Come join the only family-friendly retreat and surf camp in Costa Rica where the whole family can learn to surf, immerse in the local culture, have childcare on the beach, yoga classes under palm trees, and time for the parents to unwind while the kids surf!
Being parents ourselves, we understand that vacationing with family can sometimes take a lot out of you. For that reason we have created a wonderful Tico Mae Family Surf Camp that is filled with fun, sun, soul and surfing.
In addition to world-class surf lessons with pro surfers, there is also:
- Childcare on the beach, in parent’s view, while parents learn to surf, partake in yoga and meditation, or take a beach walk.
- Fun and skillful surf instruction throughout the week that gives you the opportunity to get “hooked” on Surfing—for both parents and kids!
- Professional instructors who are local, bilingual and CPR certified
- Beach activities and boogie boarding for kids.
- Board rental included so you can keep practicing throughout the week.
James Flores is a native of Samara and your lead instructor. He is 25 years of surfing and competitive surfing under his belt and shares his love of surfing, the ocean and Samara with you.
The town of Samara is authentically Tico (Costa Rican). Unlike other Costa Rican beach towns, Samara maintains it’s local flair. At Tico Mae Retreats we have a shop on Playa Samara and it wouldn’t be unusual for James’ mom to welcome you with a bowl of beans and rice grown on her farm!
A week-long surf camp with Tico Mae Retreats will give you a local’s perspective on food, culture, people, adventure, mindfulness and surfing.
The surf camp runs for 4 hours each day allowing you time to spend the rest of the day having a siesta, visiting the town, enjoying the beach or participating in any other activities including:
- Snorkeling
- Paddleboarding
- Fishing
- Horseback Riding
- Walking on the beach
- Yoga and meditation
- Or more Surfing!
We had a taste of family surf camp with James and he is amazing! Amazing surfer, great teacher and just wonderful with children- he had my 9 year-old surfing in no time and my 2 year-old even rode a little wave! Sàmara is a perfect destination for a family get away and I can’t recommend James enough!!
The surfing retreat in Costa Rica was one of the best trips I’ve ever been on. At 53 I never thought I would try surfing, but with James’ expertise and personal attention I caught a few waves and I couldn’t believe how much fun it was! I now understand why people become obsessed with this sport. I will never forget Cindy and her entire staff at hotel Samara Paraiso, and the incredible group of people that I shared this unique experience with!
James is an excellent teacher! It was truly an amazing week, just what we needed and more.
I learned more in one hour here than in all the years I’ve spent dragging myself out in Dog Beach in San Diego.
The time of the day for the 4-hour camp will depend on the tides. For teaching lessons we’d look for low to mid-tides, and mid tide or higher once you feel advanced. Samara is a bay so the waves are perfect for beginner/intermediate surfing.
Do you need yoga on the beach while the kids surf? We have you covered. James’ wife, Wendy, is a yoga teacher of 22 years. Her primary work is intuitive healing. She has written 3 books and teaches intuition nationally and internationally. Allow your mind to melt and clear your energy with yoga and guided meditation on the beach. Yoga is included in the surf camp.
A typical schedule of the day would include:
- Low-mid tide Surf lessons for kids/young adults
- Mid-tide adult surf lessons
- Beach activities for the kids (activities depend on the age of the kids)
- Yoga and meditation class
- Ocean adventures such as snorkeling, fishing, dolphin tours, etc.
What ages are appropriate for surfing?
Any age is appropriate for surfing. Children six and under will learn how to ride the white water and paddle. Even toddlers can stand on a surfboard on the beach and get a feel of the board with an instructor holding the board in very small waves. Instructors are skilled enough to determine the ability of the child and what would be safe for them.
Instructors
Have any questions about the Costa Rica Surf Retreat?
Contact us and a lead instructor will set up a time to chat with you.