COMING SOON….CONTACT US WITH THE FORM AT THE BOTTOM OF THE PAGE TO BE THE FIRST TO REGISTER
Surf Costa Rica with Perry Cohen and Andrew Lyon-
Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica | April 26-May 3, 2025 | $5,500 Per Person | Limited Space for 18 Surfers
Join us for a queer surfing retreat in Spring 2025, led by Perry Cohen, the visionary trans founder of The Venture Out Project, and Andrew Lyon, experienced gay travel expert.
This all-queer group will gather at a secluded boutique villa for a week in Costa Rica to relax, surf, and enjoy the outdoors. This exclusive haven is reserved solely for our group, ensuring a safe, affirming environment where we can be wholly ourselves while surfing some of the best waves in the world.
We’ve built the trip to work for seasoned surfers or total beginners, working with world-class instructors who will meet us at our level. But the retreat offers more than just surfing. When we’re not catching waves, we’ll have time for yoga sessions, hikes in the lush landscapes near our villa, and plenty of time to relax at the pool with a cocktail. Every activity is designed to nurture both body and spirit, all while fostering connections within our vibrant queer community.
Led by Perry, whose dedication to creating safe outdoor spaces for LGBTQIA+ individuals has changed countless lives, and Andrew, whose passion for travel and inclusivity shines through in every adventure he curates, this trip promises to be as enriching as it is exciting. Their combined experiences as out and proud leaders in the LGBTQIA+ community infuse this retreat with authenticity and understanding that you won't find anywhere else.
Don't miss this chance to be part of a groundbreaking retreat that combines the thrill of surfing with the joy of being in a fully affirming LGBTQIA+ space. Whether you come solo or with friends, you'll leave with new skills, unforgettable memories, and a new love of the outdoors.
“Until I went on an outdoors trip with Perry, I didn’t realize how much anxiety I felt doing outdoor activities just from growing up queer. Going on these trips, I can actually relax and just enjoy trying new things, experiencing adventure, and being my full self the whole time.” - Andrew
Surf in Costa Rica with Perry Cohen and Andrew Lyon
April 26-May 3, 2025
$5,500 PER PERSON, DOUBLE ROOM
$7,000 PER PERSON, SINGLE ROOM
LIMITED SPACE FOR 18 SURFERS
Includes: All lodging at luxury Kalon Surf Resort, five days of surf instruction with world-class English-speaking instructors, surfing equipment (surfboard, leash, wax, rash guards), Costa Rican cooking class, local Coffee tasting, one therapeutic massage per guest, ground transportation throughout, private airport transfers, breakfast, lunch, and dinner each day, yoga sessions, entrance fees to sites. Note: Non-Surfer companions welcome! You can chill at the pool or beach while we surf!
Does not include: Alcohol and soda, optional travel insurance (AWL Travel can refer to partners, prices vary between $50-$350 per person depending on age and coverage), international airfare, passport fees if new passport needed (no additional visa is needed for Costa Rica for US Citizens), tips
Payments $1,000.00 per passenger deposit at the time of registration holds your space on the trip. All remaining money is due February 1, 2025.
Itinerary
APRIL 26 » ARRIVE AT THE VILLA
As you arrive at San Jose airport, your private driver will drive you the 2.5 hour drive to our secluded villa. Perry, Andrew, and our welcoming team will be there to greet you. Settle into your room and take some time to explore the beautiful grounds. In the evening, we'll gather for a delicious welcome dinner where you'll meet your fellow surfers and an orientation to Costa Rican surf culture.
APRIL 27 » FIRST WAVES
After a fresh local breakfast, we'll start our surfing journey with a pool session, where our world-class instructors will introduce you to the basics of surfing. We’ll assess everyone’s skill level and offer personalized tips. Then it's off to the beach for our first surf session! We'll break for a beachside lunch before catching more waves in the afternoon and relax on the beach. The day concludes with a gourmet dinner back at the villa.
APRIL 28 » SURF AND STRETCH
Today we blend yoga and surfing for a holistic experience. After breakfast, we'll start with a yoga session focused on stretches perfect for surfers. Next, we'll analyze your previous day’s surfing technique through video, giving you personalized tips to improve. Post-lunch, it's back to the waves to put your new knowledge into practice. A relaxing gourmet dinner rounds out the day.
APRIL 29 » REST AND EXPLORE
Today we give our surfing muscles a rest and explore the beautiful surroundings. We’ll start the morning learning about Costa Rican coffee culture, including a coffee tasting experience and visit to a local coffee collective. With caffeine in our systems, we'll embark on a guided nature hike in a nearby preserve. Lunch will be served back at the villa, after which you're free to relax by the pool, book a massage, or simply unwind with a good book. In the evening, join us for an informal cooking class where we'll prepare and enjoy dinner together.
APRIL 30 » BACK TO THE WAVES
Refreshed from our day off, we return to the ocean with renewed energy. We'll start with invigorating beach yoga before diving into a full day of surfing. Lunch will be a picnic on the sand. In the evening, we'll review your progress with a video analysis session before sitting down to another gourmet dinner.
MAY 1 » QUEERING IT UP
Today we'll surf in the morning with friends from local advocacy group SoulForce, who advocate for queer rights in Costa Rica. We'll have a relaxed lunch with SoulForce, followed by a relaxing afternoon at the pool.
As the sun sets, get ready for our fabulous campy surf camp dinner! Whether you come as a glamorous mermaid, a bedazzled shark, or a drag queen Neptune, this is your chance to let your most fabulous, aquatic-inspired self shine. We'll enjoy a gourmet dinner, signature cocktails, and dance the night away under the stars.
MAY 2 » FINAL SURF DAY
On our last full day, we'll make the most of every wave! After breakfast, we'll have a pool session to perfect your technique before heading out for an extended surf session. We'll enjoy lunch on the beach and surf until late afternoon. The day concludes with our special farewell dinner and celebration, toasting to new friendships and incredible experiences.
MAY 3 » DEPARTURE
Enjoy a leisurely final breakfast at the villa. Take time to exchange contact information with your new queer surf buddies before bidding farewell to the waves (for now). Airport transfers will be provided based on your departure time.
Throughout the week, Perry and Andrew will be available for one-on-one chats, group discussions, and to ensure everyone is having an amazing, affirming experience. Remember, all activities are optional - this is your retreat to enjoy as you see fit!
Please note: Exact itinerary may shift. Each day will be tailored to the weather and surf conditions.