Raychel Shandara

Move, breathe, and unwind by the Caribbean

Costa Rica Puerto Viejo de Talamanca paid

Movement is the organizing idea at Raychel Shandara, where yoga shares space with dance and aerial practice. Set across the road from Playa Cocles on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, the venue puts the beach close while keeping a pool and communal spaces on site. Its Irayz Movement ethos centers on love, growth, self-awareness and mindful movement beyond the mat, giving the retreat a more movement-led feel than a strictly seated meditation setting. Visitors can use a yoga, dance and aerial deck, then make room for downtime by the pool or book massage and spa treatments. A shared kitchen, bar, and meals featuring fresh fruit and Caribbean-style dishes round out the communal atmosphere; listed dietary choices include vegan, vegetarian, pescetarian, organic, dairy-free and nut-free options. Rooms have air conditioning, and amenities include Wi-Fi. Rates start at USD 70, with the specific package worth confirming before booking.

Highlights

A deck set up for yoga, dance and aerial practice
A pool for unwinding between movement sessions
Massage and spa treatments on site
Caribbean-style meals with fresh fruit and a range of dietary options

Good for

Yoga practitionersDance and movement enthusiastsAerial practice newcomersBeach loversTravelers seeking an active retreat

Setting

Across the street from Playa Cocles, the retreat sits on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, about 3 km from Puerto Viejo de Talamanca. The beach is close, while a pool and outdoor movement deck give the grounds a relaxed, active feel.

The practice

Yoga is the listed practice, alongside dance and aerial movement on a dedicated deck. The Irayz Movement approach emphasizes mindful movement and self-awareness both on and off the mat. Newcomers can expect a movement-oriented environment; ask the host which activities suit your experience and are included in your retreat.

A typical day

Daily structure varies by retreat, so confirm it with the center. The yoga, dance and aerial deck, pool, shared kitchen and nearby beach create room for practice, downtime and meals, but no fixed timetable should be assumed.

Accommodation

On-site rooms have air conditioning, and Wi-Fi, towels and housekeeping are among the listed amenities. Room types and occupancy details are best confirmed with the host.

What to bring

Pack comfortable clothes for yoga and movement, along with breathable layers suited to an annual average temperature of 24.9°C. A light rain layer is sensible, especially in June, July and November, among the wetter months.

Address Playa Cocles, 3km albur de Puerto Viejo Viejo de Talamonca Limón

How to get there

The venue is in Playa Cocles, about 3 km from Puerto Viejo de Talamanca. Directions describe taking a shuttle from San José toward Costa Rica’s Caribbean side, followed by onward travel to Playa Cocles.

Nearest airport: Changuinola Captain Manuel Niño International Airport (CHX) (36 km)

Changuinola Captain Manuel Niño International Airport (CHX) is approximately 36 km from the center. Confirm onward taxi or transfer arrangements with the center; directions also describe a shuttle from San José (SJO) toward the Caribbean side.

Nearest city: Changuinola

Languages

English

How to book

Contact the center directly to ask about dates and reserve your stay.

Pricing

Rates start at USD 70. Confirm the rate, what it includes and the relevant dates with the center.

Climate

Climate Zone: Subtropical

Best Months: Mar, Oct, Aug

Avoid: Nov, Jul, Jun

The area averages 24.9°C annually, with warmest months in September, May and August and cooler conditions in January, December and February. Rain is more common in November, July and June, while March, October and August are among the driest months.

Location

Frequently asked questions

What does a typical day at Raychel Shandara look like?

Daily structure varies by retreat. Ask the host for the timetable for your dates; the venue has a yoga, dance and aerial deck, pool and shared kitchen.

Can beginners join the yoga or movement practices?

Yoga, dance and aerial practice are part of the center’s movement focus. Ask the host which sessions are suitable for your experience level.

What food and dietary options are available?

Meals feature fresh fruit and Caribbean-style foods, with vegan, vegetarian, pescetarian, organic, dairy-free and nut-free options listed. Confirm the meal arrangements for your retreat with the host.

What should I pack for a stay here?

Bring comfortable clothes for yoga and movement, plus light layers for warm, changeable Caribbean weather. A rain layer is useful, particularly in the wetter months.

How do I book, and how long are the retreats?

Rates start at USD 70, but booking details and retreat lengths vary. Contact the center directly to confirm dates, package details and reservations.