Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
Surf, dance & reconnect: A tropical immersion in Costa Rica’s wild coast
This isn’t your average retreat. Over seven days, travelers will surf Pacific waves, release baby turtles, learn salsa, and laugh around bonfires. It’s a full-on tropical immersion, with purpose. Reconnect to the real world through nature, people, and play. No filters, no scripts—just pura vida and wild-hearted fun.
- Eva Verkroost
- Worldpackers host since May/2025
Available group trips
Mar 01, 2026 - Mar 07, 2026
Come to Costa Rica with Amy!
Come experience a lively Surf Week in Costa Rica—an uplifting escape where each sunrise greets you with fresh waves and new possibilities. Surrounded by lush paradise, dive into daily surf sessions, energizing yoga, meaningful connections, stunning sunsets, and the true spirit of pura vida. Ride the ocean, awaken your soul, and return home with epic memories, lifelong friendships, and renewed confidence.
Starting from
US$ 1,360
US$ 1,210
Itinerary
Day 1
Afternoon
Introduction Circle
Get to know your group and what's ahead this epic week.
Arrival & Check-in
Get picked up from Manuel Antonio Bus Station, settle in, and get to know your group before the project's introduction circle.
Evening
Bonfire & Dinner
Enjoy your first sunset with a cozy bonfire and a shared meal.
Day 2
Morning
Breakfast
Surf Session
Catch your first waves with the crew.
Afternoon
Lunch & Free Time
Recharge and explore or relax on your own terms.
Sunset Cruise (Optional)
Join a chill cruise—good vibes and golden hour views.
Evening
Dinner
Day 3
Morning
Breakfast
Surf Session
Morning surf to level up your skills and confidence.
Afternoon
Lunch & Free Time
Chill, journal, nap, or discover local gems.
Evening
Dinner & Free Time
Enjoy a casual group dinner and downtime.
Salsa Dancing Outing
Hit the town for some Latin rhythm and local fun.
Day 4
Morning
Breakfast
Surf Session
Another wave-filled morning to boost your surf game.
Afternoon
Lunch & Free Time
Relax, read, or soak up the sun—your call.
Evening
Group Dinner
Reflect on the day over a delicious shared meal.
Day 5
Morning
Turtle Encounter
Learn about local sea turtles and support conservation.
Breakfast
Afternoon
Lunch
Sunset Surf Photoshoot
Catch waves during golden hour—photo-worthy moments included.
Evening
Dinner
Day 6
Morning
Breakfast
Final Surf Session
One last ride—soak in every second on the board.
Afternoon
Lunch Break
Savor a final relaxing midday meal.
Evening
Pizza Night & Club Outing
Wrap up the week with fun, dancing, and all the vibes.
Day 7
Morning
Departure Time
Pack up and take the memories with you.
Big Group Breakfast
One last shared table before goodbyes.
What's included
What's not included
Requirements
- Beginner English or Beginner Spanish
- Over 18 years old
Activities
See the activities that will make your trip into an epic adventure.
Learning opportunities
Contribute to your project and make a positive impact while developing new skills.
Surfing Lessons
Daily surfing classes for all levels to improve your wave skills.
Turtle conservation walks
Guided beach walks to learn and help protect sea turtles.
From Jul - Dec
Immersion activities
Get to know the local culture and have an authentic travel experience with activities included in your itinerary.
Bonfire Welcome Dinner
Beach bonfire with dinner to start your trip relaxed and social.
Light hiking & beach walks
Easy hikes and strolls to enjoy nature and unwind.
Salsa Dancing
Fun salsa dance lessons to enjoy local culture and meet others.
Pizza Night & Club Outing
Pizza dinner followed by a night out dancing and socializing.
Extra activities
Additional activities for you to enjoy this adventure even more in your free time.
Sunset Cruise
Relaxing boat ride to watch the beautiful sunset
USD$85
Zip Lining
Thrilling zip line tour through the forest canopy.
USD$85
Park Tour
Guided walk through Manuel Antonio National Park.
USD$50
Mangrove Night Tour
Night tour to see mangrove wildlife.
USD$50
ATV Tour
Adventure-filled ride exploring rugged terrain.
USD$120
Spanish Lessons
Five sessions to boost your Spanish skills.
