Costa Rica Slow

📍Puerto Jiménez, Osa Peninsula

Reset & Reconnection

Vinyasa and yin Yoga Retreat

MARCH 14-21, 2026

Join Sandy Wu for a 7-night yoga retreat in the majestic Osa Peninsula of southwestern Costa Rica, hosted at the serene Nereus Retreat Hotel. Nestled between lush rainforest and the Pacific Ocean, this modern, family-run sanctuary is rich in biodiversity and natural beauty.

Enjoy comfortable accommodations, a saltwater pool, and a peaceful path leading to a vast, secluded beach. Practice in a spacious 1,000 sq ft bamboo yoga studio, fully equipped with props to support your practice. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel welcomed by nature and community alike. 

Imagine waking up to the sounds of the jungle with the ocean just steps away and starting your mornings with a grounding yoga session in a well-appointed studio surrounded by the soothing rhythm of the natural world.

Filtered water, tea, coffee and fruit are available throughout the day. Our meals are vibrant and healthy, served buffet style. Paddleboards and surfboards are available for rent.

Come reset, reconnect, and enjoy a nourishing week of movement, rest, and space to simply be.

As a boutique-style retreat, we intentionally limit participation to 15 guests to foster meaningful connection, personalized guidance, and a calm, supportive environment.

Your Yoga Practice with Sandy

Sandy offers dynamic, accessible yoga classes designed to support each participant’s unique needs and abilities.
A typical class includes a well-rounded blend of pranayama (breathwork), mobility and stabilization warm-ups, supportive and progressive sequencing, balancing postures, restorative floor work, deep relaxation, and meditation.

This retreat is designed to revitalize and renew your connection to yoga — and to celebrate the incredible natural beauty that surrounds us.

Sandy is deeply inspired by the transformation that happens when we come together in practice — and she’s so excited to experience this journey with you.

Included In Your Retreat:

• Twice-daily yoga (all levels welcome): energizing morning flow and gentle evening yin or slow flow paired with a soothing crystal sound bath.

• All your daily meals — breakfast, lunch, and dinner — served family-style with love. Nourishment is centered on quality ingredients and delicious recipes crafted under the guidance of functional medicine expert and Ayurvedic practitioner, Jen Millar.

• Access to the onsite saltwater pool and a tranquil path to our beachfront.

• Three educational workshops:

  • Food as Medicine: Demystifying Healthy Eating — a cooking demonstration with take-home recipes, led by Jen Millar, MSc

  • Yoga Nidra — a deeply relaxing guided practice exploring breath and awareness, designed to reduce stress and anxiety and improve sleep and mental clarity, led by Sandy Wu

  • Foundations of the Five Elements in Traditional Chinese Medicine — explore the 12 major meridians and organ relationships, with Sandy Wu, R.Ac

• Optional add-ons:

  • Day trip group boat excursion to Corcovado National Park — a stunning rainforest sanctuary home to sloths, jaguars, pumas, and scarlet macaws. One of the largest and most celebrated national parks in Central America. ($165 USD)

  • Day trip to a local cacao farm with chocolate making. ($65 USD)

  • Paddleboard and surfboard rentals available.

  • On-site massage therapy services.

• Triple occupancy (shared room) with en-suite bathroom (3 XL single beds) – $1,645 USD per person

• Double occupancy (shared room) with en-suite bathroom (2 XL single beds or 1 king bed) – $1,890 USD per person

• Single occupancy (private room) with shared exterior bathroom with 1 other suite (1 queen bed) – $2,065 USD per person

• Single occupancy (private room) with en-suite bathroom (1 king bed) – $2,450 USD per person

  Rates Include: 7 nights accommodation, daily yoga and wellness workshops, all of your daily meals, filtered water, taxi shuttle to and from PJM Sansa Airport in Puerto Jiménez.

  Rates Do Not Include: Transportation from SJO Airport to Puerto Jiménez, massage therapy services, optional day excursions, paddleboard and surfboard rentals.

  A 25% deposit secures your spot and room preference, with the remaining balance due 30 days before the retreat. Please note, the deposit is non-refundable but can be applied to future events with Nereus.

  We recommend purchasing travel insurance, which may cover your deposit if you’re unable to attend. Typically, insurance providers require a guest statement showing your deposit payment, which we’re happy to provide upon request.

  For additional questions about the yoga program, transportation options, and onward travel suggestions, please email Sandy at retreatwithsandy@gmail.com. You are also welcome to request a Zoom call.

Explore more in the videos below about our retreat venue at Nereus!

