A JUNGLE ESCAPE
SURF & yoga RETREAT, SANTA CATALINA, PANAMA
CATCH WAVES, DE-STRESS & GET UPLIFTED
Year Round elevated Surf & Yoga Retreats for complete Beginner to Intermediate level
Your dream week of learning and improving your Surf, uplifting Yoga, and unforgettable island adventures.
Choose our Waluaa Surf & Yoga Retreat and step into an oasis of tranquility, where your private villa is nestled around a lush palm garden. Dive into a sublime 18ft infinity pool with daybeds a plenty for the perfect post surf chill. And just a stone’s throw to La Punta surf break. Immerse yourself in a culinary journey of Panamanian flavors, using local, natural ingredients to create an elevated dining experience that blends traditional cuisine with innovative culinary techniques. A dreamy retreat experience that is relaxed, welcoming and with a pampered touch.
Experience personalized surf coaching to achieve your surf goals, surf-enhancing yoga & meditation, and all the magic and adventure of Santa Catalina. A dreamy surf town far from the city lights.
Uncrowded village and beaches, world-renowned surf, perfect waves for beginners & intermediates, and a laid-back vibe all in one of Central Americaʼs safest countries, Panama.
Our 6 night Waluaa experiences are designed to bring you one of the best weeks of your life.
A Jungle Escape
Accommodation and meals for our Waluaa Surf & Yoga Retreat are at a charming boutique property in dreamy Santa Catalina. Tucked away amidst lush palm gardens, this unique property is locally owned and the perfect oasis for guests seeing an elevated retreat experience.
Highlights of this Property:
Spacious and private villa style rooms with tropical outdoor garden showers, an oasis of tranquility and charm. Each room is carefully designed to offer an elevated atmosphere of peacefulness and comfort.
5 min shuttle to Playa Estero, where we have our surf coaching. 5 min walk to La Punta surf break for intermediate to advanced surfers. An easy 10 min walk to the village center of Santa Catalina.
Spacious 18ft infinity pool with sun loungers and day beds, hammocks and sofas sprinkled around the property. Relax in this natural paradise under a starlit sky to the sounds of the Pacific Ocean.
Pool side cocktail bar, complimentary bikes and wifi. On-site bikini shop.
Expect all the mod cons with AC, fan, memory foam mattresses, plush pillows, safe, fridge, ensuite with BPA free bath products and lush bathrobes. And your very own hammock, table and sun deck chairs on every garden patio.
Tropical Villa Style with a laid back ambiance
An intimate tropical oasis with an elevated feeling of calm and comfort to make your stay unforgettable.
All rooms have been designed with a natural palate and sustainability in mind. Each with their own unique personality and style. Spacious, light and airy, a true experience for all the senses. All furniture is made of teak wood and professionally handcrafted locally. Each bathroom has its own private garden shower, beautifully decorated with natural stone walls and tropical plants. And a private terrace with hammocks and deck chairs for you to relax amongst the lush gardens.
The Vibe of this Property:
A boutique experience, you'll feel you’ve stepped into your own jungle oasis with lush palms, mango and banana trees. Panamanian architecture with professionally handcrafted wood work, native plants and flowers surrounding you.
A intimate property with 12 rooms, welcoming to all. With plenty of space to come together and chill, or retreat to the haven of your private villa style room.
Elevated, warm, personal. And a restaurant experience that comes alive at night with salsa sounds. Woven with a fine dining experience in a laid back ambiance.
“Our week-long Waluaa surf and yoga retreat was even better than I imagined. Vickie and Sergio have put together a perfect itinerary that balanced activities and rest and provided an unmatched level of service. From personalized surf lessons with Casey to yoga with Elena and Vickie to snorkeling in Coiba to eating ceviche on Catalina island, everything exceeded my expectations. Do not hesitate to book this dreamy retreat and experience all that Waluaa has to offer! ”
Our 6 Night All-Inclusive Panama Surf & Yoga Retreat brings you:
ALL YOUR GOURMET Meals
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day, also including your arrival evening dinner and departure morning breakfast. Experience fine dining in a laid back atmosphere with internationally trained Panamanian chefs, using the freshest locally sourced ingredients. We’ll also visit a local restaurant or two during your week to enjoy their incredible cuisine, included with your retreat. Natural fruit smoothies served daily with breakfast plus locally sourced coffee from Boquette. Complimentary glass of wine or local beer with each evening meal. All dietary requests can be catered too.
