Tag: why choose surf with amiga

Level Up Your Surfing & Stoke with a Surf Coaching Trip to Sumatra Indonesia

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If you’re craving a surf trip that actually helps you improve with waves that challenge you and coaching that empowers you, then a SWA retreat in South Sumatra, Indonesia might just be next on your list!

Located on the southwest coast of Sumatra, this zone is world-renowned for its consistent, quality waves that range from hollow beach breaks to long, peeling reef points. Think long left point breaks that keep you challenged yet frothing, plus a whole cornucopia of other options.

We’ll be staying out front of a world-class beach break with hollow rights and lefts, but also just a short drive away from a mellow right-reef break. No matter what the conditions are, we will find waves! We also will be going in the shoulder season, which means the waves won’t be too gnarly yet still plenty challenging and fun, and likely with fewer people in the lineup.

But here’s the ultimate piece: you don’t have to be thrown into hectic lineups with intimidating bros to get the most out of this place. Instead, picture a lineup filled with the ultimate girl gang to cheer you on and high-quality surf coaching to boot. This isn’t your typical surf camp where you’re left to fend for yourself in a crowded lineup. Surf With Amigas offers this Indonesia retreat as a high-level coaching experience designed for intermediate to advanced surfers who want to deepen their skills in a supportive, focused environment.

What Makes This Different

Surf With Amigas offers a unique experience that meets you wherever you’re at. Here are just a few of the perks you may experience at the South Sumatra Indonesia Surf Retreat:

  • Daily individualized in-water coaching — you’re guided through sessions with real feedback tailored to you.

  • Post-session video coaching — seeing yourself surf on video is one of the fastest ways to improve!

  • Consistent, world-class waves — waves, waves and more waves! From beach breaks right out front to world-class lefts just around the corner.

  • Intimate group size – you’ll be able to froth out and connect with other rad humans, in and out of the surf. This retreat maxes out at 10 participants.

  • Extra perks – daily yoga and jungle explorations to complement surfing your brains and bodies out.

Beyond the Waves

This is still Indonesia, so after the surf sessions you get to sink into slow afternoons, fresh meals, sunsets, and genuine connection with other amazing Amigas who are up for adventure! There are other activities besides surfing, including an epic float down a river on inner tubes and swimming in a nearby waterfall to name a few. This trip is great for those who want a balance of challenge, stoke, and presence for the ultimate well-rounded surf trip.

To check for available spots and learn more about SWA retreats in South Sumatra, click here!

Learn to Surf Over 50: What It’s Like To Go On Your First Surf Retreat

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NEver too Late to Surf: Stories From Our Golden amigas

At Surf With Amigas, we believe the ocean and surfing is for everyone — no matter your age, background, or experience level. Our retreats bring together women of all ages to surf, connect, and grow in beautiful, often remote corners of the world.

And for those stepping into their “golden” chapter with confidence and curiosity, we’re thrilled to offer something extra special: our new Golden Amigas Retreats, designed exclusively for women 50 and over. In honor of our Golden Amigas, we have a few of their stories to share.

When Heidi first joined a Surf With Amigas retreat, she had only stood up on a surfboard a couple of times. Like many women learning to surf later in life, she felt both excited and a little intimidated.

But that first trip changed everything.

“Surf With Amigas has been an absolute gift in my life,” Heidi says. “Learning to surf later in life can be pretty intimidating, but every year I look forward to my trip with SWA. I gain confidence, face my fears, and feel stronger — both in and out of the water.”

For Heidi and so many others, Surf With Amigas isn’t just about catching waves — it’s about building confidence, community, and courage. The SWA coaches are more than instructors; they’re mentors, cheerleaders, and friends who guide you through every paddle-out, wipeout, and breakthrough moment.

“The SWA team takes such special care to make sure you feel supported,” Heidi says. “Their kindness, expertise, and devotion make every wave a celebration. There’s nothing better than the feeling of accomplishment — hearing the cheers, claps, and joyful screams from the beach as your fellow Amigas share in your success.”

