Awake Siargao
Best surf retreat I’ve ever done in my life - can’t recommend this enough!! I’ve been on 3 previous surf retreats (Sydney, Costa Rica & Nicaragua) but as you know, surfing is very difficult to learn as an adult so I still had a lot of challenges and fears catching
Best surf retreat I’ve ever done in my life - can’t recommend this enough!! I’ve been on 3 previous surf retreats (Sydney, Costa Rica & Nicaragua) but as you know, surfing is very difficult to learn as an adult so I still had a lot of challenges and fears catching. But after just 1 week with Awake Siargao, I had caught so many waves, progressed so much and had so much fun that I extended another week!
Rem, the founder is so warm and lovely and works around the clock to give you a curated experience. She has set up the retreat impeccably - from the airport pick up, to the accommodation, to the massages and ice baths and activities like a boat tour. Her communication is great and she shares the plan each day on WhatsApp and checks in. She even took the time to surf with us on our first day, hyped me up after I caught my first wave and even checked in on me to make sure I could paddle out again! She totally went above and beyond and is so incredibly sweet <3
Estong, my coach is the best surf coach I’ve ever had. He is so patient, relaxed and an incredible teacher. On the first day, he asked me what my goals were and literally got me 4 different boards to try so I could figure out the perfect surfboard. His instruction is super clear to follow and he always took the time to listen to all my fears (which was basically every time I went out haha) and always made sure I was safe. He was always so warm and friendly and even introduced me to local surfers in the line up, who in turn, were welcoming - this is so rare. I find surfing incredibly intimidating and (honestly) always feel so out of place as a beginner in the ocean - but I always felt welcome and part of the crew with Awake Siargao. Estong also helped me get over my fears to the extent that he even had me surfing Cloud 9, which is an advanced wave.
And then Siargao - what a a vibe! The culture on this island is unparalleled. Incredible food, friendly people, amazing local surf scene. Great cocktails and food across the island - whether you want to do something high end or cheap. Ahhh, I’m going to miss zooming around on a scooter in my bare feet and surfboard in tow!