Ever feel the need to get away from work, cold weather or the monotony of everyday life?
We’ve got you.
Even people who’ve built a life they love need a break. And when it comes to surf yoga retreats, there’s perhaps no better way to recharge your mind, body and soul.
Think about it.
You’re essentially combining rest, relaxation, physical activity and healthy food. It’s a recipe for success in anyone’s book. And when you throw in luxury accommodation, epic company and stunning locations, it’s no wonder surf yoga retreats are so popular.
But what if you’ve never attended a surf yoga retreat before? How do you prepare? What can you expect?
This article answers all your questions about surf yoga retreats so you can book with confidence and fully embrace the experience.
What is a yoga and surf retreat?
A surfing and yoga retreat is a packaged holiday that combines accommodation, food, transport, surf lessons, yoga classes and other extras.
You can choose from a variety of destinations, ranging from tropical beach locations to coastal mountain retreats located near the ocean.
No matter where you end up, the goal is the same: to unwind in a new destination, learn or deepen your surf and yoga skills and connect with like minded individuals from around the world.
How do they differ from other learn-to-surf experiences?
Surf yoga retreats, as opposed to surf houses or surf and yoga camps, offer a more well-rounded experience.
Instead of just focusing on surfing, retreats often combine different activities, adventures and wellness practices such as yoga, meditation, community workshops and healthy meals. This allows for a more holistic approach to relaxation and personal growth, rather than just learning how to surf.
What’s more, retreats are rather luxurious affairs. Think stylish common areas, stunning pools, beautiful views and comfortable rooms.
Do I need to prepare for surf yoga retreats?
Besides making sure you pack properly for your destination, there’s not much you need to prepare for.
You could always do at-home exercises, sharpen your surfing skills or ramp up your yoga classes. But really, retreats cater to all levels of experience and ability, so come as you are.
You’ll have an amazing time no matter whether you already surf or practice yoga. And with everything you need for an epic holiday already provided, you can focus on simply relaxing and having fun.
10 things you can expect during your first surf and yoga retreat
That said, there’s no harm in knowing what to expect. So if you’re curious or even a little nervous about booking your first surf yoga retreat, hopefully the following points will put your mind at ease.
Note: Naturally, we can only speak with authority about our own surf yoga retreats. With that in mind, we’ve put together this list based on what we offer. Other retreat experiences may differ.
1. Relax, unwind and let your retreat hosts take care of everything
A holiday should be exactly that, and we don’t want you feeling obliged to do anything during your stay with us.
From carrying your luggage and making your bed to ensuring your surfboards are waxed and ready for your next lesson, our hosts and surf guides are there to take care of everything for you.
The aim here is to make you feel at home as soon as you arrive, which in turn promotes inner calm and lessens any anxieties you may have about attending your first retreat.
2. Enjoy safe and easygoing surf lessons with certified surf coaches
Learning to surf is super fun… but it can also be nerve-wracking.
If you’ve never surfed before, the combination of the ocean, waves, learning new skills with others and mastering the fundamentals might seem overwhelming. But worry not!
Our surf instructors are supportive, kind and patient, and they make you feel comfortable from the get go.
We’re also able to provide great surf lessons thanks to the fact our surf instructors are the fully certified International Surfing Association surf coaches – the first in Lombok!
The waves are only a short drive away too, and with local knowledge and expert tutelage, you’ll progress from whitewash warrior to green wave hero in no time at all!
3. Discover famous surf spots and beaches with your new surf buddies
Surfing with a crew is always more enjoyable, and one thing that sets a surfing yoga retreat apart from other experiences are the friendships forged by surf adventures.
Not only will you make friends for life, but our guides will take you to the best beaches in Lombok.
From Kuta to the postcard-perfect Selong Balanak and beyond, we match your skill level with the Lombok’s best longboarding surf spots so you never feel too out of your depth.
You’ll discover famous waves, learn more about the differences between reef, point and beach breaks, understand safety in the water and make memories that’ll last a lifetime.
4. Deepen your practice with yoga classes led by an experienced yoga teacher
Yoga and surfing go hand-in-hand, and one of the benefits of attending a surf and yoga retreat is that you can do both in one place with a qualified instructor.
