5 Days Foodies in Paradise Yoga Retreat in Puerto Rico

"In a word "amazing"! I have only the best things to say about Renee and her team! She truly over delivers.. In fact I'll be returning to Samatahiti in November and next April also! As far as the surfing goes, there were people of totally different abilities, with Renee's team everyone achieved above and beyond their goals! "

"I would recommend this retreat to all levels of Surf and yoga seekers!"

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"We first went to Samatahiti in January 2016 glamping in her awesome, fun tents. Loved the outdoor showers. We got to experience all aspects of the great outdoors, hiking in a cave, yoga from her upper deck, surfing at various locations, and great first paddle boarding experience. Renee and her instructors were very patient, knowledgeable and accommodating. Unfortunately, we had to leave early due to a death in the family. "

"However, we were able to return in April to continue the fun adventure. This visit we rented her Air B&B apartment, which was very comfortable with beautiful sunset views from the tree tops out the apartment window, with the sea in the distance. We also got to experience the local market, night life, festivals and laid-back life style of Rincon and surrounding area. "

"My partner and I are both beginners in surfing and paddle boarding. Renee and her instructors were encouraging with great advice and made us feel safe. "

"If you are looking for a fun, diverse adventure, either as a beginner or experienced, you must check out Samatahiti, Renee and her crew!! They ROCK!!"

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"Let me start by saying this was I didn’t want to leave! In fact myself and another traveler ended up staying on… and I have booked to go back and stay with Renee in November and will also head back out there next Easter. I don’t write a lot of reviews but have traveling the world since I left New Zealand in 2003 and it’s fair to say I have seen some places and meet some people and Renee and her amazing have me hooked on Samatahiti! "

"So what makes Samatahiti special? Well 2 things firstly the people, secondly the location!"

"Everyone in my retreat group was traveling by themselves and were of all different levels of ability and development in Surfing, SUP & Yoga. We all left with a real sense of achievement, not to mention a smile from ear to ear! "

"Renee seems to know almost all of the people in Rincon and can point you in the right direction… no matter what your needs maybe."

"Ben & Christie were our instructors (along with Renee) whether you just want to learn to catch a wave or really develop to the next level, this is the surf team for you!"

"Thank you so much for an experience that won’t soon be forgotten! See you all in November!"

"Much love and good vibes from Norway,"

"Hayden"

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"I'm not sure if words do Samatahiti justice. This trip was exactly what I needed...some time away from my intense routine in a surfer's paradise. I never surfed before this trip but the instructors were the kindest, most encouraging and most knowledgeable people I could have asked for. The retreat center was magical. Three large sleeping tents (which can probably accommodate 4+ people comfortably) and one communal tent are nestled on a secluded, cozy piece of land in the rain forest. I believe there's a brick and mortar apartment for rent as well but I was quite happy sleeping in the tent and would not have experienced the sounds of the jungle had I decided to rent the apartment. Rene, the owner, seems to know everyone in Rincon and showed us some fantastic restaurants and coffee shops. I didn't do any yoga so I can't really speak to that but it is my understanding is that Rene is a yoga master. Bottom Line...I really didn't spend enough time there. Next time, and there will definitely be a next time, I'll stay for a longer period of time. Cheers!"

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"My friend and I ventured to Rincon, PR and didn't quite know what to expect- but had the best time with Renee at Samatahiti! She showed us all around the island, offered great restaurant options and beach spots- not to mention the daily yoga, SUP yoga, surfing lessons, and more! Felt very relaxed and comfortable and had such a fun time- would definitely recommend to all looking for a fun adventure!"

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"Stayed here for a week,this was the dream of any eco traveler..staying under the stars and canopy of trees,yet in these amazing yurts..we had yoga everyday,on the beautiful deck under the trees!She's the best yoga teacher I ever had,and with Renee there's no pose you can't conquer! We went to waterfalls and beaches off the beaten track,and surfed all the breaks of Rincon!...The snorkeling and surfing here is the best I've ever seen and with Samatahiti you don't just get pushed into waves on big foam boards,you actually learn to surf!! You will feel so welcome and relaxed at Samatahiti,that you'll book your next trip before you leave!! "

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" Stayed here for a week,this was the dream of any eco traveller..staying under the stars and canopy of trees,yet in these amazing yurts..we had yoga everyday,on the beautiful deck under the trees!She's the best yoga teacher I ever had,and with Renee there's no pose you can't conquer! We went to waterfalls and beaches off the beaten track,and surfed all the breaks of Rincon!...The snorkeling and surfing here is the best I've ever seen and with Samatahiti you don't just get pushed into waves on big foam boards,you actually learn to surf! You will feel so welcome and relaxed at Samatahiti,that you'll book your next trip before you leave!"