Evening Beach Bonfire
Nothing tops off a week by the ocean better than a beach bonfire under the starlit sky and shared with new friends.
Standup Paddle Boarding (SUP) Experience at Santa Catalina Island - summer season only
With a delicious tropical fruits and lunch on the white sand beaches. Enjoy SUP boarding, swimming, chilling and exploring this secluded island.
WiFi
Fibre Optic High Speed Broadband is available throughout the property including in room.
WALUAA GOODIE BAG
A little momento from us to remember your retreat!
ADD-ON: Shuttle Transfers to and from Panama City
We can pick you up in our private shuttle at Panama City Tocumen International Airport (PTY) at 8am on your retreat start date or at 9am in front of the Central Hotel in Casco Viejo. We’ll have you back in Panama City around 3pm on your final retreat day. We can return you to the airport if you have an evening flight home or to your hotel in Panama City. Cost is $90pp each way. Alternative travel options include public transport which is safe, easy and cost effective or rent-a-car, or ask us about private charter planes!
5 Surf Lessons
Personalized coaching in small groups with a max of 1 - 3 students to an instructor. Each lesson is around 2-2.5 hours and is designed to be progressive. Your board, leash, wax, long-sleeved rash guard and shuttle transport to and from the beach (5min away) is included. As well as go-pro video of your sessions which are delivered to you daily for review. All our instructors are ISA certified and deliver a professional and effective surfing experience.
2 Surf Studio Lessons
Surf Theory, Technique & Video Feedback. With GoPro videos emailed to you.
6 Yoga Classes
Class styles include Vinyasa, Slow Flow, Hatha, Yin and Restorative. You’ll receive your own premium yoga pack for the week including a Manduka PRO yoga mat, cork blocks, straps and blanket. All our instructors are Yoga Alliance certified and will tailor the classes your needs, all while practicing surrounded by nature in our oceanfront studio. Note: Yoga & Meditation classes take place at the Yoga Studio at our nearby Surf & Yoga Camp, a short 5min walk away.
2 BREATHWORK, MINDFULNESS & meditation classes
Learn practical tools you can take home to manage stress, get better sleep and improve your health.
6 Nights Accommodation AT A BOUTIQUE PROPERTY
Usually Sunday to Saturday. Each of our comfortable rooms feature private bathroom with hot water shower, complimentary BPA free toiletries AC, fan, safe, fridge, wardrobe, memory foam mattresses, plush pillows, garden view patio with hammock, sun deck chairs & table. The property features an 18ft infinity pool, restaurant and bar and social areas for relaxing. And complimentary bikes.
Here’s an example schedule of how your week will look!
Our surf lessons are planned around the tides for optimal conditions, so some days surf will be in the morning, same days in the afternoon. We let Mother Nature do her thing and plan around her cycles.
If you choose a Yoga only program, you’ll experience everything here except for Surf Lessons & Video Reviews. You are welcome to come in and listen to our Surf Theory session if you like!
If you choose a Surf only program, you’ll experience everything here except for Yoga, Mindfulness & Meditation sessions.
If you bring a non-Surf & Yoga Partner to share your Single Private room with, they will experience everything except for Surf & Yoga related activities.
Pretty simple, huh? That’s how we like it.
Choose the Experience that’s Right for You
We carefully select the year round weeks we offer our retreats for ideal surf conditions based on the tides and seasonality. We also avoid national holidays such as Carnival, Easter and Christmas when our beaches and village are busier than usual. Check out our dates and please reach out with any questions. We have a maximum group size of 12pp each week.
Surf and Yoga
Includes everything listed above.
Single: $2,700 - $2,900pp
Private Double: $2,300 - $2,400pp
Shared Room (max 3pp): $2,400pp
Private Triple: $2400pp
Private Suite, 1-3pp: $2,600 - $4,100pp
Surf
Includes everything but Yoga.
Single: $2,500 - $2,700pp
Private Double: $2,100 - $2,200pp
Shared Room (max 3pp): $2,200pp
Private Triple: $2,200pp
Private Suite, 1-3pp: $2,400 - $3,900pp
Yoga
Includes everything but Surf.
