Join this 11-day summer program that uniquely combines surf lessons with meaningful community service in Costa Rica. You'll spend your first six days based in Playa Sámara, one of the country's best beaches known for gentle waves perfect for beginners and fun riding for experienced surfers. Here, certified instructors will teach you surfing skills while you also dedicate time to authentic community service projects with local schoolchildren—including art activities, English teaching, painting school buildings, renovating soccer fields, and maintaining community facilities. You'll earn up to 20 hours of community service credit while making a real impact.

The program goes well beyond surfing and service. You'll experience the full adventure Costa Rica offers: zip-lining through the jungle canopy, sea kayaking to islands for snorkeling, hiking to hidden beaches, and exploring a rare coastal mangrove forest on safari where you'll spot sloths, capuchin and howler monkeys, iguanas, parrots, and toucans. During days 7-10, you'll relocate to Playa Grande and Tamarindo on the Pacific coast to refine your surfing skills on some of the best beach breaks available.

Cultural immersion is woven throughout. You'll learn to prepare classic Costa Rican meals during cooking lessons, experience traditional dances, and engage with local Tico culture and the concept of pura vida. Accommodation is in small, family-run beachfront hotels rather than large chain properties, allowing you to stay connected to the communities you're visiting. The program stays in centrally located, safe, and well-supervised locations where you can observe wildlife like monkeys and iguanas from your lodging.

All meals (big savory breakfasts, lunches, and dinners) are included and feature authentic Costa Rican cuisine with tropical fruits, seasoned rice, beans, plantains, and Caribbean spices. The program fully accommodates dietary restrictions including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free needs. You'll travel with experienced chaperones and guides, and parents receive daily photo updates and recaps to stay connected to your adventure.

This program is designed for high school students (grades 9-12) from around the world seeking an authentic experience that balances adventure, personal growth, and social responsibility. The strong community ties in Sámara ensure you'll be welcomed as part of the family while making lasting friendships with fellow travelers. Space is limited, making early registration essential for this popular summer experience.