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" Loved my stay here. Accommodations are exactly as described but what's not mentioned is how much fun you will have!!! Loved every minute."

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"Another amazing trip to PARADISE hosted by Samatahiti!!! Waterfalls, caves, sunsets, lighthouses, hula hooping, dancing, laughter, reef, beaches, sea turtles, good food, yoga, and surf!!! Rene and her staff know their island :) I cannot get enough of this place!! 3rd time back and I am already planning my next visit! Best surf instructors in town!!!! Their love of the water shines through and their knowledge of the breaks and coaching tips are priceless!"

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" Rene was very kind and personable during the ManateeTour - although we saw no manatees (which we knew was a possibility). There were only three people taking the tour, and none of us paddleboarded before. Rene was very patient and we had a quick lesson before going into the mangroves and Lagoon. The weather was windy, and the waves choppy, and instead of circling the lagoon, we paddleboarded back because it would have taken us twice as long.Important: If you are afraid of water, you can still do the tour, but I would suggest bringing your own lifevest. Although Rene stated that she can provide one upon request, she did not have one with her at the time of our tour and just assured me that I would be fine since I was connected to the board by an ankle strap. "

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"My family and I went on a retreat to Samatahiti for five days and it was an absolutely amazing experience. Renee was fantastic in accomodating what types of activities we were most interested in - and the surfing lessons were both fun and effective! Lessons can be tailored to your experience and everyone is super supportive no matter what level you are. We ended most days with restorative yoga, which made a huge difference in our surfing. I had a wonderful time and can't wait to go back!"

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"I found Samatahiti on Tripadvisor and I am so very happy I did! I did Paddlesurfing just for one morning, and it was the best experience of Rincon! :) absolutely gorgeous paddling up the coastline and snorkeling at the beautiful coral (looks almost like a coral park), and on top of that Renee and Easy (the instructor) were super amazing! Even though I emailed in late the night before, Renee still made it possible to do the paddle surf lesson, and she has an amazing personality.Easy, the surf instructor, was also super nice and gave me a ton of advice what to do around. All in all fabulous, I wish I had more time and do more at samatahiti, so I will definitely come back! :)"

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"Samatahiti offers an intense 200 hour course filled with lots of practice. Class sizes are small and Rene focuses on ensuring students know the correct alignment to teach and practice safely. I feel confident and ready to teach and I am thrilled as a student to have received the one-on-one attention - something several places do not offer. When it comes to adventure and experiencing Rincon, Samatahiti is the perfect host! Samatahiti employees love to explore and share the many places the island has to offer. There is so much to do and see! If you are looking for adventure of any kind, Samatahiti is the place to go!"

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"As everyone else has said, Robert and Renee are awesome! Robert took my sister, cousin and me out to surf for the first time. He was so helpful and his instructions were very clear! Kind of Physically demanding but so much fun we just had to keep (trying to) taking waves!."

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"My two friends and I took Samatahiti's SUP H20m class and it was great! We were a little concerned that price was a bit steep, which is 55 USD. But after taking the class, we all thought it was money well-spent. First, you get an indepth tutorial on how to standup paddle board, including different turns and how you should hold your body.I had only SUP a few times previous to this and learned a lot from this instruction. Then we went through the yoga flow on land, so we would have an idea of what we would be doing on the boards. Once in the water, we were given time to get comfortable on the boards and then went into some balancing poses. It was so much fun trying out new positions and falling into the refreshing water.I was also amazed by how, once we got into our flow, some of the positions that were easy on land were harder on the board and vice versa. Needless to say, I had a great experience and totally recommend taking the time out of your vacation to try SUP yoga. This is a great class for beginners.Another night, we went to the studio and did a power yoga class on the yoga deck, which sits high above the trees. It is a beautiful place to practice yoga. Very calm and refreshing. I was worried about mosquitoes but there was a nice breeze. I would have loved to take more classes here."

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"Renee and Robert were south fun to spend time with. Renee was very careful about finding the best site and conditions for our first SUP session. The second session was even better. Highly recommend."

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"Renee and Robert are two of the best people I have met in my entire life. I am a better person for going on this trip. They are the perfect hosts and provide an unforgettable experience. Starting your day bright and early and guiding you through a fun filled day.By the end of the trip, I felt like I was staying with long time buddies! It my perfect kind of trip, physically challenging in a beautiful setting."

