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Costa Rica Women's Surf Camp

Some nights / From £0000 Book now

Experience a seven-night women-only surf trip in a jungle paradise. With tropical retreat accommodation right by the beach, you can stay in a surfers delight of beauty and sunshine with epic waves everyday.

Why choose to go surfing in Costa Rica?

Unlike other surf camps, Women + Waves surf trips are tailored to suit your needs and abilities. Your surf instructors will choose the best surf spots and waves for you, with first-hand experience of the beginner and progressor breaks around Costa-Rica, they can guide you to take the next step on your surfing journey.

What to expect

With Women + Waves everything is organised for you; from airport transfers, to amazing activities and a stunning beachside apartment, all you have to do is show up and enjoy the sunny vibes and good times. These trips are fully insured and have received over 350 5-star reviews from customers so you can be sure of being in safe hands.

Who’s this course for?

This girls-only surf trip is perfect for all levels of surfers. You’ll receive as much support as you need to overcome any barriers. Everyone is welcome, 90% of participants arrive solo and over 40% are over forty; so there’s nothing to stop you becoming the surfer you always dreamed of.

What level am I?

Cultural Secrets

You’ll stay in the secluded Nicoya Peninsula, cherished for its tranquillity and superb surfing, encounter stunning landscapes, diverse waves, and savour delicious food amidst mesmerising sunsets- all with the safety and security of a local team.

When to go

During the dry season, Santa Teresa boasts one of the country's driest climates. Unlike other tropical locations you’ll experience constant sunshine and the waves here are uncrowded so there’s no pressure and good vibes only.

Quick facts

Water Temp

28°C

Climate

29 - 32°C

Wave Types

Beach and Points

Language

Spanish

What people say

"Recently did the W+W Costa Rica Feb '24 trip and it was an absolute blast! All of the surfing and training that was provided really helped inspire more confidence into my surfing :) Our overall trip leader Courtenay was an absolute baddie and just a wonderful; super knowledgeable human being. I think if you are a complete beginner this could be an awesome camp for you to attend!"

"I went in super nervous about my ability, and insecure about the things I needed to work on and learn, but as soon as I arrived and got settled in I knew I was with the right people! I will definitely be booking again for another trip — I walked away with at least a years worth of surf education I can apply to my daily sessions at home."

"Women + Waves provided exactly what I was looking for. I loved that not only did we understand mechanics in the water but we were taught and so much more to instil confidence I can take anywhere! I’m so appreciative of the women I met from around the world and instructors and I can't wait for my next paddle-out opportunity!"

Itinerary

Please note, sometimes we need to be flexible as some activities will be weather and condition dependent – but don’t worry, we’ll always do our very best to ensure you get the very best out of the trip! All our surf days and suggested activities are completely optional – you can enjoy as much or as little as you desire. This is not a boot camp!

Day One- Arrival day Part One

Welcome to Costa Rica! You’re about to spend seven nights surfing some of the best waves Central America has to offer with an amazing group of like-minded women. Expect golden beaches, sunshine, great food and plenty of Costa Rican culture thrown in for good measure. Our instructors are all ISA qualified and trained lifeguards - so you’ll always be safe in the water.
You’ll touch down at Cabano Airport where you’ll be met by your dedicated driver who will bring you to Santa Teresa. Upon arrival at the accommodation, you will be introduced to your Women + Waves trip host, Courtenay, then it’s time to check into your bungalow and relax before the week of surfing begins.

Day One - Arrival day Part Two

Once you’ve settled in you’ll have a welcome meeting over some fresh smoothies to get to know your new group of surfing friends, and to set your surf goals for the week ahead using your bespoke Women + Waves log books.
From this point, the trip has officially begun! After making your introductions, you’ll head down to the beach for an idyllic sunset swim in the balmy waters off the beach and enjoy some drinks watching the sun fade behind the horizon. Tonight’s evening meal is at our fave local restaurant, serving delicious local delicacies. There is a great menu to suit everyone’s taste buds and dietary requirements.

Surf Lessons

Surf lessons are 90 minutes long with the option to free surf after the session depending on the tides.
Based on daily conditions, your instructor will decide where the best waves are suited to your ability.
Generally, on surf days we’ll be up at dawn and be ready to hit the water for the first light. This is when you make the most of the clean waves and empty peaks. We’ll share some incredible sunrises together.

