Students do not need to have any prior experience, but they will need to be physically fit enough to spend a few hours each day surfing (or learning to do so). We recommend students spend at least 30 minutes per day in rigorous activity for a month leading up to Surf & Service. Activities could include surfing, skiing, basketball, soccer, swimming, running, etc. Additionally, students should be able to swim 200 yards without stopping before the start of the program.

To ensure they’re challenged appropriately and set up for success, students are grouped by similar ability level and previous experience. Our goal is to create an environment where each student feels both supported and stretched in their learning.

We regularly reassess and reshuffle groups based on how students are progressing, what they’re interested in focusing on and how they’re engaging with the activity. This flexible approach allows us to meet students where they are and help them continue to grow at their own pace.

No, Discover Term will provide access to an appropriately sized surfboard. If your child would prefer to bring their own surfboard, they are welcome to do so. Surf and Service participants must come with their own swim gear and ocean apparel, as detailed in the student packing list.

The beach break in Nosara is ideal for both beginner and advanced surfers, as there is an inside and an outside break:

• The inside break is where beginners learn on softer and slower waves.
• The outside break is for more advanced surfers, and we find that all students make it to the outside break by the end of the program.

No student is ever forced to surf the outside break, and all spend time throughout the program learning about the water, the waves and their capability to improve their skills.

No, students are always surfing with an instructor or with a surf buddy. Each morning, students will have coached surfing sessions with small groups of 2-3 students per instructor. In the afternoon, students are paired with a buddy of similar surfing ability, with counselors also present in the surf zone. Additionally, we are typically surfing 150 yards from the lifeguard stand on Baker’s beach.

Drinking water in Costa Rica is safe to drink straight out of the faucet and will be the primary source of our hydration during Surf & Service. Students will be encouraged to keep their water bottle with them at all times.

We completely understand that allowing your child to travel internationally without you can feel like a big decision — especially if this is the first time they’ve traveled abroad. Rest assured, student safety is our #1 priority.

Surf & Service takes place in Nosara, Costa Rica — a small, welcoming town that our founders have personally known and loved for years. They’ve not only brought students here through Discover Term but have also traveled to Nosara with their own families and young children.

In addition, we’ve built strong, trusting relationships with local partners who help us provide a safe, supportive and enriching environment for our students.

If you have specific concerns, we’re always happy to connect and talk them through with you.