Overview
YES, you read that right—the legendary GRLSWIRL crew is coming back to the Philippines with us! Every Siargao retreat leaves us in awe of the vibrant local community and its incredible skate culture. There’s something so genuine and contagious about the love for skateboarding on this little slice of paradise. Picture this: from sunrise to sunset, kids are skating through the streets of General Luna, some on homemade boards, their laughter filling the air. It’s that same electric energy you’ll feel the moment you arrive. Siargao may be the surfing capital of the Philippines, but here, skateboarding thrives just as much. When you blend the local vibes with the GRLSWIRL stoke, the energy is contagious. And yes, we're still all about GIVING BACK. During our retreat, we’ll be hosting a special event for the local kids, offering free surf skate lessons and providing gear they can continue to enjoy long after we're gone. Limited spots are up for grabs, and this isn’t just a surf-skate retreat—it’s an opportunity to be part of something bigger, something that goes beyond the waves and leaves a lasting impact on the community. Don’t miss out!
Highlights
A SURFING CAPITAL
Siargao is a tiny teardrop shaped island known as the "Surfing Capital of the Philippines". The high number of breaks and its reliable surfing conditions all year round attracts surfers from across the world like a sacred pilgrimage. From the ever-popular Cloud 9 to Stimpy’s, this paradise island is filled with some of the most influential breaks in the world - and the local team is taking us to the sequestered spots where perfect peeling waves will set the stage for the most memorable sessions of our lives!
LOCAL COMMUNITY
Punta Punta is a hidden gem in Cabitoonan village, minutes away from General Luna. Not long ago, it was a fishing and coconut farming community only accessible via boat or a long motorbike ride through jungle paths and wild pigs. As Siargao attracts more wanderers at heart, now neighborhood fishermen are your friendly boatmen taking you out to your favorite surf spots, and incredible individuals warmly invite you to experience their beautiful home and resilient way of life.
island hopping adventures
Siargao is just one of the 7,000 islands that make up the Philippines Archipelago - and each has its own distinct character and local charm. Hop onboard a traditional Filipino bangka boat and get ready to see where the magic is hidden! Play volleyball under the palm forest of Daku, take a dip in bath-tub clear waters, laze around on the white sand beach of Mam-on, sip fresh cut coconuts under the shade of a swaying palm, and get ready for cliff jump at sunset.
ISLAND-INSPIRED FOOD
We believe that food is the best way to access a culture, bring together a community and fuel a mind-body experience. Using locally-sourced organic ingredients, we craft up plant-based island-inspired, mega delicious meals, snacks and drinks to power you through the day. Siargao is also known by its eclectic dining scene of international cooking and local recipes, with or without a modern twist!
SURF SKATE PROGRAM
Brace yourself for a rollercoaster of fun as we amp up your skills on both the waves and the pavement.Imagine cruising through different parks and bowls, tailoring the thrills to every skill level with the GRLSWIRL team and some seriously rad local skaters by your side. Cap off the retreat by participating in a community event, where you'll assist in teaching local kids everything you've learned (and trust us, it'll be a lot!).
YOUR HOSTESSES
GIULIA VALLOTTO
Italian chica who left behind the fashion world in the big cities for a barefoot and raw new life in the jungle. Giulia is the team mamma, who can effortlessly drive around through the jungle large groups of women with one main goal in mind: make everyone have the freaking most unforgettable time of their lives. And she does it, gracefully, over and over again. Buckle up and let yourself adventure with the most radical and fun amazonian queen out there.
MONA PICASSO
Argentinian surfer, creator soul and ultimate jungle warrior reshaped her life by the Costa Rican sea over a decade ago on her search for a more simple life. She is the embodiment of fun and adventure and brings the high vibes and stoked into whatever she does. Be ready for some loud laughs, deep ocean conversations and a life-long friendship with who will turn your surf trip into a radical life-changing experience.
Lucy Osinksi
Creator, CEO and Co-Founder of Grlswirl from Cornwall New York, she started skating in early 2017. Lucy fell in love with how empowered and liberated she felt from skating and passionately wanted to get others on boards in order to experience the same momentous feeling. She has taught hundreds of folks to skate of all ages, levels and backgrounds and is deeply passionate about sharing skate with others.
Valeria LaForge
Grlswirl Team Rider, adventure enthusiast, born and raised in northern California. You will likely find her carving around barefoot, with a big smile and lots of energy. She’s constantly in search of the perfect pool bowl to skate, perfect left to surf, & perfect dance floor to boogie. She loves to travel and create community wherever she goes. She has plenty of enthusiasm and stoke to go around, come join the fun!
