Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

Costa Rica Surf & Jungle Week: Waves & Authentic Pura Vida in Wild Coast.

4.1
(18 reviews)18

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.

  • Wellness & Cultural Immersion

  • Surf Camp

  • Requires Beginner English or Beginner Spanish

  • 7 days

  • Up to 26 travelers

Eva Verkroost
Worldpackers host since May/2025
  • Reserve your spot now from US$ 645

Starting from

US$ 1,290 for 7 days (US$ 184.29/day)

Check dates & prices
Starting from US$ 1,290
7 days 4.1
Check dates & prices

Available dates

Mar/08/2026 Mar/14/2026

  • Confirmed

  • Reserve your spot now from US$ 645

Starting from

US$ 1,290

Get an early bird deal through Feb 10

Mar/22/2026 Mar/28/2026

  • Available

Travel with Alessia

Come with me to Costa Rica for a trip in contact with nature and new friends

Show more
  • Reserve your spot now from US$ 525

Starting from

US$ 1,150

US$ 1,250

-8%

Apr/05/2026 Apr/11/2026

  • Available

Costa Rica with Taryn

Join us for an unforgettable escape to the sun-soaked beaches of Costa Rica, where warm waters and rolling waves set the tone for the perfect surf retreat. This trip is all about reconnecting—with nature, with yourself, and with a like-minded community. Led by Taryn, expect daily surf sessions tailored to all levels, nourishing meals, and plenty of time to unwind under palm trees or explore the vibrant local culture. Whether you're a seasoned surfer or just starting out, this retreat offers the ideal mix of adventure, relaxation, and pura vida energy.

Show more
  • Reserve your spot now from US$ 619

Starting from

US$ 1,243

US$ 1,248

-0%

Itinerary

The activities in this itinerary and their order can be adjusted according to seasonality and the needs of the project.

What's included

Exclusive Trip Coordinator

Connect with a Travel Expert who's ready to guide you through your journey via email and video calls, making sure all your questions are answered.

Comprehensive Program Guide

Get a complete and trustworthy go-to guide with travel logistics, destination highlights, full itinerary, host info, safety tips, and more.

Pre-trip preparation checklist

Get immediate access to a checklist outlining the essential steps you must take to prepare for a safe journey, with no surprises along the way.

Local guidance and support on the ground

Connect with grassroots hosts, passionate, reliable, and rooted in their communities.

6 Nights Accommodation

Stay in your chosen room type (Private, Double, or Shared) in our traveler-only lodge surrounded by nature.

5 Surf Sessions

Daily coaching and guiding with local instructors to get you standing up or shredding (Mon-Fri). Surf Sessions are divided by groups up to 5 people, about an hour of surf for each group daily!

Local Support

24/7 support from your hosts and local team.

Welcome Bonfire

Sunset gathering to break the ice.

Sunset Beach Party

Celebration with music and drinks on the sand.

Jungle Nightlife

Guided night out to the best local spots (optional entry fees/drinks extra, but the fun is guaranteed).

Salsa Night

A fun, beginner-friendly dance class to get the hips moving.

Daily Shuttles

Transportation from the lodge to the beach/surf spots and included activities.

Bus Station Transfer

Free pickup and drop-off from Manuel Antonio Bus Station to the lodge.

3 Daily Meals

Fuel your adventure with delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner included every day. Kick off the morning with power-packed local dishes, refuel with fresh lunches after the waves, and bond with the tribe over communal dinners.

What's not included

Flight tickets and info

Visas and documentation

Travel Insurance

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.

Immersion activities

Get to know the local culture and have an authentic travel experience with activities included in your itinerary.

Extra activities

Additional activities for you to enjoy this adventure even more in your free time.

