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The best surf retreats for women in Bali
Surf retreats are becoming more and more trendy especially with the evolution of surfing and the sport becoming more and more mainstream.
The trend started years ago with surf camps and surfing surf trips, that were almost exclusively focused on surfing in a popular and safe location.
Wave watching on the cliffside
Source: @xanadusurf
Surfer girls getting ready for a surf session in Lombok
Source:@floraretreats
As a “soul surfer” you want to embrace and enjoy your “dreamy wet” lifestyle fully and with everything that plays a part in it. Retreats usually have something special to offer and to differentiate from the regular surf trips. It may be the theme, exclusive location, an awesome couch, programme on land - like yoga sessions, pilates, meditation, breathwork, discussions or other activities/events. Some of us just want to socialize a bit and find like-minded people, experience a little adventure and create friendships eventually. There are retreats based on different preferences, for example women only, moms with kids, couples etc.
Considering the location, season, swell (difficulty), price and theme. Always depends on your goal and wish - what do YOU look for and wanna achieve and it should meet your expectations.
You can find a retreat that specialize for the Single fin riding only.
Source: @floraretreats
Yoga session is the best activity and relax after a surf sesh.
Source: @seafolk.retreats
As a women-only surf swimwear brand we are lucky to have amazing friends who have wonderful experiences with organizing the Surf retreats in various stunning locations and with the great idea behind. We want to share with you about some retreats that we personally consider as the best retreats for women, organized mainly in Indonesia. Below you can read some general info about the retreats of our best surf buddies and we can personally recommend them. ENJOY !!!
Not only hard work but also fun and party waves are on daily basis on the restreats. Sami wearing Dreamland one-piece in black ***click on the photo to see detail of the product***
Source: @seafolk.retrets
Dana having fun on the nose wearing our new Uluwatu one-piece
Source: ninefootstudio ***click on the photo to see detail of the product***
• XANADU SURF •
We did an interview with our friend Dana, who partnered with Xanadu and held a retreat in Lombok. Dana is not only amazing longboarder but also a health, wellness, and sustainability advocate. She now lives between Bali and O'ahu doing what she loves: surfing, yoga and sustainability awareness/ helping people grow their own business in the industry if they are passionate about it. Sharing her ocean knowledge and skills with others is something that lights my soul on fire, making new bonds, creating epic memories, experiencing life changing growth.
Explain the experience that you had in your last retreats.
The last retreat I held at Xanadu in Lombok went beautifully. We really got to see the guests face their fears in the water and grow out of their comfort zone by learning new techniques and gaining a better understanding about the ocean. We had LOTS of laughs in and out of the water, enjoyed great conversation and bonding over meals, relaxed during yoga, practiced land drills and got to surf bigger waves than the guests had ever surfed!
What makes your retreat unique?
My retreats are unique because of the experience I have with water men and women from all over the world and my background with competitive surfing. I have spent years learning and observing from different cultures and how they move through the ocean. I have dedicated my life to being a child of the sea and encompassing her magical energy. From California - Mexico - Hawai'i - Fiji - Australia - Indonesia. Each place and it's people have taught me different things about the ocean and allowed me to build knowledge and confidence to share with others.
I utilize all of my ocean experiences to explain surfing in a way that makes sense to people who did not grow up close to the coast, or at least I do my best to :)
Longboarder Dana teaching also how to cross-step and nose-ride.
Source: @xanadusurf
Can you explain your daily routine in the retreat, activities, schedule, locations... ?
Each retreat will vary depending on if we have partnered with other teachers for different body movement practices.
Generally, daily routine will look like this though:
• wake up 6am light morning stretch to open up our bodies- coffee/ tea/ fruit
• head to the beach (with best conditions) surf 2 hours
• free time for lunch / early afternoon
• surf review - videos from the water each guests gets individual • review and tips on what needs to be worked on / setting goals for the rest of the retreat
• land drills (things I practiced for years to master longboard skills, help with balance and muscle memory) / practice & ocean awareness discussion, 1 hour
• some days we will do a second surf for sunset or later afternoon
• dinner
• light stretch in the evening
What is your goal doing these retreats?
