Overview
We're thrilled to kick off the season in Pavones, and this year, we have a special guest joining us. Get ready to elevate your experience with the fiery and talented longboarder and yogini, Ambre-Victoire. If you’re eager to improve your technique and master the physics behind cross-stepping and noseriding, this is the opportunity you've been waiting for! Step into your flow by harmonizing body, mind, and spirit with Ambre's holistic approach to surfing and life. This is your chance to refine your longboarding skills, discover your unique style, and unlock your highest potential by reconnecting with your own natural rhythm. We've carefully designed an ALL-INCLUSIVE epic program featuring personalized longboarding coaching, yoga, holistic sessions, jungle adventures, local workshops, and the most delicious local dishes prepared with love by our in-house chef. Explore the untouched southern coast of Costa Rica, home to the second-longest left wave in the world, just steps from our doorstep. This remote surf village is where the lush jungle meets the high tide line, surrounded by ancestral trees, playful monkeys, and majestic macaws soaring above you. Get ready to enjoy uncrowded, consistent, warm, and perfectly rolling waves—ideal conditions for those craving to elevate their surfing game in just ONE WEEK. We can't wait to share our all-time favorite playground with you all! SURF LEVEL: From Advanced Beginners (can catch waves on your own and be independent in the line-up).
Highlights
A NATURAL GEM
Pavones is an untouched dream town in the southern pacific Costa Rican jungle. Its remoteness, incredibly long waves, spectacular wildlife, and lush rainforest reserves make it a far less crowded magical paradise.
SOUL FOOD
Experience the most delicious flavors of Costa Rica in the most healing and nourishing way. From exotic fruits to local fish caught that morning we will enjoy decadence and rejuvenation with every meal. *Adapted to all dietary restrictions.
PURE LOCAL VIBES
Get ready to be surfing and hosted by the most fun local surf coaches who fully embody Pavone's natural way of living and know its stories and waves like no one else around. Best part of it all is that they'll guide you to the best and longest rides of your life!
HOLISTIC SESSIONS
Ambre is a 800h certified yoga teacher with a unique way of moving influenced by many years of dancing, her favorite yoga teachers and her quest to keep expanding her body skills to reach her full potential.
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.
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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.
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AMBRE-VICTOIRE
Quixotic French longboarder and recently crowned champion of the Joel Tudor’s Vans Duct Tape Invitational series in Cape Town leg, Ambre-Victoire moves and grooves to the mesmerizing beat of her own drum.
With a background in dance and 800-hour certified yoga training, she brings a unique style to both the mat and the surfboard. Her journey of inner balance and intuitive movement has taken her around the world, where she’s won several prestigious longboard contests.
“I just want to be super free…with great energy and feeling like myself. I just want to dance, release everything, create connections and have friends around…it’s a wild ride”
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WHAT TO EXPECT
Daily Highlights
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Welcome to Paradise
Check-in and settle into your cozy room. Join us for some poolside snacks and a welcome dinner.
Surf’s Up!
Meet your coach and catch your first waves followed by a tropical brunch and a paddle session.
Yoga is ON!
Get ready for a morning surf session, video analysis to level up your game, and very nourishing sunset yoga.
Boat Trip Day
Secluded beaches in Matapalo await you for a whole day of surfing, beach picnic and sealife exploration.
Get more local
After more epic surfing and in- depth video analysis, time to get local with a tico-style lunch and an art workshop.
Let’s wrap it up
Last surf sessions, horseback riding along the beach, sunset bonfire and farewell dinner under the stars.
Sea you soon!
Rise and shine for our closing circle and one last brunch with your new Seasters before we all hug and say goodbye until the next one!
What's included
What's Included
6 night beach front accommodation steps away from one of the world’s best point breaks.
Daily surf lessons tailored for advanced beginners to intermediate level surfers, led by certified local instructors.
Optional daily free surf sessions for the frothers. A lot of surfing!
Superb in-water and in-house theoretical coaching with Ambre.
4 video analysis sessions and epic footage to take home.
A balance workshop to refine your longboarding technique.
Daily nutritious breakfast, lunch and dinner prepared by our in-house chef with the freshest and most native ingredients.
Daily delicious snacks, coffee and drinks to keep you fueled between surf sessions.
