malpais, Costa Rica to experience an all-inclusive surf camp AND Costa Rica for the very first time. I’m typically not an all-inclusive girl who prides myself on my budget vacations, but I decided to treat myself and live it up. Wow – was it nice! I decided to leave my hubby at home and opt for a non-coed camp week where women can experience a week of nothing but daily surfing and yoga all wrapped up into one fun surf and yoga retreat! My sister and a girlfriend decided to join me on my surf camp adventure. Pura Vida Adventures operates the only surf and yoga camp out of the Hotel Tropico Latino which is a darling beachfront resort that oozes with that organically zen vibe that just so happens to be located on one of the best beaches in Costa Rica. Warm water, perfect waves and amazing oceanfront yoga decks. Our accommodations, an airy bungalow that slept 3, was a short stroll from the pool and ocean. There is also an onsite organic spa with plenty of tantalizing treatments. Our all-inclusive package actually included a massage which was a necessary treat! If you haven’t surfed before or thought you would never try it, you may want to reconsider. The surf lessons from our really cool instructors made it so most were standing up after a day or so. In fact, my girlfriend remarked on how she had taken a surf lesson on Oahu in Hawaii and it was a joke compared to the surf instruction we received by the Pura Vida Team. She left Oahu not being able to surf, but left Cost Rica claiming surfing is her new favorite sport. Most of the girls on this trip – including my sister – had never surfed before or even had any ocean experience, but everyone came away with fond feelings for the sport. They take care of every detail so you don’t even have to think about anything the entire time you are there. You have a schedule of events, but are free to break from it if you feel like having some quiet time in a beachfront hammock. Our group was having so much fun and didn’t want to miss out on a thing though! I wouldn’t hesitate going again and again to Pura Vida Adventures either with friends or solo. Our group of 12 became fast friends. The entire team at Pura Vida Adventures is phenomenal and their service was awesome. I may decide to bring my hubby on my next trip during one of the coed weeks… or not : )

Amazing Surf camp…Josie was fantastic and the Pva Team and Hotel Tropico Latino Staff was wonderful.

This place is a gem! The people are friendly and welcoming -even the dogs are nice. The sound of the ocean, the trees, the beach. -all so peaceful. – all of it. Soul food and much appreciated. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Thank you Pura Vida for a fabulous week! Had so much fun surfing, meeting new friends, and seeing Costa Rica in an amazing way. You guys rock! I can’t wait to come back and keep on surfing. Love, hugs, kisses, XOX

Thanks so much to everyone involved in making this such a beautiful week. Both the yoga & the surfing have allowed me such perspective on my everyday life. . . I can’t wait to continue with both in my ‘real’ life back home. Wonderful. The weather and of course all the people involved: Tierza, Scott, Cristina, Rachel & Brett have been relentlessly encouraging & positive & enjoyable. Basically I don’t want to go home & can’t wait to come back again. Pura Vida! Love & Thanks

Thank you all for hosting an amazing adventure. I learned a lot about myself and had a crazy fun time doing it. Really do hope to return next year and do it all again. Awesome staff & just an inspiring time. Thank you, thank you!!!

This has been such an awesome experience -mind opening and fulfilling. . . The group of women both attending and working at this camp are awe inspiring -powerful, beautiful, worldly and true. They have been an inspiration. I can’t think of a greater way to rediscover myself before I become a mother and take on all of the associated challenges. Thank you for this experience!