Learn to surf with confidence & style
Join us November 15th - 21st in beautiful Santa Teresa, Costa Rica for a week of sun, waves and jungle living!
Intermediate Longboarding Retreat
Our November retreat is uniquely designed for intermediate longboarders who are ready to fully commit to their progression.
At this retreat you’ll work with high-level instructors who provide expert guidance both in and out of the water, helping you improve your technique and take your surfing to the next level.
Every retreat includes daily surf sessions (option to add on extra daily sessions), video analysis and on-land training so that you can leave with real, measurable improvement.
This retreat is all-inclusive, with beautiful accommodations, exceptional meals, and a supportive, like-minded community. We’ll also take you on local adventures (horseback riding, waterfall tours, ATV trips, etc.) so you can enjoy the beauty of Costa Rica while taking your surfing to the next level.
Upcoming Retreat: November 15th - 21st in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica.
Meet Your Host
Born and raised on the Nicoya Peninsula, my earliest memories are of going to the beach with my mom and my brothers. I always loved the ocean, but once I hopped on a board, there was no looking back. My life has revolved around surfing, and chasing waves, ever since.
After nearly 20 years in the water, and 12 years of coaching, my goal is to surf with style and joy and to help my students do the same.
My coaching approach is focused on helping my students improve their technique, confidence, and understanding of the ocean so that they can enjoy as many waves as possible.
Beyond becoming a better surfer, it is always my hope that my students will walk away with amazing new memories and a smile on their face.
What My Students Say
“Working with Tavo completely transformed my surfing. I normally short board but was interested in learning how to ride midlengths and long boards and after a few lessons with him I was confidently using both. It also helped improve my style on my short board because I had better body control and more awareness on the wave.”
— DENIKA S.
“Hands down THE BEST surf instructor in Santa Teresa. The classroom lessons on the beach before hitting the water were invaluable in giving me the proper tools to handle the waves once we were in the ocean. Patient and ridiculously skilled learning to surf with Tavo is a must while in Costa Rica.”
— ANTHONY S.
“Tavo is an exceptional surf instructor. He is patient, encouraging and makes his students feel safe and confident in the water. Most importantly, he has a true passion for surfing and the ability to share his techniques. He helped initiate my surf journey/obsession and I couldn’t be more grateful.”
— GABI M.
❋
What’s Included
Our all inclusive retreats make it easy for you to have an incredible experience without worrying about any of the planning or logistics…
-
Daily surf lessons with high level instructors that are customized to your level
-
Video analysis with Tavo to help you see your surfing in a new way and begin improving your technique
-
Yoga, mobility, strength, etc. We’ll teach you how basic movements can dramatically improve your surfing
-
Our meal options vary based on the retreat but are either prepared by an in-house chef or are from local restaurants in town
-
We’ll be staying at the gorgeous House of Somos hotel in the center of Santa Teresa. With an on-site restaurant, pool and gym you’ll have everything you need in one place.
-
Horseback riding, waterfall hikes, ATV tours, etc.
-
Transportation to surf lessons and other scheduled activities
What My Students Say
“A true surf master with style and passion. Gives clear instructions and helpful tips & tricks. If you want to make quick progress - he’s the right person!”
— DEBORA K.
“The best surf instructor in Santa Teresa! I improved so much in just a few lessons and now I’m way more confident in catching my own waves. Thanks for the help bro!”
— EDWARD C.
“If you want to longboard in Costa Rica this is the man to learn with! The best hands down!”
— CHELSEA C.
The Schedule
* This is our expected schedule. Actual daily schedule might vary based on wave conditions.
-
12:00pm - Arrivals, beach/pool time
5:00pm - Introductions
6:00pm - Dinner at Somos
9:30pm - Bedtime
-
7:00am - Surf
9:00am - Breakfast at Somos
10:00am - Yoga Class
12:00pm - Lunch
1:30pm - Free time
4:00pm - Wave Reading Workshop
6:30pm - Dinner at Somos
8:00pm - Games and connection time
9:30pm - Bedtime
-
7:00am - Surf
9:00am - Breakfast at Somos
10:00am - Waterfall Adventure
12:00pm - Lunch
1:30pm - Video Analysis Watch Party
6:30pm - Dinner in town
9:30pm - Bedtime
-
7:00am - Optional surf or rest day
9:00am - Breakfast at Somos
10:00am - Free time
12:00pm - Lunch
3:30pm - Horseback Riding
6:30pm - Dinner at Somos
8:00pm - Games and connection time
9:30pm - Bedtime
-
7:00am - Surf
9:00am- Breakfast at Somos
10:00am - Video Analysis/Surf Q&A
12:00pm - Lunch
1:30pm - Free time
4:00pm - Restorative yoga
6:30pm - Dinner in town
8:00pm - Surf Video Watch Party
9:30pm - Bedtime
-
7:00am - Optional surf lesson
9:00am - Breakfast at Somos
11:00am - Departures
Retreat Pricing
Prices listed below are for our deluxe dorm or king/twin room options (sleep 3-6 retreat attendees per room.) If you’re traveling with a friend or group we will make sure you stay together.
Early Pricing (before September 31st): $2,150
Full Price: $2,450
Sign-up with a friend and you’ll both save $200 on the retreat!
Payment plans are available. $500 non-refundable deposit required to secure your spot. If you prefer to have your own room we have options available. Please reach out to us for custom pricing.
Can’t attend a retreat but want to work with me?
Surf Lessons
Whether you're catching your first wave or refining your style, each session is tailored to your needs with personalized guidance and supportive coaching.
After more than 12 years of experience surf coaching I pride myself on being able to help students improve their confidence and technique in every lesson. With a strong emphasis on safety and having fun, my goal is to help you walk away from the water with improved surf skills and amazing new memories.
Video Analysis
One of the best ways to improve your surfing is through video analysis sessions. Share your surf videos with me and together we’ll break down your waves frame by frame, highlighting your technique, timing, positioning, and key areas for improvement.
You’ll receive clear, easy-to-understand feedback along with annotated clips so you can see exactly what to adjust. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your performance, each session is tailored to help you progress faster and surf with more confidence.