Our Surf Retreats
A Women’s Surf Retreat Built for Real Progress
Our surf retreats in Nicaragua are designed for adult women who want to learn to surf or surf more consistently in a supportive, structured environment.
We work with first-time surfers through intermediates, especially women who want clearer coaching, steady progress, and more confidence in the water. Whether you’re brand new or feel stuck after years of on-and-off surfing, our program helps you move forward with purpose.
Our retreats are intentionally small and capped at nine guests. Each week includes a mix of experience levels, We group surfers by ability and learning style and adjust sessions daily based on conditions and progress.
👉 Explore Our Surf Experience Levels
Why Chica Brava
Chica Brava is the original women’s surf retreat in Nicaragua and one of the first in the world. Since 2007, we’ve focused exclusively on women’s surf progression, developing a structured, results-driven coaching system that works across levels.
This is not a party camp or a performance-driven environment. It’s a thoughtful, well-run surf experience built around clear instruction, repetition, and real progress, led by experienced female coaches.
👉 See the Top 10 Reasons to Choose Chica Brava
What to Expect
A well-rounded week designed around surf progression, enjoying the beauty of Nicaragua, and creating unforgettable memories with a group of likeminded women.
Each day is structured so you know what you’re working on and why. You’ll surf daily with clear goals, consistent feedback, and a coaching approach that builds confidence through repetition, understanding, and results. Surf theory and video analysis help connect what you’re doing in the water to what you’re learning on land, so progress feels intentional rather than accidental.
Outside the water, everything is handled for you. Meals, transportation, scheduling, and logistics are taken care of, allowing you to focus on surfing, resting when needed, and connecting with a small group of women who are there for the same reason. The week also includes a massage and a relaxed night out in San Juan del Sur, with optional add-ons like catamaran sailing, hiking, or canopy tours if you’d like to explore more.
The Surf Experience
This is what sets Chica Brava apart.
Surf sessions are intentionally small and structured so you’re never lost, rushed, or left guessing. Coaching is clear, direct, and supportive, with a focus on building consistency and confidence in the water.
You’ll surf daily, track your progress, and understand why things are working or not. That clarity is what helps breakthroughs happen.
What’s Included:
✨ Surf
- Six days of expert small-group surf instruction
- Max 3:1 surfer-to-coach ratio
- Three surf blocks daily
- Two 60-minute coached surf sessions
- One 60-minute Empower Hour™ supervised independent surf
- Individualized feedback between lesson blocks
- Video analysis after every surf session
- Personalized goal setting and check-ins
- Surf theory lessons that translate directly to the water
- Use of surfboards and equipment
- Daily transportation to surf spots by 4×4
✨ Accommodations
- Seven nights shared accommodations
- Two to three guests per room
- Daily breakfasts and dinners served at the retreat
- See Our Retreat Locations
✨ Lifestyle
- Full-time hosting and on-site coordination
- One guided night out in San Juan DEL SUR
- Two restorative yoga classes
- One relaxing massage
- Airport transfer to and from MGA at scheduled times
- Chica Brava swag bag
- Optional add-ons like catamaran sailing, hiking, or canopy tours
- Genuine camaraderie with the local community
Seamless Logistics
We handle the details so you can focus on the experience.
From airport pickup to daily logistics, everything is planned and coordinated by our team. While the week includes structured surf sessions and activities, it’s not rigid. Guests are always welcome to take a break, sit out a session, or recharge when needed.
The goal is progress with support, not pressure.
What You’ll Leave With
You’ll leave with the skills and understanding to paddle out on your own and continue applying what you’ve learned. You’ll leave with new connections, shared experiences, and a stronger sense of confidence in the water.
Most of all, you’ll leave knowing you’re capable of more than you thought, grounded in a surf experience built on purpose, not pressure.
Questions? Contact Us
Guest Love
The Surf Trip of a Lifetime
Chica Brava is hands-down the best retreat I’ve been on. I’m still dreaming about the waves, the food, the hikes, and the laughs. If you’re even thinking about going, do it. You won’t regret it.
— Zoe M. , Los Angeles
Connection You Don’t Expect
I didn’t realize how much I needed this kind of connection until I was in it. Everyone was so open and fun, and the vibe was totally judgment-free. It’s not just about surfing—it’s about showing up for yourself and finding your people.
— Mia L. , Toronto
Work Hard, Surf Harder
As a full-time remote worker, I needed a true break. Chica Brava gave me the mix of adventure and recharge I was craving. Yoga, surfing, incredible food, and the best group of women I’ve ever met. 10/10 experience.
— Rachel P. , Austin
Beginner to Badass
I was nervous to try surfing, but the Chica Brava team made me feel so supported from day one. The instruction was amazing, and I actually stood up and rode waves by the second day. Can’t recommend this enough!
— Nikki G. , Denver
The Ultimate Solo Escape
I went solo and it was honestly one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I met women from all over the world, pushed myself on the waves, and had so much fun doing it. I left feeling completely recharged—and seriously empowered.