My goal with the retreats is for everyone to gain confidence, knowledge, and new skills in the ocean. I want our groups to build relationships to inspire, push, encourage and grow with one another and of course have LOTS OF FUN!
How many days? When is the next date and your price range.
Retreats range from 5-7 days. Each retreat is unique so prices vary but start at 7.5 million IDR.
Contact: danahamann.water@gmail.com
Web: https://linktr.ee/xanadusurf
IG: @xanadusurf
Dana wearing our sustainable surf swimwear Kuta one-piece in tripoli color.
Source: @ninefootstudio
lots of fun and laughs, chollax vibe after the sessions full of wisdom and skills. that is Xanasu Surf retrets.
Source: @xanadusurf
• SEAFOLK surf & yoga Retreats
with Sami Madison •
Sami, the founder of the company SEAFOLK surf & yoga Retreats and the 700 hour RYT yoga teacher. Sami first started working in Yoga/Surf retreats in Morocco for an established company, being hired on as the yoga manager.
She told us: "I strongly believe that yoga and surfing come hand in hand with one another. Surfing gives you the same power to help clear the mind. I combine my love of surfing, travel and adventure with my traditional yoga training to create authentic Yoga & Surf Retreats to uplift the spirit, meet amazing new friends. and explore outside your comfort zone, whether it be in the water or on the mat.
Sami nose-riding on her favourite spot wearing the Dreamland one-piece in black. Source: @seafolk.retreats
Explain the experience that you had in your last retreats.
I find that the best experience of the retreats is bringing together a crew of amazing like minded people to go from strangers to best friends over the course of the week! Lots of laughs and good times in the water and out!
What makes your retreat unique?
SEAFOLK retreats are for EVERYONE! No matter your age, sex, or experience in yoga and surfing! Our number one goal is to just have fun!
We strive to meet new friends, explore new lands, all while either learning or improving your surfing skills. We hire only the best LOCAL surf guides that have grown up in the area, so we can be sure to feel safe and supported. We believe life is all about balance. Yoga in the morning and a glass of wine in the evening :)
Can you explain your daily routine in the retreat, activities, schedule, locations… ?
We have two types of retreats. Our Bali Immersions or our Island Hop Escapes. Our Bali Immersions last a week long and are designed for anyone looking for a relaxing and rejuvenating week away! We like to wake up early and have a revitalizing yoga practice to set us up for our day. Followed by a healthy breakfast, time to pack up and then head out to our surf! You will be paired into the best groups that suit your ability and our experienced local surf guides help select the best surf spots to suit you!
Afternoons are free time for relaxing. We offer 3 evening Yin sessions throughout the week as well! We try to make sunset every night as a group and then enjoy a delicious group dinner at our beautiful retreat space.
Our Island Hope Escapes are designed for the Bali expat or tourist that is looking to explore a new Island outside of the comfort of Bali. These retreats are definitely a little more rustic. Expect wild nature, dusty roads, quaint little fishing villages, and roaming wildlife. You’re not going to be in Bali anymore, and that’s why we love it! Our Island Hop Escapes are usually a jam packed 4-5days of adventure and fun!
What is your goal doing these retreats?
My goal with SEAFOLK is to create a whole new COMMUNITY of beautiful people that share similar mindsets. A passion for surf, adventure, yoga and exploring the beauty of Indonesia. Once you're a SEAFOLK member you’re always a SEAFOLK member and I hope everyone we meet along the way stays friends for a long time :)
How many days? When is the next date and your price range?
We currently have retreats ranging from 3 nights - 6 nights. Depending on the style of retreat you are on, along with the location and room type you select.
Our Bali weeklong Immersions are more luxurious and start at $1000 USD for the week. This price includes surf lessons/guiding, yoga, breakfast and dinners, 6 nights in a luxury villa, and transport to and from the airport/surf spots.
Our Island Hop Escapes start at $300 USD and the price varies depending on the location. This price includes surf lessons/guiding, yoga, breakfast and dinners, accommodation, and transport to and from the airport/surf spots.
Something else to add?
