Located at the southern edge of Indonesia, Rote is a hidden gem known for its warm tropical waters, quality surf breaks, pristine reefs, and laid-back island atmosphere. Far from the crowds of Bali, it offers the perfect environment to progress your surfing, explore the ocean, and fully switch off from everyday life.
We will be staying at the stunning Boa Vida Resort, perched on the cliffs overlooking the famous Boa coastline, where white-sand beaches, perfect waves, and unforgettable sunsets are part of everyday life.
Whether you're looking to gain confidence in the surf, experience freediving for the first time, or simply spend a week immersed in nature, Rote provides the perfect setting.
Designed for beginner-to-intermediate surfers, this retreat is about more than chasing waves. It's an opportunity to improve your surfing, build confidence in the ocean, learn new skills, connect with like-minded people, and enjoy a slower pace of life in one of Indonesia's most beautiful island destinations.
This retreat is designed for surfers who want to improve, explore, and enjoy a week immersed in the ocean. Expect plenty of water time, new friendships, practical skills, great food, and the opportunity to leave feeling refreshed, more confident, and more connected to the ocean.
The daily surf session is tailored towards surfers who already have some experience and are looking to improve technique, increase confidence, and spend more quality time in the water.
With access to a variety of waves around Boa and beyond, you'll receive practical coaching both in and out of the water while enjoying some of Rote's best surf. Additional surf sessions can be planned or the option is always there to free surf outside of scheduled sessions.
Throughout the week, you'll complete a full freediving course covering breathing techniques, equalisation, safety protocols, nervous system regulation, and efficient underwater movement. While you'll learn genuine freediving skills, the course is taught with surfers in mind - helping you develop greater confidence in the ocean, improved breath awareness, and a calmer response in challenging situations.
Suitable for all levels, these sessions provide the perfect complement to the surf and freediving program, helping you move better, recover faster, and get more from your time in the ocean.
Surfing and freediving both require mobility, balance, body awareness, and efficient movement. Throughout the week, we will guide Pilates and movement sessions designed to improve mobility, support recovery, and help you feel your best both in and out of the water.
We'll spend a day exploring Rote by boat, visiting remote beaches, reefs, offshore islands, and some of the area's most beautiful ocean environments. A chance to discover another side of the island and enjoy a day on the water with the group
Perched above the ocean with sweeping views over Boa Bay, Boa Vida offers the perfect balance of comfort, simplicity, and natural beauty. Relax by the pool, enjoy fresh local meals, and watch the sun set over the Indian Ocean from your clifftop home for the week.
Twin share room sharing only $2250 per person | Upgrade to solo private room + $840 per person
Do I need to know how to surf?
This retreat is not suitable for complete beginners, you should be able to stand up on a surf board and ride in small waves. For the freediving you don’t need any experience, all the coaching is tailored to your level and experience.
What is the weather and ocean temp?
The air temperature is 28-30 degrees, Sunny and humid. The ocean temp ranges from 28-30 degrees all year, you will probably only need a rash guard and leggings to protect from the sun, freediving equipment is fully provided.
Where do I fly in to ?
Fly into Rote Island airport (RTI) via Kupang on West Timor (KOE). Fly direct to Kupang from Bali (DPS) and Jakarta (CGK)
Do I need a Visa for Indonesia?
Please check with your local embassy, it is your responsibility to travel with the correct Visa and insurance.
How do I book?
Please contact us at info@abovebelow.life | Please state the retreat and the dates you wish to book, to hold your spot we will send you a payment invoice for 30% deposit - balances are due 60 days before the retreats.
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