Find Authentic Retreats in Puerto Jimnez Costa Rica

"I completed my 200hr YTT at Nereus recently, and my experience was magical. Nereus is in a beautiful location (monkeys, macaws, beach to yourself, lush jungle vegetation), and you can feel the transformative energy as soon as you step on the grounds. My nervous system settled immediately. Jen and Stu are such kind and welcoming people, and their hospitality is unparalleled. You can tell that everything about the place (physically and energetically) is thought out and intentional. The food is amazing, healthy, and prepared with love. I learned so much from all of the teachers (Michelle, Jesse, and Jen) and had the health reset that I really needed. I can't recommend going to Nereus for YTT or a retreat enough. "

"Nereus was incredible. The owners are amazing and one has professional culinary experience. The menu was amazing and healthy. The rooms are huge and very well appointed. I also loved the yoga studio which was brand new. You are steps from your own private beach and drinking from cocunuts you pick and seeing all the different monkeys that roam the trees was wonderful. It was a perfect getaway,"

"Jen and Stuart and the community are so friendly. I had an amazing retreat. The course was great and the venue really special. The venue is really pretty remote yet with the luxury accommodation, the warmth of the hosts and delicious healthy food, we were so well cared for. Thank you. "

"Simply put: this was life-changing. The entire experience from start to finish was pure magic. Nereus is by far the most outstanding Retreat Centre, where the beach meets the beautiful jungle. You are immersed in nature amongst the wildlife (monkeys everyday) and fed the most wholesome, nutritious food you could ever dream of. The accommodations are so warm & welcoming, there is literally nothing to worry about. The YTT teachers (we had Michelle, Elise & Jen) were the most dynamic trio. We received such a thorough, comprehensive, engaging & inviting training program. I feel so knowledgeable, prepared & excited to share everything I've learned. Even if you don't plan on teaching, this 200-Hour training is really meant for anyone. You will gain so much awareness and insight into your own practice, your own habits & evolve beyond your wildest dreams. Every single person there, whether it was my fellow trainees, the staff, the teachers...they were all next level incredible. They will become like family to you. I cannot express my gratitude enough that I found Nereus and for everything that it has given me. It was transformational. Highly recommend any of the retreats that Nereus offers. This review comes from the bottom of my heart so that I can hopefully encourage others to experience the magic too, just like I did. I absolutely will be back. "

"Keen attention to all the little details is what this new yoga retreat centre is all about. The care and consideration shows up in everything the team does to make your stay into an outstanding experience. Nereus provides you with three amazing gluten free and super tasty meals every day, made from scratch and with so much love and care. The grounds are peaceful, immaculate and well-tended - and located only moments from the crashing waves of the ocean and miles upon miles of beachfront sunrises. The yoga shala is top rate - open to the beautiful surrounding jungle sounds but protected from the elements. It is a treat in itself. And the yoga training and practices are just beyond exceptional. Michelle is incredibly talented and her love of the craft of yoga shines through all she does. She is the perfect compliment to the ownership team of Jen and Stuart. These three are making magic together. Do yourself a favour and make the trek to the Osa Peninsula to deepen your practice and wrap yourself in the bliss and joy that is Nereus Retreats!"

"Choosing to complete my RYT200 at Nereus Retreats was one of the best decisions I’ve made! As I reflect on the three weeks spent at Nereus, I can’t help but have a huge smile on my face. This experience exceeded my expectations of what a teacher training could look like. The instruction, accommodations, location, staff, and overall vibes of this place are magical! This training gave me the necessary steps to start teaching yoga, while simultaneously leading me through a journey of growth, discovery, and connection. Jen and Stuart are incredible hosts and will make sure you have all of your needs met during your stay. The food, cultivated through an Ayurvedic perspective, was equally nutritious and tasty. The family-style approach to meals allows you to put exactly what and how much food you want on your plate, offering a truly customizable experience. They also provide filtered water, coffee, and tea throughout the day! In any free time, we were able to enjoy the most breathtaking beach just steps away from the rooms, as well as a refreshing saltwater pool in the hub of the retreat center. Our daily yoga practice in the beautiful shala was another unforgettable experience. Michelle fostered an open, inspiring, and authentic environment to practice yoga and prepare us for teaching. The yoga instruction was engaging, well-rounded, and empowering – I couldn’t have asked for better. Overall, the RYT200 course was well-planned, all-encompassing, and adaptable to meet the needs of our group. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to come to Nereus Retreats, and I can’t wait for the day I’ll be back. I learned more about yoga than I could have anticipated, underwent significant lifestyle changes, and created a number of life-long connections. Thank you, Nereus!! "