We partner up with some other amazing Bali based brands to bring you the most amazing goodie bags with every retreat. We’re all about supporting small Bali based businesses. Be sure to check out Ninefootstudio, BGS coffee, Forever Yours Skin Care, Maaiku Ponchos, XO activewear, and Tia Echo sets. Thank you guys for the support!
We will also be creating a merchandise section soon of our handmade SEAFOLK products! So stay tuned!
Contact: www.seafolkretreats.com
IG: @seafolk.retreats
Sami on one of her retreats in lombok
Source: @seafolk.retreats
Who loves the sunsets? On Seafolk retreats you can enjoy the last sun of the day together and enjoy the moment.
Source: @seafolk.retreats
• Coconut corner retreats with Lisa Davidson •
Lisa is a psychologist from Sweden who moved to bali and created a beautiful place named Coconut corner. She is also an avid surfer who run retreats and programs that focus on improving performance from a mindset and psychological perspective.
Explain the experience that you had in your last retreats.
I love working with women to support them in getting over bad experiences as well as training certain skills in and out of the water that will help them improve their surf as well as other aspects of their life.
What makes your retreat unique?
My retreat is unique because it teaches not only surf skills but also the psychology behind it. After having been to my retreat you will not only be more mentally prepared for the challenges you face in the water but also have a good set of tools to process emotions and overcome fear and anxiety.
One of the Coconut Corner´s unit with gorgeous view and walk distance to the beach.
Source: @coconutcornerbali
Can you explain your daily routine in the retreat, activities, schedule, locations… ?
Because of the nature of my retreat I only do private or mini group retreats of maximum 3 ppl. The retreat space is by the beach in Tabanan, Bali. All guests stay in private units surrounded by nature. We have an ocean view from the kitchen, dining area, and the treehouse as well as gorgeous rice fields surrounding us. The beach and the closest surf break is just a short walk away (2 min). We will surf a variety of waves around Bali that fits your surf level as well as targets the specific skill you are working on improving that day.
Since the retreat is mostly private even if you schedule as a group retreats run according to availability. I do however tend to book out the accommodation about 2 months in advance so keep that in mind as you plan your trip.
What is your goal doing these retreats?
To help my clients reach a confidence and skill level in the water way beyond what they think is possible.
How many days? When is the next date and your price range?
My full package runs for a week but I also offer a mini retreat of two days where we do the initial assessment and go through some exercises and techniques. Then you can book single sessions after that separate from your accommodation if you prefer. My full program is super awesome though and gives you so much more than just the surfing and the psychology sessions.
Please refer to my website
(www.coconutcornerbali.com/retreats) for more details.
The full program is $1900 USD and includes 1 week accommodation with full board. 5 Surf sessions, 3 psychology sessions, sports massage, physio treatment, video analysis and more.The assessment program is $650 USD and includes 2 nights with full board 2 psychology sessions and 1 surf session and a take home program to continue on your own.
I am currently running a “tough times promotion” where all retreat programs are 20% off if you book before July 31 for dates before Jan 1st 2022.
Lisa heading to the beach for the surf session with the girls from the retreat.
Source: @coconutcornerbali
Coconut Corner girls surf gang on the beach.
Source: @coconutcornerbali
• Flora retreats with Flora •
Flora Christin is a longboard surfer from Indonesia. She used to live in Jakart and worked for a big corporate company. She moved to Bali in 2016 to start over her life at the age of 25. I Flora went to beach and started surfing. From renting surfboard for months till she finally get herself a second hand longboard, she fell in love with longboard surfing since.
Flora has been doing free surfing since 2018, travel all year round to surf perfect longboard waves while creating contents and make money, such a dream job it is. She did a charity project in Lombok after the earthquake, stayed there for 6 months building temporary houses. She does a lot of women empowering projects.
Flora has recently established her own Surf Retreats with her name on it “FLORA RETREATS”.
Flora with her longboard wearing our Padang top and Sanur bottom in fish color.
Source: @ninefootstudio ***click on the photo to se more details***
Flora with her longboard wearing our Padang top and Sanur bottom in fish color.
Source: @ninefootstudio ***click on the photo to se more details***
Explain the experience that you had in your last retreats.
Lombok retreat in March
Balian retreat in May
They are both went so well
All my guests were so happy and definitely learn so much from the retreat.
