Forget the filters. This is real life in paradise. Join a community of dreamers for a week of surfing Pacific waves, jungle sounds, and late-night bonfires. This isn’t a typical wellness retreat pretending to change your life; it’s a damn good time with people who love life differently. Expect real conversations, wild belly laughs, spontaneous surf lessons, and moments that remind you how good life feels when you just let it be. Just Pura Vida, salt air, and good vibes.
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Come with me to Costa Rica for a week of surfing, beach days, jungle adventures, bonfire chats, and some of the best memories of your life. This trip is for anyone craving connection with like-minded people, adventure, and a refreshing reminder that life is indeed beautiful. Welcome!
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Join Brooklynn and Bianca for an unforgettable girls' getaway. Together you'll learn to surf, explore lush jungles, gather around sunset bonfires, all while building genuine friendships with women who share your values. Each day will include intentional moments of Bible study, prayer, worship, and meaningful conversations. Whether you're coming to deepen your faith, find community, or simply say yes to a new adventure, this week is designed to leave you refreshed and inspired.
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US$ 1,923
Get ready to experience the authentic "Pura Vida"! Join the Worldpackers community for an unforgettable surf week in Costa Rica. Connect with travelers from all over the world, exchange your skills for accommodation, and catch epic waves in one of Central America's most stunning and welcoming destinations.
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The group meets at Denny's in San José for a scenic shared ride to Manuel Antonio.
Unwind and connect over a welcome dinner, with options such as a barbecue.
An evening circle to meet everyone, align intentions, and settle in.
Fuel up with tropical fruits and Costa Rican coffee.
A 90-minute coached surf session followed by casual group volleyball.
Ride back from the beach to rest and enjoy lunch, with options such as warm soups, grains, or bread.
Free afternoon or join a catamaran cruise along the coast (extra cost).
Shared dinner, with options such as a build-your-own bowl with fresh ingredients.
Kick back with movie screenings and chill downtime at the stay.
Daily morning spread with wholesome options to kick off the day.
Guided wave catching plus seaside games with the group.
Ride back from the beach for a shared lunch, with options such as pasta, veggies, and salads.
Leisure afternoon or an off-road ATV trail ride (extra cost).
Enjoy a shared dinner, with options such as tacos with various fillings.
Interactive board and group games to share laughs and bond.
Energizing breakfast featuring local fruits and warm plates.
Morning trail ride through rainforest views (extra cost).
Refuel with traditional dishes such as savory bean soups and tortillas.
Transfer down to the beach for an afternoon session. Coached surf clinic tailored to individual progression on the waves.
Learn everyday expressions and local slang right on the sand.
Fire up the evening with a sunset bonfire and basic salsa steps.
Relax over a shared evening meal, with options such as fresh artisan pizzas served at the stay.
Start the day with fresh coffee and buffet items.
Day trip to hike and swim at cascading falls (extra cost).
Lunch with options such as soups, fresh greens, and warm sides.
Coastal transfer to the designated surf spot. Catch rolling waves with coaching adapted to your level.
Voluntary initiative to leave the shoreline cleaner and give back.
Prepare and taste traditional local flavors together.
Daily breakfast selection to prepare for ocean activities.
High-adrenaline canopy or sky-high excursion (extra cost).
Balanced meal with options such as pasta, fresh grains, or salads.
Shuttle service to the afternoon surf break. Final 90-minute wave session to solidify surf skills. Sip fresh chilled coconut water by the beach after surfing.
Connect over a shared evening meal, with options such as a creative sushi spread for the group.
Dress in white and head to a nearby venue for karaoke and music.
Wholesome breakfast to start the day.
Gentle stretching, focused breathwork, and body balance.
Guided trek to spot wildlife (entrance ticket not included).
Savor comforting local soups and wholesome veggie options.
White-water rafting adventure along scenic rapids (extra cost).
Chill poolside with music and complimentary party drinks.
Shared dinner to wrap up the week, with options such as colorful build-your-own bowls.
Final buffet breakfast with the crew.
Shared group transfer returning to San José.
