Yoga and surfing have become increasingly popular among people who want a healthy lifestyle. Also, it is a way to connect with nature, a major encouragement for many. Suppose you are seeing a combination of these two practices. In that case, a surf yoga retreat is the best place for you as it allows you to immerse yourself in a week-long experience of yoga, surfing, and relaxation in nature.
You can visit many surf yoga retreats, making it easy to get confused. But if you are looking for a place in a charming coastal town that offers the setting for surfing, and a picturesque ambiance, you’ve come to the right place. Our experts have handpicked the best all-inclusive surf and yoga vacations to visit.
Best 8 Surf Yoga Retreats to Visit
If surfing with the best boards or a yoga vacation seems pleasing, know you can find incredible yoga and surf retreats worldwide. Here are the eight best yoga and surf retreat to visit.
Bodhi Surf Yoga
Located in the Bahia Ballena-Uvita, Bodhi surf yoga was founded in 2010 by three surfer enthusiasts from different corners of the world. The mission of this retreat in Costa Rica was to educate, inspire, and empower visitors to live more sustainably through yoga, surfing, nature immersion, and community engagement.
This retreat hosts three different modalities of camp; the Bodhi Awaken, a two-week long bodysurfing ocean awareness of surfing and yoga. The Bodhi Family is a one-week camp for families passionate about surfing. In contrast, the Bodhi Sessions is a one-week camp for adults who want to surf and engage in yoga sessions.
At each of the camps, surfing is taught theoretically and practically to help you understand the fundamentals of surfing. The accommodation is also decent, with options for four and a maximum of 10 guests per week in either bungalows or rooms. The bungalow has a kitchenette, and the rooms have a shared kitchen. Overall, this surf yoga retreat is affordable for everyone.
Surf Simply – Surf Yoga Retreat
The surf is another surf & yoga retreat in Costa Rica in the Playa Guiones, Nosara. Founded in 2007 by Rupert Hill, Surf has since grown to be one of the most renowned retreats in Costa Rica. As a high-end coasting resort with luxurious buildings and professional coast, it makes sense why it books visitors all year long.
This resort in Costa Rica runs coaching courses in Peru, the UK, and parts of Indonesia and France. So, if you want to take your surfing skills to the next level, the surf is a destination located on the edge of the nature reserve. The course includes a seven-day session from Saturday until next Saturday.
The accommodations at surf hold awards for minimizing the environmental impact on its construction and everyday operation. It has ten bedrooms with king-size beds, an air conditioner, Wi-Fi, shared living space, a pool, a hot tub, and many more. Surf Simply’s approach to increasing the quality by limiting its visits to only 12 surfers a week makes it a competitive destination.
Sansara Surf and Yoga Retreat
Created to share space to encourage surfers to tap into their potential, Sansara surf and yoga resort is perfect for all surfers. At Sansara, it helps surfers restore their balance and draw energy from the community, whether through inspiring yoga or surf retreats, healing exercises, and creative dining experiences.
Sansara retreat is a destination for every surfer, irrespective of your skill level. As an eco-resort, it is surrounded by lush tropical forests and pristine beaches where you can practice catching waves in real time. The unique experience with yogis and suffering helps you build a community of like minds.
Visitors at Sansara can choose from various accommodations, such as oceanfront villas, cozy garden cabanas, and so on, all designed to provide relaxation and comfort. The retreat features a beautiful infinity pool, delicious restaurants, and a range of wellness activities such as meditation, hiking, massages, etc.
Don Jon’s Surf and Yoga Lodge
Located in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica, Don Jon’s surf and yoga lodge is a world-class sport with beautiful waves. Its white sand beaches and picturesque sunsets make this destination perfect for connecting with nature. It is a laid-back destination known globally for its stunning natural setting.
Guests who want to experience the authentic and comfortable Costa Rican experience can do so at Don Jon’s surf and yoga lodge. The retreat features a beautiful outdoor yoga shala, a refreshing saltwater pool, and a healthy and delicious restaurant for refreshing and international cuisines.
Don Jon’s Surf and Yoga Retreat are dedicated to providing guests with a holistic experience that nourishes the mind, body, and soul. In addition to surfing and yoga, guests can enjoy various wellness activities such as massages, acupuncture, and Reiki.
With its focus on community and sustainability, Don Jon’s Surf and Yoga Retreat is the perfect destination for those seeking a transformative and rejuvenating experience in the heart of Costa Rica.
The Salty Pelican Retreat
The Salty Pelican Retreat, a surf & yoga retreat in Sri Lanka, is a laid-back and charming destination in Portugal. This retreat is a place that offers its visitors a balance of relaxation, surfing, and yoga. And its proximity to the beach makes it a place to get the best surfing classes and yoga sessions for those looking to refresh their mind.
The Salty Pelican also offers comfortable and cozy accommodations to its visitors, all of which are designed with bohemian and rustic style. Its accommodations reflect its laid-back vibe, where guests can enjoy the beautiful ambiance of the outdoors from the terrace or converse with like-minded surfers at the cozy indoor lounge.
Also, this destination offers guests several wellness activities they can engage in, such as massage, hiking, and so on. Guests can also take their time to visit nearby attractions in Lisbon and Sintra to boost their experience at this retreat.
Adventure Yogi Cornwall Retreat
The Adventure Yogi Cornwall Retreat is a unique and exciting surf and yoga retreat Europe offers that combines adventure, yoga, and wellness in the stunning Cornish countryside. The retreat is designed to offer guests a transformative experience through yoga classes, outdoor activities, and healthy meals.
Guests can choose from various accommodation options, including a cozy shared yurt or a private shepherd’s hut, all in the beautiful countryside. Several expert instructors at this retreat offer yoga and surfing classes for those looking to boost their skill level. So, irrespective of your skill level, you can find the perfect class at Adventure Yogi Cornwell.
