Updated: 4 days ago
8 GIRLS, 9 NIGHTS, AND 100 UNFORGETTABLE MOMENTS
This is an inside look at our week of adventure, connection, and transformation. We’ll take you on a journey through our adventurers and daily activities, introduce you to the incredible women who joined us, and share our most memorable moments. From the challenges we faced to the unexpected hospital visit. First and foremost we need to proclaim that these ladies were the real magic. Our job was simply to hold space as they unfolded their own brilliance. So, let’s get into it.
THE GIRLS
From the very first day, we were humbled by these 8 incredible women. Their courage and willingness to be open and vulnerable—sharing their stories during our welcome circle—set the tone for the entire week. It’s not often you can say that you spent a week with a group of humans with no ego, no off vibes, no drama - just a group of women who started as strangers and became family over the course of a week.
Coming from different corners of the world, each one—hailing from the USA, the UK, Ireland, Puerto Rico, Italy, and Belgium—brought her own unique spark. Their stories, their vulnerabilities, and the shared moments of laughter created a truly transformative experience.
Despite the diverse range of nationalities, personalities and level of surfing, everyone supported one another wholeheartedly. We witnessed each of them come out of their shell and shine their light. We watched them face and overcome their own challenges in and out of the water, and it was a beautiful experience. Although this was a surf retreat, we did so much more than just ride the waves.
SURF + DAILY LIFE AND OTHER ACTIVES
First things first: we surfed A LOT. Every day began with breakfast and coffee at our beautiful lodge. Some mornings, we started with yoga before breakfast, but most of our yoga sessions took place in the evening.
After breakfast, the challenge began—getting all the girls together. Somehow, we were always running late (it’s become our little talent!). Once the crew was assembled, we kicked off the day with a warm-up dance. Each day, a different nationality showcased a dance from their country of origin. We had vibrant performances from Puerto Rico, Ireland, France, and the USA. Personally, the US line dance was my favorite—it was so much fun.
Following the dance, the girls grabbed their surfboards, hopped into tuk-tuks, and were whisked away to the surf location of the day with our surf guides. We divided the group into two levels: Level 1 for those who needed help catching their own waves or were riding the white wash, and Level 2 for those ready for a bit more challenge. Throughout the week, we encouraged every girl to step out of her comfort zone, explore new experiences, and embrace challenges—always with safety as our top priority. After the surf sessions, the group participated in technical workshops and video analysis, and then we all came together for a well-earned lunch.
The afternoons offered a variety of experiences. Some days featured mindset classes, while other days included breathwork sessions paired with ice baths, giving the girls a real recovery experience to test their mental strength in the ice. One particularly exciting day, we booked a surf skate lesson at a new park called Kokua in Ahangama. With world-class instructors from Germany, the girls were introduced to the world of surf skating—a unique way to refine surf techniques on land, with a never-ending flow of creative energy. Needless to say, they loved it.
On some afternoons, the girls took time off to relax, explore Sri Lanka, or indulge in some shopping—perfect opportunities to unwind and discover local treasures.
Toward the end of the retreat, they deserved a day off from the water, so we treated them to a wildlife safari at Yale National Park. The three-hour drive in one van was a bonding experience in itself, filled with childhood tunes and loud, carefree singing. Along the way, we marveled at the endemic wildlife of Sri Lanka, spotting elephants, crocodiles, and buffalo.
During most evenings, we enjoyed a relaxing dinner at the lodge, unwinding after long, fulfilling days. However, there were several nights when we ventured out for group dinners, transforming our evenings into lively celebrations filled with singing and dancing. No matter where we went, our group radiated pure joy.
One particularly memorable evening was set aside for a sunset gathering and a night on the town. With the next morning free, the stage was perfectly set for adventure. By that time, the girls had bonded so deeply that strangers had become true friends—it was time to let loose and create lasting memories.
Now, let me set the scene for what became known as the “Hospital Incident.” Believe it or not, there were no surf casualties that night—only dance mishaps. After a leisurely afternoon of massages, we rushed back to get ready for a sunset viewing at a stylish hotel called Allaia, renowned for its great DJs and infectious vibes. The energy was high, and we danced our little hearts out—barefoot, of course. Perhaps we danced with a little too much enthusiasm, because before we knew it, a wine glass shattered and resulted in a bleeding foot. Our youngest member sustained a minor cut—not serious, but deep enough that we quickly decided she needed stitches. Caroline whisked her off in a tuk-tuk to the nearest hospital, where she was promptly cared for and soon resting. What an experience! Our little girl proved to be a trooper—badass through and through—and she bounced back to join us for all the activities in the days that followed.
For the rest of us, the night was filled with laughter, spontaneous dancing, and a treasure trove of stories. It was an evening that perfectly encapsulated our journey together—a blend of fun, camaraderie, and those unforgettable moments that make every adventure truly special.
