Why This Surf & Yoga Retreat in Panama Should Be on Your 40+ Bucket List

Redefining Travel at 40+

At Waluaa, we believe travel isn’t about escaping, it’s about returning to yourself. For many travelers 40 and over, vacations are less about ticking boxes and more about meaningful experiences that restore energy, focus, and balance.

Our surf and yoga retreats in Santa Catalina, Panama, are designed for this kind of purposeful travel. Here, mornings start with the gentle rhythm of the ocean, afternoons blend mindful movement with personal growth, and evenings offer laughter, community, and connection. It’s not about age — it’s about intention, and why 40+ travelers are discovering Waluaa as the perfect place to recharge.

Surfing at Any Age: It’s Never Too Late

One of the most common misconceptions is that surfing is only for the young or the already skilled. At Waluaa, we’ve designed our surf program to be welcoming for all ages and abilities. With small coaching ratios, individualized guidance, and patient instructors, our guests feel confident trying something new — whether it’s their first wave or their first retreat.

“I realized I could still learn something completely new,” shares Bill, a first-time surfer in his 50s. “Each day I got a little closer to standing on the board — and the sense of accomplishment was incredible.”

Surfing here isn’t about performance, it’s about fun, connection, and rediscovering confidence.

Yoga & Mindfulness: Reconnecting With Your Body

Yoga at Waluaa is more than just a class… it’s a chance to reconnect with your body and breath. Our retreats feature a variety of yoga styles, from gentle flow to invigorating sessions that complement, not compete, your surfing practice.

Guests also participate in breathwork and mindfulness sessions designed to manage stress, improve sleep, and cultivate clarity. Each practice helps you reconnect with your body in ways that feel empowering, restorative, and sustainable beyond the retreat.

Community Without Comparison

Many travelers over 40 appreciate that Waluaa’s retreats emphasize connection over competition. Solo travelers, friends, and couples all gather in an environment of support and encouragement. Laughter flows freely, achievements are celebrated, and every guest feels included — no matter their age or skill level.

“It was refreshing to be somewhere where age didn’t matter,” says Clarechristina, a solo traveler from the UK. “Everyone encouraged each other, and it felt like family by the end of the week.”

Comfort Meets Adventure

At Waluaa, comfort and adventure go hand in hand, no matter which experience you choose. Whether you’re here for a Surf & Yoga retreat or a Yoga & Wellness retreat, each day is designed to help you reconnect, recharge, and explore.

Choose the vibe that suits you:

• Classic Oceanfront: Our laid-back, original property where the waves are just steps away and chill, oceanfront energy sets the tone for your stay.

• Tropical Villas: Nestled in lush gardens, these villas offer privacy, poolside cabanas, and tropical breakfasts with ocean views, perfect for those who want a little extra comfort while staying close to nature.

• Luxe Beachfront: Tucked into Santa Catalina’s greenery, our most luxurious property offers a high-end, immersive retreat experience with expansive beachfront access and elevated design for a truly indulgent escape.

At every property, you don’t have to compromise comfort to immerse yourself in the adventure of surf, yoga, and mindful living, you get both. 🌴✨

What Guests 40+ Say About Waluaa

Guest experiences speak volumes:

• Bill, 50s: “The surf and yoga combination made me feel strong, refreshed, and accomplished. I left feeling like I’d done something personal yet challenging.”

• Meghan, 50s: “I was looking for a mix of equal part yoga and surf for a 50th birthday celebration. Waluaa was beyond anything I could have expected. The destination is a tropical paradise, the waves are perfect, and the instruction and adventure were top notch. Everyone was on the same page to have fun and flow through what the retreat had to offer.”

Santa Catalina: The Perfect Backdrop

Santa Catalina is a small, peaceful town on Panama’s Pacific coast, ideal for travelers seeking space, nature, and authenticity. With easy access to Coiba National Park, uncrowded waves, and a slow, rejuvenating rhythm, it’s no wonder guests leave feeling restored in both body and spirit.

Conclusion – It’s Not About Age, It’s About Intention

Waluaa invites travelers 40+ to reconnect, recharge, and rediscover what joy feels like, on and off the board. Surf, yoga, mindfulness, and community come together in a retreat experience designed to leave you feeling grounded, inspired, and fully alive.

Ready to return to yourself? Join us in Santa Catalina for your next 40+ surf & yoga retreat.