frequently asked questions

NUSHU Surf Retreat

01. Travel

No, the cost of transportation to/from the retreat property is not included in the retreat price.

You should book your flights arriving at Liberia Guanacaste Airport (LIR) on Sunday, April 28, 2024, and departing on Saturday, May 4, 2024. From LIR, you’ll take a car to Nosara where the retreat property is located. More detail on this is available in the next FAQ.

The retreat property is located in Nosara, Costa Rica. The location is relatively remote, which is what makes the area so stunning! While this means uncrowded beaches, please take into account that there will be extra travel time!
 
Upon arrival at LIR, you will need to take a car to Nosara which is about a 3-hour drive.Our team is happy to help you book your car service. Please reach out to info@nushu.com

Check-in on Sunday, April 28, 2024, is at 3 pm and check-out is at 11 am on Saturday, May 4, 2024. We will be able to store your bags for you should you arrive prior to check-in and/or depart later than check-out.

02. Packing

The average temperature in Nosara in April for a typical day ranges from a high of 90°F to a low of 79°F (26°C). 

​​Costa Rica is warm all year round, as is the ocean water temperature, which means you can pack light and easily bring everything you need in a carry-on. We suggest packing the following items:
  • Surf bikinis/surf suits
  • A couple of rash guards and surf leggings (for extra sun and chafing protection)
  • Beach cover-ups and sarongs
  • Dresses
  • Loose-fitting pants and shirts 
  • Activewear (for yoga)
  • A light sweater or jacket for the evenings 
  • Flip flops
  • Sneakers
  • Hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Sunscreen
  • Mosquito repellent 
  • Journal + pen
  • Your current favorite book

What will be provided?
  • Surf gear, including surfboards and wax (please note that you will need to bring your own rash guards)
  • Hair dryers 
  • Bath towels 
  • Pool towels

Laundry service is available on property at an additional cost.

You will not need to bring a converter or adapter if traveling from North America. 

Yes, we recommend bringing cash. Most shops and restaurants in town take US dollars. There is also an ATM a short walk from the retreat property if you prefer to get cash when you arrive.

Yes, you will have access to both.

03. Activities and Surfing

Every day will look a little different, but a sample itinerary will include:
  • Breakfast in the morning
  • Coached surf session
  • Lunch 
  • Yoga session or NUSHU programming
  • Beach sunset
  • Gourmet dinner

Your retreat week also includes:
  • A massage
  • Two dinners in town

No! This is YOUR week and you’re welcome to partake in as much or as little activity as you’d like.

Yes! Please reach out to our team at info@nushu.com for pricing.

You don’t need to have any surf experience to join this retreat! Our instructors will cater to all levels of surfing. Closer to the retreat, we’ll send a questionnaire to get a clear picture of your surf experience and goals for the week.

There will be 5 daily coached surf sessions over the course of the week.

The ocean temperature in Costa Rica is 80°F year-round so you won’t need to wear a wetsuit (but are of course welcome to if preferred). We highly recommend wearing a rash guard while surfing to protect yourself from the sun's UV rays and chafing while on the board. Leggings are also an option for extra protection against the sun.

Yes! You’re welcome to bring your own board. 

04. Additional Questions

Sendero’s onsite restaurant and bar offers hotel guests the opportunity to connect with the Nosara community through a blend of casual and fine dining options, as well as a vibrant après surf scene. The menu offers the highest quality and freshest ingredients at every meal.
  • Welcome drinks
  • 6 breakfasts
  • 5 lunches 
  • 6 dinners (including two dinners in town)

Please note: Additional snacks and drinks outside of meal times will be billed to your room.

Yes! A questionnaire will be sent in advance to collect any dietary restrictions, preferences, and/or food allergies.

A deposit of $1,500 is required at the time of booking to reserve your spot. You can then pay the remaining trip balance in full or in the following installments:
  • Deposit Due - Date of Booking
  • First Installment - October 1, 2023
  • Second Installment - December 1, 2023
  • Third Installment (Balance Paid Off) - February 1, 2024

Should you need to cancel prior to the February 1, 2024, payment deadline, you will not be responsible for the remainder of your balance. However, please note the deposit and any past payments will not be refundable. Should you need to cancel on or after February 1, 2024, the trip is non-refundable.

There are no exceptions to our cancellation policy, including but not limited to COVID-19, weather, personal emergencies, flight cancellations, or delays. Naturally, no one books with the intention of canceling or postponing their retreat, but unexpected things do happen, so please consider purchasing travel cancellation insurance. Depending on the policy and conditions, travel cancellation insurance will pay for some or all cancellation fees.

Yes, we require all retreat guests to show proof of medical insurance. Your medical insurance must cover you while you are surfing. It must also cover you in the event that you require emergency evacuation or repatriation.
 
As mentioned above, we strongly advise that you purchase travel insurance as well as it covers costs in the event that you have to miss some, or all of your trip but are not eligible for a refund from us under our cancellation policy. Some travel insurance policies also include additional coverage for medical evacuation.