Yoga to stretch your body, mind and soul.
Surfing and yoga equipment available to you all week.
Non-stop adventuring around such as horsebackriding, river hike, tide pool self - love, boat rides, snorkeling, whale watching.
A local workshop to deeply connect with the roots of this unique place.
Transportation to all activities (be ready for lots of singing and laughing).
Concierge services to curate your own special experience.
Cleaning services so that you can stay spoiled.
Overnight security guard to keep you safe while you sleep to the sound of crushing waves.
AWA swag bag of goodies.
A life changing week of nature, connection and endless lefts!
What's Not Included
International airfare.
Transportation to/from the Lodge.
Alcoholic beverages.
Medical insurance.
The AWA Lodge
Where the jungle meets the sea.
These pristine seaside condos meet every expectation of excellence. Surrounded by lush jungle gardens and only steps away to the main point break of Pavones. A zen-like peacefulness and feeling of refuge is present everywhere on the property. Each detail offers welcoming and ultra-comfortable living spaces, while seamlessly integrating with the magnificent local ecosystem.
Accommodation
SHARED ROOM
Shared room with 2 twin size beds - A/C - Wifi - Private Bathroom - Terrace overlooking the garden or ocean.
FROM$3,900.00/pp
PRIVATE ROOM
Private Room with a queen-size bed - A/C - WiFi - Shared Bathroom - Terrace overlooking the garden.
FROM$4,400.00/pp
PRIVATE SUITE
Private Room with a king-size bed - A/C - WiFi - Private Bathroom - Terrace overlooking the garden and ocean.
FROM$4,700.00/pp
This week will always be the highlight of my year (& life)! 😍 This is my 2nd retreat in Costa Rica with AWA and not only is the country and ocean insanely wildly beautiful, but the locals are the kindest and most caring people I have met. From the local expert surf instructors, guides, chefs, photographers/videographers and ofcourse the awesome Mona, Giulia, and Mariano, I have felt like this was another home away from home every time. All of the amazing women I have met on these retreats are still some of my best friends today! You will not only improve your surfing tremendously in a short amount of time, but you will leave with life changing experiences, knowledge, and friendships. I’m already planning my next AWA retreat for next year! 🫶🏼😄 xo
Kendall Alexander
This was my first trip with AWA and definitely not my last. What an amazing week! It by far exceeded all my expectations. Not only did it improve my confidence in surfing, it recharged my body and soul. Their energy is contagious, you feel welcomed from the moment you step inside - feels like becoming part of an awesome tribe stoked on life and the ocean! Thank you AWA! I´ll be back soon
Hedvig Høysæter
This was my third trip with AWA and definitely not the last. Mona and Giullia have curated a very efficient, well-rounded experience that suits women of all ages and all levels of surfing. Apart from it being well oiled, the atmosphere and environment that they create is hard to replace. Their warmth and energy welcomes all guests. Their stoke never ceases to drive your determination for the next wave. Their laughter is contagious. Behind the scenes they partner with chefs and surf coaches that only elevate the week. I come home every time feeling cleansed in many ways. Inside and out. And always with a renewed connection to nature. Thank you AWA for opening these beautiful spaces for us women. I’ll be back soon (obviously!).
Lissa Ziranek
Absolutely no need to overthink this—just go! You will NEVER regret attending this surf retreat in Costa Rica. It's the best thing EVER. Mona, Giulia, and Mariano have crafted an absolutely incredible experience that has it all. The vibe is unmatched, the atmosphere is supportive and encouraging, the food is nourishing, and the after-surf activities are a blast. You can't ask for anything more. This retreat is a perfect 10 out of 10!
Veronica Bouvin
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FAQs
How to get to Pavones?
Once you reach San José (Costa Rica's capital), you have some options depending on your time and budget. The quickest way is to fly from San José International Airport to Golfito and then take a cab to the accommodation. The intermediate-price-range option is to share a shuttle. All the options are detailed in the Welcome Kit we'll give you after you book your spot.
I am travelling solo. Will I feel out of place?
Not at all! The majority of our guests come solo, and our retreats are carefully curated as supportive and inclusive experiences for everyone. You'll have plenty of opportunities to connect with other like-minded women and most likely build friendships and bonds that will last a lifetime.