What makes your retreat unique?
I design the retreats in a unique way of an intense surf and I work with a professional coach to teach theory in land.
So they learn all the basic and having so much fun in the water.
Can you explain your daily routine in the retreat, activities, schedule, locations… ?
Activities / schedule:
• Morning wake up class (Stretching)
• Breakfast
• Surf
• Back to the hotel (rest and lunch)
• Surf
• Back to the hotel
• Surf/recovery session with Lena
• Dinner and rest
Locations were so far only Lombok and Bali.
When the borders will open I’d love to do more retreats in other locations I have on the listm such as Philipnes, Morocco, Malaysia and many more.
What is your goal doing these retreats?
The goals is to help more surfer to improve their surfing skill and actually learn how to have fun.
How many days? When is the next date and your price range.
For now I mostly do 4 days and 3 nights, just a long weekend kinda event. Up to $500 USD.
But the future I’d like to do a proper week of surfing retreat and the price would be updated then.
Something else to add?
It’s never to late to learn how to surf ♥
Contact: www.floraretreats.com
IG: @floraretreats
Flora and the girls from the retreat getting ready to go into the water. Source: @floraretreats
Flora retreats offer amazing vibe, unique style and full single fin experience.
Source: @floraretreats
• Mermaids Collective Retreats •
Who are you?
Nina and Gianluca are the souls behind Collective Retreats. Gianluca is a Videomaker, Photographer, Musician, Yoga Teacher and Surfboard Shaper. Nina is former Ad and Events Project Manager and Producer and currently working as Yoga Teacher, Embodiment practice and Thai Yoga Massage Bodyworker.
With the common passion for the Ocean, for living life as a piece of art, they try to promote a more conscious lifestyle, where surfing and spirituality are the driving and the teachers.
Pre-surf breathwork with Gianluca.
Source: @mermaidscollective
Explain the experience that you had in your last retreats.
We focus our retreat mainly on first time surfer/ beginner
We had our last retreat in February, it was in Lombok and we had a nice 6 pax group. It was a “first time surfer retreat” where we focus a lot of the attention on the emotional part helping to reconnect with a new side of yourself where fears and confidence coexist and create the perfect alchemy. Pranayama/ breathwork practices and some freediving techniques are the key teaching together with Yoga, moments and surf lessons.
What makes your retreat unique?
The location has a key role, and is usually immersed in nature to give this sense of wonder and freedom. We bring a lot of focus on the emotional and psychological side because in the beginner phase is something super important to create a good and strong foundation. Empty waves to have a better sense of peace and confidence.
Can you explain your daily routine in the retreat, activities, schedule, locations… ?
We choose locations trying to be more eco friendly as possible, make people dive in the real and old style of being surfer, embracing a more authentic way of living and where simplicity is a ritual.
Practice that we propose: Yoga, movements, pranayama, meditation, apnea for surfers, 1 breathwork circle, surf coaching, surf philosophy/culture talk, emotional side of surfing talk, surf skate technique intro, surf movie and an escape into nature, usually waterfall.
• The day usually start around 6.00 (depending of course form the tides)
• Pranayama practice and short meditation to connect with yourself and nature
• Surfing
• Breakfast
• Free time
• Short Workshop (freediving, surf culture, skate surf technique)
• Lunch
• Free time where people can also choose if to enjoy a Thai Yoga Massage
• Sunset Surf
• Movie night, music
Location: Lombok, Rote, Medewi, Red Island and other new ones coming soon (we always try to search for spots with the right conditions and empty waves as much as possible.
What is your goal doing these retreats?
The aim is to bring awareness about the FLOW state and that “the level of connection with yourself impacts your practice in the ocean”, so during the retreats we introduce many tools that can help the person to connect deeper with herself in order to live better in and out the ocean. We love to see people transform and inspire, and with tools that can bring in your daily life.
How many days? When is the next date and your price range.
We have two different offer, depending form the location:
4 days/3 nights if around more Bali
6 days/5 nights if on the Islands.
NEXT RETREAT:
> Rote - end of July 2021
> Italy Sardinia - Beginning September 2021
> Lombok - end of September 2021
Something else to add.
