SURF & SERVE
Purpose-Driven Adventure
At WOW Surf Camp, we believe that surfing is more than a sport—it’s a gateway to deeper connection. With nature. With people. With purpose. That’s why we created Surf & Serve—an immersive experience that blends the joy of adventure with the heart of service.
You’ll chase waves, hike jungles, and paddle pristine waters—but you’ll also step into meaningful outreach opportunities, supporting the very communities that welcome us to their shores. We don’t just visit Costa Rica; we partner with it.
the need: a hidden disparity
Costa Rica is a global leader in eco-tourism, rich in biodiversity and consistently ranked among the happiest nations on earth. But behind the beauty lies a quieter reality—many communities, especially those near popular surf towns, have not equally benefited from the country’s growth. Disparities in housing, education, and access to opportunity remain, particularly among underserved families, children, and individuals with disabilities.
As surfers, travelers, and people of faith, we see this as a call to action—not with guilt, but with joy. Because when we serve others with humility and intention, we all grow.
Surf & Serve isn’t just a trip—it’s a transformational rhythm of giving and receiving. Mornings might begin with sunrise surf or community worship. Afternoons could be spent constructing homes, mentoring youth, or guiding adaptive athletes through the ocean. Each day balances movement, reflection, service, and joy.
Whether you're part of a school, church, or mission-minded crew, this is an opportunity to align your gifts with real needs in the world—while sharing in the healing power of creation.
the vision: surfing with purpose
What To Expect: A Rhythm of Joy, Rest, and Impact.
Our Surf & Serve schedule is intentionally designed to offer balance: time for work, time for worship, time for rest, and time to play. You’ll rise with the sun, spend your days building, serving, and learning, and close each one gathered in laughter and gratitude around a shared meal, a sunset session, or even a beach bonfire.
Expect a full and meaningful experience shaped by both rhythm and flexibility. From spiritual reflections to jungle hikes, surf lessons to community engagement, every moment is thoughtfully curated to fuel growth and connection. Your group’s itinerary will reflect your goals—whether you’re looking for a light introduction to service through a beach cleanup or Day of Stoke, or seeking a more immersive outreach like a multi-day home build.
We offer customizable options that match the energy and interest of your group: faith-focused, physically demanding, light and joyful, or deeply immersive. Some trips may weave in conservation work like tree planting or wildlife protection, while others blend a week of surf camp with a week of service for a truly well-rounded experience.
No matter the mix, one thing remains true: there is something incredibly powerful about discovering joy through action, rest through nature, and purpose through play.
Our Projects & Partners
We believe that lasting impact happens through relationships. That’s why WOW Surf Camp partners directly with trusted local organizations already doing transformative work on the ground. As project coordinators, we serve as the bridge between your group and these grassroots movements—ensuring meaningful service that is well-organized, community-led, and culturally respectful. Through these partnerships, your time and energy directly support efforts with deep roots and real results.
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CASA VIDA
Partnering with Casa Vida Church in Nosara, we create unforgettable moments for local youth through a vibrant blend of spiritual encouragement and play. Groups are invited to share biblical truth in creative, age-appropriate ways—whether through storytelling, dance, drama, or art. After the message, the fun continues with beach games, giant bubbles, kite-flying, and teaching the kids how to surf or boogie board in the warm ocean waves. We close the day with pizza, soda, and fresh watermelon at sunset. Groups also have the opportunity to support these children beyond the beach by donating school supplies and books, making a lasting investment in their future.
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MERCY HOMES
In collaboration with Mercy Homes—an organization devoted to restoring hope through housing—we help construct safe, resilient homes for families in vulnerable living conditions. Many recipients live in flood-prone areas or makeshift shelters lacking basic infrastructure. Your group will join the build from foundation to finish, experiencing firsthand the power of teamwork and compassion. These projects often culminate in emotional home dedications, celebrating not just a structure, but a future. Surf sessions are built into the rhythm of the week, offering sunrise paddles or sunset breaks as time for reflection and restoration.
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ADESURF
In partnership with ADESURFA—the national adaptive surf organization of Costa Rica—we join a movement that empowers athletes with physical and cognitive challenges through the ocean. Your group will have the opportunity to serve alongside these courageous individuals, volunteering as surf buddies, helping with equipment, and creating joyful memories through art, music, and movement. We also host inclusive Days of Stoke for children with disabilities, where surfing, mentorship, and celebration come together in a beachside blend of healing and hope. Visiting adaptive surfers from abroad are welcomed into this community, bridging borders through shared stoke and support.
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WCA
Our collaboration with local conservationists—including marine biologist Dr. Vanessa Bezy and the Wildlife Conservation Association—gives groups a chance to participate in tangible, hands-on care for creation. Whether monitoring nesting sea turtles under the stars, planting trees to protect fragile coastlines, or learning about the biodiversity of Costa Rica’s Blue Zone, these experiences inspire stewardship rooted in faith. Participants leave with a deeper understanding of our responsibility as caretakers of the Earth, and a connection to the land and sea that sustains us all.
How It Works:
Built for Groups,
Open to All.
Surf & Serve is most impactful when experienced together. That’s why we prioritize group bookings—whether you're coming with a school, church, or youth organization, we work directly with your team to design and coordinate a meaningful, well-balanced service adventure. From choosing your outreach focus to planning daily surf sessions, we customize the experience around your group's goals, energy, and calling.
While group trips are our primary focus, we also offer one open-enrollment Surf & Serve trip per year between March and July. These limited-capacity experiences allow individuals and small teams to join an existing program, creating a rich, communal experience with new friends from around the world.
We are currently fielding interest and accepting pre-enrollment applications for Surf & Serve 2026. If you're looking to join something bigger than yourself—or bring a group to do something unforgettable—this is your invitation.
WHAT WE OFFER
FREE Discovery Call and complimentary Custom Itinerary.
One on one Travel Planning and Preparation sessions with our dedicated and experienced team.
On-site service project coordinator, program specialists, and concierge services
Full access to our travel library complete with destination guides, videos, and other informative pdfs for group leaders and members.
Interactive pre-travel experiences focused on eco-education, mental and physical preparedness, and a little surf 101.
Parent/(student) Orientation Session prior to departure (for groups with minors)
Proactive policies to enhance Safety as well as a dedicated Emergency Response Plan for unforeseen circumstances.
The most stoked crew of guides and instructors along with one of the best surf families you will ever be a part of!
The best way for us to get to know each other and understand how we help craft an unforgettable experience is with a quick discovery call.
Let’s Talk
In the meantime you can also download a free brochure!