That shared energy — the laughter, the storytelling, the encouragement — is what keeps many women coming back year after year. The friendships built in the lineup often become lifelong bonds that extend far beyond the ocean. Another Golden Amiga, Alla, shared a similar sentiment about learning to surf and her experience with SWA:

“Surf With Amigas gave me an incredible opportunity to surf in a safe, supportive, and beautiful environment. The women I’ve met on my retreats have become lifelong friends, and attending retreats is as much about the experience of women supporting women across all stages of life as it is about improving and growing as a surfer.”

And now, Surf With Amigas is creating an even more intentional space for women who are ready to embrace the next chapter with confidence: the Golden Amigas Retreat. We’ve noticed from the women that come on our retreats that stoke only grows stronger with age, and we want to create an environment where women can be empowered, progress in surfing, and feel supported, no matter the age or where they may be at in life.

These retreat experiences are designed to meet women where they’re at, in and out of the ocean. You’ll have the chance to deepen your relationship with the ocean, refine your surfing techniques (whether it’s your first time on a board or hundredth), and rediscover what it means to move with confidence and ease — in the lineup and in life.

For Golden Amiga Heidi, surfing has become a metaphor for aging boldly and joyfully:

“Every wave is a reminder that you’re capable of more than you think. It’s about letting go of fear, trusting yourself, and celebrating every small victory along the way.” I am so grateful to have met so many incredible women On my SWA trips and every year is a new opportunity to meet new friends to learn new things and have a new adventure.

Whether you’re brand new to surfing or returning to it with a renewed sense of purpose, Surf With Amigas invites you to join a circle of women who lift each other up — in the water, on the beach, and beyond. Our Amiga, Alla, describes this feeling that SWA embodies perfectly:

“Grateful for the sea that teaches us to let go and
for the waves that carry our fears away .
But most of all—
grateful for my surf sisters.
For the laughter, the courage and
the smiles after long sessions.
You remind me that joy is best when shared,
and that every wave is a gift.
Forever thankful for the opportunity to become a forever Amiga.”

Another Golden Amiga, Kelly, shares her story of learning to surf later in life with Surf with Amigas:

Surfing has become one of the absolute true joys of my life—a source of challenge,
camaraderie, and endless rewards. I didn’t pick up a surfboard until I turned 40, but
from the first time I stood up on a board I knew I was hooked for life! I love that every
wave is unique, presenting its own challenge and demanding focus, patience, and
resilience. There’s a thrill and anticipation every time I paddle out, read the ocean, and
catch a wave; the ocean keeps me inspired and motivated to push my boundaries.
What makes surfing even more meaningful are the strong bonds of friendship I have
formed, especially among women. The unwavering support from my surf sisters keeps
me going especially in times where I may be struggling or feeling a little fearful on a big
day. Just the simple ability to paddle out with my girl posse is priceless. Even now, in
my 60s, my surfing continues to improve and I still savor every minute spent in the surf
with my friends. Age has only deepened my appreciation for the sport and the
sisterhood it fosters. Each session leaves me feeling invigorated, accomplished, and
grateful for the ongoing adventure.

Surfing isn’t just for the young — it’s for the bold, the curious, and the golden!

Ready to join the lineup?
Golden Amigas Retreats: February and April — for women 50+

Spots are limited and filling fast — learn more and reserve your space at surfwithamigas.com.

Improve Your Frontside Cutback: What to Look For and How to Turn

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The frontside cutback is a very important maneuver in surfing, whether you’re riding a longboard or a shortboard. It’s not just about style—it’s a way to stay in the most powerful part of the wave, link your turns, and keep your ride flowing. We just released a new video surf tutorial all about “How To Do a Frontside Cutback on a Shortboard”. In this video Holly breaks down exactly why we do cutbacks, when to do them, and how to make them look smooth and controlled. Here’s the step-by-step approach, plus some troubleshooting tips pulled straight from her breakdown.

Why Do a Cutback?

The cutback helps you reconnect with the power source of the wave when you’ve raced too far ahead, or the wave is slowing down or losing power in front of you. If you’re out on the shoulder where the wave is softer, a cutback lets you redirect back toward the pocket. In this video tutorial, Holly emphasizes that the best time to cut back is when you notice the wave losing steepness. That’s your signal to look back toward the pocket and reset your line.