Arriving

The journey to our retreat center is scenic and an exciting discovery into the southern Osa Peninsula. We will send you a detailed PDF on location details upon registration.

If you only have a week in Costa Rica, you will save the most time by flying from SJO to PJM (a 50-min flight). If you have a bit more time to explore Costa Rica, you may want to spend a couple nights in Dominical or Manual Antonio beforehand, which are popular beach towns and half way from the airport towards Puerto Jimenez.

If you are flying out from YVR (Vancouver, Canada) to SJO, may I suggest to depart on March 13. Many flights leave YVR in the morning, and arrive to SJO in the evening. Pick a hotel within your budget near the SJO airport to get rest for the evening.

Some arrival options include:

Option 1: Fly with SANSA airlines located at the SJO airport (domestic)

A scenic and direct 50-min flight (small passenger plane) to Puerto Jimenez (PJM). A complimentary pick-up from the PJM airport to the Nereus Hotel (5km) is included. Flights are $160 USD one way.

Option 2: Shared Taxi Shuttle with Easy Ride

Departs from SJO international airport and surround hotels in the morning. A 6.5 hour journey that Includes rest stops, with time to get some photographs and snacks along the way. Approximately $100 USD per person. They need a minimum of 3 participants to run the shuttle and require advanced booking. If you need to be matched with other participants we will do our best to coordinate.

Option 3: Private taxi van (up to 6 pax)

Departs SJO international airport or nearby hotels to Nereus hotel. Modern vehicle, rest stops. Approx. 6 hours, $450 USD per way.

Option 4: Public Coach Bus (A/C and reclining seats) with Grupo Blanco

The most budget friendly option at around $16 USD per way. Be ready for a long bus ride (approx. 8+ hours), but it is reliable as long as you secure your ticket beforehand. The Grupo Blanco bus station in San José is about a 30 minute taxi ride from the SJO International Airport. Address: Barrio México, Avenida 9, Calle 20, San José, Costa Rica

There is currently one direct bus per day from San José to Puerto Jiménez, leaving at 12:00 pm. The return journey back from Puerto Jiménez to San Jose departs at 5:00 am. You can buy your ticket online up to 15 days in advance and select your seat.

Departing

Check out is 10am on March 21

Option 1: Fly with SANSA (most direct): $160 USD

Book a late morning or early afternoon flight such as the 11:45am (50-min) from PJM domestic airport to SJO.  Nereus Hotel offers a complimentary drop off to the SANSA PJM airport (a 15 min ride). You could fly out of SJO later that evening, but be sure to give yourself plenty of buffer time. For peace of mind, you might opt to fly out the next morning (March 22) and spend your final evening at a nearby airport hotel.

Option 2: Shared private taxi shuttle

Departs from our retreat hotel to SJO international airport on March 21 at 10am. We can drop you off in downtown Dominical (approximately 3 hours) or directly to your hotel near the SJO international airport in Alajuela (approximately 6.5 hours). The cost will be dependent on how many participants opt-in for this service, and your drop-off location. An estimate is around $50 USD per person to Dominical, or $100 per person to SJO International Airport or to your hotel in Alajuela.

Option 3: Depart on your own terms!

You might rent a car (Alamo near Puerto Jimenez airport: tel +506-2735-5175), or take a shared shuttle and explore more of the country. Shared shuttles are very consistent and a popular way to get around in Costa Rica. We are happy to suggest other interesting places to explore in the country. Check out shared shuttle itineraries via Easy Ride.

Option 4: Public Coach Bus, approx. 8 to 9 hours: $16 USD per person 

We can help you to arrange an early morning taxi to the Grupo Blanco Bus Station that departs at 5am. The taxi ride is 15-20 min, so plan to be up and ready to leave at 4am. Pre-book your ticket online and pick a designated seat up to 15 days before. The bus is air conditioned with reclining seats. You will arrive in San Jose City, which is just outside of Alajuela. I would suggest to book a hotel room in Alajuela or San Jose for that evening and plan to fly out the next day. 

TRAVEL TIPS:

SJO International Airport is located in the city of Alajuela, just outside San José. While Alajuela isn’t known for major attractions, it’s a convenient place to spend a night upon arrival or departure. The area is generally safe, and locals tend to be polite and helpful. Metered licensed taxis are available if you are spending a night in Alajuela, and most accommodations near the airport can also help you to arrange an airport shuttle.

The local currency is Costa Rican Colones, CRC, and USD is widely accepted. Many businesses, stores, supermarkets, and restaurants, accept international debit and credit cards. ATMS are located at the airport and in Alajuela and San Jose. They will often charge an ATM withdrawl fee anywhere from 2000-4000 CRC (approx. $5 CAD).

