Playa Azul, Costa Rica
January 21-26, 2027
Evolve Retreats was created to support you in cultivating greater clarity and fulfillment in your life. In the rhythm of everyday routines, it’s easy to lose touch with what truly matters. Our retreats offer space to reconnect with what lights you up and rediscover your sense of purpose through embodied yoga, devotional practices that extend beyond the mat, nature-immersed adventures, intentional rest, and meaningful connections that turn into lifelong friendships and memories.
What began in the misty mountains of San Ramón now finds its way to the sea. We return to Costa Rica with open hearts, this time landing in Playa Azul, a peaceful coastal gem landing between Marbella and Nosara. This retreat holds a special place in Mikaela’s (founder and facilitator) heart, as Costa Rica is where she completed much of her own training and supported other teacher trainings. It’s a place she continues to feel deeply called back to, and she can’t wait to share its magic with you!
Intentional Themes
Each day of the retreat is centered around a theme, creating the opportunity to reflect, explore, and discover real growth throughout our time together. This structure helps you reconnect with your yoga, with what lights you up and lean into your purpose.
Community Connection
Where connection and self-discovery come together, giving space to connect with others while diving into your own journey. Relationships and shared experiences are a core part of the retreat, offering support and inspiration along the way.
Thoughtful Facilitation
Our retreats are guided with intention, weaving embodied yoga practices with workshops, expansive ceremonies, local adventures, and restful moments. From stunning venues to carefully designed schedules, travel guidance, and pre-retreat community connection, every detail is considered so you can arrive feeling supported and present.
Guided Growth
We celebrate the possibilities of life and encourage you to lean into your aliveness! Evolve Yoga Retreats offers an encouraging space to explore who you are and who you are yet to become.
Inspiring? Absolutely.
Transformational? Without a doubt.
Fun? Always.
-
Set directly on the beach, this private retreat sanctuary is just a 20-minute drive from Nosara and under 10 minutes from Marbella. It offers the perfect balance of accessibility and seclusion, close enough for easy exploration during free time, yet intentionally removed to support deep rest, presence, and connection.
To preserve the intimacy, energy, and cohesion of the retreat group, we have full exclusive use of the entire property. This creates a protected space where everyone can fully land, unwind, and immerse themselves in the experience without outside distractions.
The property is designed with both stillness and community in mind. The open-air yoga shala is exactly what we envisioned, fully equipped with everything needed to support a wide range of practices, while the private beachfront dining space invites slow, intentional moments together, from silent oceanfront breakfasts to shared long-table lunches and dinners.
On-site amenities include:
Direct access to a black sand beach
Large swimming pool
On-site spa
Beach chairs and umbrellas
Fully equipped gym
Open-air yoga shala with all props provided
-
Nourish your body with fresh, locally sourced, vegetarian & pescatarian meals. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared to support your energy, digestion, and overall well-being throughout the retreat.
Welcome dinner
3 Meals/day
Closing breakfast
Our chefs are happy to accommodate any dietary preferences or food allergies.
-
Daily morning and evening yoga practices: Mikaela leads a 1.5-hour “Magic Morning” Vinyasa flow that blends yoga philosophy, breathwork, meditation, and journaling, each day centered around a soul-stirring theme that carries through the rest of the day. In the evening, wind down with 75-minute sessions ranging from Yin and gentle Vinyasa to Restorative Yoga and Yin + Yoga.
Yoga props on site: Mats, blocks, blankets, straps, cushions, bolsters.
-
Return to the foundations with a strong focus on alignment, breath, and meditation. Release what you think you know and step into your practice with a fresh, beginner’s mindset! Lots of hands on assists, partner assists and group discussion throughout.
-
Mikaela will lead a 45-minute afternoon Pilates class (with resistance bands) designed to activate deep muscle groups, synchronize movement with breath, and energize the entire body!
-
A grounding practice of breathwork, meditation, and guided group circle sharing to cultivate the power of active listening and connection.
We will dive deeper into our daily theme that was introduced and explored during morning practice.
-
Colleen Wickstrom, founder of Lucidity Coaching and an ICF credentialed Life and Wellness Coach, will guide a grounding and expansive workshop centered on purposeful living and exploring what is possible. Blending reflection, conscious dialogue, and creative expression, this offering supports renewal by creating space for participants to reconnect with parts of themselves, their lives, and their aspirations that may have been overlooked amidst the demands of daily life. Through increased awareness and self-connection, participants are invited to identify what feels meaningful, energizing, and deserving of greater attention in this season of life. Participants will leave feeling more rooted, connected, and creatively energized, with simple practices to carry a greater sense of presence, balance, and intentionality back into daily life.