MINDSET & SURFING
We thoughtfully curated the week’s activities and intentionally incorporated mindset classes into our schedule. In these sessions, we explored a range of concepts—from surf philosophy and mindset to broader themes of life and manifestation. We taught the girls about the foundations of self-limiting beliefs and the narratives we craft about ourselves, both in and out of the water. We discovered that surfing is one of the greatest teachers, offering a profound reflection of our inner world. Moreover, we discussed practical strategies to enhance personal self-talk and shift our mindset—reminding us that, after all, it's all just a story we can choose to rewrite.
MEMORABLE MOMENTS
The bonding moments we shared with the girls. Especially the car karaoke. Whether it was singing the car, dancing =, sharing stories or laughing. There were so many moments we will forever treasure in our hearts. The way these girls warmed up to us and embraced this experience as a transformative journey. To feel the bond grow between them and with us throughout the week was one of our highlights for sure
Another one was being able to see them grow and come out of their shells, Each had their own story and seemingly was at a pivotal time in their life and this retreat seemingly gave them this little spark they all needed but didn’t know they were missing. It was incredibly rewarding achieving this. we are beyond proud to announce that we have achieved exactly what we set out to create. An immerse expierenc efor owmen to come otgether to surf, overcome their fears and limitatting belives, laugh at the top of their lungs and support one another. When we creted Sundaze dthat wa sour vision. TO share this spark that surfing, the lifestyle and community had has ignitied within us with other women. We created a sisterhood and this was the biggest gift we could have asked to receive form the girls.
Another one was watching the girls all face their own inner dialogue through surfing and our mindset classes. Becoming in touch with the narratives they hold and starting to think about how they can change these. Starting to reimagine their goals and work towards them, in and out of the water. That was the most rewarding. We can not wait to see where this journey of life will take them. Hopefully we will see them again next year.
PHOTOSHOOTS & SHOUTOUT TO THE BRANDS FOR THE GOODIE BAGS
We want to give a huge thank you to [insert brand names] for generously donating bikinis and bags for our girls. Right at the start of the retreat, each of our participants received a thoughtfully put-together goodie bag featuring two bikinis, face masks, a Sundazed Retreat t-shirt, and a chic bag. It was amazing to see them rocking these items all week long.
On our final day, we set up group photoshoots where the girls could really shine and embrace their natural beauty. Before that, we also did individual sessions that let each girl live out her ultimate surfer girl dream. It was so much fun watching them step out of their comfort zones and savor every moment in front of the lens. We hope these photos bring them happy memories for years to come.
We truly couldn’t have dreamed of a more beautiful group of women to kick off our Sundazed journey with. From the moment they arrived, there was an undeniable magic in the air—a sense of openness, courage, and connection that made every single day feel like something special was unfolding. We are endlessly grateful that these incredible souls chose to trust us, to show up fully, and to share their energy, laughter, stories, and hearts with us.
Watching each of them grow in and out of the water was inspiring beyond words. There were breakthroughs, quiet moments of reflection, uncontrollable giggles, shared fears, surf victories, late-night chats, and bonds that formed almost instantly. That’s the magic we dreamed of when we created Sundazed.
One evening, we overheard someone say, “We know their slogan was ‘Come for the waves, stay for the sisterhood’—but it’s actually true.” Hearing that touched us deeply. It was the most beautiful validation of why we started this and a reminder that this isn’t just about surf or sunshine—it’s about connection, confidence, and coming home to yourself.
This retreat also marked something deeply personal and powerful for us as co-founders. It was the first time Caroline and I were finally in the same place, creating side by side after months of planning across time zones and continents. Being able to witness how our individual strengths, passions, and visions naturally complemented each other was a dream in itself. From sunrise surf checks to late-night planning sessions, it just flowed. We laughed, we worked, we created—and it felt aligned in the most beautiful way.
This is only the beginning, and if this first group showed us anything, it’s that the heart of Sundazed is already beating strong. We can't wait to see where these women go from here—and we’re even more excited for all the women we’ve yet to meet on future retreats.
Here's to many more waves, sisterhood, and the stories yet to be written.
WHATS NEXT ? Oh, just something epic. We’re about to launch our next adventure—and no, it’s not your typical retreat.
This time, we’re dialing it up: A S U R F T R I P to the MALDIVES
For the girls who already ride waves and are ready for the trip of a lifetime. Think crystal-clear waters, perfect reef breaks, daily boat sessions, tropical vibes, and an all-girls crew tearing it up in the Maldives.
If you’re craving sun-soaked days, surf progression, sisterhood, and serious adventure—this one’s for you.
Want in? [Click here] to learn more and be the first to know when bookings open.