USD$120
Mindy
United States
Maria (Connie) was absolutely amazing. From the moment I arrived, she was warm, welcoming, and made me feel instantly comfortable. She didn't just lead the trip, she truly became one of the girls, and I genuinely see her as a new friend. She helped All of us navigate the area and added an extra layer of comfort, support, and fun to the whole experience. I'm so grateful for her and would travel with her again in a heartbeat. Also so excited to have been introduced to Worldpackers through this trip
about 6 hours ago
Lina
Norway
This the surf camp with Eva, Eve and all the other girls has truly been MAGICAL. I came all the way from Norway, and I felt well taken care of and safe in my travel. My first travel outside of Europe. I will say that the weeks leading up to the trip wasn't very organized and it was hard to know what's going on, I felt like I was going into it blind. I expressed this in the chat and after I did, they took SO MUCH initiative and it felt completely different! I only had to ask once for what I needed, and it was taken care of, which was amazing. So they truly made sure we were informed and felt safe!
2 days ago
Évangéline
Canada
I had an amazing Time with Eva and Her team❤️
about 1 month ago
Grace
United States
This trip was one of the best experiences of my life so far. Being immersed in the natural landscape and local culture of beautiful the surf camp taught me so much about life, and all the beauty and happiness that can be found within. Eva helped to make this experience so welcoming and comforting by providing us with authentic activities and food, great conversation and laughter, and always being available for questions or help through the stay. the surf camp was incredible, I feel like I got a totally local experience, and I am forever grateful! Pura Vida!!!
about 1 month ago
Brielle
United States
Eva is an absolute angel, our group trip was changed last minute and she took care of everything. From the moment we got there it was an amazing experience. There were so many opportunities to do so many different things, from surf lessons to national parks to salsa dancing, etc. Truly loved my experience here and will hopefully be back soon!
4 months ago
Haley
Canada
This was my first solo trip and to say it was better than expected would be an understatement. All of the activities were so much fun, the space felt safe and welcoming, and the host eva went above and beyond to make us all feel taken care of
4 months ago
Talk to those who have lived the experience
In our community, you can talk to worldpackers who have already collaborated with this host and get your questions answered directly.
Connect with others who will also be there
Exchange ideas with other confirmed worldpackers before your trip.
+3
Accommodation options
Private Room
Travelers will stay in private rooms in a traveler-only building surrounded by nature. Rooms are equipped with comfy double beds, a private bathroom with hot showers, a kitchen, and a balcony ideal for morning coffee. There’s also a workspace and fast Wi-Fi. The vibe is cozy, social, and easygoing—perfect for those looking to connect, rest, or chill after surf sessions.
- Fixed-price laundry service
- Internet (over 100 Mbps)
- Use our equipped kitchen
- Dedicated Workspace
- Hot water showers
Shared Room
Travelers will stay in shared rooms, with two bunk beds each, in a traveler-only building surrounded by nature. Rooms are equipped with comfy bunk beds, a private bathroom with hot showers, a kitchen, and a balcony ideal for morning coffee. There’s also workspace and fast Wi-Fi. The vibe is cozy, social, and easygoing—perfect for those looking to connect, rest, or chill after surf sessions.
- Fixed-price laundry service
- Internet (over 100 Mbps)
- Hot water showers
- Dedicated Workspace
- Use our equipped kitchen
Double Room
Travelers will stay in double rooms, in a traveler-only building surrounded by nature. Rooms are equipped with comfy double beds, a private bathroom with hot showers, a kitchen, and a balcony ideal for morning coffee. There’s also a workspace and fast Wi-Fi. The vibe is cozy, social, and easygoing—perfect for those looking to connect, rest, or chill after surf sessions.
- Fixed-price laundry service
- Internet (over 100 Mbps)
- Use our equipped kitchen
- Dedicated Workspace
- Hot water showers
Meals
All meals are included and prepared by the local staff. Expect hearty local breakfasts like gallo pinto, eggs, fried cheese, and tortillas. Lunch includes pastas, salads, and vegetarian options, while dinner rotates between BBQs, burritos, and shared meals. Vegan, vegetarian, and lactose-free diets are welcome. It’s real food, made with love, and always shared with a side of laughter.
