WHO WE ARE
Chica Brava is Nicaragua’s first and best women’s surf retreat. We are an elite surf camp for adventurous women who appreciate comfort as well as challenge. We empower women through the process of surfing and the genuine camaraderie that comes through sharing a lifestyle, a sisterhood, and a passion for the most rewarding sport on the planet. It’s about a pack of women together in the line up, united by what they love. This is your chance to let go, invest in yourself, and feel confident, invincible, and powerful regardless of your size, strength, or stature. From the moment we greet you at the airport until we send you off in style, our lively staff is committed to making sure that your journey is both amazing and unforgettable! Come. Get stoked in style with us.
CUSTOM RETREATS
Groups, Families, Mother-daughter, 40+, Corporate, Team Building?
You name it, we got it!
Our Story
As the founder of Chica Brava, Ashley Blaylock traded in her secure career as a Texas attorney to open an all-girls surf retreat—the first of its kind in Nicaragua. Today she is the proud owner of Chica Brava where she shares her passion for surfing with women from around the world.
Surf Levels
With 300+ days of offshore wind and un-crowded waters, nearly everyday is ideal for surfing in San Juan del Sur, no matter what your level. When you sprinkle in warm water, groomed waves, and empty beaches, you’ve got the makings of a world-class surfing destination. Come get your level on!
HOT OFF THE PRESS
WHAT OUR GUESTS ARE SAYING...
- Tabitha D
I went to the Chica Brava Surf Retreat in July of 2023 and had the most amazing time and progressed in my surfing more in the 5 days we surfed... read more 
July 25, 2023lesley m You know you've had an amazing trip when the first thing you want to do when you get home is write a review and plan your return trip and that... read more
December 20, 2022AlexG346 This was my second time at Chica Brava and I had an incredible time. The surf instruction was amazing, the location where we stayed had one of the best views... read more
December 20, 2022
Learn to Surf Camps in Nicaragua
Offshore winds, world-class surf, unparalleled beauty, rich culture, empty beaches, killer location and expert surf instruction are just some of the reasons to Surf Camps Nicaragua
What should I expect from Chicabrava surf camps?
A surf camp is an excellent method for novices to explore surfing in a fun and safe setting. Starting with expert trainers who ensure you are in the correct area at the appropriate tide with the proper equipment is something we strongly encourage in order to offer you the greatest possible start. A surf camp with us is also an excellent option for solo travellers interested in going on a surf adventure.
Surf Camps
A surf camp provides everything you need for the ultimate surf holiday. On the surface, it appears that you are signing up for lodging, surfing, and food, but in truth, you will remember the wonderful times, new friends, and experiences the most. The social component is quite important at our surf camps, which makes them ideal for lone travellers. It’s an excellent location to make new friends. Still, everyone does things their own way. Join us for activities and dinners when it’s convenient for you, and go exploring on your own when you choose.
Why Southern Nicaragua?
Unlike anywhere else in the world, including Central and Northern Nicaragua, Southern Nicaragua benefits from offshore winds almost year round. This means perfect conditions, perfectly groomed waves, and the unique ability at Chica Brava to surf all day long! Southern Nicaragua is on the map as one of the world’s best surf destinations, yet it’s still un-crowded compared to most anywhere else! To make things even better, it’s beautiful and most of the coastline remains undeveloped.
Why Chica Brava?
We have had our Surf camp Nicaragua since 2003 and are the country’s very first and best surf retreat for women. Our program is unparalleled and our team of instructors has years of experience women surfing, instructing and coaching. Upon arrival we determine each surfer’s goals for the week and, with mid-week check-ins, we work hard and are successful at helping you reach those goals. We film your sessions and do video analysis to help you improve. In addition, we follow a daily curriculum of surf theory lessons, created by Chica Brava founder, 6-time Nicaraguan National surf champ, Ashley Blaylock. Whatever your goals are, you’ll achieve them at Chica Brava!
When’s the best time to surf in Nicaragua?
Anytime of year is great time to visit, both surf-wise and weather-wise, except for the peak of the rainy season in October.
For beginners, advanced beginners, and early intermediates, all year-round is good, as even when the surf is bigger, we are able to stay south where the coast is shielded and get you riding the “green” part of the wave in smaller waist high conditions. Please note that the water gets coldest, the wind gets strongest, and the waves are smallest in January and February.
For advanced intermediates and advanced surfers, we recommend visiting during the months of March through November, because, like most of Central America, Nicaragua is a “south swell spot”, meaning we rely on swells generated by winter storms in the southern hemisphere which occur from March-November. It’s during this time we receive the largest, most consistent swells and is considered the best time to surf in Nicaragua Wave heights during this time can range from shoulder (4 ft.) to double overhead or more (12+ ft.). January and February are the smallest months of the year and not ideal time to visit for experienced surfers.
Women's Surf Retreat in Nicaragua
Who may benefit from surf retreats?
Surf Retreats are great if you want an easy all-inclusive surfing vacation. Our surf retreat is ideal for women who wish to learn how to surf. To attend a surf retreat, you do not need to know how to surf; nevertheless, you must be able to swim and be comfortable in the ocean. If you’ve ever been frightened about learning to surf and wished to obtain expert surf tuition in a fun, safe, and female-friendly setting, surf retreats for women are ideal. Learning to surf at a retreat is ideal for those seeking a surf community feel where they may form connections with other surf sisters.
What exactly is a surf resort?
A surf retreat is comparable to a surf camp, but it includes more deluxe amenities such as private villas, spa treatments, and gourmet meals. Originally, surf camps offered extremely basic packages that included housing, food, surf training, and equipment. A surf retreat will frequently incorporate yoga and other wellbeing activities to create a holistic holiday that focuses on mind, body, and spiritual growth in addition to the surf sessions.
Fit, Fierce & 40: Surf Retreats for Women 40+
Available at all locations! For both beginners and experienced adult surfers, we have put together the ultimate package for women in their 40s+. We are an adult surf camp to begin with and the average age of women that comes our surf retreat is 36. Most women older and younger do not mind surfing with that age range, but we have developed this package as a wonderful alternative for the more mature adult surfer who might prefer to enjoy the experience with a group of her peers.
Why Choose Us?
Our surfing program is unparalleled. We have been in Nicaragua since 2003 and are the country’s very first and best surf retreat for women. Our team of instructors has years of experience surfing, instructing and coaching. Our comprehensive surfing program was created by 6-time National Nicaraguan Surf Champ and our camp founder, Ashley Blaylock, designed to help you reach your specific goals and includes:
- Goal Setting upon arrival and mid-week revisions
- Daily Surf Theory lessons in a classroom setting
- Daily In-water training and surfing drills with hourly feedback sessions
- Video review analysis sessions
Surf Instruction & Relaxing Yoga
Our surf and yoga retreats are designed to accommodate varying surfing levels in the same group during the same week. Whether you’re beginner, intermediate, or experienced surfer, we have the vehicles, surf boards, and staff necessary to tailor the week to your needs and get you up and surfing. At Chica Brava, we are committed to helping you progress at every level and making sure your surf and yoga retreat is both amazing and unforgettable!
Nicaragua Surf Videos
Whether you are thinking about joining our surf retreat or are just looking for some tips are surfing, click on the video below to get stoked on coming!
Whether you are thinking about joining our surf retreat or are just looking for some tips are surfing, click on the video below to get stoked on coming!