Day Two - Part One

It’s time for your first surf lesson of the trip! You’ll meet Nacho and our Costa Rican coaching team and be allocated your equipment. You’ll then have a lovely surf-inspired stretch session to limber up and prepare you for the week ahead. Surf lessons are 90 minutes long with the option to free surf after the session depending on the tides.
Each day based on the conditions, your instructor will decide where the best waves are suited to your ability, there’s a variety of options up and down the coast so you’ll never be short of amazing waves!
Generally, on surf days you’ll be up at dawn and be ready to hit the water for first light. This is when you make the most of the clean waves and empty peaks. You’ll share some incredible sunrises together as you cruise along perfect waves.

Day Two - Part Two

After you're out of the water, you’ll fuel up with breakfast at one of Santa Teresa’s coolest spots with the group.
When breakfast is done, you’ll head back to your accommodation, where you’ll go over your first video analysis session followed by a surf workshop in the pool focusing on paddle techniques, turtle rolls and duck dives. You’ll then have plenty of free time to relax and sleep off any jet lag - remember this is your trip to take at your own pace. Your team will be on hand to support and guide you as you need.
In the evening, you’ll head down to the beach for a sunset swim, enjoy some beers watching the incredible light show as the sun dips behind the ocean horizon. Then you’ll head to a local restaurant for dinner (please note food is not included and all meals out together are optional - you are more than welcome to make your own arrangements).

Day Three

You’ll start the day with your second surf lesson. You’ll hop into the ocean and put all of the advice, tips and goals from yesterday into practice.
You’ll be videoed for the session, which you’ll watch and analyse after breakfast at a local restaurant. It’s now that you’ll really start to see some improvements, and be able to get specific with pointers for what you want to work on. You’ll then have your confidence-building workshop to set you up for the rest of the trip, and break down any barriers to your surf improvement - talking through worries and concerns with a group of like-minded women on the same journey does wonders for confidence on the waves. Enjoy an afternoon to chill out before some drinks, a killer sunset and another delicious dinner!

Day Four

Today you’ll have your third surf lesson with Nacho and his team followed by a free surf if you have the energy in your arms! Followed by a healthy and filling breakfast at one of the most popular spots in Santa Teresa.
Next up is another round of video analysis sessions and your surfboard design workshop – understanding which board is best for you by tail types, fin selections and dimensions. A crucial part of becoming a surfer and learning to surf independently is learning about the equipment - by the end of the session you’ll be armed by your new team and surf buddies with the info and confidence to start building your own quiver of boards!
The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy, relax by the pool or go shopping in the local town.

Day Five

Today is all about relaxation! You have the choice to join an exciting group excursion, where you'll venture into the jungle on a thrilling trek to discover a hidden gem - an awe-inspiring waterfall tucked away from the beaten path. After your adventure, you can unwind with a refreshing dip in the pristine freshwater pools, immersing yourself in nature's beauty.

Alternatively, if you prefer a more laid-back day, you can use this time to indulge in the tranquillity of Santa Teresa. The day is yours to explore and enjoy at your own pace. Whether you opt for lounging by the pool, horseback riding along the scenic beach, or taking a plunge into the invigorating waterfall, there's something for everyone. Your knowledgeable team can provide guidance, advice or recommendations for various excursions, and your accommodation staff will happily assist you in arranging any activities you desire.

Day Six - Part One

Wake up and dive into another surf lesson, you’ll be picking up from where you left off and continuing your progression. You’ll be able to tick a few more boxes in your logbooks and start building muscle memory of your surfing skills. This is your fourth surf lesson with Nacho + his team, and it's really going to start showing. After breakfast, you’ll have another video analysis and surf theory session.

Day Seven - Part One

This morning you’ll get up and go for your last surf lesson with Nacho and his team – it’s your final chance to benefit from their amazing coaching alongside feedback in video analysis so make the most of it! Enjoying the wipeouts alongside the wins will have you coming back again and again without getting frustrated or bored.