-
Beach Day in Marbella (Optional Surf Lesson Add-On)
A relaxed beach day in Marbella, where soft sand and gentle waves create the perfect setting to unwind, swim, and soak up the sun. For those who feel called, an optional surf lesson (additonal cost) offers a fun introduction to Costa Rica’s surf culture.Beach Day in San Juanillo
A peaceful day at one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful hidden beaches, known for its crystal-clear turquoise water. Swim, float, and relax in calm coves surrounded by natural coastal beauty. -
Paddle through the waterways of Costa Rica’s lush mangroves on a guided kayaking adventure near Nosara. This journey takes you deep into a vibrant ecosystem where winding channels, overhanging roots, and dense greenery create a quiet, almost magical atmosphere. Keep an eye out for local wildlife along the way, from tropical birds to monkeys moving through the canopy!
-
Goodies:
You’ll receive an Evolve journal and pen along with a welcome swag bag featuring some travel friendly gifts from various sponsors.
-
We will have group shuttles running from Liberia Airport on January 21 at 9:00am, 11:00am, and 1:00pm. We will do our best to coordinate these based on guest arrival times. Mikaela and our retreat assistant, Mama Sue, are available to support with planning your travel and shuttle arrangements.
If you choose to arrive a day earlier or depart outside of the scheduled shuttle times, any additional accommodation or transportation costs will be your responsibility.
We kindly ask that all guests plan to arrive in time for 3:00-4:00pm check-in. Check out is 12:00 on January 26th, and we will have 3 shuttles organized to go back to Liberia airport running at roughly 10am, 11am, and 12:30pm.
Your Evolve Retreat Includes:
“Evolve is designed with a balanced schedule that includes meaningful inner work and spacious downtime to integrate and rest - something a lot of retreats forget. And it truly feels inclusive whether you’re a seasoned yogi or newer to the practice, solo or coming with a partner. In short: Mik leads with heart, clarity, and a grounded spiritual intelligence. If you want an Evolve Costa Rica retreat near Nosara that blends depth, connection, and joy in a way that feels authentic, we can’t recommend it enough.”
Aly & Maral | Evolve Retreat Costa Rica 2026
Not Included:
-
Please note that flights to Costa Rica are not included in the retreat package.
The most common way to reach the retreat venue, Playa Azul, is by flying into Liberia Airport (LIR). From there, the drive to the venue is approximately 2 to 2.5 hours depending on road conditions.
We will have group shuttles running from Liberia Airport on January 21 at 9:00am, 11:00am, and 1:00pm. We will do our best to coordinate these based on guest arrival times. Mikaela and our retreat assistant, Mama Sue, are available to support with planning your travel and shuttle arrangements.
For those who prefer a different route, you may also fly into Liberia and take a domestic flight to Nosara Airport (NOB) (approx. 30 minutes), followed by a short 20-minute taxi ride to the venue. Please note that domestic flight schedules and availability can vary.
If you choose to arrive a day earlier or depart outside of the scheduled shuttle times, any additional accommodation or transportation costs will be your responsibility.
We kindly ask that all guests plan to arrive in time for 3:00-4:00pm check-in. Check out is 12:00 on January 26th, and we will have 3 shuttles organized to go back to Liberia airport running at roughly 10am, 11am, and 12:30pm.
-
Indulge in relaxation with on-site spa services available at an additional cost. From massages to body treatments, it’s the perfect way to treat yourself during your free time and fully unwind.
Check in: 3:00pm-4:00pm January 21
Check out: 12:00pm January 26
Accommodation Options
Wake up with the sun and fall asleep to the sound of the waves in your choice of a private or shared suite, room, or luxury villa. The accommodations at Azul Beach Hotel are bright, spacious, and thoughtfully designed for comfort, offering beautiful views of either the lush tropical gardens or the expansive ocean right outside your window.
Each space includes hotel-style bedding, air conditioning, locally made eco-friendly toiletries, bathrobes, a private terrace, and an ensuite bathroom. Select accommodations also feature additional touches such as outdoor stone showers, a mini kitchenette, and dedicated journaling areas to make your stay feel even more easeful and restorative.
Browse and choose your stay below.
Private Ocean Suite | Upper Level
Wake each morning to the sound of the ocean and unwind in your own private sanctuary overlooking the Pacific. Thoughtfully designed for rest, comfort, and connection to nature, this upper-level suite offers a peaceful space to fully settle into the retreat experience.
This spacious private suite features 70m² (approximately 753 sq ft) of beautifully designed living space with high ceilings that create an open, airy atmosphere filled with natural light. Complete with a private entrance, king-size bed, and a large ensuite bathroom with a stand-up shower, the suite is designed for both comfort and ease. Step onto your expansive private terrace to take in sweeping ocean views from the comfort of your hammock, the perfect place to sip your morning coffee or relax after practice.
Private Ocean Suite | Lower Level
Wake each morning to the sound of the ocean and settle into a peaceful private retreat surrounded by the beauty and rhythm of the Pacific. Designed to offer comfort, relaxation, and connection to nature, this lower-level suite invites you to fully unwind throughout your stay.
This spacious private suite features 70m² (approximately 753 sq ft) of beautifully designed living space, complete with a private entrance, king-size bed, and a large ensuite bathroom featuring both an indoor shower and a unique outdoor shower framed by natural volcanic rock. Step onto your expansive private terrace to take in sweeping ocean views from the comfort of your hammock, the perfect place to enjoy a slow morning or unwind after practice.