Single: $2,200 - $2,400pp
Private Double: $1,800 - $1,900pp
Shared Room (max 3pp): $1,900pp
Private Triple: $1,900pp
Private Suite, 1-3pp: $2,100 - $3,600pp
All rates are in USD and exclude 7% ITBMS (Panamanian Goods & Services Tax). Rates shown exclude the optional add-on’s of shuttle transfer.
+$700 to add-on a Non-Surf & Yoga Partner to your stay, which includes accommodation, meals and all included activities listed above. Simply book a Private Single (choose 2 beds or a King) or Private Deluxe Room (King bed only) and add your partner at check-out.
Choose the Accommodation that’s Right for You
Each villa style room is unqiuely designed to offer an elevated atmosphere of tranquility and comfort. Expect memory foam mattresses and plush pillows in your room for a blissful night sleep, along with AC and fan, plush bathrobes, private ensuite with outdoor garden shower and complimentary BPA free bath products. Broadband Wifi, wardrobes, safe, fridge, bath and pool towels. Daily house-keeping, and laundry service available on request. Each room also features a garden view patio with very own hammock, sun deck chairs & table.
Single
Perfect for the solo traveler who wants their own space. Room features a King bed with outdoor garden shower, ensuite, garden patio view with hammock, chairs, & table.
Shared or Private Double
Ideal for friends sharing, or solo travelers. Room features 2 separate double beds, with outdoor garden shower, ensuite, garden patio view with hammock, chairs, & table.
Deluxe Single or Double
For the solo traveler, or couple seeking elevated accommodations. Room features a King bed with 2 x outdoor garden showers, ensuite, garden patio view with hammock, chairs, & table.
Private Triple
With even more space this room is ideal for 3 friends traveling together. Features outdoor garden shower, ensuite and large garden patio view with hammock, 2 cozy sofas & table.
Single, Double, Triple Suite
A private sanctuary for 1 - 3pp. This Suite features a King bed and sofa bed, kitchen, dining and lounge area, extended outdoor shower and patio with sofas, tables and hammock.
If your selected room is not available for the week you want to retreat, please contact us and we will let you know other room options available for you!
PERSONALIZED, SAFE & EFFECTIVE
Our Surf Camp & Coaching Program
Learn & Improve Your Surf in Our Santa Catalina Paradise
There’s nothing more freeing than being out in the ocean. It’s here among the waves on our board that we experience a blissful state of calm and presence. They say that “only a surfer can know the feeling” of surfing that perfect green wave. This is your chance to experience it. We’ve created the ideal surf program for complete beginners to intermediate that’s personalized, safe and effective.
More About How We Coach Surfing & The Waluaa Difference →
Meet Our Professional Surf Coaches →
We focus on:
Simple and concise explanations
Demonstration using keywords & cues
Small group sizes
Repetitive practice of each skill
Continuous feedback - immediate and encouraging
Surf theory & Video review sessions
Daily videos of your sessions to sent your device
“The surf instructors were professional, world competing riders who gave us such a great experience. It was WELL worth the money and HIGHLY recommend this retreat to anyone looking for an adventurous vacation. ”
During our signature Waluaa Surf and Yoga experiences, our goal is that you learn the fundamentals of surfing through immersion with core skills and gain both the confidence and ability to hit the surf on your next vacation.
ENHANCE YOUR SURF & LIFE
Our Yoga, Breath Work & Meditation Program
De-stress and Find Balance
Find your perfect flow through surf and yoga. Our yoga sessions are designed to enhance your surf experience, your connection to nature and self. Learn practical yoga, breath work, meditation & mindfulness tools you can bring home with you. Our yoga studio is ocean front and stocked with Luxury Manduka PRO mats and equipment. Connect to the healing properties of nature. Listen to the birds and the waves as you sink into a blissful savasana.
More About Our Yoga & Meditation Program →
Meet Our Instructors →
We focus on:
Invigorating Hatha-vinyasa style classes aim to move you out of the head and into the body.
Teaching simple and effective meditation, breath work & mindfulness practices to quiet the mind and effectively reduce stress.
Evening restorative and yin flows to focus on relaxation and healing the body
All levels of yoga are very welcome as our teachers listen to your needs, adapt classes and safely break down postures.