Day Seven - Part Two

After your final surf you’ll have the chance to sit-down with the coaches and work through your surfing log books to ensure you’ve covered everything, there’s the opportunity to ask any final burning questions you have about all things surfing. You’ll have some time to set future goals for you to go away and practice. The goal for the trip is to inspire and educate you on the next step in your surfing journey; whether that's returning for another international surf experience, joining one of the UK weekend surf camps, or even gaining the confidence to surf independently.
You’ll then have some time to pack-up back at the lodge before the final evening’s dinner and drinks which is at your new favourite local beach bar! Take this moment to relax after your long week of hard work and soak up all the amazing memories you’ve had so far as you watch the sun set on your last night in Costa Rica.

Day Eight - Departure day

Sadly the day to leave is here - wake up to the sounds of the crashing waves, have a stretch and head to the beach for a last sunrise swim with your surfing crew!

You’ll have plenty of time to grab some breakfast and before taking the 40-minute drive to Cabano Airport where the trip will end officially at 11am.

Day 6 - Part 2

After reflecting on your video analysis from the day before, you will troubleshoot any challenges with your surf technique alongside your expert coaches. With small group coaching sessions of maximum of 3 guests to 1 instructor, we really curate bespoke tuition so you’ll see big gains from day 1. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy as you like - if you’re feeling the need for some quality R&R take the time to lounge by the pool or read in the hammock, before spending the evening bonding with your surfer gal-pals. While most trip guests arrive solo - almost all return to another trip later on with a friend they met on a previous surf camp - Women + Waves surf friends are for life not just for the surf camp!

What’s included

Please see the Travel section below for full details of arrivals, transfer collection times and departures.   

  • The trip includes 7 nights of accommodation in a tropical retreat on the Nicoya Peninsula, a short stroll from the pacific ocean.
  • The camp is intimate and consists of a guest house and bungalows – so there’s a personal and friendly feel. 
  • The accommodation has been hand chosen for its luxurious feel, plus its safety and security so you can relax and enjoy the whole time.
  • The wooden bungalows are nestled amongst the palm trees with garden views. There are four different accommodation options to choose from, either a private, twin, triple or quad occupancy bungalow, all available first come first serve. 
  • Cool off with a dip in the pool or relax in a hammock. Need to unwind? There are also plenty of wellness options, including a yoga area and a garden spa that offers a range of treatments including massages.
  • Expect to see the families of monkeys swinging in the jungle canopy above and hear the Howler Monkeys as part of the jungle chorus. 
  • Facilities include a swimming pool, chill out areas, yoga deck, pool table, hammocks beneath the palms, surfboard storage and after surf rinse shower
  • There is an onsite bar, restaurant and we supply filter water to refill your water bottle when required. 

  • 5 days of professional surf coaching is included, delivered by your Costa Rican instructor team in the water and your trip leader during your land bases sessions. 
  • If you’re a complete beginner, learning to surf in a warm climate will make the start of your surf journey fun, hassle-free and an unforgettable experience.
  • We split everyone into groups according to ability, so you won’t feel left behind or be too advanced for your group. 
  • You’ll benefit from daily photo and video analysis. It’s the best way to improve and gives you a move-by-move breakdown of your surfing. Plus, you get to take the footage and photos home with you – it’s both a great memento and a valuable coaching tool.
  • Small ratio beach and in water coaching (3:1) ensures you’ll get personalised attention and tuition.
  • We’ll help you find the waves that suit your objectives discussed in the pre-trip video call.
  • A surfboard and leash is included; there are a variety of soft and hard boards available. You are more than welcome to bring your own board if you’d prefer.
  • You will be supplied with a Women + Waves surfing log book to write down your surf goals, track your progress and accelerate your improvements.

Not sure what surfing level you are? Take our quiz.

Seeing yourself surf is a fantastic way to improve your performance. Every day you’ll watch a move-by-move breakdown of your surfing with footage both from the beach and in the water (all of your instructors are trained with a GoPro!). 

You’ll be supplied with an awesome photo and video package which is uploaded to an online gallery for you to take home with you at the end of the week. We also give you daily imagery to show friends and family how you are progressing or to update your social media. The footage that we supply is an amazing memory of a bucket list trip, but it is also an important tool for you to reflect on during your surfing journey which will help your on-going progress. Unlike other surf schools – you’ll receive this everyday offering you an amazing and unique surf package! 