Kelsey Harkin
Co-founder of GRLSWIRL, has been owning the title of worlds okays skater since early 2000’s. She switched it up from the boardwalk of Venice, California and she now lives in Ericeira, Portugal — creating and carrying the GRLSWIRL spirit throughout Europe. A mama of a 3 year old, lover of van life and chronic entrepreneur. She is most happy when it’s sunny, her feet are sandy and there’s good burritos near by (preferably in hand).
What's included
What's Included
Airport transfers.
7-night accommodation at beachfront lodge Punta Punta.
4 surf-guided sessions with certified local surf instructors.
5 surf skate lessons adapted to your level.
Surf and skate video analysis and professional footage to take home.
All breakfasts and in house meals
Getting picked up in front of the hotel by boat to go surfing every morning.
Island hopping Mam-on boat trip.
Relaxation massage (60 minutes).
2 yoga flow sessions.
All yoga equipment.
Transportation to and from all activities.
Concierge services.
Daily cleaning services.
Welcome gift.
A life-changing week of connection, nature, culture and unforgettable waves.
What's Not Included
International airfare.
Alcoholic beverages.
Medical Insurance.
Surf photography.
Meals in town
A SENSE OF HOME AMIDST AN ADRENALINE-FILLED ADVENTURE
PUNTA PUNTA
Nestled between a sleepy local village full of groms waiting to give you a high five and the deep blue Pacific Ocean, lies Punta Punta Point. Not long ago, this piece of paradise was accessible only by jungle road or private boat (still our preferred method of arrival), however, it remains a little secret – close to the action and far from the noise. From our plunge pool, you can see the epic barreling waves at Cloud 9 and within minutes you can be at the best bars and restaurants General Luna has to offer. Yet, you won’t hear more than a rooster’s crow or splashing waves during your afternoon massage. Punta Punta is the best of both worlds. Far away, but so close.
Gallery
FAQs
Which airport should I fly into?
To get there you must fly into Manila, Cebu or Clark International Airport and then book a regional flight from your airport to Sayak Airport (IAO) via Philippine Airlines or Cebu Pacific. We advise you to check the regional flight schedules prior to booking your international flight to help avoid
an overnight stay in Manila/Cebu/Clark.
Upon arrival to Sayak Airport, grab your bags and exit the main door (there is only one). A driver will be waiting for you with a sign bearing your name (If you have any concerns please contact us).
What are the requirements to travel to the Philippines?
- Vaccinated travelers (booster no longer required): Provide a proof of full vaccination. No test result required.
- Unvaccinated travelers: Provide a negative Antigen test certificate from a clinic conducted within 24 hours of departure from the country of origin (layover in airports are not counted). Those without a valid negative result will be required to test upon arrival at the airport.
Qualified travelers must also:
- Starting April 15, 2023, all travelers are required to register to the Electronic Travel Declaration System not earlier than 72 hours from the intended arrival.
- No visa is required for most countries and tourists are given a 30-day visa upon arrival. Please confirm your country-specific requirements.
- Passport must be valid for at least six months at the time of arrival.
- Have a return or outbound ticket to their country of origin or next country of destination.
What surf experience is required?
This retreat is for all levels of surfing - all boards allowed -
Should I bring my own surfboard?
Yes! We highly recommend to bring your own gear as we can't guarantee having access to equipment in good conditions. Bring the board you feel the most comfortable with.
Where is Siargao?
Siargao is tear drop shaped island and one of the 7,000 that make up the Philippines Archipielago.
Known as the "Surfing Capital of the Philippines" the island boasts some of the most influential surf breaks in the world. Its reliable surfing conditions all year round offer something for all skill levels.
Siargao is every surfer's dream destination. Surrounded by crystal clear turquoise waters, covered in coconut palm trees, white sand beaches, picturesque islands, waterfalls, lagoons, and caves. Plus, the island boasts delicious local and international cuisine for every discerning palate.
What to pack?
Not much! The Philippines is warm all year round, as is the ocean water temperature, which means you can pack light and easily bring everything you need in a carry-on.
While it gets cooler in the evenings than it is during the day you're still not likely to need anything more than a t-shirt and some longer loose fitting pants/skirt.
Keep in mind that the island community of Siargao is making an effort to reduce waste and create awareness towards responsible tourism, so we encourage you to ride the same wave.