“This retreat is the most healthiest, most meaningful, and relaxing experience l have ever had. You don’t require previous experience, and the main purpose of Vickie and Sergio is to make your trip unbelievable every minute. ”
Additional Details
Not Included
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- Flights to and from Panama
- Travel Insurance
- Extra meals/snacks or drinks beyond our included 3 meals & drinks each day - our onsite restauarant & bar is open 7.30am - 10pm. Feel free to order anything extra you like. Pop it on your room tab and close out at the end of the week.
- Gratuities
Sample Schedule
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This is just an example day. Each day can vary as we base the schedule on the tides to set you up with the best surf conditions possible during your stay. Your schedule will also vary if you book an extra Surf or Yoga lesson each day.
We carefully plan your week for you, however everything is entirely up to you. You do YOU! Feel free to participate in as much or a little as you like.
6.3AM - Coffee, Teas, Seasonal Fruit
7:00AM - Surf
9.30AM - Breakfast
10.30AM - Studio Surf Lesson (Theory, Technique, Video Feedback)
1:30PM - Lunch
2.30PM - Free Time (Optional Activities or Simply Relax)
5PM - 6.30PM Yoga & Meditation Practise
7:30PM - Dinner
Accommodations & Amenities
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Each of the villa style rooms are carefully designed to offer the best atmosphere of tranquility. Designed with natural materials and built with traditional architecture, all offer high-standard accommodation for an unforgettable stay. Relax on the private terraces or enjoy a refreshing smoothie or cocktail from the bar and listen to the ocean from the infinity pool. The on-site restaurant is open all day and offers gourmet dining in a laid back ambiance.
Add-Ons
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Extra Surf and Yoga: Want to dive deeper into your yoga practice or further advance your surfing? Add on an extra daily Surf or Yoga Lesson to your stay.
Extra Night: Want to spend an extra night in our surf oasis for more surf or yoga, or just relax? Add on an extra night to your stay.
Wellness: Completely unwind with a wellness session by our range of certified therapists. Treatments include Thai Yoga Massage, Deep Tissue, Swedish Relaxation, Reiki.
Horseback Riding: Let Santa Catalina’s local horseman take you on a wonderful ride through Santa Catalina’s fincas (pastures) and beaches. We’ll begin with an easy ride through the fincas to take in stunning vistas, then finish with a breathtaking ride along Estero Beach for sunset. Suitable for all levels.
Guided Nature Walk: Join our local guide for a stunning coastal walk. Take in the ocean views, learn about the local wildlife, flora and fauna, and pass remote villagers on the outskirts of town.
Coiba National Park: Snorkeling or Diving: The archipelago of Coiba, one of Panama’s most beautiful places, is a UNESCO World Heritage and is only a 1 hour boat ride away from Santa Catalina. The beaches are exquisite and the island and surrounding areas offer some of the most spectacular diving and snorkeling in the world. You’re likely to see everything from dolphins, turtles, manta rays, octopus, sharks and an abundance of beautiful tropical fish. And depending on the season, the whale migration.
Private Group Shuttle Transfers to and from Panama City: Pick-up from Panama City on your retreat start date at 8am from Panama City International Airport (PTY) or 9am in front of the Central Hotel in Casco Viejo. We will have you back in Panama City on your final retreat day around 3pm. We can return you to the airport or your hotel in Panama City.
Dates & Availability
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We carefully select the weeks we offer this experience for ideal surf conditions based on the tides and seasonality. This program is not offered every week of the year. We also avoid national holidays such as Carnival and Easter when our beaches are more crowded.
Click here to view dates and availability, and to book easily online.
Traveling with a non-surf or yoga partner?
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Have a partner or friend who wants to join in the laidback village lifestyle of Santa Catalina but doesn’t want to do surf or yoga? No problem. Visit our booking platform and select a Single Private Room for yourself, then add-on a 'Non-Surf & Yoga partner'. Too easy.
“I cannot think of a more flawless trip, relaxing, but with a lot of active options, fantastic people, beautiful environment, and some amazing gracious hosts. ”
Booking is Easy
SECURE BOOKING PLATFORM
You’re a couple clicks away from an uplifting, adventurous trip of your dreams using our easy-to-use, secure, online booking system.
Effortless customer Service
We’re here to help you along the way to ensure you the smoothest experience possible.
Pack Your Bags
Passport? Check. Swimsuits? Check. Get your bags packed for a week of surf, yoga, and adventure.