AWARDS & MEDIA
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Surf Synergy: The World’s Top-Rated Award-Winning Surf Retreat. Recognized globally for our unique blend of elite surf coaching and holistic wellness, we are proud to be a leader in transformative travel. Discover why travel editors and wellness experts consistently name us the premier surf destination in Costa Rica. From global travel editors to wellness publications, we’ve been featured for the way we combine surfing, mindful living, and warm hospitality.
Take a look at the recognition we’ve received, and what makes Surf Synergy stand out.
What This Recognition Actually Means
Most travel awards are nominated. These aren't.
The Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards are determined entirely by reader vote, tens of thousands of travelers who have experienced these properties firsthand and ranked them against every other spa destination on the planet. There is no entry fee, no judging panel, no sponsorship pathway. Surf Synergy ranked #1 internationally because guests voted us there, two years running.
The TripAdvisor Best of the Best designation follows the same principle: it's calculated algorithmically from verified guest reviews over a 12-month period, and places us in the top 1% of properties worldwide. It cannot be applied for or purchased.
Outside Magazine's Best of Travel and Women's Health's Best Retreat awards come from editorial teams whose credibility depends on honest, independent evaluation.
We share this not to impress but because you're making a meaningful decision about how to spend your time and money. Recognition from sources that can't be influenced is the clearest signal we can offer that the experience delivers on what we promise.
Voted #1 Destination Spa in the World
by Travel + Leisure Readers 2025
WOMEN’S HEALTH 2025 TRAVEL AWARDS
Best Retreat for Total Rejuvenation in Surf
We’re beyond stoked to win a Women’s Health Travel Award for Best Retreats For Total Rejuvenation. For us, it’s all about helping you feel amazing, look your best, and ride the waves with confidence.
Huge thanks to our awesome team for your dedication and guests for your support. It means the world. Pura Vida.
TRIPADVISOR TRAVELERS’ CHOICE AWARDS 2024
‘Best of the Best’ Winner
We’re honored to win the Tripadvisor 2024 People's Choice Award, Best of the Best, placing us in the top 1% of hotels worldwide!
Huge thanks to our incredible team for their dedication and to our guests for your support.
OUTSIDE’S BEST WELLNESS RETREATS IN THE WORLD FOR ACTIVE TRAVELERS 2024
Best For: Surfers who crave personal instruction
We’re proud to be named one of the Best Wellness Retreats in the World by Outside Magazine in 2024.
This recognition reflects the passion and care our team brings to every retreat.
IN THE MEDIA
The Standards of Excellence
Experience the Award-Winning Difference Being named a Travel + Leisure 'World’s Best' destination isn't just an honor—it's a reflection of our commitment to your progress.
Who it’s for: Our program is designed for solo travelers, couples, and families seeking professional 1-on-1 coaching rather than a standard surf camp experience.
What’s Included: Every weeklong stay (Saturday-to-Saturday) includes luxury accommodations, three organic farm-to-table meals daily, and our signature recovery program (sauna, ice baths, and breathwork).
Why choose us: We maintain a 100% success rate in getting guests on their boards by pairing world-class instructors with the safest sandy-bottom beaches in Jacó.
OPRAH DAILY
We’re honored that Oprah Daily named us one of their top beach destinations, spotlighting our all inclusive weeks, one-on-one surf/SUP lessons, comprehensive wellbeing experiences, and permaculture-driven cuisine.
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![New York Times 2025 article about Surf Synergy.]()
New York Times, Oct 2025
Surf Synergy showcased for reimagining bachelor and bachelorette parties with surfing, wellness, and meaningful bonding experience.
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![Travel + Leisure, July 2024 mention]()
Travel + Leisure, July 2024
Surf Synergy was featured in Men’s Health for offering a transformative surf and wellness experience that helped a father and daughter reconnect and grow stronger together.
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![Surf Synergy proudly received ENTREE’s “E Award of Excellence” for delivering a fun, enriching experience for individuals, families, and groups.]()
Surf Synergy Receives “E Award of Excellence”
Surf Synergy proudly received ENTREE’s “E Award of Excellence” for delivering a fun, enriching experience for individuals, families, and groups.
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Oprah Daily, June 2025
What happens when a grieving family trades comfort for surfboards in Costa Rica? In this heartfelt journey with Surf Synergy, a surf retreat blending waves, mindfulness, and vulnerability helps them reconnect, heal, and grow.
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![Surf Synergy at Men's Health June 2025]()
Men's Health, June 2025
The 2025 Men’s Health Travel Awards. 40 life-changing getaways.
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![Surf Synergy is featured as the best surf resort for its holistic, all-inclusive experience combining expert coaching, wellness programs, and access to six local beaches.]()
U.S.News, June 2025
Surf Synergy is featured as the best surf resort for its holistic, all-inclusive experience combining expert coaching, wellness programs, and access to six local beaches.
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![Surf Synergy in Costa Rica combines surfing and wellness with luxury stays near Jacó. It offers all-inclusive packages for all skill levels.]()
Mr Porter, June 2025
Surf Synergy in Costa Rica combines surfing and wellness with luxury stays near Jacó. It offers all-inclusive packages for all skill levels.
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![Surf Synergy is highlighted for its peaceful mornings, laid-back afternoons, and nourishing evenings, offering a holistic reset in the heart of Costa Rica’s jungle and coastal beauty.]()
The Hotel Guide, June 2025
Surf Synergy is highlighted for its peaceful mornings, laid-back afternoons, and nourishing evenings, offering a holistic reset in the heart of Costa Rica’s jungle and coastal beauty.
