Are you female and have always wanted to learn to surf?.....or already know how to surf, but want to get more instruction, NOT freeze your ass offf and actually be able to wear a bathing suit in the water? Or maybe you are already a fantasitc surfer, but don't feel comfortable travelling to Costa Rica by yourself for a surf vacation? If this is you, I HIGHLY suggest booking a trip with Pura Vida Adventures. An amazing woman and friend of mine, Tierza, started this business about 4 years ago, and I was part of the very first all girls camp.....and I can't possibly iterate how empowering, fun, beautiful and enriching my experience was....probably because of all the tequila I drank while I was there. My memory is a little foggy ;-) I fell so in love with the area, Malpias and Santa Teresa, that I now travel back on my own to enjoy the same beautiful coastline, waves, rainforests, and people (THE HOTTEST men I have EVER seen living in one tiny area in my life!!) Here's a great quote that a girl from my camp wrote at the end of our trip...I think she sums it up very well: "Start by imagining the perfect week: surfing, yoga, wonderful food, beautiful women, falling asleep to the sound of the waves every night - wake to the sounds of tropical birds in the morning. Maybe see the stars like you've never seen them before. Start telling time by the direction of the wind and the tides. Forget what day it is. How hard can you paddle? Drink? Laugh? Double that, and that's Pura Vida." Although the camp caters to all women groups, they do have some weeks throughout the season that are coed....so, if any guys are interested in this, check out the calendar on their website. www.puravidaadventures.com To get a discounted rate, pay 60 days in advance of your trip. NorCalWomensSurfClub members get an even bigger discount, and joining NCWSC is free and easy to do on their website. So, I highly recommend that for savings....and it's a great way to meet other female surfers. This is one of the most amazing times I have had travelling...and I try to travel as much as I can. It definitely took some months off my life, at least off of my liver, and I think there's a video of me riding a mechanical bull that I wouldn't want my parents to see floating around somewhere on the internet....but, so worth it. I made friendships that will last a lifetime....and it gave me the confidence to begin travelling solo.... Pura Vida read more

Costa Rica is so beautiful and the people are so welcoming. From the second I arrived at Pura Vida Adventures, I felt so welcomed and at home. The hotel was the perfect combo of luxe, jungle living. Steps from the ocean, the property was exactly what I was hoping for. The pool was a nice touch and the open air restaurant on-site was fresh and delicious. Now for the surfing and yoga! I was a beginner at yoga at the time and Cris was an amazing instructor. I felt completely comfortable and excited to push myself to learn more. The open air yoga studio overlooking the ocean was so peace during each morning yoga sesh. So, even though I have lived in San Diego my whole life, I waited until my 30s and going to Costa Rica to learn to surf. Crazy! But I am glad I did, because the rolling waves in Costa Rica were so perfect to learn on. The small groups at Pura Vida coupled with the super experienced instructors really helped me feel like I was getting one-on-one attention. I was so proud of myself for pushing through my fear and riding waves in. By the end of the week, I was both refreshed (mind) and exhausted (body). With two small kids at home and a demanding job, Pura Vida was the perfect getaway to reenergize my mind and spirit. I also loved heading into town- such a quant place with good restaurants and fun people. We also zip-lined one day, which was so amazing - Starting at the top of the jungle canopy with the most amazing ocean view, and working our way down to the beach! When I got home, I bought a surf board and began surfing in San Diego. Although, I must say, I like the waves in CR better. :) https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g635538-d12727804-r525853077-Pura_Vida_Adventures-Santa_Teresa_Province_of_Puntarenas.html# read more

Looking for your next great vacation? These guys run an amazing surf camp down in Costa Rica. It used to be for women only, but they have co-ed weeks now. If you go during the week that the Bay Area Outdoor Adventure Club is there (usually in February), you'll meet lots of Bay Area people who you can surf with once you get back home. Here's a typical day there: get up. Go to a really great yoga class. Eat breakfast. Go surf for two hours. Come back and eat lunch. Hang out in the pool or take a siesta in a hammock for a few hours. Go surf again in the afternoon. Hang out afterwards at a beachfront bar and drink an apres-surf cocktail or Imperial. Dinner, then hit the town - Malpais is crawling with surfer boys and girls. Get up the next day and do it all over again. The surf instruction is top-notch. The beach: walking distance, and oh-so-beautiful. The accomodations: spacious bungalows, with that mosquito netting over the beds that reminds you that you really are in Central America. The food: fresh and plentiful - lots of fruit. The grounds: nice pool with a bar right next to it (serving the best pina coladas ever), plenty of space to hang out and relax, and iguanas running about. I can't wait to go back! read more

Great people, great waves, great accommodations, great instruction. I learned a lot, made great friends, relaxed, ate fruit and got tan. Um, what more do you want? It basically goes like this, wake up, eat breakfast, go surfing, eat fruit, nap in a hammock, swim in the pool, each lunch, take a shower, take a nap or walk, do yoga, then surf again (or do something almost as cool around the area), then dinner and maybe an evening of dancing and drinks. If this doesn't sound like the best time of your life I don't think looking at yelp reviews is going to help you figure out what to do with that week off. :) Co-ed retreats are cool for people who are not girls or want to go to a cool place with a cool girl. read more