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"We only had a few days to swing by Samatahiti on a quick trip to Puerto Rico, but so glad we took the time to. It's tricky to get to; we called and Robert met us in town in the awesome surf van to lead us to the property. The grounds are absolutely gorgeous.The tents got a little sticky humid but falling asleep surrounded by the sounds of nature made it well worth it. Renee was such a great soul, I can't wait to visit again and spend more time with her. We were able to get in one aerial class with her- our first, and she made it one of the highlights of our whole vacation.Out and about in Rincon, the locals spoke highly of her, and even way over in San Juan we met some people who had heard great things of Renee and Samatahiti. If you're considering, I highly recommend!"

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"Renee is fabulous. We tried to schedule a last minute SUP and snorkel tour during semana santa and she was very accommodating. We took the 7:30 a.m. tour and the waters were crystal clear and the weather was perfect. Of the three adults, none of us had experience with the paddleboards in open water so Renee gave us a quick and awesome lesson before we got in the water.She's a great instructor and incredibly chill. She even pointed us in the way of town square farmers market after we washed up.""From the very first second, I felt like home. Samatahiti is like paradise and Renee is the perfect host. So lucky that I could spend a few days in this "little paradise" and meet the best people ever. Yoga on the beautiful deck, SUP, snorkling, whale festival, farmers market - there was always something to do and see.The highlight of the day: A shower in the absolutely amazing open air bathroom. A big thank you to Renee and our fun girls group, who have made my stay unique and unforgettable. Rincon, Samatahiti, and Renee are just the perfect choice for great vacation! Hope to be back."

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"My husband, myself and our 10 year old daughter caught waves, learned how to read waves and learned some power yoga moves to improve our surfing experience. Our daughter caught on so well she was dropping in on us and smiling the entire time. Our guides were highly knowledgeable, patient, and truly cared about us having a fully satisfying experience.I can't recommend them enough!"

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"The Samatahiti Sunset Paddle tour is a great way to spend an evening in Rincon getting out on the water with a fantastic view of the picturesque sunset. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced paddle boarder, the staff is very courteous and gives you a few pointers before you hit the water.I thought I'd be fine being an experienced surfer and snowboarder but when I was having issues getting the hang of balancing the SUP against the swell, Chelsea was really helpful and got me to adjust pretty quickly which made for an even better experience.The tour ends with your own private bonfire and wine and beer included on the beach to make for a perfect night for a couple or a group of friends. Highly recommended and I'll be sure to head back next time I'm in Rincon."

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"There aren't enough good things to say about Samatahiti, so I will pick a few choice adjectives: profound, inspiring, welcoming, safe.There are all sorts of retreats offered at Samatahiti, from yoga to surfer to paddle boarding. I attended Chica Surf and Yoga, and yes, it was amazing as the web description says.From a friendly face in the morning with healthy breakfast from Renee to the truly wonderful friends I met, dynamic yoga experiences (like arial right on the deck in the rainforest-esq backyard) the comfort of glamour camping (A private outdoor shower? Yes please!) and being able to trust Robert and Ryan, our humble and extremely qualified surf instructors out in the water, I really can't say enough.Living in Old San Juan, I am purchasing the commuter pass for the puddle jumper plane so that I can come out as many weekends as possible. When you come (because you're booking right?), you will get the bug and understand too.If you have caught some waves, are trying to hang ten, or have no idea what that means, you will be happy at Samatahiti!"

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"Samatahiti is a true gem! I just returned from a five day surf and yoga retreat here and I can't stop smiling even though I'm back in cold New York City weather Renee and Robert are more than just hosts, they are teachers and become your friends. They are so passionate about what they do and it shows.They took us around in their cool VW bus to the Rincon art walk on Thursday night and the whale festival on friday. In the morning when we woke up early for our surf lessons we were greeted with treats of coffee, a smoothie, or a yogurt parfait.Robert is an amazing surf instructor or should I say coach. I have taken several lessons before and never had someone so patient, cool, and encouraging. I'm am not an experienced yogi, but Renee is an excellent yoga teacher. She is smart and witty and guides your through tough poses with ease.If you are looking to get away to a tropical paradise with a touch of adventure and physical stimulation than Samatahiti is the place for you. I cannot wait to go back!"

