Immerse Yourself in the Healing Power of the Ocean

This retreat is inspired by the concept of an “Ocean a Day,” a philosophy that views the ocean as a powerful remedy for the mind, body, and soul. Like a daily dose of healing medicine, each encounter with the ocean has the power to refresh, recharge, and restore your spirit.

Gabba and Gerritt have carefully designed this retreat to bring you a comprehensive blend of physical conditioning, ocean awareness, and surf mastery. With over 15 years of experience in fitness, yoga, and movement, and her lifelong passion for the ocean, Gabba offers surf-focused cross-training that strengthens core stability, enhances flexibility, and builds mental clarity. Her sessions help align body and mind, preparing you to bring out your best performance in the water.

Gerritt, with 30+ years of surfing experience, brings a deep technical foundation to each session. His expertise includes advanced surf theory, wave reading, and an understanding of oceanic and atmospheric conditions that influence waves. You’ll learn precise skills in timing, wave selection, and positioning, giving you the tools to read the ocean and optimize each ride. Together, Gabba and Gerritt’s curriculum integrates physical conditioning with expert insights into surf dynamics, creating a transformative experience designed to unlock new levels of skill and connection with the ocean.

Daily Guided Surf Sessions (All-Levels)

Build confidence and skill with expert-led surf sessions tailored for all levels. From personalized coaching to video analysis, each session is designed to deepen your surfing experience and progress.

Surf Focused Cross-Training

Enhance your surf skills on land with targeted core and balance training, movement classes, and breathwork. Designed to boost strength, agility, and control, these sessions complement your time in the water, helping you feel stronger, more balanced, and ready to take your surfing to the next level.

Nourish Mind, Body, and Soul

Savor fresh, organic meals crafted with locally sourced ingredients to fuel your body, energize your mind, and restore your spirit—every bite supports your wellness journey.

Find Peace and Tranquility Here

Your Retreat includes all-inclusive access to all amenities on our 25-acre property, including pool yoga shala, and beach access.

All rooms include wifi, AC, and daily housekeeping.

Why should you play in an Ocean a Day?

• High-quality, personalized surf curriculum designed for skill progression

• Expertly guided surf sessions and wellness rituals for a holistic experience

• Ocean-inspired retreat for renewal, balance, and connection

Testimonials

“What an amazing week!! I loved my experience at amaru - a beautiful community, location, and surfing /yoga/activities everyday made it so enjoyable. They offered a variety of food options, including some veggie days, and “power shots” that helped replenish my body after getting knocked around by the waves. Plus adorable fur babies and delicious mojitos just to top it off :)”

-Wendy, Registered Nurse

“Amaru proved to be a magical place during my first visit, and even more so the second time. I’ve traveled quite a bit, but haven’t found many places where you can feel inspired, exhilarated, and totally relaxed at the same time. Gabba, Gerritt, and the whole team are lovely human beings and made me feel welcome from the first moment. Typical days would consist of dawn surf sessions, delicious fresh meals, great conversations, yoga/mobility work, excursion options like wakeboarding or volcano hiking, and of course hammock naps. I can’t wait to go back.”

-André, Pediatrician

“Thank you for a wonderful stay. Amaru Nicaragua has become a home away from home. I love the simplicity and beauty of it all. The staff is super kind, attentive, and thoughtful; the surf classes are helpful and empowering; the rooms are clean with epic views of the sunrise, sunset, and ocean; and the people who travel here are truly special and genuine. This is the second time I stay at Amaru and everytime I visit, I feel my nervous system calm down and my circadian rhythm reset. I highly recommend you check out this peaceful paradise.”

-Marie Belle, Athlete /Yoga & Fitness Instructor

Sample Schedule:

• 7:30 AM – Morning Surf Session

• 9:00 AM – Nourishing Breakfast

• 10:00 AM – Free Time (massage, beach, additional surf, or optional excursions)

• 1:00 PM – Lunch / Siesta

• 3:30 PM – Surf-Focused Yoga / Breathwork / Cross-Training

• 5:30 PM – Sunset Beach Bonfire or Additional Sunset Surf

• 7:00 PM – Chef-Prepared Dinner

• 8:00 PM – Cacao Ceremony & Ecstatic Dance with Live DJ

*note: coffee bar is open every morning at 5:30am providing complimentary additional food outside of the family-style menu coffee, tea, homemade bread, fruit and granola. 

About Your Teachers

Gabriela Dowling

Gabriela, known as Gabba to her friends, is an avid surfer, Omstars yoga teacher, and retreat enthusiast dedicated to creating transformative experiences in unique locations. With over two years on the Amaru team and a track record of hosting successful retreats, Gabba is passionate about sharing the ocean’s magic and inspiring stoke in others. Her goal is to connect deeply with guests, holding space for new experiences and fostering a lasting connection to the ocean.

Skilled in surf, yoga, fitness, slacklining, and leading ceremonies, Gabba brings a wealth of knowledge and energy to each retreat. She’s excited to share these passions with you, creating an immersive experience that will leave you recharged, inspired, and more connected than ever.

Gerritt Cooper

Gerritt, the talented and humble co-creator of Amaru Nicaragua, brings over 30 years of surfing experience and more than 20 years of coaching expertise to his teachings. With a deep, university-level knowledge of surf theory, Gerritt specializes in wave reading, timing, positioning, and understanding the oceanic and atmospheric conditions that affect surf quality. True to his motto, “The best surfer is the one having the most fun,” Gerritt combines technical mastery with a joyful approach, inviting others to reach their potential in the water. He’s incredibly patient, a great listener, and goes the extra mile to help you break through any surfing barriers you face. As one of your trusted surf guides, Gerritt offers not only an inspiring presence but also an invaluable opportunity to develop your surfing to new technical heights.

What’s Included: 

7 Nights All-Inclusive Eco-Chic Accommodation 

• Rooms with Private Bathroom, Housekeeping, AC & WiFi

• Private Beach Access

• Three Organic, Lovingly Prepared Meals Daily

• Access to Amaru’s Amenities: pool, yoga shala, game rancho, outdoor shower, surfboards

• Roundtrip airport shuttle (terms and conditions apply)

Daily Guided Surf Sessions (All Levels)

• Daily Personalized Surf Coaching with Expert Instructors

• Surfboard Rentals Provided

• Surf Theory and Advanced Surf Theory Classes

• Ocean Emergency Response Conditioning Class

• Video Analysis of Surf Sessions

• Bodysurfing Clinic

• Core & Balance Training

Soul-Nourishing Wellness Activities

• One 1-Hour Wellness Massage

• Movement & Cross-Training Classes

• Breathwork Classes

Exclusive Retreat Perks

• Surf-Focused Yoga

• Surf-Skate Tutorials

• Cacao Ceremony & Ecstatic Dance with Live DJ

• Local Temazcal Ceremony

What’s Not Included: 

• Airfare 

• Additional personal transportation

• Gratuities and Taxes

• Massage Services 

• Visa ($10 USD) or Baggage Loss Fees 

• Medical or Travel Insurance Fees 

• Additional Activities

• Additional Bar Menu items

Pricing

We have a variety of price points to accommodate your budget and needs. Only a $500 non-refundable deposit is required to reserve.

Solo Traveler (private room)

$2,600

2 Guests (shared room)

$2,400

3+ Guests (triple room)

$2,100