Build Confidence and Connection in the Ocean
This retreat is inspired by the concept of an “Ocean a Day,” a philosophy that views the ocean as a powerful remedy for the mind, body, and soul. Like a daily dose of healing medicine, each encounter with the ocean has the power to refresh, recharge, and restore your spirit.
Limited to a maximum of six students, this retreat ensures highly personalized and hands-on coaching. Designed for beginner and low-intermediate surfers, it offers a supportive space to strengthen your connection with the ocean while progressing your skills with confidence. Each day combines guided surf coaching, mindful movement, and ocean play to help you refine your technique and build confidence and ease in the water.
Gabba and Gerritt have crafted a comprehensive program that integrates physical conditioning, yoga, and surf training to support you both in and out of the water. With over 15 years of experience in movement, yoga, and ocean-based training, Gabba brings surf-focused cross-training sessions that enhance flexibility, balance, and core strength—helping you feel more connected and capable with each wave.
Gerritt, with 30+ years of surfing experience, brings a deep technical foundation to each session. His expertise includes advanced surf theory, wave reading, and an understanding of oceanic and atmospheric conditions that influence waves. You’ll learn precise skills in timing, wave selection, and positioning, giving you the tools to read the ocean and optimize each ride.
Together, Gabba and Gerritt’s curriculum integrates physical conditioning with expert insights into surf dynamics, creating a transformative experience designed to unlock new levels of skill and connection with the ocean.
Daily Guided Surf Sessions (All-Levels)
Perfect for beginner and low-intermediate surfers, our location offers gentle, easy waves just steps from your room, with more challenging breaks nearby for those ready to progress.
We keep a 2:1 ratio of students to coaches ensuring each session supports your goals and helps you progress your surfing.
Surf Focused Cross-Training
Enhance your surf skills on land with targeted core and balance training, movement classes, and breathwork. Designed to boost strength, agility, and control, these sessions complement your time in the water, helping you feel stronger, more balanced, and ready to take your surfing to the next level.
Nourish Mind, Body, and Soul
Our fresh, organic meals crafted with locally sourced ingredients will fuel your body, energize your mind, and restore your spirit. Every bite is designed to support your energy and sense of wellbeing.
Find Peace and Tranquility Here
Your Retreat includes all-inclusive access to all amenities on our 25-acre property, including pool yoga shala, and beach access.
All rooms include wifi, AC, and daily housekeeping.
Why should you play in an Ocean a Day?
• High-quality, personalized surf curriculum designed for skill progression
• Expertly guided surf sessions and wellness rituals for a holistic experience
• Ocean-inspired retreat for renewal, balance, and connection
Testimonials
“From start to finish, this place and experience blew me away! The team at Amaru were so accommodating regarding my needs and pre-trip questions and requests. I've never been to a surf camp where I felt such a deep, genuine sense of community and family-like love. Every detail here is thought through and arranged with so much care. The entire staff were so friendly, always smiling, and the food was incredible (and allergen friendly!) The location, property and walkable surf options are epic. I decided not to bring my boards and found a great quiver of quality options. Blissful surfing coupled with video coaching, surf theory, surf skating, yoga, the cacao ceremony and other optional activities, it was a week I'll never forget! I've done several surf retreats, and I felt that the caliber of instruction with this one was the best I've ever found. You won't feel like one of the numbers here. Thanks to everyone at Amaru for cultivating such a beautiful experience. I'll definitely be back!”
-Amber A
“Amaru proved to be a magical place during my first visit, and even more so the second time. I’ve traveled quite a bit, but haven’t found many places where you can feel inspired, exhilarated, and totally relaxed at the same time. Gabba, Gerritt, and the whole team are lovely human beings and made me feel welcome from the first moment. Typical days would consist of dawn surf sessions, delicious fresh meals, great conversations, yoga/mobility work, excursion options like wakeboarding or volcano hiking, and of course hammock naps. I can’t wait to go back.”