Private Garden Suite | Upper Level
Surrounded by lush tropical greenery, this peaceful upper-level suite offers a quiet sanctuary to rest, recharge, and fully settle into the retreat experience. Thoughtfully designed with comfort and simplicity in mind, the space invites a deep sense of calm and connection to nature.
This spacious private suite features 70m² (approximately 753 sq ft) of beautifully designed living space with high ceilings that create an open, airy atmosphere filled with natural light. Complete with a private entrance, king-size bed, and a large ensuite bathroom with a stand-up shower, the suite is designed for both comfort and ease. Step onto your expansive private terrace to relax in your hammock and take in tranquil garden views, the perfect setting for a slow morning coffee or a peaceful evening unwind.
Private Garden Suite | Lower Level
Surrounded by lush tropical greenery, this peaceful lower-level suite offers a grounding space to slow down, recharge, and immerse yourself in the retreat experience. Thoughtfully designed for comfort and relaxation, the suite creates a calm connection to nature throughout your stay.
This spacious private suite features 70m² (approximately 753 sq ft) of beautifully designed living space, complete with a private entrance, king-size bed, and a large ensuite bathroom featuring both an indoor shower and a unique outdoor shower framed by natural volcanic rock. Step onto your expansive private terrace to relax in your hammock and take in tranquil garden views, the perfect place to enjoy a quiet morning or unwind after practice.
Private Garden Deluxe Room | Upper Level
Tucked amongst lush tropical greenery, this cozy private room offers a peaceful and grounding space to rest and recharge throughout your retreat stay. Thoughtfully designed with comfort and simplicity in mind, it’s the perfect sanctuary to unwind after a day of movement, connection, and relaxation.
This private room features 25m² (approximately 269 sq ft) of beautifully designed living space, complete with a queen bed and a private ensuite bathroom with a shower. Step onto your private balcony to take in tranquil garden views and enjoy a quiet moment surrounded by nature.
Shared Luxury Ocean Villa | Upper and Lower Level
Designed for connection, comfort, and spacious living, this beautifully appointed two-level villa offers the perfect retreat experience to share with a close friend or future retreat pal. With expansive ocean views, private spaces on each level, and thoughtful details throughout, the villa creates the ideal balance of togetherness and privacy.
This spacious shared villa features 140m² (approximately 1,507 sq ft) of beautifully designed living space across two levels. The upper level includes a king bed, private ensuite bathroom, and a private balcony with sweeping ocean views. The lower level features a queen bed, a private ensuite bathroom with both an indoor shower and a unique outdoor volcanic rock shower, along with a mini kitchenette, dining table area, and its own private balcony.
Shared Garden Suite | 2 Bedrooms
Surrounded by lush tropical greenery, this spacious lower-level suite offers a comfortable and grounding space. Thoughtfully designed with both privacy and togetherness in mind, it’s an ideal option for close friends or retreat guests who feel comfortable sharing a connected living space.
This shared suite features 70m² (approximately 753 sq ft) of beautifully designed living space, complete with a private balcony overlooking the gardens and two private bedrooms, each with a queen bed. One bedroom includes a mini kitchenette, while the second bedroom features a private ensuite bathroom with both an indoor shower and a unique outdoor volcanic rock shower, along with its own private entrance.
Please note that access to the bedroom with the ensuite bathroom requires walking through the adjoining bedroom, making this suite best suited for guests who feel comfortable sharing a more connected layout.
FAQ
-
We are dedicated to making Evolve Retreats a welcoming space for everyone, whether you’re a solo traveler or coming with a friend, whether you’re a seasoned yogi or completely new to the practice. Our aim is to cultivate a safe, inclusive, and inspiring experience for those who want to delve into “living yoga” both on the mat and in everyday life. We practice movement (asana), meditation (dhyāna), breathwork (pranayama), guided journaling (svadhyaya), and come together for group circles and ceremonies. We also embrace fun and adventure through curated group activities and excursions, connecting with the local community and the natural beauty of our surroundings.
-
January is the dry season in Costa Rica (known as “verano” or summer). Expect warm temperatures, sunshine, and cooler mornings or evenings in some areas.
Packing List:
• Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
• Travel insurance info
• Credit/debit cards + some USD or colones
• Reusable water bottle
• Small backpack or day bag
• Lightweight, breathable tops and shorts
• Flowy / casual outfits for dinners
• Swimwear
• Light sweater or jacket (cooler evenings or AC indoors)
• Yoga or activewear
• Hat or cap for sun protection
• Flip-flops or sandals
• Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
• Sunscreen (reef-safe recommended)
• Bug spray or mosquito repellent
• Aloe vera or after-sun gel
-
If the standard payment option of a non-refundable deposit followed by a later balance payment doesn’t suit your needs, please don’t hesitate to contact Mikaela directly. She would be happy to discuss the possibility of setting up a customized payment plan that better aligns with your preferences.
