Costa Rica Unconfined: Downward Dogs And Duck Dives

Surfing and yoga go hand in hand: both require flexibility, strength, and breath control, both can be a doorway between the physical and the spiritual, and both have a slew of shockingly attractive practitioners. It’s no wonder that those who enjoy one often enjoy the other. From longboard to yoga mat – nowhere is the connection between surfing and yoga more tangible than in the beachside crossroads of Pavones, Costa Rica.

Legendary Waves and Local Advice

In Pavones, a constant among local surfers is the legendary reverence with which they describe the fabled point break. “You need a south by southwest swell,” said one over a beer, breaking down the wave that’s in contention for the longest left in the world. “195 degrees, that’s when it’s firing. I’ve surfed twenty-foot faces when it’s on. Twenty-foot faces, ten-foot backs. No bullshit. Only the mavericks were out there that day. Scariest shit I’ve ever seen.”

When asked when that session had occurred, he answered in typical Costa Rican fashion: “March of 2007. No, August 2009. One of those.” Those gathered around the bar nodded their heads in agreement. Time, at least in Pavones, it seems, is irrelevant.

For those of us who find calendars helpful when scheduling an international surf trip, April to September is when the potential for a big swell is highest, although beginners and intermediate surfers can still often enjoy Pavones during these months. Due to Pavones’ location in the bay of Golfo Dulce, the swell direction is key, so keep an eye out for that 195-degree mark.

Punta Banco, a nearby pinprick on regional maps, is a great option if Pavones is too crowded or flat, and hitchhiking between the two towns is relatively safe and commonplace. If you plan on renting a car, definitely get a 4x4, especially during the wet season. Having a 4x4 will enable you to explore breaks further north like Zancudo or even head into Panama, which is about an hour and a half away.

Yoga Mat or Magic Carpet?

If you are accustomed to practicing yoga in an urban environment, coming to Pavones will be nothing short of revolutionary. The vibes of Costa Rica’s “pura vida” culture converge with the majesty of the rolling mountains, leafy jungle, and endless ocean, making it easy to approach yoga with a meditative intention.

The Yoga Farm:

An intimate community, the Yoga Farm is a well-run sustainable farm and yoga center in Punta Banco. Wake up for a morning session on the yoga deck, and practice while watching the sunrise. Then walk down to the beach for an afternoon surf session.

Pavones Yoga Center:

More of a luxury option, the Pavones Yoga Center specializes in retreats and trainings, but they do accept drop-ins. If you are thinking about coming down with a group or getting certified as a teacher, PYC is worth checking out.

Shooting Star Studio:

If you are looking for a quick drop-in class close to town, head to the Shooting Star Studio, just south of Pavones on the road to Punta Banco. Mellow vibes and beach breezes abound.

Quit Dreaming and Start Planning your Trip:

These surf spots and yoga studios are jump-off points for what is sure to be one of the best trips of your life. Imagine slashing peeling waves at the point in the morning, and breathing into poses on a wooden yoga deck shaded by banana leaves in the afternoon. Dream no more, travelers: Pavones awaits.