When you’re not surfing, you’ll have free time to relax by the pool, unwind with some surf-inspired yoga or kick back in a hammock with a good book. Or, if you’ve still got some energy, there’s plenty more to see and do in the area! 

  • Discover the magic of Montezuma. Hike through the tropical jungle to beautiful waterfalls and cool off in stunning plunge pools.
  • Experience snorkelling and swimming in the beautiful tidal pools.
  • Enjoy Santa Teresa – an up and coming town with a buzz of exciting life and culture!
  • Relax in a hammock and go off-grid, de-stressing and reconnecting to the natural world around you.
  • Be captivated by the wildlife that surrounds you 24/7.
  • Explore Santa Teresa’s picture postcard beaches, included in Forbes Magazine top 10 most beaches in the world to visit, described as “one of the most beautiful beaches in the world”.
  • Delight in the sunset culture of Santa Teresa.
  • Bask in the “Pura Vida” of Costa Rica, it’s a way of life you’ll want to take home.

Please note that all of these activities are optional and some may incur additional charges.

This trip includes a unique yoga session, tailored specifically for the women on our surfing trips. This yoga session will blend mindful asana movement designed to develop and enhance your flexibility, strength and surfing endurance, with breathing techniques to help calm the mind and body. This may also include meditation practices that will relax your body and soul to help foster a serene and focused surfing mindset. By integrating these three yogic elements you’ll reduce your stress and anxiety empowering you to overcome mental and physical challenges in your surfing progression.

When it comes to meal times, you’re in luck –  the food in Santa Teresa is incredible from local produce to local chefs. The bounty of this incredible country really is endless. Food is not included in the trip, however you can experience plenty of amazing places to eat nearby. You can expect fresh, healthy, colourful and totally delicious dishes! Costa Rican food allows you to experience the essence of Central America on your plate. 

 

Tuck into everything from Gallo Pinto – a tasty brekky consisting of rice and black beans – deep-fried plantains and fresh fruit including mango, guava and starfruit. Bottomless filter water is available free of charge at your accommodation at all times. There’s also a nearby supermarket if you want extra yummy snacks, such as salty plantain or corn chips and “chorreadas” pancakes. If you’re on a budget or prefer to cook for yourself, you can use the self-catering facilities in your accommodation and purchase food from the local stores and markets. 

Travel

This piece of paradise is an adventure away from the hustle and bustle of Costa Rica’s capital city San Jose, but it’s so worth it!

You will need to arrange your own flights to Cabano Airport (Aeropuerto de Cobano). This will usually mean flying into Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) and connecting from there.

The flight is only 22 minutes, and you will have the team waiting for you with a taxi transfer to take you to Santa Teresa! 

This is an amazing experience, and makes the journey as stress free as possible – all you need to do is sit back and enjoy the views as you land in paradise. When you land, look out for your transport representatives, they’ll have a clipboard with “Women + Waves” on it. You’ll then head to the accommodation to get you checked in.

Please arrange your flights to coincide with the following pick up times:

  • Airport pick ups and transfers are included in your package price. The pick up time is 13:30 pm, when your trip officially begins. If you arrive outside of these times we will email you local taxi details so that you can make your own way to the hotel – it is roughly a 40 minute car ride, this will roughly be $40 USD for the transfer.

However, please be aware that if you arrive at an airport other than Cabano, you will need to find your own way to Santa Teresa.

  • The trip will officially end at 10am on the last day where you will be dropped back at Cabano airport nice and early to catch your flight back to San Jose for your flight. We recommend a late afternoon flight from Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) on the last day of the trip for a no rush transfer.

 If you want to arrive earlier or leave later, that’s totally fine. Lots of our guests do this as they want to experience more of this wonderful location. We’ll let you know where and when to meet us on the first day at your accommodation. 

We highly recommend that you read our ‘How to book a flight’ blog post to help you organise the best flights for your holiday.

If you’re worried about booking your flight and you’re based in the UK, give our good friend Lee at Dial A Flight a call on 020 7295 1556. Lee’s been booking our flights for the last 15 years and will find you the best deal and connection time. He can even book the whole trip for you, so you can relax and just rock up to the airport!

At time of writing the flight from San Jose Airport to Cabano has two options:

Green Airways or Sansa, return flights, are $2-300 USD.

