Mums. This one’s for you.
For the countless school drop-offs, the endless loads of laundry, the bed-side stories and the early-morning chaos. For all the times you put everyone else first, we here at Xanadu reckon you deserve more than flowers one day a year.
You deserve joy.
Adventure.
Freedom.
And to be spoiled in a way that fills your soul with sunshine, saltwater and stoke. So for this Mother’s Day, we’re honouring the women who give so much with something a little different…
The gift of surfing!
Whether you’re dreaming of a solo escape or planning something meaningful with the ones you love most, there might just be something special waiting for you at the end of this list.
Still need a nudge?
Here are 11 reasons why you should be surfing this Mother’s Day and beyond.
11. Because you’re still you
Before the nappy bags and school runs, you were a woman who loved adventure, adrenaline and the great outdoors.
Becoming a mother doesn’t suddenly change who we are at our core. Surfing reconnects you with that untamed spirit. Not to erase motherhood, but to expand it.
10. Surfing is meditative (even when it’s messy)
Between the rhythm of paddling, the lull between sets and the focus it takes to read a wave, surfing is basically moving meditation.
It grounds you in the present and hushes that never-ending mental to-do list. And for busy mums with little time to themselves, that alone is worth the wax in your hair and sand in your bikini.
9. You get to be playful again
Surfing makes you feel like a giggling school girl all over again.
You laugh first, think second and enjoy every moment. Whether it’s trying noseriding for the first time, surfing a new break or even just wiping out, surfing reminds you not to take life too seriously.
8. It lifts your spirits
Fresh air, sunshine, movement and the thrill of surfing. It’s the perfect recipe for shaking off stress and coming back to yourself.
Some days it’s a quiet recharge. Other days it’s pure exhilaration. Either way, it’ll readjust your perspective and leave you feeling lighter and happier.
7. It boosts your confidence
Standing up on a board—even for a second—feels wildly empowering. You’re skimming across moving walls of energy, pushing limits and maybe even surprising yourself. That kind of confidence doesn’t stay in the water. It follows you everywhere. Even to your job!
6. Surfing builds your tribe
Motherhood can be isolating, but surf culture is all about connection.
From early dawn patrols to post-surf coffees, there’s something beautifully bonding about catching waves together.
A mums-only surf trip is an epic way to strengthen your mummy crew, but coming solo or with your partner is also an epic way to celebrate your unique identity as a mama.
5. It’s a radical act of self-love
Mum guilt is real… but so is your need for space.
Getting in the water, even for an hour, is a bold declaration that your mental and physical wellbeing matters.
It’s an act of self-love that you deserve. And let’s not forget the example we set for our children when they see us prioritising our own health and happiness.
4. You’ll inspire your kids
Speaking of, when you prioritise yourself and chase your passions, you show your kids that adulthood isn’t just about sacrifice.
It’s about balance.
You show them that being a mum doesn’t mean giving up on your own dreams. You show them that they can have a fulfilling personal life while being a parent. And you prove that it’s possible to be an awesome mum and still have a cool hobby (i.e. surfing).
3. Saltwater is therapy
That post-surf glow? It’s not just the sun.
There’s something magic about the salt, sea and spray. It clears your head, lifts your spirit and leaves you buzzing in the best way.
If 2025 started rough or you’re simply overdue for a break, joining a longboard retreat could be the perfect opportunity to reset and recharge.
2. It gives your mind a break
Let’s be honest: the mental load for mums is huge.
Surfing demands complete focus, which means there’s zero room for worrying about your daily mum jobs.
This creates space in your mind. And many mums who join Xanadu tell us that it awakens their creative side, helping them to generate fresh ideas and solutions.
1. Because you deserve to feel strong (physically and mentally)
Surfing is a full-body workout that builds strength, balance and coordination. But beyond the muscles, it builds resilience.
Every paddle out is a chance to dig deep, breathe through the wipeouts and celebrate every small win. We love nothing more than seeing mums finish their session with a sense of accomplishment and newfound strength.
Aren’t we always telling our kids that they can do anything they set their minds to? Let’s lead by example.
Final thoughts
If this list has stirred something in you—a curiosity, a craving or maybe just a reminder that you deserve a little more—Xanadu would love to help you get there!
This Mother’s Day we’re opening the door to something more meaningful than a brunch booking or bouquet:
- Book a Surf, Yoga & Wellness week or a Yoga Immersion Week between May 3–11
- Get 15% off any 2025 stay
- Use code MOTHERSDAY25 at checkout (whether you’re gifting it, sharing it or treating yourself)
Mums, this one’s for you. Enjoy not paying full price for a surf and yoga retreat this year.
