Back by Popular Demand: Our Sold-Out Costa Rican Bodysurfing Retreat Returns in 2026!
We’re thrilled to announce the return of our beloved Essence of Bodysurfing Retreat in Costa Rica. Mark your calendars for January 24–31, 2026, as we head to the lush and laid-back Sonora Caribbean Jungle Retreat center.
Nestled along Costa Rica’s stunning Caribbean coast—one of our all-time favorite surf destinations—this retreat offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
Whether you’re coming for the waves, the warm tropical vibes, or the rejuvenating jungle setting, this is a bodysurf experience you won’t want to miss.
Why participate in a bodysurfing retreat?
Do you want to learn how to surf, but don’t know if you’re ready yet? Then bodysurfing is a great place to start understanding the ocean (no board necessary).
Bodysurfing is an essential skill for all surfers and beachgoers. The problem is that very few surf schools teach you to bodysurf before adding the surfboard.
That’s why we created the Essence of Bodysurfing Retreat. This learn-to-bodysurf camp teaches you the fundamentals of wave-riding and ocean safety.
Who will host this retreat?
Join avid bodysurfers and expert instructors Hannah Walsh and Spencer Dunlap, plus a member of the Viva Adventures team as your onsite coordinator for an epic week of bodysurfing, relaxation, and fun in the Caribbean Sea.
Run by former ocean lifeguards, this bodysurf camp will set you up to feel safe and confident in the ocean. No matter what activity you choose to do in the surf (swimming, surfing, boogie boarding), you will come away from this retreat feeling prepared for any challenge the ocean might throw at you.
We will be staying at the beautiful and environmentally-conscious Sonora Retreat Center near Playa Negra. Just a short walk from the beach in Puerto Viejo, Sonora combines bohemian charm with a hint of luxury.
What does this bodysurfing retreat include?
In addition to bodysurfing, you will eat amazing food, drink delicious Costa Rican coffee, and reconnect with nature. Our retreat space features air-conditioned rooms and mouthwatering meals prepared on-site.
- Lodging: 2 nights at a hotel near the San Jose International Airport for arrival and pre-departure and 5 nights at the Sonora Retreat Center
- 2 Meals per Day: 2 delicious and healthy meals at Sonora each day
- Transportation: Safe, private transportation and a driver available throughout the trip
- Bodysurf classes: 5 bodysurf classes with your expert instructors, who are also avid bodysurfers, highly competent waterwomen and men, and ocean lifeguards
- Pool session: Swim technique session with bodysurf instructors in the pool at Sol Sanctuary
- Bodysurf talk: History and culture of bodysurfing talk from instructors
- Bodysurf movie night: Movie night at the lodge with snacks
- Retreat leader: A Spanish/English-speaker guide will be available facilitating the activities and coordinating anything else you may need during your entire retreat
- Free day: A day to explore the area on your own and do an optional add-on tours or activity
- Use of private yoga deck: The space is ours to use, whether to stretch before bodysurf sessions, or to request a private or group yoga class as an add-on
Make sure to check out all the pertinent retreat details at the Viva Adventures website. We can’t wait to catch some waves with you!