Arrival orientation
Travelers are picked up at the Manuel Antonio Bus Station and provided with detailed guidance on how to get there from San José Airport (SJO) via Uber and the Tracopa bus ($15 total). Upon arrival at the property, travelers are welcomed with an intro session and a bonfire party to kick things off, Costa Rica style.
Direct transportation from San José is also available for $50 each way, arranged with the host after booking the Epic Trips.
About the project
Created by a global couple who traded city life for jungle sunsets, this project is run by a passionate crew of locals and long-time expats. Their mission? To help people ditch screens, reconnect to nature, and rediscover joy. With surf instructors, dance teachers, guides, and massage therapists, their team brings the pura vida lifestyle to life—through community, laughter, and shared adventures.
About the destination
Set near the vibrant Manuel Antonio region of Costa Rica, the experience unfolds between beaches, jungle trails, and wildlife-rich coastline. Just minutes from bars, markets, and national parks, the area offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. It’s a lush escape where sloths chill in trees and howler monkeys soundtrack your mornings.
Impact & Purpose
This experience is all about real connection—with nature, with people, and with yourself. Travelers help protect sea turtles, support a local team, and swap screen time for soul time. It’s about feeling alive, giving back, and dancing barefoot under the stars.
This host contributes to Sustainable Development Goals
Good health and well-being
Through healthy meals, physical activities like surfing and hiking, and a no-processed-food ethos, the experience promotes true well-being.
Responsible consumption and production
Meals are shared mindfully, leftovers are offered to the community, and nothing goes to waste—respecting the land and its resources.
Life below water
The group joins efforts to protect sea turtles and care for the ocean they surf in, raising awareness and supporting local conservation actions.
More Group Trips you might like
How Group Trips works
Short, curated trips designed for travelers who want more than just a vacation.
Pick your Group Trip
Explore our curated collection of 1–2 week group adventures with purpose.
Book instantly. No applications.
Just choose your dates and lock in your spot by paying the Registration Fee. That’s it.
Get full support from our team
Your dedicated Trip Coordinator is with you every step of the way to help with all the preparation.
Confirm your trip
Pay your Program fee to confirm your trip and submit the required documents.
Have a truly epic experience
Be a part of a life-changing group trip. Make new friends, learn, and make an impact.
Why choose Worldpackers?
We're the safest community for travel and volunteering. Since 2014, we've connected over 117k travelers with thousands of hosts worldwide.
travelers worldwide
volunteer trips
social media community
on 112k reviews
FAQ
How do Worldpackers Group Trips work?
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 Worldpackers Group Trips Coordinator and to the host, 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.
What are the differences between Worldpackers Group Trips and Worldpackers Trips experiences?
Worldpackers Group Trips have some special benefits that are not offered in any other Worldpackers’ plans:
- Guaranteed Host Confirmation: by purchasing an Epic Trip experience, your attendance is immediately secured, without the need to wait for a confirmation message from the project - which can take longer than expected due to hosts’ busy routines.
- Exclusive Support: once you purchase an Epic Trip experience, you’ll be assigned to a specific WP Group Trips Coordinator, who will advise you throughout your pre-departure through multiple channels.
- Complete Program Guide: from detailed information on how to get to your destination to cultural norms and tips, you can check everything you need to know about your experience in one place.
- Preparation checklist: get a detailed pre-trip plan for a safe trip and avoid surprises.
What happens if I have to cancel or change my Epic Trip?
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.
Do I get a certificate after conclusion?
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.
Does Worldpackers help with Visa, Vaccination, Travel insurance and/or any other documentation?
The traveler is solely responsible for any and all other requirements relating to travel logistics, including but not limited to tickets, passports, local transportation, travel insurance, and visas. Since every country has its own unique policies that vary according to the nationality of travelers and multiple other factors that may quickly change, Worldpackers does not offer any specific help regarding visas, documentation, vaccinations, or travel insurance. Please check all requirements with the consulate or embassy of the country you’d like to visit for trustworthy, updated information.
Can I travel with a friend or partner?
Each traveler must secure their spot in experiences through paying the amount advertised on the Epic Trip experience web page. The amount advertised is unique, and slots are limited: please check the maximum number of participants on the experience’s web page to make sure you’ll be able to travel together.