The Surf Trip That Spawned A Vision
Dive into the Story of Rise Up And Where It All Began

It all began in 2009 when Phil embarked on a surf trip through Nicaragua. He quickly discovered that the Land of Lakes and Volcanoes was rich with incredible waves, vibrant communities and stunning natural beauty.
As a native of Barbados, Phil fell in love with Nicaragua’s untapped potential and wild landscapes, developing a deep respect for the enchanting aspects of Central American culture.
Ultimately, it was this surf safari that inspired his dream: to create surf and yoga retreats in a tranquil corner of the world, abundant with adventure, uncrowded waves and opportunities for genuine connection.
Since then, Rise Up has made a name for running the best surf and yoga retreats in Central America, boasting multiple locations in Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Guatemala and Barbados.
However, arguably the most pivotal moment in our story occurred in 2014 when Phil met Corina.
Introduced by a mutual friend and united by a shared vision and passion for surfing, they together laid the groundwork for what Rise Up surf and yoga has become today.
Now, with the love and support of their young daughter Kaya, Phil and Corina continue to refine and expand the Rise Up brand… all while ensuring it remains rooted in its core values: family vibes, holistic surf coaching, delicious food, giving back and laidback luxury.


Going forward, we promise to remain committed to our original vision, care deeply for our guests and passionately embrace what we do. We hope you have the opportunity to experience the love and warmth that defines Rise Up surf and yoga for yourself.
Pack your bags, grab your surfboard and join us on an unforgettable journey of self-discovery and adventure in some of the most beautiful corners of the world.
The Rise Up Surf Name
To ‘rise up’ is to go beyond the ordinary and tap into something extraordinary.
It’s the feeling of bliss that accompanies your first wave of the day. It’s the way a sunset casts long shadows over a palm-tree lined beach. It’s meeting somebody for the first time, yet feeling like you’ve known them your whole life.
It’s an emotion and a way of life that perfectly encapsulates what stirs our soul. Rise Up surf and yoga first came to Phil during one of those surf sessions that lingers long in our mind, and perhaps it explains it better than we ever could.
Check it out and learn more about the Rise Up surf and yoga concept.

The Team That Make The Dream
Everyone with enough resources can build a fancy resort. But a surf retreat is so much more than bricks, mortar and comfy beds.
It’s the human element that makes all the difference, and we like to think we employ some of the best people in the world. Talented. Patient. Easygoing. Our team comprises surf coaches, yoga instructors, chefs and wellness experts who are all committed to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for our guests – many of whom return year after year, only to be met with familiar faces and warm hugs.
This is the Rise Up surf and yoga difference, and as our team continues to grow, we’re excited to see where this journey takes us next.
What Do We Stand For?
It’s said that if you stand for nothing, you fall for anything. And since our whole concept is based around rising up, you better believe we stand for all things good.
At Rise Up surf and yoga, our mission is to elevate lives through unique retreat experiences that foster love, community and a deep connection to nature. We create mindful experiences where adventure meets holistic living, ensuring everyone feels uplifted and nurtured. Our core values are:
- Service
- Community
- Communication
- Adventure
- Freedom
- Joy
These values are woven into every interaction, every retreat and every moment. And when combined with our own knowledge, integrity, initiative, imagination and professionalism, you get a Rise Up surf and yoga flavor that’s distinctly our own.