What is the typical age range of guests?
A lot of our first-time guests are concerned about this!
Our retreat welcomes women of all ages, starting from 18 and up. To give you an idea, about 80% of our guests are between 25 and 55 years old. We love witnessing the diversity and unique perspectives and experience that each guests brings to the group. We have created an inclusive environment that ensures that everyone feels valued and empowered, regardless of age.
What if I've never surfed before?
No problem at all! Our retreats are perfect for beginners and so are the locations we select. Our team of surf coaches will start with the basics, teaching you everything you need to know to catch your first wave safely and confidently.
What surf level do I need to participate in the retreat?
None! The majority of our retreats are designed for women of all surf levels, from beginners to advanced surfers. Our team of experienced surf coaches will tailor personalized lessons to meet everyone's individual needs. Plus, there are waves for all tastes!
Can I bring my own surfboard?
YES! You can bring your own board or pick your perfect match from our quiver. We suggest you travel with your own board if you are feeling comfortable surfing with it. Keep in mind that the internal flights in CR won't allow you to travel with a board bag bigger than 7 feet.
How big are the groups?
We host a maximum of 11 guests in these experiences.
What's the water temperature?
It’s typically around 79-84°F (26-29°C), making it comfortable for surfing without a wetsuit.
I'm nervous, should I do this?
We promise you’ll have an epic time. "It’s truly amazing and hard to put into words", our guests say...If you are feeling the call, just do it, let go of any expectations and let us host you during the time of your life!
Is there an option without lodging if we live in the area?
No. We host fully immersive retreats so we encourage everyone to share the same space and that way deeply drop into the whole experience.
Is WiFi available at the retreat location?
Yes, WiFi is always available at our retreat locations.
At what time is check-in and check-out?
Check-in at 3 pm and check-out at 10 am.
What documentation is required before arriving at the retreats?
All participants must provide the following documentation before arriving at our retreats:
- Signed Liability Release form.
- Signed Experience Disclaimer form.
- Completion of the Pre-Trip Questionnaire.
- Proof of valid Medical Insurance.
- Valid passport picture and travel itinerary.
Upon booking your AWA Retreat, you will receive a comprehensive Welcome Kit containing all necessary forms, area descriptions, packing tips, and additional activity recommendations.
Disclaimer: At AWA we value your commitment to your chosen experience. To ensure a seamless process, we kindly request customers to submit required documentation, and establish direct communication with our team within two weeks of the scheduled retreat. Please be advised that AWA reserves the right to cancel reservations if any of these are not met. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in creating enriching and hassle-free retreats.
Can I choose my roommates?
Yes, we offer the option for guests to request specific roommates if they are booking together. During the booking process, you can email our team to indicate your preference for roommates, and we will do our best to accommodate your request, subject to availability.
Can I customize my itinerary?
Yes, we offer flexibility to customize your itinerary to suit your preferences:
- You can choose to participate in specific activities or opt-out if you prefer.
- Some retreats may offer optional excursions or workshops that you can add to your itinerary for an additional fee.
Connect directly with our team to discuss customization options and help you plan your ideal retreat experience.
Is there downtime?
Yes, we intentionally build in downtime for relaxation and reflection. You can spend your free time exploring the local area, enjoying optional activities, or simply unwinding on the beach or by the pool.
How much cash $ money should i bring?
This depends on personal preferences but honestly not much as its super easy to pull out money from local ATM's.
Here are a few things you might need cash money for:
- Local gifts for friends and family.
- Tips. While tipping is not mandatory, it is highly appreciated and to the discretion of each traveller. If you want to tip, we will collect cash money for surf coaches, cleaning and cooking staff members.
Most of the extras you may want to add to your experience can easily be paid for via credit card, PayPal, or bank transfer.
What are the visa or entry requirements?
The answers below apply to North America, most of Europe and Australia. It is always recommended to check with your embassy to double check your personal situation before traveling.
- Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your departure date.
- You must have a return ticket or onward ticket to another country; otherwise, you may be denied boarding.
- Most nationalities can enter Costa Rica visa-free for a stay of up to 90 days. Proof of onward travel and a passport valid for at least six months are typically required.