There are several other activities you can engage in at Adventure Yogi Cornwell, such as hiking and kayaking, amongst others. Its luxurious accommodations give you the true definition of being one with nature.
Eden on the Chocolate San Juan del Sur
The Eden on the Chocolate San Juan del Sur is a surf & yoga retreat in Nicaragua, which is a wellness and luxurious destination. Located in San Juan del Sur, this retreat is nestled in a rainforest, allowing its guests to experience true nature in its fullness. At Eden on the Chocolate resort are luxurious accommodations, including tree houses and private bungalows.
Also, the retreat offers a range of classes for students looking to improve their surfing and yoga. The accommodation is designed with a touch of eco-friendly making it perfect when you are looking for a resort to get away from the city’s busy life.
Eden of the Chocolate offers a range of educational activities such as chocolate making, sustainability tours, and even workshops. So, if you are curious about how a cocoa farm converts cocoa fruits to lovely chocolate, this retreat is perfect for you.
Swarupa Retreat
Swarupa Retreat is a peaceful and rejuvenating surf & yoga retreat California center. The authentic and unique experience of the activities offered at the Swarupa retreat makes it a great space to unwind.
Swarupa Retreat is dedicated to providing guests with a holistic experience that nourishes the mind, body, and soul. In addition to yoga and meditation, guests can enjoy Ayurvedic treatments, spiritual counseling, and cultural excursions to nearby temples and ashrams.
With its focus on authenticity, spirituality, and hospitality, Swarupa Retreat is the perfect destination for those seeking a transformative and rejuvenating experience in the heart of India’s spiritual capital.
Best Yoga Mat for the Surf Yoga Retreat
Having a paddleboard and a yoga mat as you prepare for a surf and yoga retreat will help ensure you are properly kitted for the session. There are a few things to consider when searching for a yoga mat, particularly if you will use it outdoors.
Below are some of the best yoga mats handpicked by our experts.
1. Maduka eKO Superlite Yoga Mat
The Manduka eKO is an excellent yoga mat to consider for outdoor use. It features a closed-cell structure that does not absorb water like other yoga mats. Also, the sand doesn’t get stuck to it like other mats making it easy to clean. While the closed-cell structure isn’t the best for hot weather, since you will be using it outdoors, this shouldn’t be a problem.
Furthermore, the mat is made from PVC, which, when exposed to UV light, doesn’t degrade. This Maduka yoga mat has a very dense material yet is lightweight, which is ideal if you carry it around a lot.
Pros
- It does not absorb smells
- Resistant to UV light
- Closed-cell design is easy to clean
- Quite affordable
Cons
- Not biodegradable
2. Liforme Signature Yoga Mat
The Liforme Signature yoga mat is another top-recommended mat to consider getting when it comes to outdoor use. It is great for prolonged use. The mat has a nice shiny surface that makes it easy to clean and provides a comfy surface to practice your yoga moves. Its “align for me” system is the best-in-class alignment line that helps correct posture and body when practicing yoga.
The mat is made from a natural rubber base and polyurethane top surface, making the mat quite eco-friendly. Furthermore, the mat comes with a non-slip grip surface, providing ultimate grip while practicing.
Pros
- Biodegradable and recyclable material
- A shiny surface makes it easy to clean
- The alignment system makes it ideal for beginners
- Yoga bad included
Cons
- Quite expensive
3. Gaiam Yoga Mat
The Gaiam essential mat is another recommended yoga mat for outdoor use. As a premium mat, it features a durable PVC material that can withstand time. Sadly this material might not be the best for the environment.
Nevertheless, the yoga mat is easy to clean and does not absorb odor from sweat, nor does sand stick to it. Furthermore, this Gaiam mat is available in different colors allowing you to choose the best tone that suits you.
Pros
- Available in several colors and patterns
- Cheaper than most outdoor mats
- Non Slip grip
- Comfy texture
Cons
- Not recyclable or biodegradable
4. IUGA Yoga Mat
The IUGA yoga mat is another excellent yoga mat you can use outdoors. Made from polyurethane material, the IUGA yoga mat is SGS certified, making it stand the scorching hotness of the sun. It is lightweight and easy to carry around, thanks to its free carry strap with the mat.
Also, the mat provides an ultimate grip, so you don’t slip or slide while using the mat. This IUGA mat is eco-friendly, so you don’t have to worry about disrupting the natural balance of the environment.
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Textured surface provides excellent grip
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- SGS certified
Cons
- Not easy to roll up or stay rolled up
5. Gruper Yoga Mat
The Gruper yoga mat is another excellent mat for daily yoga. Made from thermoplastic material, the Gruper yoga mat is a classic yoga mat suitable for all kinds of light sports, including meditation, gym, etc. It is a large mat compared to others within its price range.
Gruper made it thick, making it ideal for outdoor use. This mat measures 15mm thick, providing excellent cushion. Also, the mat is non-slip, providing enough grip while using it.
Pros
- Very affordable
- It provides lots of cushions
- Wider than most mats
- Carrying strap for easy transporting
Cons
- Non Renewable material
Conclusion
In summary, surf yoga retreats are transformative and unique destinations for those seeking wellness and adventurous connections with nature. So, whether you are an experienced surfer, yogi or a total beginner, the retreats in this review provide an excellent opportunity to develop your surfing skills and improve your mental and physical health.
G’day, my name is Rach Taylor and I’m the proud Founder of Surf Hungry. I am a former Australian Olympic athlete and Australian representative surf sports athlete. I’ve worked in the surf industry and lived at several of Australia’s best surf spots, sparking a life-long love of the ocean and a passion for surf sports which has now well and truly rubbed off on my two young sons, both little Aussie surf-stoked groms!