I was fortunate to find Pura Vida Adventure Surf Camp and Yoga Retreat located on the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica. I have come back to this camp several times over the last ten years because as a solo female and older surfer, I feel respected and welcomed. The best thing about PVA is the excellent surf instruction. If you are a beginner or advanced surfer, you will get the attention and instruction you need to suit your level. When I started off with PVA, I was newer to surfing. And now, I go back to improve my skill level and to continue to learn about ocean safety. Sometimes back at home in California, I feel intimidated by all the hot Nor Cal surfers - but PVA always boosts my confidence. I am going back to PV this month even though I was just there in July. I can't wait. read more

Low pressure, High Fun! When I first contemplated spending my vacation at a Co-ed Surf Camp somewhere in Costa Rica I was a it sceptical. Well, I have to say that my skepticism was totally unwarranted. I had an amazing time! So amazing that my wife and I have attended the New Years retreat 2 years in a row, and I am sure we will continue to return. Everyone is down to earth and genuinely friendly. The owners and instructors are easy going and fun and they really know how to tailor your experience to your capabilities. The surfng and yoga were great, the accomodations were comfy and the food was delicious. Great time. Great Memories! read more

Pura Vida has ruined me for future vacations. For one thing, no longer am I content to lie on a beach. Or visit family. Or visit other cities. Why would I when I can be zip-lining, hiking, eating delicious fresh food, galloping on horseback down a beach, doing yoga -- all in addition to surfing at a spot that's great for any level. I have been three times and can't wait to go back. read more

Red Flag alert! Notice the reviews posted are from way back in 2013 or prior.? Where'd everyone go? Something I didn't catch before signing on for this "adventure". I had a good time in Costa Rica but it was definitely not with P.V.A. Here's the pros and cons. Pro:Nice to have an outfit that knows the lay of the land. They know the restaurants, the surf spot to start out with, and a good hotel to check into. They also setup your taxi for pickup at the "airport", i.e., landing strip in the jungle. More on that below. Con:Being stuck on a compound with an outfit that you can't avoid. Lot's of back-biting. Even the owner seemed cold. By day three I distanced myself, rented a board, and met the natives. Very cool people down there. Too bad 'Pura Vida Surf Adventures' isn't genuinely flowing with the pura vida vibe. More like the characters of 'Mean Girls' have relocated to Costa Rica. Surf Anyone? Pros: Instructors were knowledgeable and have a good amount of surf experience under their belts. They are able to provide helpful tips. Cons: Again, it's a personality thing in a group dynamic. If they like you you're solid, you'll get your money's worth of instruction. If they aren't feeling you, you'll probably get less instruction. Maybe the water down there is so magical it makes some people invisible? Professionalism Cons: Yikes!! Their "coordinator" Sara, was unavailable at times when she clearly should have been. For example, my flight came in two hours early. I needed to let her know so that my taxi situation could get worked out. She was unresponsive to multiple texts. Not helpful when you've traveled all night and are stuck sitting at a terminal in the sweaty jungle waiting for a lift. What's up with that? I didn't hold that against her but then she didn't show for the next mornings meeting due to a hangover. It made little difference to me if she was there or not but I was getting a picture of her work ethic. Now here's the shocker. A few days in I heard her on a voicemail making comments about either me or another client in which she made some seriously mean spirited remarks because one of us was late to an event. Really?!! The hypocrisy of someone who is a flake herself slamming another person is glaring obvious. And FYI, it wasn't me who was late. Unprofessionalism aside, I feel she is totally out of bounds as just being a decent person. Smiles to your face, confides in you like a true gal pal, and then talks smack about you behind your back. PVA's Hotel Choice Pros: Personally, it was right for me. It is a tropical fantasy:Monkey or two in the tree tops, grass thatched bungalows, tiki torches. They have an open air bar/restaurant ( foods okay but great grinds just steps outside the grounds) beautiful yoga studios with a grand view of the ocean, and a massage therapist who will melt you like wax dripping off your board in the hot sun. Ask for Pina. She is bliss and what a beautiful spirit.*** Con:Property next door was rented by very young partiers that played drinking games way late, sometimes till dawn. They were literally screaming and drumming their fists on the table. Aargh! Hotel staff did what they could but what can they really do. Whose rented the place next door is a gamble. Okay, adventure seekers go for it but be prepared that if you don't click with this clique you'll be bumming hard. On the other hand they may make you prom queen. Either way, know this is a gaggle of girl-women and you are subject to judgment. If you have any questions feel free to message me. read more

LIFE CHANGING EXPERIENCE This is not only an extremely well run surf camp, with some of the best surf instructors you'll ever get (I am serious: they love teaching and have the best tips for all levels - beginner to advanced), a magical location, and some good food. This is also a life experience that will reset the human within you: you will learn how to be humble in the ocean, how to share hearty meals that feeds your body and your soul, how to enlighten the goddess within you (our surf & yoga instructors are the best role models for that !!), and how to connect with your true self (this place is pretty inspiring, being physical for a week is often pretty disruptive with our usual working urban lives). WHY SHOULD YOU DO IT? First, Santa Teresa (Costa Rica, South of NIcoya Peninsula on the Pacific Coast) is a synonym for "paradise". Second, Surfing skills will change your life. Third, paired with a holistic Yoga experience, your mind will be aligned with your soreness ! Worth to mention: - 5 Stars Surf Instructors: insightful and pedagogic methodologies on the ground and on the waves, video analysis - Full-inclusive and full schedule: you can leave your brain and scheduling mind at home - 1 Free Massage: well-deserved read more