Step 1: Spot the Section

As you trim down the line, pay attention to the top third of the wave. That’s where the energy lives. Holly explains in the video that if the shoulder looks slopy and you’re starting to lose speed, it’s the perfect cue to set up a cutback. If the wave is jacking up or looks curvy, avoid doing a cutback in this section.

Step 2: Initiate the Turn

Your eyes lead the way—look first, then shift your weight slightly onto your heels and point your hips where you want to go as you start to angle back towards the whitewater.

Step 3: Compression and Rotation

Bend your knees to stay compressed, then rotate and open up your shoulders and hips back towards the pocket of the wave. Think of drawing a smooth arc. Push your weight through both feet to begin to redirect towards the power source. When initiating the cutback, it’s important not to get too low on the wave, because you’ll lose your speed. Try to stay in the top third of the wave.

Step 4: Redirect Back to the Pocket and Flow Down the Line

As you finish the turn and see and/or reach the whitewash, lean back onto your toe side and your back foot to help pivot the board back around. This lets you release the turn smoothly and aim back toward the breaking part of the wave. Don’t forget to shift the weight back onto the front foot again after completing the turn to help you accelerate back down the line!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Looking down at your board instead of the wave. Keep your eyes on the top third where you want to go.

  • Trying to cut back on a steep, fast section. Save it for the slopy, slower parts.

  • Forgetting to compress. Staying tall makes it harder to control your turn.

The frontside cutback is all about timing and flow. Use it when the wave starts to get softer, stay in the top third of the wave, and lead the turn with your hips. For a full visual breakdown, including what not to do and how to troubleshoot common problems, check out Holly’s “How To Do a Frontside Cutback on a Shortboard” video tutorial. With practice, the frontside cutback will become second nature and can transform your surfing!

Why You Should Learn to Surf at a Women’s Surf Retreat in Northern Costa Rica

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Imagine waking up to the sound of howler monkeys and the crash of warm Pacific waves, your surfboard waiting for you just steps from your room. If you’ve ever dreamed of learning to surf—or simply want to deepen your connection with the ocean—there’s no better place to do it than at a women’s surf retreat in Northern Costa Rica. Here’s why:

1. Easy to Get To, Hard to Leave

One of the biggest perks of the Northern Costa Rica Palm Beach Retreat is how simple it is to get there. Just a short drive from the Liberia International Airport, you’ll skip the long travel days and arrive at your beachside hotel ready to unwind and dive in. For many Amigas, this makes the experience more accessible, stress-free, and appealing—especially if it’s your first time traveling solo or abroad.

2. The Most Beginner-Friendly Wave We Offer

The Northern Costa Rica Palm Beach Retreat location is Surf With Amigas’ most ideal retreat for brand-new surfers. The mellow, sandy-bottom beach break is perfect for learning how to catch your first wave and ride it all the way to shore—no reef, no crowds, and no intimidation. The waves here are gentle and consistent, which means more waves caught, more progress made, and way more fun. However, this retreat is still also great for more advanced surfers who want to improve their skills! There are plenty of waves just a quick walk up the same stretch of beach that can cater to higher levels.

3. You’ll Learn in a Safe, Supportive, All-Female Environment

Let’s be honest—surf culture can feel a little overwhelming. But at Surf With Amigas, you’re surrounded by encouragement, laughter, and zero judgment. Whether you’re paddling out for the first time or refining your pop-up, you’ll be guided by experienced female coaches and cheered on by a crew of adventurous, like-minded women.

4. You’ll Get Pro Coaching + Video Feedback

One of the most empowering tools you’ll experience is video analysis. Seeing yourself surf—even if you’re just getting started—helps you improve faster and build confidence. Plus, you’ll leave with incredible photos and videos that capture your progress and stoke. Not to mention, keep up your learning pre or post retreat with our SWA Online platform, where you can find more surf tutorials and tips!

5. Relax in Comfort Close to the Waves

The Northern Costa Rica Palm Beach Retreat is hosted at a cozy, locally-owned hotel just steps from the surf. Think laid-back jungle vibes, delicious meals, hammocks under the trees, and a private trail straight down to the sand. It’s simple, comfortable with all the modern amenities, and the space is built  on what matters: connecting with nature, yourself, and your new surf crew. Not to mention, the hotel’s bistro cafe is open to the public, so you’re bound to meet other travelers and locals!