See the activities that will make your trip into an epic adventure.
Contribute to your project and make a positive impact while developing new skills.
Catch waves with local instructors. All levels welcome, from first-timers to experienced surfers.
Discover everyday local expressions and slang in a fun session on the beach.
A hands-on session to prepare and taste authentic local recipes together.
Get to know the local culture and have an authentic travel experience with activities included in your itinerary.
Sunset vibes, a crackling fire, and a beginner-friendly salsa class with your new crew.
Chill vibes and cheesy slices. The perfect comfort food to refuel after a week of action.
A guided tour through the famous national park to spot native wildlife (entrance not included).
Gentle mobility and breathwork session designed to restore physical balance.
Join a voluntary group initiative to clean the coastline and support local shores.
Cozy evenings at the lodge with movies, board games, and plenty of laughs.
A delicious grilled feast under the stars to break the ice and fuel the adventure ahead.
Friendly matches on the sand right after surf lessons.
Dress in white for a night of music, dancing, and karaoke at a lively nearby venue.
Additional activities for you to enjoy this adventure even more in your free time.
Open bar, dolphin watching, and epic sunset views from the deck. The ultimate ocean chill.
USD$80
Paddle through mystical mangroves. Spot monkeys and wildlife in this silent nature safari.
USD$60
Mud, speed, and wild views. Tear up the rugged terrain on 4 wheels and get dirty!
USD$110
Saddle up! Ride through secret trails to hidden waterfalls and take a dip in pure nature.
USD$75
Fly over the jungle on CR's longest line. A bird’s-eye view with a massive adrenaline rush.
USD$90
Guided day hike to swim under one of Costa Rica's iconic multi-tiered falls.
Navigate exciting river rapids surrounded by pristine tropical vegetation.
Professional therapeutic bodywork and recovery treatments right on site.
United States
This trip was a great experience! I had so much fun and it was so fun to be on vacation and having a blast with, once, strangers. I will say, some of the info on the worldpackers website didn't fully match the host's itinerary, however I think the differences added more fun! I really enjoyed all the included activities and the add ons.
19 days ago
Canada
The surf camp was incredible, but honestly, the people are what made it so unforgettable. I came for the beaches, adventure, and sunshine, but left with so many new friendships, stories, and little moments with people i never would have met otherwise. From strangers who welcomed me like an old friend to the girls I shared the trip with, it was a reminder that the best part of travelling is rarely the places you see, it's the people you meet along the way. the surf camp will always hold a little piece of my heart.
25 days ago
United States
10/10 experience! I had an amazing time in Manuel Antonio at the surf camp-long surf camp. Brett, our trip coordinator, was awesome! Super flexible, invested, and overall made the experience smooth. I had a great time and will recommend it to other travelers.
about 1 month ago
United States
Brett is an amazing guide and host! He was able to work swiftly with the group changes, loss of members due to their own reasons and bring the small group together so well! It felt like a perfect getaway with people I had never met, and by day two we were already bonding and everything felt simple! The adjustment to the climate was the only issue I had and having a crisp AC to return to after each event was awesome! Even days I needed to stay back, I never felt left out!
about 1 month ago
United States
Great experience overall! Felt comfortable and cared for while still having the opportunity to explore a place I was visiting for the first time
about 1 month ago
United States
Such an incredible trip. I loved the place & the people. I didn't want to go home! <3
about 1 month ago
In our community, you can talk to worldpackers who have already collaborated with this host and get your questions answered directly.
Exchange ideas with other confirmed worldpackers before your trip.
Join the crew in our jungle-immersed shared rooms. With 3 or 4 bunk beds, it’s the ideal social setup; connected but comfortable. Each dorm has a hot shower to rinse off the salt, a kitchen for quick meals, and a balcony perfect for relaxing and hanging out. Fast Wi-Fi and workspace are included for when duty calls. It’s the ultimate basecamp to meet fellow travelers, swap stories, and recharge between surf sessions.
Note: Travelers are organized based on location availability, but you will always have access to the chosen room type with all the same amenities listed.