In each retreat we love to work with other specialists to bring more magic and knowledge (breathworker, nutritionist, musician…).
IG: @mermaidscollective
Building up your surfing level with Gianluca.
Source: @mermaidscollective
Because there’s one thing stronger than magic: Sisterhood.
Source:@mermaidscollective
• RISE UP surf retreats •
We also want to introduce Rise Up surf retreats and Phil from Barbados. At the age of 18 Phil left Barbados to study in England which led him to travel the world in search of waves. Phil decided to move to Nicaragua in 2007.
The journey in Nicaragua started with working as a volunteer with a sea turtle project followed by a number of different projects such as owning a hostel and setting up an NGO and the eventually starting Rise Up in 2010. Rise Up has been our full-time job, love and passion for the past 10 years and continues to be to this day.
Explain the experience that you had in your last retreats.
Every retreat is unique as we are blessed to have a variety of people joining from all walks of life creating a unique vibe every week. All our retreats are focused on a personalized surf coaching experience, daily yoga/movement, incredible healthy food, fun activities and great times with fellow guests and the incredible team.
Because there’s one thing stronger than magic: Sisterhood.
Source:@mermaidscollective
What makes your retreat unique?
Overall our retreats are unique due to the passion and love we have for what we do and how we truly treat every guest as part of the family. Our mission and vision everyday is to make sure guests feel taken care of from the time they wake up until the time they sleep. We create an environment where guests feel safe and a personal connection to us creating a very one of a kind experience.
Can you explain your daily routine in the retreat, activities, schedule, locations… ?
Each day is focused around the best time to surf for each person based on their level and the prevailing conditions thus each day can look slightly different. However an example would be:
• 5:30 - wake up and first breakfast
• 6 - surf
• 9:30 - second breakfast
• 11:30 yoga
• 1:30 - lunch
Then the afternoons are filled with either surf theory, video analysis, an activity such as horse riding or more surfing or a combination of things. As we mentioned we keep everything flexible and personalized so depending on your level you may be doing surf theory while another group is surfing. We always end the day gathered together sharing stories of the day or life in general and then we have a big family style meal together.
What is your goal doing these retreats?
The goal is to change people's lives through offering a second to none experience focused on helping people to get better at surfing, eating healthy, proper movement, great adventure and incredible social connection.
Our retreats aim to create a sustainable livelihood for all the local people involved and have a positive impact on the local environment and culture. One of the main ways we are doing this currently is through our NGO Rise Up Kids which focuses on projects such as an all women surf club, school development and key partnerships for other projects.
How many days? When is the next date and your price range.
Our retreats are 8 days/7 nights and start at $1750 USD per person with everything included except for alcohol and massages. We plan to add some exciting new destinations in 2022 such as the Maldives which will have a different number of nights and also different pricing as they will be speciality retreats.
Anything else?
Rise Up is here to create magic in peoples lives and we will be doing it for years to come. The only real way to understand what we do is to come and experience for yourself. We are planning to organize a retreat in Indonesia in September or october 2022.
For more information go to: https://www.riseupsurf.com/
Waters of Nicaragua
Source: @riseupsurfretreats
At the end...
Hopefully the information provided in this blogpost were useful for you and will help you to decide on your next retreat. Don´t hesitate to contact us in case of any question or comment. We are always happy to connect with you and support each other within the surf community.
Dana wearing Uluwatu one-piece in tripoli/mosaic
Source: ninefootstudio
Dana wearing Uluwatu one-piece in tripoli/mosaic
Source: ninefootstudio
Dana wearing Uluwatu one-piece in tripoli/mosaic
Source: ninefootstudio
Ninefootstudio recently did a surf session with Flora wearing a new pieces from the newest collection. You check our Yutoube channel and see more videos.
Flora wearing Kuta one-piece in nude color.
Source:@ninefootstudio ***click on the photo to see detail of the product***
Flora wearing Kuta one-piece in nude color.
Source:@ninefootstudio ***click on the photo to see detail of the product***
Flora wearing Kuta one-piece in nude color.
Source:@ninefootstudio ***click on the photo to see detail of the product***
From us to you.
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