Growing up be the ocean gave me the ability to learn at a young age many water sports. From body-surfing to jet skis, you could always find me in the water. The only thing I was missing was the huge waves to learn how to surf. Unfortunately, we have breakers where I am which means waves reach a max of two feet. I always wished I had learned to surf. When I was in Hawaii, I took my first surfing lesson and it was amazing, however, a 4-hour surf lesson doesn’t exactly allow you to walk away knowing what you’re doing. Imagine a place you could go with a surfing coach and get out on the water with them every day! Well, now it’s possible with Rise Up!
Surfing is a release from exploding tensions of 20th-century living, escaping from the hustling, bustling city world of steel and concrete, a return to nature’s reality. ~Fred Wardy
Rise Up offers all-inclusive surf and yoga retreats in four stunning locations throughout Central America. Whether guests are looking to learn how to surf or are looking to take their surfing to the next level, Rise Up’s unparalleled surf coaching will help guests reach their full potential. Experience uncrowded waves with fun, professional, and certified surf coaches who can tailor lessons to meet the needs of each student. With a strong focus on form, guests are guaranteed to see progress in their surfing abilities. There is also a strong wellness aspect to Rise Up’s retreats, incorporating yoga, healthy food, and a range of holistic activities, all sure to raise guests’ vibration. The team at Rise Up has created a real family environment where retreat guests are warmly welcomed and made to feel right at home. Rise Up is all about connecting people with nature and sharing incredible experiences in a beautiful part of the world. Their mission is simple – ensuring everyone who comes has the most amazing experience possible. On a Rise Up retreat, guests can expect to leave with new skills, new friendships, and a new sense of inspiration.
The Destinations
NICARAGUA: Nicaragua is the original Rise Up destination and where the owners of Rise Up have called home for the last fifteen years. Their local knowledge, connection to the community, and love for this place makes for an authentic surf retreat experience.
COSTA RICA: The retreats in Costa Rica are located on the edge of the virgin rainforest, nestled between the mountains and perfect waves. Every day guests are visited by abundant wildlife ranging from macaws to agoutis. Two incredible retreat locations are based in the same area, each with a unique feel and vibe.
GUATEMALA: It was on the founders’ first visit to the small fishing village of El Paredon, that they fell in love with the area. The winding, dusty roads, black sand beaches, and dreamy west coast sunsets make this retreat one of a kind. Here, guests will find relaxation, good vibes, and empty waves.
BARBADOS: As the founder’s birthplace, Barbados will always hold a special place in the heart of Rise Up. Packed with local knowledge, guests can expect off-the-grid surf spots and secret adventures. This retreat is an experience that cannot be found in the guidebooks.
What Sets Rise Up Surf Retreats Apart
THE FAMILIA At Rise Up, you are welcomed into the family the moment you arrive. A week at a Rise Up Surf retreat is designed to make guests feel at home so that they can relax, have fun, and create lasting connections.
THE ADVENTURES Visitors to a Rise Up Retreat should be ready to enjoy all the fun adventures that only the locals know about! After a week at Rise Up, guests will leave knowing they immersed themselves in the culture of the destination, opening doors to a deeper connection to an unfamiliar place.
THE FOOD Rise Up believes food should not only taste good, but it should also make you feel good. All of Rise Up’s meals are made with fresh, local ingredients and their talented chefs will cater to any dietary needs. Guests will enjoy family-style meals in breezy, open-air dining areas, and with four meals on offer daily, plus appetizers and dessert, guests will cruise through each day with plenty of energy and a full belly!
THE YOGA Guests will enjoy peaceful yoga classes overlooking stunning landscapes – where green jungles meet the blue sea. Offered as the perfect compliment to daily surfing, allowing guests to let their body and mind relax and reset.
There are a million ways to surf, and as long as you’re smiling, you’re doing it right. ~Unknown Author
Note* For those who are afraid of the water because of sharks, you should check out The SHARK Off! It’s a bracelet you wear that repels sharks. I always wear it to for that extra level of security even though it’s highly unlikely you will have an encounter.
