This trip is perfect for the adventurous surfing traveler who wants to learn how to move better, and therefore surf better.  With the skill and guidance of a Doctor of Physical Therapy, registered yoga instructor, and fellow surfer, Katie D'Amato will teach you invaluable skills and tools to improve the way you perform both in and out of the water.  Weaving together years of orthopedic clinical experience, sports medicine, and yoga instruction, this retreat unifies the best of all worlds to empower you to move, shred, and flow with ease. This retreat is designed for 

advanced beginner, intermediate + above surfers that want to surf each day.

Not only will you be exploring so many world-class waves of Southern Nicaragua, but you will return home with a new toolbox of skills to take to every aspect of your life.  Expand your perspectives through travel and cultural immersion, stay comfortable and well-fed in our 4-star beachside boutique hotel equipped with A/C, hot water, WiFi, and an on site restaurant + bar with hand-crafted local creations.  Find enjoyment and relaxation by our sparkling pool and multi-use activity space for skateboarding, billiards, foosball, and pickleball...in additional to the pre-surf yoga classes and movement sessions.

 Equipped with a sparkling pool, WiFi, and A/C, you’ll be able to enjoy comfortable accommodations without losing the rustic touch that makes Gigante unique. Yoga will be held between a tropical open space underneath our newly built grand palapa and a cliffside ocean view shala.

Breaks in the day are encouraged, so feel free to take a moment to relax in one of our day beds or hammock, and appreciate the cloudy blue skies, palm trees, and gift yourself the feeling of serenity. 

We have a full-service restaurant + bar to prepare meals and beverages during this retreat. Enjoy fresh, locally-sourced ingredients with delicious options for all dietary needs and preferences.  Experience delicious tropical fruits, fresh caught fish, local produce, and a thoughtfully crafted menu to keep you satisfied.

 A colorful fishing village off the beaten path, El Gigante is located just over an hour north of San Juan Del Sur on Nicaragua's beautiful Pacific Coast. The town is aptly named “big foot” when translated from Spanish to describe the gentle green foothills that meet the ocean with such ease. A town filled with untouched beaches, roaming farm animals, and dirt pathways; you’ll quickly remember the importance of slowing down and to embrace living simply.  

The lifestyle and culture here very much embodies the phrase “Take it Easy”. Arriving here feels like taking one long exhale and a chance to just be. 

Check out the pics and details of the surf breaks we have easy access to here: Surfing in Nicaragua.

Set yourself up for success with three pre-surf yoga sessions led by Katie. Learn how to prepare you body and utilize it to improve your paddle, pop-up, breath, + turns for better endurance + injury prevention.

Restore your body and learn ways to recover with one post-surf yoga session that will ease tension and stress in the body and promote proper the recovery and relaxation your body craves.  Set to the beautiful sunset views from a cliffside ocean view yoga deck, this session is beyond what words can describe.

 I’m Katie D’Amato, a physical therapist and certified yoga teacher. My well-rounded experience and holistic treatment approach helps clients be centered and balanced in their care. My professional experience is primarily in Outpatient Orthopedic and Sports Medicine care, and I truly love educating people how to optimize their movement and promote longevity. One of the most powerful gifts I have given my patients is the ability to understand and listen to their body and what it needs.
In my physical therapy practice, I’ve been able to collaborate with patients with varying levels of yoga experience. I also provide low impact and quiet mindful healing methods such as stretching and breathing. I believe that a holistic approach to healing cultivates a healthy mind/body balance.
I would love to be a part of your journey during this week as your guide, your confidant and coach towards improved health, fitness, and mind-body balance!
My degrees and certifications include:
-Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science at The College of New Jersey 2005
-Doctorate of Physical Therapy at Rutgers University 2009
-200-hour Certified Yoga Teacher of Vinyasa Yoga 2015
-Certification in Applied Functional Science from The Gray Institute 2017