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"I found Samatahiti via social media. Upon first interaction with Renee, an email inquiry I sent her, I knew this was the spot. We slept in beautiful canvas tents in the rainforest yard, had delicious and healthy breakfasts prepared by Renee, did yoga under the setting sun and starry night on the outdoor yoga deck.Mostly, we had superb guidance surfing at numerous breaks in Rincon & Aguadilla - both Renee and Robert were awesome, comprehensive, and inspiring surf instructors. Perfect for beginner surfers (my travel companion), and more experienced surfers (myself, surfing for 20 years).They were extremely hospitable, and I feel like I've made a pair of friends I want to visit on at least a yearly basis. We will be back."

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"I came to Rincon in January 2015 and stayed here for two months. My experience was an unforgettable one, thanks to Renee and Robert from Samatahiti. They welcomed me like family and traveling alone I really learned how special it is to meet people who make you feel at home and as you belong to them.The Samatahiti is an amazing place. I would explain it as Moroccan tents for desert queens build in the middle of the jungle. You are walking distance to beaches, local bars, and shops, but you still feel like you got total privacy in a quiet place in the middle of the nature. A very unique experience.Renee is an internationally recognized yoga expert focusing on alignment which is much needed for us surfers.When I came to Rincon, I was still struggling with catching waves even on a longboard. After two months practice with Robert, I am now able to easily catch waves and finally feel like I know what I am doing out there in the water. Thanks a lot to Renee and Robert for the most amazing time and Rincon will be my second home forever."

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"I came with a group (second time!) for a week to Rincon and we all had the most incredible time surfing & participating in a SUP Yoga class with Samatahiti. Renee & Robert are first and foremost concerned with safety. We had to reschedule the surfing & SUP due to the waves which were very high and not ideal for beginner's. Both Renee & Robert are patient, kind, knowledgeable and very attentive. I will be back next year and wouldn't dream of bringing my group to anyone but Samatahiti. THANK YOU Renee & Robert!!!"

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"I desperately wanted to surf in some warm water and booked a five day "Chicas yoga and surf retreat" at the Samatahiti Eco-Retreat Center. And boy, am I glad I did! If the word "retreat" to you means "luxury spa", read no further; if it means to you "getting away from it all" you are on the right track and should definitely read on: Samatahiti Eco-Retreat Center is located in the Puntas neighborhood in Rincon.It is set in a jungle-garden-environment where the sound of the waves and frogs will put you to sleep at night and the roosters will wake you up in the morning.The bell tent accommodations are spacious, and comfortably furnished with three to four twin beds and come with storage and safety deposit boxes. Each tent also has its own assigned bathroom - not en-suite, but just a few steps up the stairs. You might want to bring extra towels, though, since the humidity doesn't allow for quick drying time.Renee and Robert are amazing hosts - warm, welcoming, hospitable and lots of fun. While their scheduling and organisation sometimes seems a bit off the cuff, they both are experts and enthusiasts in their respective fields - Robert lives and breathes surfing and Renee is a one-of-a-kind yoga instructor! The surf lessons were tailored to the skill levels of the participants, not an easy task when you have students of various levels under your wing. Robert, with the help of fellow surf instructor Ryan, made sure that everyone got the attention they needed and that everyone was safe.Since the waves were very big that week, we got to know various surf spots around the Rincon area and "spot scouting" in the happy, bright orange VW van became part of the class. Renee's yoga classes on the beautiful deck overlooking the retreat put us in the right mindset for the time spent in the water and she explained how yoga can help improve one's surfing skills. She is a bundle of energy and her approach to yoga is refreshingly down to earth. But that wasn't all - fun girly evening activities included a herbal workshop with Renee, fin painting with Chelsea and jewelry making with Ariana, so we even got to make our own souvenirs to remember this amazing stay by!Thank you, Renee, Robert and Ryan for a wonderful time! I will be back."

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"I went to Ricon back in November for a surfing/yoga camp retreat with Samatahiti. I've done a lot of yoga but surfing was completely new to me. Robert was extremely patient taking the time to walk me through each step and Renee helped me focus on the similarities between yoga and surfing. Yoga classes we're focused on what I needed help in and the outside Yoga classes (tiki torches and all) were completely amazing. We were able to work in some paddle boarding (again very personalized) and even squeezed in a great hike. Already trying to get a group together for next year...highly recommend them."

