COSTA RICA: Pura Vida Adventures
This eco-chic retreat is just steps from Playa Carmen, regularly voted one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Week-long women-only and mixed-gender surf camps see lessons customised to each guest, which means that everyone from beginners to experienced board-riders are catered for. The water is warm, the consistently good breaks are uncrowded, and there are diversions aplenty in the area, from rainforest walks to bang-up seafood meals in the old fishing village of Mal Pais.
INDIA: Soul & Surf
Despite the fact that it has 7,500km of coastline, India has a relatively uncharted surfing scene. Soul & Surf in Kerala aims to change all of that, with retreats that offer twice-daily guided surfing expeditions alongside sunset yoga sessions and comfy accommodation near laid-back Varkala Beach. Those seeking extra surfing instruction can book intensive daily or weekly courses; otherwise, enjoy beach barbecues, an outdoor cinema, and parties held in lush gardens overlooking the Arabian Sea.
INDONESIA: Surf Goddess
Bali’s Seminyak neighbourhood makes the ideal base for the seven-day surf and yoga programs offered at Surf Goddess. The women-only retreat is all about pampering guests: morning surf sessions at the Rip Curl school in Legian are complemented by indulgent organic meals, luxe accommodations and daily spa treatments, while days end with alfresco yoga sessions tailored to ease surf-weary limbs.
MEXICO: Three Jewels
At the northern end of Banderas Bay, Punta Mita sits on Mexico’s central Pacific coast. With its mild tropical climate, white sand, and azure water, it’s ideal location for a surf retreat. Here, Three Jewels bases itself from a luxurious private villa estate, where rooms come with balconies overlooking a floodlit pool and the bay. Surf lessons take place on the barrelling Dos Palmitos break, steps from the resort, or at La Lancha, just a short stroll down the beach.
PORTUGAL: Karma Surf Retreat
Karma’s two Portuguese locations are as much about showcasing Iberian culture as they about surf breaks. Wherever you check in you’ll be guaranteed days filled with yoga, morning surf lessons led by experienced instructors, organic breakfasts and picnic lunches, plus options to explore the countryside on mountain bikes and hikes. Additional extras range from horse riding and scuba diving to Pilates, spa treatments, and quad-bike tours.
