For four incredible nights, we immersed ourselves in the wonders of Club Del Mar, a beachfront retreat on the southern edge of Jacó Beach. This visit was not just a family getaway but a purposeful journey to explore the potential for establishing a surfing healing retreat designed for the Israeli IDF reserves handicapped community, specifically those impacted by the most recent conflict.
This luxurious beachfront resort combines unparalleled hospitality with an eco-friendly and inclusive approach, making it a haven for relaxation, healing, and adventure.
An Inclusive Haven for Healing
What sets Club Del Mar apart is its commitment to accessibility. Recognized as one of the few resorts in Costa Rica equipped to accommodate physical disabilities, its thoughtfully designed property offers both luxury and inclusivity. The resort’s accessible beach and facilities were enhanced through renovations inspired by Caro Aguilar, founder of the Travel Breath Of Life agency.
Caro’s pioneering surfing programs for individuals with disabilities have empowered participants with cognitive and physical challenges, including teaching a blind surfer to navigate the waves using hearing. Her passion and expertise bring life-changing experiences to the ocean.
A Storybook Immersion in Nature
From the moment we arrived, the beauty of Costa Rica surrounded us:
Scarlet macaws feasted outside our balcony.
Toucans and hawks rested in treetops while falcons soared above the ocean.
A tiger-heron mother diligently cared for her chick in a nearby nest.
A majestic iguana basking daily in the sun atop a neatly trimmed bush or tree.
Our daily visitor, Concho—a playful coati—greeted us every morning, making our stay all the more memorable.
These encounters with wildlife deepened our appreciation for the retreat’s natural environment, showcasing its potential for creating a therapeutic experience.
Healing Through Surfing
The highlight of our stay at Club Del Mar was my personalized surfing lesson with the incredible Caro Aguilar. Watching my wife Adi and our sons, Lavi and Eitam, take their turns in the waves at a nearby beach near Scarlet Villas earlier in our journey was inspiring.
For me, learning to surf was a lifelong dream fulfilled. Despite having no prior experience, I managed to stand on my board on my very first attempt—a moment of pure exhilaration that proved it’s never too late to challenge yourself and grow, even at 42 years old.
Caro’s passion for teaching is extraordinary. She connects effortlessly with students of all ages and abilities, ensuring that each person feels empowered and inspired. Her approach is inclusive, making the experience as much about personal growth and healing as it is about mastering the waves.
This unforgettable experience underscored the transformative potential of surfing, leaving a profound impression on me and my family.
A Family-Friendly Retreat
Our two-bedroom condo provided the perfect base for our family. Spacious and equipped with all the comforts of home, it offered stunning views of the rainforest, pool and ocean. Each morning, we awoke to the sounds of toucans chirping, setting the tone for another day of pura vida.
Blending Adventure with Relaxation
Club Del Mar offers more than just surfing. Guests can explore nearby:
Macaw Nesting Trees, where scarlet macaws gather.
Secluded Waterfalls, ideal for a tranquil escape.
The vibrant shops and restaurants of Downtown Jacó.
Or, enjoy the resort’s saltwater pool, beach, spa treatments, and open-air dining.
Pioneering a Vision for Healing
Our visit to Club Del Mar has strengthened our vision for creating a surfing healing retreat tailored to the needs of Israeli IDF reserve veterans with disabilities. Its accessible amenities, breathtaking surroundings, and personalized surfing programs make it a sanctuary for the mind, body, and soul—especially for those seeking resilience and connection after profound challenges.
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