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"What can I say, we had an amazing time! My business partner and I brought down a group of nine for a weeklong yoga retreat at the newly finished Eco Retreat Center. The tents are super cute, comfortable and larger than expected. More importantly, they were NOT too hot, which was a major concern for some of our students, but turned out to be no big deal. Renee and Robert are awesome and welcoming hosts, and having them be our guide meant that we got a locals perspective of Rincon, instead of some whitewashed, all-inclusive resort-style vacation.Where else can you ride in a VW bus on the way to the beach or get an amazing fresh fish dinner at La Cambija? Every activity, from the bioluminescent bay to surfing to SUP and snorkeling was fun and memorable. They did a good job managing us, we had a big group and I know that can complicate transportation and activities to have so many! The accommodations are comfortable but not luxurious, so if you are looking for pampering, this might not be the retreat for you. But if you are looking for fun and adventure, this is the place!Rincon is beautiful, the weather is perfect, and the ocean is 80 degrees. What more can you ask for?"

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"Robert and Renee were amazing instructors. We became friends instantly and they turned us on to some amazing places to eat after surfing and yoga. We loved it so much that we signed up for more surfing and more yoga. Cannot wait to go back."

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"Attended a week-long retreat at Samatahiti including yoga, surfing, snorkeling, paddling, and that's not even half of the fun! Renee and Robert go above and beyond to make your visit amazing. I can't wait to go back for the many other retreats they offer as well. This is one of a kind and worth it."

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"Samatahiti was recommended to us by a local. We called and were able to get a lesson with Robert during the busy season within a 24 hour notice. Robert picked us up in his VW van (just like the one on their card) and drove us to an excellent beginners spot. We had never surfed until today. Robert gave us an introduction on the beach prior to entering the water which included the importance of safety and technique. We paddled out and Robert coached us individually into our first waves. We enjoyed our first surfing experience and can't wait to get out there again.We highly recommend Samatahiti! Thank you Robert and Renee for your guidance."

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" Went with my sister and two friends to a seven day/night yoga retreat held at Samatahiti. I decided to go without reading too much about our adventure. It was more than I could have expected. The owners Renee and Robert are amazingly talented with their surf/paddle board and yoga skills...but the best part is their amazingly wonderful energy and kindness!!! It was so much fun and such a learning experience on many levels. Also...the area in Rincon is beautiful, the people were so kind, and the food just wonderful. I had more fun than a barrel of monkeys!!! I have never camped or slept in a tent before and that was an experience in itself. I say GO FOR IT!! "

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" I was blessed to spend seven days in paradise with the gracious hosts of Samatahiti, Renee Fussner and Robert Ferrer! Days were filled with surfing, yoga, good food, music, and the most incredible scenery of mountains and beaches. Puerto Rico really is the "Hawaii of the East Coast!". Samatahiti was like being in my own private, tropical rainforest oasis.The luxury tents were so fun and comfortable and I loved going to bed to the sounds of the coqui chirping, rinsing off in the beautiful and private outdoor showers, and napping in the hammock amongst the banana trees!!! It truly is a sanctuary! I couldn't have been more fortunate to have Robert and Renee as my guides and coaches! Their love of the water and life is contagious and they are so willing and happy to share their knowledge and expertise with you.I always felt safe and in good hands and I learned so many fundamental skills that I was able to take home and develop upon. Robert and Renee are very respected by the locals (as Robert is one himself) and this gave me a great advantage in the water and traveling around Rincon! So many great memories were made between surfing incredible waves, mountain biking awesome trails, snorkeling the largest collection of coral reef in the Caribbean, paddle boarding to manatee island, and finishing out the days with dancing and laughing at the local bars or a yoga session on the private deck.I couldn't have asked for a better experience and I can't wait to go back!! "

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" Just arrived back in New York from a five day stay at Samatahiti, for surf, yoga and relax. Our hosts were Robert who is one of the most famous and accomplished surfers/ teachers on the island and also possibly the most humble, and the adorable Renee, our main host and venerable yoga teacher. We took lessons with one of Renee's dedicated teachers Chelsea, who was excellent and very professional. Robert and Rene were kind and warm and attentive to all our needs and it was more like staying with a couple of friends who were constantly looking out for us.My friend had advanced lessons/guidance with Robert and improved a lot in a short time with Robert's local guidance and knowledge and the respect he has of other surfers he (my friend) was able to let go and enjoy a worry free challenge on all Rincon's best breaks. The apartment was very clean basic with a fabulous sea view terrace. Yoga is on a lower terrace overlooking the ocean. Thanks to Renee and Robert for a great stay. "

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"My family took a half day surf yoga camp, and after the yoga for surfers halfway through the day, we all improved dramatically. Most of my family had never done yoga or surfing! Robert is an amazing surf instructor, and Renee is a wonderful, patient yoga instructor- and she really gives you a good workout. She also has fantastic recommendations for local restaurants and activities. Be sure to make Samatahiti part of your Rincon stay!"

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