This isn't just a room; it’s your recharge station. Expect a comfy double bed for deep sleep, a private hot shower to wash off the Pacific salt, and a personal kitchen and balcony perfect for that morning brew. Need to hustle? The workspace and fast Wi-Fi have you covered. It’s the ultimate balance; total privacy when you need it, and a laid-back, social vibe waiting just outside your door.
Note: Travelers are organized based on location availability, but you will always have access to the chosen room type with all the same amenities listed.
Fuel the adventure with delicious daily meals included in the experience. The group will enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner, featuring fresh local ingredients and tropical flavors. From energizing breakfasts before surf sessions to communal dinners around the bonfire, every meal is an opportunity to connect with fellow travelers. The menu is designed to keep the traveler nourished and happy, with moments like "pizza nights" or local specialties adding to the authentic flavor of the week. Vegetarian and vegan diets are fully supported. For any other specific dietary needs, please contact the Worldpackers team before booking to check if the project can accommodate them.
The traveler will arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San Jose and connect with the driver at the Denny's restaurant, located just 5 minutes from the international terminal, for a direct transfer to the lodge near Manuel Antonio. A direct return shuttle back to the airport terminal is also fully included for the group at the end of the trip to ensure a seamless journey. Full details are in your program guide once your spot is confirmed!
Hosted by a team deeply rooted in the Manuel Antonio community, dedicated to preserving the authentic "Pura Vida" spirit. Moving away from commercial tourism, they built a sanctuary that prioritizes local impact, hiring neighborhood staff and treating the community as family. Their focus is on creating a genuine environment where sustainability isn't just a buzzword but a lifestyle—evident in their support for turtle conservation and commitment to mindful living. They guide the group with a philosophy of honest connection, respecting nature, and actively supporting the local ecosystem.
Located in the lush Manuel Antonio region, where the jungle meets the Pacific Ocean, this destination is pure magic. The property is situated just a 10-minute drive from the beach and surrounded by vibrant wildlife. Travelers are a short 5-minute walk or bus ride from local conveniences, yet felt completely immersed in nature. It’s a place where days run on sun and tides, not clocks—a region famous for its national park, stunning biodiversity, and the warm, welcoming spirit of the local "Tico" culture.
his experience goes beyond tourism; it’s about deep connection with the local environment and its people. By staying here, the traveler directly supports a project that prioritizes local employment and community integration. The vibe promotes genuine cultural exchange and respect for nature, encouraging everyone to unplug from screens and reconnect with the wild beauty of Costa Rica and the authentic "Pura Vida" spirit of its inhabitants.
By combining physical activity like surfing with nature immersion and community connection, this experience promotes mental and physical health, encouraging travelers to disconnect from stress and reconnect with themselves.
The project supports the local economy by hiring local workers and staff, ensuring fair wages and fostering sustainable economic growth within the Manuel Antonio community, valuing local talent and resources.
The ocean is our playground, and we treat it with the utmost respect. Through daily surfing and beach time, the group fosters a deep connection with the marine ecosystem, promoting awareness about keeping the coastlines clean and protecting the natural habitat of marine life.
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Pay your Program fee to confirm your trip and submit the required documents.
Be a part of a life-changing group trip. Make new friends, learn, and make an impact.
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Worldpackers Group Trips offer a unique opportunity to engage in meaningful projects like eco-agriculture, wildlife conservation, and social activities, all while exploring new cultures. Upon successful sign-up, travelers secure their spot instantly - no waiting around for approvals to have their dream experience. To keep things smooth, they get a direct line to a support team and a complete program guide, all set for travelers to immerse themselves in service projects while also having the best time for personal and cultural exploration with like-minded travelers.
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Each of the Worldpackers Group Trips plans offer different cancelation & modification conditions, which are presented on the payment check-out page and on the Worldpackers Group Trips Terms and Conditions.
Each of the Worldpackers Group Trips experiences offer different benefits, which may include volunteer certificates. All benefits are stated on the openings’ pages, and you can check what type of certificates are available in each of them.
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