Boards that are under 7ft are allowed on the flight. If you ride a board longer than this or prefer not to travel with a board, surfboard hire is included in your trip price.

The baggage allowance on the flight is 18kg, which is fine as you only need to pack light for this trip – bikinis and shorts for the win! No wetsuits, no problem!

Once you’ve booked you will receive further information on how everything works upon your arrival. The arrival team will be tracking your flight and keeping you informed over our per-organised WhatsApp group, so there’s open communication the whole way to keep you relaxed and to help with any problems or worries.

If you are travelling from the UK, it’s more than likely that your flight will get in late into San Jose Airport. We recommend flying into San Jose airport the day before the trip start date and staying in a local airport hotel. You can then take the short flight to Cabano the next day. Please see below for a few local hotels you can book within 5-10 minutes from the airport with a shuttle bus.

We will be offering airport pick-ups from Cabano between 13:30 pm on the first day of the trip but if you arrive outside of this time, you can pay approx $40 USD for the short taxi ride to our accommodation. We can help you to organise the taxi, it is very straightforward. Our aim is to go for a sunset swim when you arrive in Santa Teresa. It’s an awesome, stress-free way to start the trip.

 San Jose Airport Hotel Recommendations (all available via Booking.com or Lee at Dial A Flight can help book these for you)

-Holiday Inn Express

-Farnfield or The Courtyard by Marriot San Jose Airport

-Hampton by Hilton San Jose Airport

 

For your return, you need to arrange your flight out of Cabano on the final morning, you need to sync this up with your departing flight out of San Jose. Alternatively, you can book another night in the San Jose Airport hotel for your last night of the trip so that you are fresh for your early flight home. You will receive airport transport from your accommodation to Cabano airport. You will arrive at the airport by 11 am. So we recommend booking a flight to leave after 12 pm. If you want to arrive at Cabano at a different time, then again, we can help you to organise a taxi to the airport which will cost you around $40 USD per person.

Take a closer look

Dates and prices

Date
8th - 15th February 2025
Price£2,600
Date
9th - 16th February 2026
Options
Price£2,600

FAQs

We offer 3 easy ways to pay!
1. Pay In Full – Pay the full amount in one, that’s it your done! (Available online)

2. 50/50 – Pay a 50% deposit and the remaining 50% 12 weeks before the trip starts. (Available online)

3. Payment Plan – Pay an initial deposit and the rest in instalments! (Contact us using our online chat or email us for this option)

We can’t guarantee your place until we receive payment (in full or a deposit). Once you have made a payment, you’ll then be sent a trip confirmation email.

Due to this trip being in high demand and having limited spaces, we can only hold your space for 24 hours without payment.

Yes definitely! We pride ourselves on being super welcoming and friendly. Most of our guests arrive solo and leave with friends for life.

Please follow the instructions on the ‘Travel’ tab above. Then for further help please read our helpful blog post about booking flights.

If you wish to bring a non-surfing partner with you please get in touch.

Partners are welcome to join our evening meals, excursions etc.

You’ll be asked to fill in an enrolment form as part of the booking process. You’ll signify which level of surfer you are. You may be in different groups suited to your ability. However, there will be plenty of time to see each other back at camp and during our social times.

We choose the time of year and location for our events based on local knowledge and historical swell data. Costa Rica is incredibly consistent with a fantastic variety of beaches available to us. In the very unlikely event of flat waves or stormy conditions, we will offer alternative activities and day trips to help you get the most out of your holiday.

We may adjust the format of the trip. For example, choosing to run more surf sessions on the days that the waves are at their best.

Please visit our T&Cs for more information.

With decades of experience and knowledge within our team, we pick the best dates that the surf conditions are most suitable for the group. We’ll send you a brief predicted forecast in the pre-trip email. We choose Costa Rica at this time of year due to the fun waves and gorgeous weather. Expect waves that are waist to chest height. The beautiful long sandy beaches offer peaks for all abilities, the skill is to know which is best on the tide and wind conditions that are on offer. That’s where our local guides are worth their weight in gold. We pride ourselves in having you in the right place for the best waves for your ability each trip.