All our classes are beginner-friendly, and our resident yoga teachers Dani and Bryan bring years of experience to the mat.
Under their guidance you can either deepen your yoga practice or learn the ropes. They’ll also tailor the yoga lesson to your needs to ensure you’re getting the most from your retreat experience.
5. Chill out in tastefully-designed, eco-friendly accommodation
A retreat offers a more glamorous and comfortable experience compared to surf houses or a surfing and yoga camp, and our own retreat is no exception.
Gorgeous artworks adorn the walls. Natural light floods the common areas. Every small detail serves a purpose, and our entire retreat is almost net-zero.
After all, having a stunning space is more than just aesthetics – it should be comfortable, eco-friendly and spacious too.
You should also feel at-home and in tune with your surroundings. From the communal areas, garden and bedrooms, our retreat space is designed to give you that sense of tranquillity you’ve been seeking.
6. Learn more about yourself through surfing, yoga and wellness practices
Wellness might sound like a trendy buzz word, but it’s something we’re deeply passionate about. As busy professionals in a past life, we understand the importance of wellbeing and balance in life.
To that end, we offer ice baths, surf theory lessons, guided meditations and more. All of which are designed to help you connect with yourself, feel more present and in touch with your emotions.
Ultimately, you’re booking a surfing and yoga holiday because you want to get away and recharge your batteries. But we also give you the tools to continue that feeling once you return home.
7. Tuck into great food that caters to all dietary needs
Food is medicine, and to eat well is to invest in a better you.
That’s why we take great care to prepare healthy, freshly cooked meals that cater to all dietary requirements. From vegan to vegetarian, gluten-free and everything in between, we’ve got you covered.
Our menu is based on traditional Indonesian cuisine with a modern twist. We use locally sourced ingredients, including organic vegetables from our own garden and fresh seafood caught by local fishermen.
Imagine sitting around the table with new friends, feeling totally at peace with the world and rejuvenated by the meal you just ate. Our kitchen staff and chefs make that a reality every single day, and thanks to them you’ll feel nourished and energised throughout your stay.
8. Recharge your batteries with spa and massage sessions
Yoga, surfing in small groups and a wide array of wellness activities are the backbone of our retreats.
However, if you really want to pamper yourself in paradise, we provide spa and massage treatments too. These are provided in-house, which means you needn’t leave the comfort of our retreat.
There are also facial treatments, scrubs and traditional massages that’ll help you relax and soothe any aches or pains from your surf lessons.
Living the surfing lifestyle shouldn’t mean roughing it. And in addition to relaxing by the pool or taking a cruisy stroll along the beach, indulging in spa and massage sessions is the perfect way to recharge your batteries.
9. Explore the local culture and support sustainable tourism initiatives
Even though retreats often feel like their own world, it’s important to leave the confines of the premises and experience the local culture.
Visits to traditional villages, workshops with local artisans and cultural performances are just some of the ways we immerse our guests in Lombok’s vibrant culture. But they’re only a few examples.
No matter where you book your next surfing and yoga retreat, make sure you check to see if they’re sustainable and support local communities.
Giving back to the town or city that’s hosting you is a great way to show your appreciation and leave a positive impact.
Plus, it’ll give you a deeper understanding of the place you’re visiting – for a better connection to the area and a more well-rounded holiday.
10. Gain a more profound appreciation for nature and the ocean
Last but not least, booking a week or longer at a retreat allows you to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature.
Surrounded by lush greenery, stunning beaches and crystal clear waters, you’ll be reminded of the beauty that exists in the world and the importance of preserving it.
As surfers, whether beginners or pros, we have a responsibility to the earth. And while we might not notice our impact on a daily basis, rest assured that doing something is better than nothing at all.
Keen to attend your first ever retreat? Wondering where the perfect place to holiday is located? Unsure about the waves, adventures or vibe of a certain place?
Island life might not be for everyone, but it’s right up your alley if you value sustainability, healthy living and gentle waves with a dose of adventure.
Rediscover your best self and surf Lombok’s best breaks with your new friends at Xanadu.
Get in touch to learn more about our yoga and surfing retreats today.
