Yoga and surfing go together like bread and butter, with both requiring intense focus, energy channeling, and breath awareness. I learned firsthand just how well yoga and surfing provide the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation when I tried surfing during my yoga teacher training in Bali. On a retreat, you can take the lessons you learn on your yoga mat to your surfboard and then stretch out your sore muscles with awareness afterward.
8 Days Fluidity Yoga and Surf Camp in Porto, Portugal
Pros
- 12 hours of surf instruction and classes!
- Buffet breakfast included
- Starting from: $706
Cons
- Only yin yoga classes are offered
- Lunches & dinners are not included
Portugal is one of Europe’s top surf destinations. At the Fluidity yoga and surf camp, you’ll take to the waves daily at one of the country’s secret surf spots, just 30km south of Porto. This week-long retreat includes eight yoga classes and six surf lessons, and the program is tailored to your level.
You’ll drastically improve both your surf skills and yoga practice. There are no early starts, too, so you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast buffet before heading to the beach to surf. Every evening you can relieve those sore muscles with 90 minutes of relaxing Yin yoga.
8 Day Balance Package with Yoga and Surf Lesson in Mirissa, Sri Lanka
Pros
- 1 teacher for every 4 students for surf instruction
- Massage included
- Starting from: $501
Cons
- Airport transfers not included
- Lunch not included
Surf & Yoga Mirissa eat, breathe, and sleep yoga and surfing. This intimate, female-only retreat welcomes guests with open arms and takes great care of you. The small groups in both yoga and surf lessons ensure that you’ll get teacher attention to perfect your technique on the mat and on the water.
The heavenly location in Sri Lanka is in close proximity to nature means that monkeys will be roaming through your temporary backyard. Plus, you’ll get to practice yoga in the jungle shala at a time that best serves you. Early morning classes are not the only option here! Opt for a later morning Hatha session, or flow it out as the sun sets for the evening.
This retreat also included stellar professional photography and videography so you have memories to keep forever!
How does an extended holiday sound? Volunteer at a yoga retreat or school to make it happen!
14 Day Yoga and Surfing Holiday in Morocco
Pros
- Hatha, Vinyasa & Ashtanga yoga styles taught
- All levels of yogis and surfers catered to
- Starting from: $1,127
Cons
- Airport and transfers to other areas of Morocco not included
- Surf photos & videos not included
Agadir is a vibrant and friendly part of Morocco. You’ll spend two weeks surfing in a traditional Moroccan coastal town with a group that is split between beginner and intermediate lessons, so you receive the level of guidance you need. Plus, the area has around 20 local surf spots, so you’ll explore a new beach every day!
The air-conditioned surf house is where you will enjoy fun and social evenings getting to know your new friends. In the evenings you’ll feast on delicious, flavourful Moroccan-style buffets day and night and enjoy sweet sips of the country’s famous mint tea.
7 Day Nourishing Surf and Yoga Holiday in Algarve, Portugal
Pros
- Package options that cater to what you crave during your retreat (yoga, nourish, and surf)
- All meals included
- Starting from: $1,038
Cons
- Only offered select weeks of the year
- More focused on yoga than surfing (4 surf lessons, 10 yoga classes)
Not only is the Algarve a world-famous surf destination, but it’s also a tranquil region full of untouched beauty. It’s an idyllic spot to recharge your body, mind, and soul on a yoga retreat with the added thrill of learning to surf the waves.
This 7-day retreat focuses on Iyengar yoga, with twice-daily classes. In the afternoons, you can join the beginner-level surf lessons where you will connect to the elements.
You’ll be in a small group of no more than 7 to 9 others, so this retreat gives an intimate atmosphere, allowing you to form close bonds over the week. However, you’ll also have the privacy of your own ensuite room with a private patio for when you want to embrace the peacefulness of the nature surrounding you.
8 Day Surf and Yoga Holiday in a Remote Beach with Perfect Surf in El Transito, Nicaragua
Pros
- Practice surfing in uncrowded waters
- Very budget friendly
- Starting from: $385
Cons
- Lunches not included
- Airport transfers not included
This 7-day retreat in the beautiful Leon Area of Nicaragua is one of the best surf and yoga retreats for anyone new to both practices. You’ll learn the basics of yoga and surfing at a relaxed pace with other newbies, leaving you plenty of free time to enjoy one of the safest countries in South and Central America.
Nicaragua is incredibly peaceful, and you’ll love the tranquil atmosphere on the lesser-known El Transito beach. You’ll stay at the homely Free Spirit hostel, which has an enjoyable and social vibe. You will love this retreat if you are traveling solo and looking to make friends.
8 Day San Sebastian Surf, Party, and Yoga in Gipuzkoa, Spain
Pros
- Includes yoga classes, surfing lessons, and guided hikes in a nearby national park
- Hatha, Vinyasa & Ashtanga yoga styles taught
- Starting from: $464
Cons
- Airport transfers not included
- Additional activities during free time not included
This 8-day getaway in the Basque Country of Spain is one of the most fun yoga and surf retreats in Europe. You’ll be staying at the Stoke Surf House in a stunning national park and will enjoy daily surfing and yoga with experienced instructors.
The organizers of this retreat are super laid back, allowing you to participate in the activities as much or as little as you want. For example, you can skip the morning yoga for a nature hike or a lay-in! The evenings are always entertaining, too. You’ll go on pintxos tours, visit traditional Basque cider houses, and sometimes party the night away.
4 Day Surf and Yoga Holiday in Nusa Lembongan, Bali
Pros
- Includes a snorkeling trip to see the giant manta rays
- Transfer & pick-up from the main island of Bali included
- Starting from: $348
Cons
- Only breakfast is included
- Far pick-up locations may have an extra fee
Bali is a tropical surf and yoga paradise; however, the main island has become pretty touristy in recent years. Nusa Lembongan is Bali’s neighbor and is a peaceful island that is an ideal spot for reconnecting with yourself. It’s where I head to when I want a break from the busyness of Bali!
This 4-day retreat includes three Hatha yoga and meditation classes, two surf lessons, a snorkeling session, and a tasty vegetarian breakfast every day. You’ll stay at the Santika Guest House and will have plenty of free time to try other activities like scuba diving or SUP, or just relax on the beach.
What’s next?
- Get travel insurance to protect yourself on the mat and off.
- Find the perfect travel yoga mat for you.
- Keep up your yoga practice with me on YouTube.