6. Deep Roots in Local Community + Sustainability

Surf With Amigas isn’t just dropping in for a vacation—they’ve been working with local instructors and communities in Costa Rica for over a decade. The retreat supports local businesses, fosters cross-cultural friendships, and encourages sustainable travel choices. You’re not just a tourist—you’re a temporary local, with a meaningful role in a greater community.

7. It’s a Confidence Boost That Lasts a Lifetime

There’s nothing like the feeling of catching your first wave. Learning to surf in adulthood challenges you in all the right ways—it builds trust in your body, helps you push through fear, and leaves you feeling strong, exhilarated, and proud. Whether you arrive solo or with friends, you’ll leave with a deeper sense of self and a whole crew of Amigas cheering you on.

Learn more and book your retreat here!

How to Noseride: Push the Bush and Tuck the Tush

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There’s nothing quite like the feeling of gliding to the nose—weightless, piggies over the edge, wave peeling beneath you like silk. But behind every dreamy hang-five is a solid setup: timing, positioning, and body and wave awareness. Our favorite places to do it are in Southern Costa Rica and in Morocco! If you’re working on your cross-step and noseride technique, here are three classic approaches to help you find your flow:

1. Stall to Stay in the Pocket

Especially when the wave is slow and not quite a perfect, tall, nose-rideable wall in front of you, don’t rush your cross steps! Shift your weight back to gently stall (or even step back with your back foot)—this lets the wave catch up and allows you to situate yourself in that perfect little pocket of speed and power, in between the breaking wave and open face. Once you feel the tail of your board held down by the breaking wave, begin cross-stepping forward with smooth, slow, deliberate steps. You’ll likely start to levitate up towards the top 1/3 of the wave, this is where you want to stay! Remember: good posture is key. Tuck the tush, push the bush—hips forward, chest back—to stay light and balanced over your board. Don’t forget to keep your eyes up looking at the section in front of you! You may even need to repeat this tactic several times on one wave to set up again.

2. Go Straight to the Nose on a Fast Section

If the wave is steep, speedy, and forming a nice tall wall down the line, don’t hesitate. Angle your line high by leaning on your inside rail, trim along the top 1/3 of the wave and go for your cross steps. Because the tail of your board is already held down by the breaking wave in this scenario, you’re already set up, just focus on staying centered and keep your steps in control!  Again, that “tush-tucked, bush-pushed” posture helps keep your weight evenly distributed for better control and style points.

3. Use a Big Bottom Turn to Set Your Line

This technique will help you to slow things down while setting up for the noseride of your dreams. Try a deep bottom turn. This technique will not only help you stall if you’re not quite in the right place on the wave, but also will help you generate speed to  propel you to the upper third of the wave as you take your first steps.  After bottom turning, take your first step forward as you float up the wave  and settle in for that long glide.

Finally, noseriding is way more fun when you’re warm, flexible, and confident in your gear. That’s why we love Mamala wetsuits—designed by women, for women, with buttery soft neoprene and cuts that move with you (and yes, they look good on the nose, too).

Want to break it all down even more? Surf With Amigas Online is your go-to for tutorials, noseride tips, and feedback from experienced instructors. Whether you’re a few steps in or already hanging ten, there’s always more to learn—and more fun to have along the way!

6 Inspiring Women-Founded Brands Every Surfer Needs to Know (And the Stories Behind Them)

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At Surf With Amigas, we’ve always believed that surfing is more than just a sport—it’s a lifestyle, a sisterhood, and a way to connect with the ocean and ourselves. But even the most passionate surfers need the right gear, and that’s where our incredible partners come in. Each of our affiliate brands has a story and a commitment to empowering women in the water, and we’re proud to share their journeys with you!

Mamala: A Legacy of Strength and Connection We first met the founder of Mamala on one of our Surf With Amigas retreats—a passionate surfer whose brand was born from a desire to create durable, eco-friendly wetsuits made by women, for women.