One of the best decisions I've made! Pura Vida delivers an all around, top notch experience! Fantastic people, great food, amazing beaches, knowledgeable and skilled instructors! I love this place and plan to come back as often as possible! read more

I am an avid traveller and have sought adventure retreats throughout the world for my holidays .....and the search is now over - Pura Vida Adventure tops the list. These guys take fun to another level and every detail of your week is taken care of so all you have to do is turn up and be prepared to laugh and relax and enjoy. Just go - this is a great experience and I should know - I have tried them all! read more

amazing staff. amazing accomadations. met amazing friends. overall trip and and my surfing exceeded my expectations. josie the coordinator was very accomadating to everyones needs. staff made it clear that it was "our vacation" vs some surf boot camp that we signed up for. cant wait to go back next year. read more

Very fun and relaxing - met and surpassed all my expectations. The people and place are fantastic. No complaints. Would definitely go back for another camp and bring some friends when I can afford it! read more

And great times were had by all! I went with my best friend and made 9 more, women of all ages, shapes and abilities. The surf instructors were wonderful and the ratio of student to teacher could not have been better. Because of the ratio, your instructor can tailor your lesson daily. You either surf right in front of the hotel or went down the road a bit and even had fun in the van getting there. The rooms were great, A/C, safes, comfy beds. Good food and great massages! Yoga was taught with your surfing muscles in mind! As I sat on the beach after surfing on my 50th birthday, I thought....life cannot get any sweeter! read more

Sooooo...I never write reviews for anything I purchase, attend, etc., but after spending an unbelievable week in Costa Rica at Pura Vida Adventures, I couldn't resist. I am one who loves to travel and experiment with life. When I saw an ad about Pura Vida & realized that it was a surf camp, I was in! And how happy was I that I went!!! I grabbed a couple of my girlfriends and said, "let's do it!" And it remains to be a trip of a lifetime! I live less than a mile from the Atlantic Ocean in central New Jersey & have spent a lot of time in the ocean all my life swimming & surfing. I am far from an expert surfer, but love to tackle anything that is thrown at me, especially when it comes to the sea. So, going to Pura Vida was a definite! Sun, waves, and some cold ones are my 3 favorite things in life (don't tell my husband and sons;-)), so Pura Vida was, without a doubt, my ultimate vacation! Although, I do like to relax on the beach in my hometown of Manasquan...this vacation is not a full relaxation deal. You are up fairly early in the a.m. having breakfast & then going out to surf. No complaints, by any means, but myself, as well as my girls, like to party it up, so mornings were a little groggy but nothing that we couldn't handle. (I actually can still hear the sweetest voice of Josie, the most unreal, accommodating camp host ever, calling our lazy asses out of bed to see if we were interested in breakfast or a spot of tea;-)) of course we got up having some delicious grub to start off our day of fun! Once we were out on the breaks, we couldn't have asked for a better, more fun-loving, group of instructors! They are truly unbelievable! So caring, informative, fun, and awesome! Within hours, you feel like you've known them forever, or wished you had...they rock!!!!!! Days were spent surfing the best breaks you could wish for, and nights drinking and eating the most amazing food! Seriously....this place really is unforgettable! Acccomadations are very comfortable and artistically & beautifully rustic. The staff is funny, loving, informative, and all around, just makes you feel at ease and relaxed...so, so, so wonderful! I will be going back to Pura Vida Adventures sooner than later and count down the days until I can once again be in pure paradise and live the Pura Vida lifestyle.:-) read more

I booked my trip (the first trip I have taken since my husband passed away in 2013) with a little apprehension thinking I was going alone but also with much excitement to finally realize a dream I have had for 10 years. Turns out my sister was able to travel with me and we had the times of our lives! Pura Vida Adventures was such a wonderful experience all around it is difficult to pinpoint a favorite part of this adventure. We received EXCELLENT surf instruction and attention in the water. I am a group fitness instructor, so I know how difficult it can be to provide individual instruction in a group setting. Not only was the instruction superior, the instructors and coordinators are so personable and likable they could be teaching you to eat your most detested food and you would love it! The exceptional yoga instruction was the perfect complement to the program, with Cristina being the finest yoga instructor I have ever had the pleasure of practicing with. The hotel was unexpectedly delightful (I was thinking surf CAMP, not surf 5 stars), the entire staff was friendly and helpful, the Wi-Fi was better than mine in the US, and if you need a wake up call, just listen for monkeys as they start howling at about 5:00am. PS - Not that I was really interested, as this trip was a part of my grief recovery, but apparently Costa Rica has a "no ugly men" allowed policy. Just go - you'll see! read more