Through out our life travels we all meet people that have that “spark”. We also make pilgrimages to places that really make us feel “alive”. Here are 5 places to enjoy the yoga surf lifestyle while also really tapping into connection. The magic of these destinations does not solely come from the great waves, awe-inspiring yoga spaces, and culinary delights. What makes these places so amazing is the passion, love, hard work, and commitment you can feel from the people who have started and built these havens. Also, these spots all provide the ability to deeply connect with nature, rich cultures, and Earth’s rhythms. These special places and the sustainability-minded people who created them definitely make the world a better place! Take a personal adventure, make time for a group getaway, or lead a memorable retreat at one of these outstanding and heart-expanding locations:
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ENCANTA LA VIDA – Costa Rica
If you have ever wanted to visit the rainforest, surf, all while enjoying modern comforts, this is the place! Encanta La Vida is a unique jungle lodge situated on the tip of the Osa
peninsula in southern Costa Rica. The lodge was started over 20 years ago by the adventurous Brian Daily who started coming to Costa Rica in his high school years and grew up exploring and diving at the Channel Islands off the California coast. This place is a bird and animal lovers paradise as seeing monkeys, toucans, and scarlet macaws can be an everyday occurrence. The lodge can accommodate groups of up to 30, and the dreamy yoga deck is an open air studio situated ocean front over looking the bay of Pan Dulce. There are several surf breaks for all levels within walking distance. Other activities include waterfall hikes, horseback riding, or indulging at the lodge’s natural spa. This part of Costa Rica is truly one of the most amazing places on Earth. Experience the Pura Vida!
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MATANIVUSI RESORT – Fiji
Brian and Donna McDonald from the Gold Coast, Australia founded this boutique eco 
resort 11 years ago. It is situated on the “coral coast”, the south side of the main island of Fiji. It is a picturesque setting and how one may dream of island life. The hotel is ocean front facing turquoise lagoon waters. They have just finished building a brand new yoga facility which boasts an indoor yoga space and an outdoor yoga deck underneath an amazing banyan tree. They have been involved with the surf industry their entire lives and are passionate about low impact surf tourism. There is boat only access to the reef breaks, which makes the surfing more appealing to intermediate and advanced surfers. When conditions are right, they take day trips to surf the world class break “Frigates”. Other activities include interacting with local Fijian culture such as kava ceremonies, snorkeling, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, or lounging by their pool. They have 12 “bures” and can comfortably accommodate groups of up to 24 people.
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TOGAT NUSA – Mentawai Islands
Looking to really go deep and off the grid? Check out this private tropical island sanctuary in the middle of the Indian Ocean. Surfers John and Ainsley Ocean 
handcrafted this intimate masterpiece mostly by articles found on the island. The retreat is small and takes up to 8 guests at a time, to really give it that feeling of being “shipwrecked”. The entire island can be circumnavigated by foot in about a half an hour. The white sand beaches and crystal clear water make this place heaven on Earth! The Mentawais are renowned by surfers as being a top notch and consistent wave zone. Most of the waves are reached to by boat and best suited for intermediate to advanced surfers. John and Ainsley are true examples of “living yogis”. Their kindness, compassion, and sustainable living practices, inspire everyone they meet to rise up!
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SURF MAROC – Morocco
Surf Maroc was founded by two British friends, Ben O’Hara and Ollie Boswell, in 2003. 
They built this place on their passion for surf. They have a variety of accommodation options, a hip rooftop yoga pavilion, and numerous world class surf breaks to explore for all levels. The famous “Anchor Point” is very close by. There are several breaks within walking distance, and too many breaks to explore by car. But the main attraction for many that are interested in traveling to Morocco is the CULTURE! Taghazout is a gem on the Moroccan coast. It is a laid back village, with an international vibe, funky cafes, and local Berber crafts. Nearby excursions include wandering the souks (open air marketplaces), visiting a hamman (turkish bath), driving to an inland oasis, or checking out tree climbing goats.
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NIRVANA SURF YOGA – Panama
Join Captain Bryan Blaze for a surf and yoga adventure like no other. Sail among the San Blas Islands and Boacs Del Toro in the Caribbean aboard a 52 foot catamaran. Practice
yoga onboard or at one of the remote island stops. Bryan is a third generation sailor who has been captaining for over 12 years. He is super tuned in to this region and can take you to surf, kite surf, SUP, or snorkel at numerous secluded spots. There can be surfing found for all levels. He is available to accommodate 4-12 guests with one or two boats. Visit the island populated by the Kuna people, the indigenous inhabitants of the San Blas Islands. Enjoy the consistent trade winds, the wind in your hair, and adventure at sea!
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See your life as a fabulous adventure and live YOUR best life!
Erica Hartnick grew up in the Sierra Nevada foothills of California, and enjoys all things wild and free. She teaches nature inspired yoga and leads mindful adventures in California and Costa Rica. She gets excited about; LEARNING, intense weather, glassy ocean peaks, pillows of fresh powder snow, crystal clear water, positive people, cultural travel, thriving vegetable gardens, fresh mint chip ice cream, nature’s glory, LIVING YOGA, and connecting with others. She is passionate about the collaboration with friends that led to the creation of Yoga Trade, and is devoted to connecting the yoga community with infinite opportunities!