Here are some words from the Mamala founder, Angela:

“I’ve always been a big believer in performance—and I was unsatisfied with the choices and quality of wetsuits I was buying—I decided to start a women’s wetsuit company focused entirely on performance and women. Named after and inspired by a fearless demigoddess—both shark and woman—who symbolizes both femininity and strength, Mamala has been on a never-ending quest to create high-performance wetsuits to enhance women’s cold water experience. Through collaborations with women surfers, support for women’s surf contests and initiatives that promote women’s participation in surfing, Mamala is committed to building a strong, supportive community for women in the lineup.” 

The brand is all about honoring the ocean and the women who ride it with courage and grace. Their major goal is growth—both as a women’s wetsuit company and as a leader in high-performance, sustainable wetsuits made specifically for women. They are here to set the standard and build a strong and supportive community for women surfers. Use the discount code SWA20 at checkout for 20% off your next order!

Carve: Born on the Waves, Built for Women Our introduction to Carve was a little different—a recommendation from an amiga who swore by their surfwear. Founded on the Australian coast, Carve began with a mission to create stylish, high-quality surf gear designed specifically for women. Built by surfers who saw a gap in the boardshorts market, Carve’s comfortable fits and bold designs quickly became a favorite for our instructors, offering both style and strength in the water. This is a small surf/lifestyle brand that designs classic, sophisticated styles for all different stages of life. Use the discount code SURFWITHAMIGAS10 at checkout for 10% off your next order!

Salt Gypsy: Where Sustainability Meets Style Salt Gypsy is the brainchild of Danielle Clayton, a former surf guide turned entrepreneur who saw the need for stylish, sustainable surfwear for women. Her journey began with a single pair of surf leggings that quickly turned into a global brand known for its eco-conscious fabrics and commitment to women in surfing. For us, Salt Gypsy is more than just gear—it’s a story of resilience, creativity, and riding waves with purpose. Use the discount code SURFWITHAMIGAS10 at checkout for 10% off your next order!

Dkoko: A Celebration of Femininity and Adventure Founded in Costa Rica, Dkoko was created by women surfers who wanted swimwear that could keep up with their adventurous lives. With a mission to celebrate femininity and freedom, Dkoko’s bikinis and one-pieces are designed for active women who want both style and security. Our instructors love Dkoko’s designs for their perfect balance of beauty and functionality. Use the discount code SURFWITHAMIGAS10 at checkout for 10% off your next order!

Sting Bling: Jewelry That Tells a Story Sting Bling is the creative passion of Cherise Richards, our amazing yoga instructor at our Costa Rica and Nicaragua locations. Cherise has been part of the Surf With Amigas team for many years, and her jewelry line is a reflection of her love for the ocean and mindfulness. Sting Bling pieces are handmade with love, each one a little reminder of the sea’s magic, whether you’re on a surfboard or on your yoga mat. Use the discount code SURFWITHAMIGAS10 at checkout for 10% off your next order!

Kaiola: Stylish Sun Protection for Every Wave Our connection with Kaiola began with a simple but essential idea—surf gear should make you feel free, not restricted. Founded by a team of passionate surfers who understand the unique needs of women in the water, Kaiola is all about creating high-performance surfwear that doesn’t sacrifice comfort or style. All of their pieces are designed to move with you, whether you’re paddling out, riding a wave, or stretching on the sand. Kaiola’s unique chin strap is our favorite part about their hats, be it bucket, visor, or baseball cap! The sleek design ensures that the hat doesn’t disrupt your surfing experience yet stays on, even in big, powerful surf. Our instructors love Kaiola’s designs, which offer a perfect blend of support, durability, and style. Use the discount code SURFWITHAMIGAS10 at checkout for 10% off your next order!

Surf brands for women

At Surf With Amigas, we don’t just partner with brands—we build relationships with like-minded women who share our love of the ocean and our commitment to empowering women in the water. Each of these brands has earned a place in our community because they represent more than just great products—they represent stories, values, and a passion for surf.
Whether you’re looking for eco-friendly surfwear, jewelry to bling out your surf sessions, or simply some inspiration, these brands have you covered. And when you choose them, you’re not just supporting a brand—you’re supporting a sisterhood.