View all

18 Reviews

4.1

Philippines

5

Just wrapped up a 7-day the surf camp trip hosted by Ari and Gio, and it was honestly an amazing experience. We went into this trip as a group of 15 strangers and left feeling like we've all known each other forever. Everything was well organized, smooth, and stress-free. Gio and Ari were super flexible, easy to communicate with, and made sure everyone was taken care of. From start to finish, the vibes were great and the memories were even better. I'd 100% recommend booking a trip with them if you're thinking about it. Definitely a trip I'll never forget!

about 7 hours ago

American Samoa

5

Incredible experience all around. The group of girls I got to meet was the highlight. Eve (The hostess) is flexible and adaptable which I truly appreciate. The room / bed was super cozy. I highly recommend !!!!🥲❤️

13 days ago

United States

5

This was truly incredible. -life changing for me. These hosts are very warm and welcoming. I felt seen and valued by them. The projects and events were great -some were fun, some refreshing, and all were super healing to my soul😍. The event side of the schedule did get changed a nice bit, but I like change so that wasn't a big deal for me except not saving the turtles was sad. I loved the amount of free time we had. Beforehand communication was lacking, which caused for some not so ideal experiences for me (pssst, I will cherish them in my memories;)) Overall splendid experience 💖

18 days ago

United States

5

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

22 days ago

Norway

5

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!

23 days ago

Canada

5

I had an amazing Time with Eva and Her team❤️

about 2 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.

Available after purchasing the experience

Connect with others who will also be there

Exchange ideas with other confirmed worldpackers before your trip.

+5

Accommodation options

Private Jungle Suite: Your Exclusive Recharge Zone

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.

7 bedrooms 7 bathrooms
  • Fixed-price laundry service
  • Internet (over 100 Mbps)
  • Use our equipped kitchen
  • Dedicated Workspace
  • Hot water showers

Social Jungle Basecamp: Connect, Surf & Chill

Join the crew in our jungle-immersed shared rooms. With 3 or 4 bunk beds, it’s the ideal social setup; connected but comfortable. You get the real perks: a private hot shower to rinse off the salt, a kitchen for quick meals, and a balcony for 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.

4 bedrooms 4 bathrooms
  • Fixed-price laundry service
  • Internet (over 100 Mbps)
  • Hot water showers
  • Dedicated Workspace
  • Use our equipped kitchen

The Duo Den: Shared Space, Double the Fun

Find your balance in this 2-person shared room; the sweet spot between social energy and personal space. It’s the perfect setup for travel buddies or solo travelers who want connection without the crowd. You get all the essentials for a solid recharge: comfy beds, a private hot shower to rinse off the ocean, and your own kitchen and balcony for those slow mornings. With fast Wi-Fi and workspace included, it’s a laid-back, intimate launchpad for your jungle adventures.

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.

4 bedrooms 4 bathrooms
  • Fixed-price laundry service
  • Internet (over 100 Mbps)
  • Use our equipped kitchen
  • Dedicated Workspace
  • Hot water showers

Meals

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.

Included meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Dietary restrictions
Vegetarian friendly
Vegan friendly

Arrival orientation

Getting to the jungle is part of the adventure! The journey starts at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO). For an stress-free ride, the host can organize a private shuttle ($60) departing SJO. Alternatively, the traveler can book their own transport or choose the budget-friendly "Tracopa" public bus ($10-$15) from San José to Manuel Antonio. The best perk? For those arriving by bus at the Manuel Antonio terminal, a shuttle to the lodge is included!

Pickup included
Manuel Antonio Bus Station

About the project

Hosted by Eva Verkroost
4.1
(18 reviews)18

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.

Languages spoken in this project
Dutch, English, Spanish
How long does it exist
2 years
Worldpackers host
Since May/2025

About the destination

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.

Local currency
Costa Rican Colón (₡), but US Dollars are also widely accepted
Timezone
GMT-6

Impact & Purpose

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.

This host contributes to Sustainable Development Goals

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.

192k

travelers worldwide

310k

volunteer trips

+2M

social media community

4.8

on 112k reviews


FAQ

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.