There are plenty of Airbnbs and hotels near SJO international airport for all kinds of budgets. Some places include:

• Alice & Juancito

  A budget-friendly option if you don’t mind a simple room suited for backpackers with rates starting at $70 CAD. They can offer an airport transfer for $5 USD (cash). This guesthouse was once their grandmother’s home, and it still carries that welcoming grandma vibe. It’s within walking distance of ATMs, food options, and the historic museum.

• Guacima Escondida

  Rates start at $115 USD per night including breakfast. Onsite swimming pool and hammocks in a peaceful surrounding. 6 km from SJO international airport. To/from SJO airport to the hotel: a pre-arranged taxi with the hotel is $25 USD, hiring a red taxi (licensed) is around 10,000 CRC ($20 USD) - confirm the price with the driver first if they do not turn on the meter. An Uber is around 5000 CRC ($10 USD).

• Casa Maria Aeropuerto

  Rates start at $154 CAD per night, Spotless and modern design, less than 3 km from the airport. Offers airport pickup and breakfast for an additional fee. Located within a gated neighbourhood. Keep in mind airplane take-off noise due to the close proximity to the airport.

• Pura Vida Hotel

  Rates start at $207 CAD, including roundtrip airport taxi and breakfast. 5 km from SJO international airport. Rooms can sell out quickly.

FAQ’S:

• “I’ve never been to a yoga retreat, what can I expect? Is it right for me?”

  You can expect to feel welcomed and supported not only during your yoga retreat but also with the logistics and questions you may have leading up to and onwards with us. We understand visiting a different country can feel daunting, but with tons of resources in our back pocket, we are excited to make it enjoyable and straightforward for you. You will be provided with your hosts Whatsapp number which you are welcome to contact anytime before, during, and upon your departure for piece of mind, should you have any further enquiries or need assistance while in Costa Rica.

  Our retreat size is maxed at 15 participants, which allows for personalized facilitation in your yoga practice. You may adapt the yoga classes to your needs whether that may be to focus more on the meditative aspects of the practice or perhaps to try new or more challenging yoga postures. Discoveries and shifts experienced on a yoga retreat last a lifetime, and it is what makes me so excited to share with you.

  Some participants may prefer their privacy and solitude, while some participants are ready to meet new friends and try everything on the schedule. You get to choose what activities are right for you.

• “What if I don’t know any Spanish?”

  You’ll be fine if your Spanish isn’t great. It is always helpful to be familiar with common terms such as thank you (gracias) and please (por favor). Many workers in the tourism industry speak good English.

• “Is Costa Rica a safe country to visit?”

  Costa Rica is considered safe with a stable political climate and friendly local culture. Avoid flashing around expensive gear and do not leave your belongings unattended. Travelers insurance is a good idea for peace of mind. ATMS, banks and medical care are of good standard here, including a health clinic, dental office, and an english speaking doctor in Puerto Jiménez.

• “What will the weather be like during the retreat?”

  Mid‑March falls right in the dry season, with warm and sunny days. Daytime temperatures typically range from 30 °C to 33 °C (86 °F to 91 °F)—hot and often humid near the beach. Nighttime temperatures usually settle between 22 °C to 24 °C (72 °F to 75 °F)—still pleasantly warm. Expect mostly sunny skies with occasional clouds midday. Afternoon brief showers are possible but rare. Humidity is moderate to high, especially near the coast. Light breezes often help with comfort. Ocean conditions are warm and pleasant—perfect for a dip or relaxing by the shore.

• “What should I bring?”

  We’ve got you covered for yoga mats and props. We also have flashlights, toiletries, high quality bed linens, and fresh towels onsite for you. On-site laundry is available. There is a supermarket, health clinic and pharmacy located a short car ride away if you may need something.

  • Small day pack for excursions or to bring to the beach.

  • Reusable water bottle.

  • Swimsuit, hat, beach sarong, and/or a quick dry towel can be handy.

  • Flip flops/sandals and one set of comfortable walking/hiking shoes if you would like to visit Corcovado National Park.

  • Light, breathable clothes for yoga.

  • Costa Rica uses 110V electrical outlets, the same as Canada and the U.S. If your electronics are from elsewhere, you may need a travel adapter or voltage converter.

  • It’s handy to have some USD or CRC cash on hand should you wish to hire a taxi, leave gratuities, or purchase small items.

To support local communities, $10 from your retreat booking is donated to the Costa Rican Humanitarian Foundation