An Intimate Retreat Experience On The Edge Of The Rainforest

Everything about my Rise Up week was amazing - in fact I extended my stay because I didn't want it to end. The Rise Up staff were friendly, supportive, encouraging, motivating and incredibly talented surfers and coaches. The activities were well rounded, interesting and there was a nice balance between active and down time. The location was incredible - food was delicious, staff were friendly and attentive and it was clean, well appointed and beautiful.

I just finished Rise Up's Southern Costa Rica surf camp in late November 2022, at their Eco-Luxury Lodge location. I have been on several other surf camps over the years, all generally good. But this was my first Rise Up trip. I have to say that this trip was one of the best, if not the best surf trips I have every been on. The location was spectacular. Many times we had the nice point break all to ourselves. I was really impressed with the Rise Up team and how well they are organized. They simply all work together very well and have fun. Food was fantastic. I have to give a shout out to Fran, Denis, Julie, Andrea, Lance and the whole crew. All the instructors were top notch, and they really know how to watch, listen and pay attention to each guest's particular needs. Denis was my primary instructor and I can say that he is probably the best surf instructor I have ever spent time with. I learned so much from him, and excited now to work on all the things he showed me. All the instructors were patient and unselfish - really wanting you to learn and catch a lot of waves. I will definitely come back and do another trip with the Rise Up familia. Worth every penny!

Trip of a lifetime. The retreat, the coaches, the yoga, the venue, the chefs and just the lovely culture of Nicaragua made this trip extremely unique. If you want to surf, enjoy nature, disconnect, and eat amazing food this is the trip for you.

I had an incredible time with the Rise Up + Mandla crew. All of the surf coaches were super accommodating to our experience levels, making sure each participant had a trip that was fully catered to their needs. My coach personally went above and beyond to make sure I had a special time, taking me to unique and completely isolated surf breaks. I am so excited about how much my surf abilities improved in the one week I was there. Additionally, the resort was breathtaking. The setting was incredible right next to the ocean, meals were delicious, and the staff made us feel like we were living in luxury (true to the name of the retreat). I hope to make a habit of participating in Rise Up's retreats. Thank you!!

This was the 9th time I've been to Nica and the first time up north. I was a bit hesitant but made contact with Phil and felt super comfortable as his passion and surf stoke came through when we chatted. The property is beautiful and well cared for...as close to the ocean as physically possible so you see and hear the waves...super tranquil just like the name of this escape! The room was spotless and cleaned impeccably daily and the setup was perfect with a hammock and plenty of space to chill and great teak furniture. A bonus was yoga which I've never tried and Cynthia made me a believer and the other guests with experience really enjoyed them as well. The food was superb and the chefs that really 'infused' it with passion and I appreciated that Veronica knew I liked spicy so went out of her way to give spicy sauces and made me the best tea with honey when my voice was hoarse...I have never enjoyed eating fish but she and Teddy truly know how to cook...and the ahi ceviche--next level. Having alternate activities as the volcano hike, horseback riding and wake surfing on an estuary sunset cruise added serious spice to an already amazing week. I save the best for last...surfing. A great selection of boards but more importantly Norvin and his crew had passion and expertise to make sure we found the best waves at the best tides possible....They were super positive and the coaching took my surfing (I have about 15 years experience) to another level. I've never had video analysis and the feedback of sitting down to review vids was super helpful. Even more important was their local knowledge and having a coach, Chepo, a super friendly local who rips, in the water with me to teach about wave selection and teach me in the water. Besides going to 'named' places they truly did have secret spots that we had to ourselves which is exceptional given the number of times I've been to Nica and know that the place has been discovered.... I will definitely return!

I attended the Nicaragua Eco Lodge retreat in August 2022 and the whole thing was completely amazing and exceeded my expectations. The staff was all super accommodating with every detail. Each day's itinerary was well planned and make sure to tailor to all the guests and keep everyone involved. The surf instructors were all experienced, patient, and helpful and prioritized the guest's catching waves over their own. Food was all fresh and healthy mostly comprising of local fruits, vegetables, chicken, and fish. I'd recommend doing this retreat as a solo trip to really immerse yourself in the experience and disconnect.

Lots of fun activities, great tips and wonderful coaches! I had a great time!

My husband and I had a good experience with Rise Up. The surf coaching was excellent, as was the food and lodging. I would recommend this company to anyone interested in attending a surf camp.

My time at the Rise Up retreat in Costa Rica was incredible to say the absolute least! What stood out most were the people. You really feel like you're apart of a little family with Rise Up - welcomed, looked out for and celebrated. The instruction is top notch, the activities were a blast and well coordinated (horseback riding on the beach, tree climbing, waterfall hiking, etc), the food was delicious and the location itself is breathtaking. This place is magical and I truly don't have words for how special this trip was to me. Thank you Rise Up team for such a lifechanging experience!

Rise Up provided an incredible experience! From the surf lessons to the delicious food and other activities planned, it really felt like you were a part of something and got to learn a new skill in a safe and positive environment at the location on the Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica. Could not recommend more highly. It seemed as though all levels of surfers gained from the experience (as a beginner I most certainly did!).