Before booking please take a look at our surfing level in the boxes above. If during the trip you would benefit from changing groups your instructor will organise for you to move, no problem! Please be aware, we pride ourselves on coaching everybody as an individual, so you will always receive individual feedback throughout each session.

Our Women + Waves trip leaders will be accompanied by local Costa Rican members of our coaching team. While our coaching team is predominantly made up of female instructors we also use male guides and instructors from time to time.

We do not offer a discount for bringing your own equipment.

Remember to check the baggage size and weight allowance with your airline. Read their guidance for carrying surfboards. Baggage handlers can be unforgiving so you need a tough travel bag and pack it well.

Firstly, pack your board(s) in a protective, padded board bag, and write FRAGILE and TOP LOAD ONLY on it with the largest, most permanent marker you can find. Make sure you wrap your towel and clothes around your board inside the bag for added protection.

Place your shampoo and other wet toiletries in a separate sealed bag in case of leakage. We also recommend locking your bag zips with a padlock.

Please check with your citizenship requirements in advance.

Please check international travel requirements for your nationality. When you leave Costa Rica you must pay a departure tax of $28 USD (correct at the time of writing).

If you’re travelling through America, you need to complete a Visa Waiver form. There’s a $14 USD application fee.

Please contact your travel agent or airline if you have any further questions. It’s a good idea to carry copies of your important documents and guide books. Pack them separately. We also suggest scanning copies and emailing them to yourself for extra reassurance.

If you are under 18 we will need to chat to you on the phone and you will need to be accompanied on the trip by a parent or guardian throughout the weekend (they don’t have to participate). If you are 65 or over we’d love to chat to you about the weekend before you book. Please email us to arrange a time and we’ll contact you. Or you can call us on +44 (0) 1637 226017

On the day you travel please keep your mobile phone handy so that we can stay in touch in case of delays and flight changes. Please inform us if you’re early or delayed for any reason. You will be added to our Whatsapp group so that we can share updates and stay in touch.

If you need help booking your flight then just drop us a line.

If you can’t find our representative at the airport, stay there and wait, they won’t be far away having tracked your arrival time. However, if you’re having difficulties finding them, please call +44 (0) 1637 226017 or follow the instructions in your pre-flight email. One of us will locate you.

Please inform our coaching staff of any medical complaints or conditions prior to your trip.

We’ll ask for travel insurance details when you book, so please organise this as soon as possible. Travel insurance needs to cover you for medical issues, cancellations and baggage. We’ll also ask you to fill out an enrolment form with these details before the holiday. Please read our helpful blog post about travel insurance.

Visit the Travel Health Pro website for medical advice for Costa Rica.

Please contact your doctor if you’re unsure about vaccinations. We advise you to take mosquito repellent to avoid getting bitten, though we’ve never been aware of any malaria or dengue fever cases in the areas that we visit.

The Costa Rican colon and US dollar are both accepted in Costa Rica. It’s useful to be aware of both exchange rates, as you will undoubtedly use both at some point on the trip. We take a small amount of dollars and the rest in colones.

We suggest that you bring all the currency you plan to spend, as you may not have the chance to visit an ATM. Please organise your currency needs before you arrive. Don’t worry, you’ll have access to a safe in your room for valuables and cash.

If you need to visit the bank while in Santa Teresa (if you run out of cash for example), you can withdraw money using your credit or debit card via the ATM. You may find the machines empty at the weekend plus there are often large queues. We recommend planning your spending wisely to avoid any unnecessary trips to the bank or ATM – it’s valuable time spent away from the surf!

You can also use your card and passport to take money out over the counter at the bank. Many bars and restaurants take credit cards too. We recommend you bring at least two cards in case one gets blocked by the bank, lost or damaged.

We are a UK based company that deliver trips all over the world welcoming travellers of all nationalities.

If you’re based outside the UK and want to chat through the trip details, you can contact us on our online chat.

If your circumstances change and you can’t join the trip, please let us know as soon as possible via email. Your cancellation notice will start from the date we receive it.

Cancellation terms:

We hold part or full costs, depending on when you cancel:

If you cancel 12 weeks or more before the trip we retain 50% of the total cost
If you cancel with less than 12 weeks before the trip then its 100% of the total cost
Cancellation may fall under the terms and conditions of your holiday insurance policy and you may be able to claim.

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