-André W
“Thank you for a wonderful stay. Amaru Nicaragua has become a home away from home. I love the simplicity and beauty of it all. The staff is super kind, attentive, and thoughtful; the surf classes are helpful and empowering; the rooms are clean with epic views of the sunrise, sunset, and ocean; and the people who travel here are truly special and genuine. This is the second time I stay at Amaru and everytime I visit, I feel my nervous system calm down and my circadian rhythm reset. I highly recommend you check out this peaceful paradise.”
-Marie Belle PR
Sample Schedule:
• 7:30 AM – Morning Surf Session*
• 9:00 AM – Nourishing Breakfast
• 10:00 AM – Free Time (massage, beach, additional surf, or optional excursions)
• 1:00 PM – Lunch / Siesta
• 3:30 PM – Surf-Focused Yoga / Breathwork / Cross-Training
• 5:30 PM – Sunset Beach Bonfire or Additional Sunset Surf
• 7:00 PM – Chef-Prepared Dinner
• 8:00 PM – Cacao Ceremony & Ecstatic Dance with Live DJ
*note: surf session times are tide dependent and can start as early as 5am
About Your Teachers
Gabriela Dowling
Gabriela, known as Gabba to her friends, is an avid surfer, Omstars yoga teacher, and retreat enthusiast dedicated to creating transformative experiences in unique locations. With over two years on the Amaru team and a track record of hosting successful retreats, Gabba is passionate about sharing the ocean’s magic and inspiring stoke in others. Her goal is to connect deeply with guests, holding space for new experiences and fostering a lasting connection to the ocean.
Skilled in surf, yoga, fitness, slacklining, and leading ceremonies, Gabba brings a wealth of knowledge and energy to each retreat. She’s excited to share these passions with you, creating an immersive experience that will leave you recharged, inspired, and more connected than ever.
Gerritt Cooper
Gerritt, the talented and humble co-creator of Amaru Nicaragua, brings over 30 years of surfing experience and more than 20 years of coaching expertise to his teachings. With a deep, university-level knowledge of surf theory, Gerritt specializes in wave reading, timing, positioning, and understanding the oceanic and atmospheric conditions that affect surf quality. True to his motto, “The best surfer is the one having the most fun,” Gerritt combines technical mastery with a joyful approach, inviting others to reach their potential in the water. He’s incredibly patient, a great listener, and goes the extra mile to help you break through any surfing barriers you face. As one of your trusted surf guides, Gerritt offers not only an inspiring presence but also an invaluable opportunity to develop your surfing to new technical heights.
What’s Included:
7 Nights All-Inclusive Eco-Chic Accommodation
• Rooms with Private Bathroom, Housekeeping, AC & WiFi
• Private Beach Access
• Three Organic, Lovingly Prepared Meals Daily
• Access to Amaru’s Amenities: pool, yoga shala, game rancho, outdoor shower, surfboards
• Roundtrip airport shuttle (terms and conditions apply)
Daily Guided Surf Sessions (All Levels)
• Daily Personalized Surf Coaching with Expert Instructors
• Surfboard Rentals Provided
• Surf Theory and Advanced Surf Theory Classes
• Ocean Emergency Response Conditioning Class
• Video Analysis of Surf Sessions
• Bodysurfing Clinic
• Core & Balance Training
Soul-Nourishing Wellness Activities
• One 1-Hour Wellness Massage
• Movement & Cross-Training Classes
• Breathwork Classes
Exclusive Retreat Perks
• Surf-Focused Yoga
• Surf-Skate Tutorials
• Cacao Ceremony & Ecstatic Dance with Live DJ
• Boat Trip & Wakesurfing Adventure
What’s Not Included:
Airfare
Additional personal transportation
Gratuities and Taxes
Massage Services
Visa ($10 USD) or Baggage Loss Fees
Medical or Travel Insurance Fees
Additional Activities
Additional Bar Menu items
Pricing
We have a variety of price points to accommodate your budget and needs. Only a $500 non-refundable deposit is required to reserve.
Solo Traveler (private room)
$3,000
SALE! Use code BFOCEAN for $150 off! Ends this Week!
2 Guests (shared room)
$2,700
SALE! Use code BFOCEAN for $150 off! Ends this Week!
3+ Guests (triple room)
$2,550
SALE! Use code BFOCEAN for $150 off! Ends this Week!
