About Us

​​A Love Story, Woven into Waves

Bodhi Surf + Yoga isn't just a business; it’s a journey. A journey of love, both personal and planetary. A love story between a family, a community, and the natural world. Our story began with a simple dream: to share our passion for surfing, yoga, and sustainable living. Over time, Bodhi has evolved into a B Corp-certified and 1% for the Planet member, committed to positive social and environmental impact. We believe that travel can be a force for good, inspiring guests to connect with themselves, each other, and the planet.

What sets Bodhi apart? It’s the passion that pulses through every fiber of our being. Our chefs, surfers, and yogis are more than just instructors; they’re enthusiasts who live and breathe their craft. We foster a sense of community, where guests and staff bond over shared experiences and a deep respect for nature.

Join us on this extraordinary journey. Discover the magic, the joy of surfing, the peace of yoga, and the power of conscious living.

A Love Story, A Community, A Dream

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In 2005, Travis Bays arrived in Costa Rica as a Peace Corps volunteer, little knowing he'd find love and purpose in this tropical paradise. His love story with Pilar began in 2007 and led to a shared dream: to create a sustainable tourism business that would foster personal growth and environmental consciousness. Together they founded Bodhi Surf + Yoga in 2010. The name "Bodhi" symbolizes enlightenment, and the founders aimed to inspire guests through surfing, yoga, and mindful living.

A Growing Family and Business

In 2011, the birth of their first daughter, Maya, solidified Bodhi as a family business. The expansion of the lodge in 2015 and the birth of their second daughter, Clea, further deepened their commitment to the community and sustainable tourism. The retreat expanded, and a dedicated team worked tirelessly to provide an exceptional experience for guests.

To this day, Travis and Pilar, are deeply rooted in this community. They understand the importance of active listening and meaningful engagement. By participating in local initiatives and supporting community organizations, they strive to contribute to the well-being of their neighbors.

Today, Bodhi remains a family-run business dedicated to sustainable tourism. With a focus on personalized service and a maximum of 10 guests per week, Bodhi offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in nature, yoga, and surf.

Bays Fam
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Our vision for the future includes:

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Deepening the Experience: Offering immersive experiences that connect guests with nature, culture, and themselves.

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Nurturing Community: Fostering a sense of belonging among our guests, staff, and the local community.

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Embracing Innovation: Continuously exploring new ways to enhance our offerings and improve our impact.

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Inspiring Change: Encouraging our guests to live more consciously and make a positive difference in the world.

At the heart of Bodhi lies a deep appreciation for the Earth and its people. The retreat's commitment to gratitude, mindfulness, and community ensures that every guest leaves with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper connection to themselves and the world around them. 

 

We invite you to join us on this journey.

What Guests have to say

reviews-bernie

My wife and I have stayed at Bodhi for three weeks over two trips. It was magical. It is a small and intimate retreat venue with great people that you will get to know and love. The surf instruction is excellent. During our first trip I went from never having surfed to riding green waves in the first week and have since spent all my time outside the white wash. That was very gratifying. Pilar's yoga instruction is excellent as well.

BERNIE G.

British Columbia, CANADA
reviews-cam

The Bodhi camp has been one of my favorite surf and yoga camps to attend. I first visited for two weeks in February and then again for three weeks in July 2021. The surf team members are attuned to participants' different surfing levels and are able to adjust their coaching style to support overall progress. As an intermediate surfer, my favorite part was it felt like I was just out surfing with friends but could immediately tell that my skills kept improving week after week.

CAM G.

USA
reviews-shaler

The beach break at La Colonia beach is an ideal place to learn to surf. Most of the time the waves are perfect for beginners learning to surf--not too big, not too fast. During my week of surf camp I learned how to connect with the Ocean, with myself, and with a wonderfully warm group of people. Every morning I woke up looking forward to meeting with my instructors and the other classmates. The meals at Bodhi were so delicious and healthy. After a week at Bodhi Surf and Yoga I only wished I could have stayed longer. This was my second year at the surf camp, and there will be more.

RICHARD S.

California, USA
reviews-hilary

We went to Bodhi for a week in February and had an immersive, incredible experience! We felt connected to mother earth and to the community. Bodhi isn't just a vacation. It's a lifestyle. It's a community. It's where life is slow and the friendships are fast. My only regret is that we didn't stay longer! We'll be back soon.

HILARY LOUDON

British Columbia, CANADA

More about Bodhi Surf + Yoga

Curious to learn more about Bodhi, what we do, why we do it, and why you should consider visiting on your next vacation to Costa Rica? Get started with any of the sections below.

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Why Choose Bodhi Surf + Yoga

Learn what sets us apart from the traditional surf & yoga camp, or from travel experiences in general.

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Guest Testimonials

Don't take our word for it, read what past guests have to say. Beware, some write essay-long reviews!

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Corporate Responsibility

Bodhi Surf + Yoga is built on an ethos of social and environmental responsibility.

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Surf + Yoga Vacations

When it comes to surf and yoga vacations, Bodhi Surf + Yoga is unique and in a class of its own!