Here’s an organized packing list for your Costa Rica trip:

Yoga & Activewear

• Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing: For practicing yoga and lounging.

• Yoga shorts and tank tops: Breathable options for hot weather sessions.

• Light pants (optional): Good for evening activities or sun protection.

Surf & Swim Essentials

• Several swimsuits (bikinis and one-pieces): You’ll be in them a lot—pack extras so one is always dry.

• Boardshorts (if preferred): An alternative to swim bottoms.

• Long-sleeve rash guard: Protects your skin from the sun and the board.

• Sarong or cover-up: Essential for going to and from the beach/pool.

• Surf Booties — Why You Need Them & What to Get

  For our retreat in Matapalo, surf booties are recommended because the waves break over reef and rocky shoreline in some areas, and booties give foot protection and extra grip when paddling out and standing on your board. In warm-water locations like Costa Rica, a thin neoprene bootie (about 1–2 mm) or light reef bootie is perfect — protective without being bulky, and keeping the natural warm-water feel you want in tropical surf. Mundo Surf

  Good options to consider before you come:

  

  O’Neill Superfreak Tropical 2mm ST Booties

  $74.95

  •

  REAL Watersports + others

  

  O’Neill Reactor 2mm Reef Booties

  $54.95

  •

  REI + others

  

  Cressi Minorca 3mm Short Boots

  $42.95

  •

  Cabela’s + others

  

  Vans Surf Bootie 3mm

  $85.00

  •

  Vans

  

  Tribe Barefoot Surf Booties

  $28.95

  •

  eBodyboarding.com + others

  

  Neoprene Booties with Sock Lock

  $16.99

  •

  662 Bodyboard Shop + others

  

  Ocean & Earth Reef Walker 1mm Booties

  $50.00

  •

  boardcave.com

   

   

   

   

  Top picks for warm-water surfing and reef protection:

  • O’Neill Superfreak Tropical 2mm ST Booties – Excellent warm-water choice with great board feel and secure fit.

  • O’Neill Reactor 2mm Reef Booties – Classic, reliable booties that are flexible, protective, and comfortable.

  • Cressi Minorca 3mm Short Boots – Lightweight and comfy for a range of water activities, including surfing.

  • Vans Surf Bootie 3mm – Great grip with a natural feel underfoot.

  Budget or simple protection options:

  • Tribe Barefoot Surf Booties – Affordable and functional for basic reef protection.

  • Neoprene Booties with Sock Lock – Very budget-friendly choice for simple water protection.

  • Ocean & Earth Reef Walker 1mm Booties – Thin booties that help protect feet without much insulation.

  • eBodyboarding Heat Feet Booties – Basic neoprene booties available in a few thickness choices.

  ---

  Tips for sizing & fit:

  • Booties should feel snug like a sock — too loose lets water flush in, too tight can feel uncomfortable. Cleanline Surf

  • Low-cut reef booties (1–2 mm) are usually ideal for warm tropical surf, giving protection without bulk. Mundo Surf

Footwear

• Flip flops for everyday use: Your main footwear!

• “Beach” flip flops: An older pair you don’t mind getting sandy, wet or losing them.

• Walking or running shoes: For excursions or traveling.

• River/reef shoes (optional): Useful for walking on rocky shores or exploring tide pools.

Clothing

• Shorts, tank tops, and shirts: Your core daytime wardrobe.

• Sun dresses and skirts: Easy, breezy options for evenings.

• Visor or hat: Must-have for sun protection. WQ will bring a hat for you but you may want a Wide Brim Hat. 

• Warm layers: A light jacket or sweater for the plane flight.

Health & Toiletries

• Sunscreen with high SPF: Crucial! Make sure it is reef safe to protect the marine environment.

• Chapstick with SPF 30 or higher: Don’t forget to protect your lips!

• Bug spray: (Though the lodge notes there aren’t many bugs, it’s good to have just in case).

• Personal prescriptions from home.

• Small first aid kit: Including adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers.

• Hair dryer (but let the wind dry your hair)

• Make up remover towelettes: Important: Use these instead of the towels because sunscreen tends to stain.

• Standard toiletries: Toothbrush and toothpaste, shampoo and conditioner, brush/comb, feminine hygiene products.

• Eye Care: Contact lenses, solution, extras, and prescription eye glasses.

Gear & Electronics

• Sunglasses: With a strap or case so you don’t lose them.

• Camera: To capture the memories.

• Small flashlight or headlamp: Helpful for walking around at night.

• Alarm clock: For those early yoga and surf sessions.

• Power Bank: To keep your phone and other devices charged.

• Dry Bag: Recommended if you plan to take your phone/valuables on the first day boat trip (though keeping valuables safe is the top priority!).

Hydration & Travel Comfort

• Huge water bottle: For taking filtered water to your room.

• Smaller water bottle: Handy for the beach.

• Reusable Water Bottle with Filter: Especially helpful for reducing plastic waste and ensuring safe water access while out and about.

• Reusable Tote Bag: For groceries, souvenirs, or beach items.

• Earplugs and Eye Mask: For a restful night’s sleep.

Documents & Money

• Passport: Make sure it’s valid for at least 6 months past your travel dates.

• Money:

• Cash in Local Currency: Useful for small purchases.

• Credit/debit card:

• Insurance card and contact information.

• Women’s Quest (WQ) contact information.

• Transportation/shuttle information.

Miscellaneous

• Snacks: Protein bars, nuts, dried fruit, or other travel-friendly snacks.

• Journal: To record your experiences.

• Small daypack or bag: For carrying essentials daily.

• A sarong or light beach towel: For extra comfort/use.

• Energy Bars.

Good to Know:

• No electrical converters/plugs are needed if you are coming from the US. Your plugs will fit.

• Visit the TSA website for additional travel tips before you go: TSA Travel Tips