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![A magazine cover with the title "Travel + Leisure" featuring aerial view of a water park or swimming pool and a flyer promoting surf lessons in Costa Rica with a surfer riding a wave.]()
Travel + Leisure, June 2024
Spotlighted for its immersive, weeklong surf program at a boutique retreat in Costa Rica.
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![Yahoo Life and Mens Health Surf Synergy 2025 Costa Rica]()
Yahoo! Life and Men's Health, June 2025
Surf Synergy in Jaco blends expert-led surfing with wellness activities like yoga and breath work in a laid-back, all-inclusive setting. It’s an adventurous retreat offering fresh food, a relaxed vibe, and thrilling waves.
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![Well Magazine article of Surf Synergy]()
Well. Magazine, May 2025
Well Magazine featured Surf Synergy in their Summer/Fall edition, highlighting how our coaching, wellness focus, and community help guests recharge, reconnect, and grow on and off the water.
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![Men’s Health and Men’s Journal feature Surf Synergy Costa Rica surf camp in press coverage about father-daughter surf experiences.]()
Men's Health, April 2025
Men’s Health highlights Surf Synergy as a unique Costa Rica surf resort that helped a father and daughter reconnect through personalized coaching, wellness, and shared adventure.
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![A person surfing on a wave in the ocean, wearing a wetsuit, with an article about surfing and travel in Costa Rica.]()
Out Traveler, April 2024
Surf Synergy featured as a top Costa Rica retreat, blending expert surf coaching with wellness in a tropical setting.
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![Travel + Leisure 2025 cover]()
Travel + Leisure, March 2025
Surf Synergy was featured in Travel + Leisure as one of the 30 best bachelorette destinations, offering a unique surf-centered retreat.
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The Wall Street Journal, March 2024
Featured in the ‘Adventure Travel Is Increasingly Not Just for the Young’ article.
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The Points Guy, February 2024
Surf Synergy was featured in The Points Guy as one of the top romantic Valentine’s hotel packages, highlighting its Galentine’s Week surf and self-care retreat in Costa Rica.
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![Entree Newsletter World's Finest Surf Resort award, Surf Synergy.]()
Entree Newsletter
Entree Newsletter has awarded Surf Synergy with the Gold E Award of Excellence in recognition of being selected by Entree as one of World’s Finest Surf Resorts.
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![Two magazine pages: The left page features a cover of Men's Journal magazine with a silver sports car with scissor doors open, and headlines about gear, tech, tools, toys, and work ethic; the right page displays an article about surfing destinations, including a photo of a surfer riding a wave in Costa Rica.]()
Men's Journal, December 2023
Surf Synergy was featured in Men’s Journal as one of the must-visit destinations for 2024, recognized for its premier one-on-one surf coaching in Costa Rica’s ideal waters.
Past Press & Media
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Far & Wide - 8 All-Inclusive Resorts to Book for Your 2025 Vacation
Women's Health 2025 - The 2025 Women's Health Travel Awards Are HereTravelPulse, 2025 - Unique All-Inclusive Resorts To Try in 2025
Travel and Tour World, 2025 - Unique All-Inclusive Resorts Offering Unmatched Luxury, Adventure, and Memorable Experiences
Nob Hill Gazette, 2025 - One Woman's solo surf adventure in Costa Rica
Traveller, 2025 - You don’t have to live here to have a long life, but it helps
Practical Travel Gear, 2024 - Travel Well with Dakine Motive Backpack and Split Roller Bag
Local Magazine, 2024 - Finding synergy and redemption in Waves
Men's journal, 2024 - 24 Best Places to Go in 2024
Practical Travel Gear, 2024 - Travel Well with Dakine Motive Backpack and Split Roller Bag
Travel Boulder - Trips you should take this summer and fall
Vail Daily, 2024 – Vail Health and Surf Synergy to host weeklong Costa Rica retreat in October
Unofficial Networks, 2024 - Mountain Gazette Sweepstakes: Win Your Dream Costa Rica Surf Trip
Mountain Gazette, 2024 - We're Giving Away a Surf Trip to Costa Rica - What?!
Yahoo, 2024 - Unleash your inner cowabunga at Costa Rica's Surf Synergy
Travel Weekly, 2024 - Diving into wellness resorts
Surf Atlas, 2024 - 7 Incredible Costa Rica Surf Hotels
Outside Magazine, 2024 - The 14 Best Wellness Retreats in the World for Active Travelers
The Points Guy, Jan 2024 - Our favorite romantic Valentine's Day hotel packages to book this month
Travel + Leisure, 2023 - 15 Best All-inclusive Resorts in Costa Rica
Honeymoons, 2023 - 15 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Costa Rica for 2024
New York Times, 2023 - Navigating the Black Friday Travels Sales and Deals
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Local Magazine, Winter 2025 edition
The Knot Magazine, April 2024 edition
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WFLA TV, 2024 – Summer getaway ideas
Frequently Asked Questions
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We recommend booking 3–6 months in advance, as our limited-capacity villas fill quickly. A 50% deposit secures your dates.
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All-inclusive rates vary by season and villa choice, typically starting around $3,500. This covers all coaching, gear, food, and airport transfers.
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es! Our 1-on-1 coaching methodology ensures that even those who have never touched a board will be surfing by day one.
BOOK YOUR PERSONALISED SURF EXPERIENCE TODAY
Talk to us to book your personalised experience