Surf Sports and Sustainability for Teens in Costa Rica

Lesson Plan

On this program you will discover Costa Rica’s Guanacaste Province, where you’ll be amazed by the variety of beautiful beaches, mangroves and lush tropical jungles that surround you at every turn. Volunteer with local ecological groups to help conserve nearby beaches. As part of your service project, you will collect data on microplastics as a citizen scientist. You’ll also have the chance to work on projects to improve sports facilities in the community that can really make a difference for youth and families in the area. Stay active daily while surfing warm waves and playing pick-up sports. Experience the essence of the ocean-minded “Pura Vida” lifestyle as you learn how to surf from skilled instructors. And don’t forget to take in all the beauty of the Pacific Ocean and rich biodiversity of Costa Rica during your two weeks here in Central America.

Community Service

Take part in community service projects to support environmental conservation along the coast in the Guanacaste region of Costa Rica. Alongside passionate community leaders, students will volunteer on environmental projects such as mangrove restoration and microplastics collection to support meaningful marine conservation. Mangroves are essential for reducing coastal soil erosion and are a critical habitat for both land and marine species found along the coast, and you can help them to thrive. Microplastics are also one of the most substantial pollutants found in our land and waterway and can decimate entire ecosystems; your goal will be to play a small but important part in reducing their impact on native habitats. Students will also lend a hand on initiatives in local schools and community athletic fields to improve access to sports in rural Guanacaste. Prepare yourself for many opportunities to learn more about advocating for our environment and promoting sustainability.

Immersive Learning

This is your opportunity to learn about world-famous “Tico” culture in a hands-on way. Experience Costa Rica music and dance, and have an immersive cultural adventure during your time here. You’ll participate in a cooking class with your fellow students and get to sample the culinary delights of the Guanacaste region. Practice your Spanish a bit while exploring the local area. Participate in cultural talk with a local community leader, who will impart some wisdom and inspire you. Take part in traditional sports games, and enjoy a pick-up game of soccer (“fútbol”) and beach volleyball during your time here. And last but certainly not least, learn to surf and ride the waves for the first time, or hone your skills at surfing on Costa Rica’s world class coastline.

Adventure

Adventure is at the heart of this program! Designed for athletes, board riders, adrenaline junkies, or any adventurous student, this program is a sports lover’s dream. Feel the excitement of riding waves in the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean in Guanacaste. Known for its variety of waves, this is the perfect place to learn or hone your skills a short drive from our Home Base. Experience Costa Rica’s wildlife both on land as you walk down tropical paths, and at sea as you sail on a catamaran. On your excursion to Rincon de La Vieja National Park, you will experience the many incredible waterfalls of Rio Azul and soak in volcanic hot springs after to warm up. Then zipline through the lush jungle canopy and enjoy spectacular views as you soar through the treetops.

Program Highlights

• Live in and explore a quaint coastal village in Guanacaste
• Stay active by surfing warm friendly waves and playing pick-up sports
• Volunteer on mangrove restoration projects and microplastics initiatives
• Zipline, go tubing down a river through lush canyons, and relax in thermal hot springs
• Contribute to sports infrastructure projects at rural schools and athletic fields
• Explore the coast by catamaran boat and snorkel amongst diverse marine life