"This experience was so much more than just gaining my 200hr YTT certification. I made friends for life and grew as a person in many ways. Everyday you practice yoga with Michelle who holds space for each student to learn and grow. All of her classes were new and exciting. She will provide you with all the tools you need to leave Nereus feeling confident and excited to teach yoga. The beach was one of the most beautiful and peaceful I have ever been to, and only steps away from the rooms. Speaking of rooms, you are living in luxury. With AC, comfy beds, private bathrooms, laundry service and shelving so you can unpack and settle in. The food here exceeded my expectations. All gluten free with vegetarian/vegan options, healthy, delicious and lots of variety. Filtered water, coffee and tea station available all day. Pool is a real treat for a quick refreshing dip and sunbathing during breaks. Jen and Stuart go above and beyond to make guests feel welcome and cared for. This wouldn’t be possible without their vision, hard work and of course the dedicated staff behind the scenes. I could go on and on about how wonderful this place is but my review is getting long. Overall I would highly recommend coming here, for retreats, YTT or just to unwind in Paradise. "

"Telling Family , friends and peers that this was probably the most relaxing holiday of my life. Yoga Studio is perfect and I appreciated being able to take in nature as we did Yoga! Beach was a quick walk away. Sunrise every morning at 5:30 followed by a long walk in either direction in solitude. Loved it! Great trees to put hammock up for the morning. Cool pool to get re-freshed from the heat and humidity of the "jungle". Healthy meals ! Fresh caught Tuna was my favourite! Gracious, helpful hosts ! and Girlie! "

"It was absolutely magical to practice yoga in the beautiful jungle shala. The meals prepared by the Nereus kitchen team were very healing and absolutely nourishing. Other highlights were the sunrise swims in the sea and all the amazing flora and fauna all arounf. I felt completely restored from the bustling city life after a week here. Thank you, I will be back! "

"Nereus is a calm, clean and inviting retreat space tucked away in nature. The hosts make you feel like family and are available to meet your needs. The food served at Nereus is absolutely lovely - so many fresh, healthy and creative dishes to enjoy! You’ll hear monkeys and see exotic birds. Swimming at sunrise down on the beach each morning (steps away from the property) was a highlight of my time there. If you’re looking to connect with beautiful people in a natural and peaceful environment, go to Nereus! "

"I had a rough intro due to heat stroke but with the support of staff transitioned into recovering and then loving this unique space which happens to have phenomenal staff and leadership. Excellent, healthy, and delicious food; thoughtful, gentle massage therapist (thanks Carissa); easy-going "pura vida" vibe; pristine accommodations; and good humor and interesting discussions. The place is surrounded and part of luscious natural beauty. I can't recommend Nereus highly enough. A healing place! Thanks Stuart and Jen. "

"This is a top-notch operation! Jen and Stuart are the ultimate hosts, gracefully providing for your every need. From their knowledge of healthy/delicious cooking, to managing a very competent and friendly housekeeping staff, to timely transportation when needed, the comfort level is exceptional! You will see many critters in their natural environment. Three monkey species, Macaws, cool big toads, friendly lizards of all sizes, Coatimundis, and maybe even sea turtles and babies at the nearby turtle sanctuary, or while snorkeling. Swimming in the warm waves or relaxing on the beach, you will see some of the most amazing sun rises of your life. Cool off in the saltwater pool and relax in your comfortable room after a day of exploring and adventure, as you reflect on the beautiful memories you are creating!"

"The special energy of Nereus Retreats was evident from the moment of arrival. Jen and Stuart, along with Cameron and all of the team, were incredibly warm and welcoming, full of passion for the wonderful environment and space they have so carefully created in the magical Osa Peninsula. Being in their presence and care was an absolute joy. The RYT 200 course, with its thoughtfully planned structure and incredible quality of teaching, was exceptional. I could not have imagined experiencing such vastness, yet also depth, of material covered (presented with a detailed handbook, and many additional resources). The teachers were inspirational, bringing their energy, dedication, and open-hearted insights to support profound discussions. The challenges of learning new skills and practicing teaching were given with encouragement and positive suggestions, which helped in my growth and development of confidence (both on and off the yoga mat!). I am deeply grateful to my teachers. The physical space perfectly accommodates calmness, with spaces to share with community, or find moments of solitude. The shala is a truly magical space. Practicing and studying yoga with views of hummingbirds, morpho butterflies, toucans, scarlet macaws, and three species of monkey (to name just some of the abundant wildlife!), among verdant vegetation and the rhythm of the nearby ocean, was deeply immersive. Jen and Stuart have clearly put a lot of thought and care into the details (such as nutrition, sustainability, cleanliness), as well as the overall energy, concept, and beautiful offering of Nereus Retreats. Contributing to an overall sense of wellbeing, the food is a highlight - thanks to Jen's vast knowledge of nutrition, and deep empathy when it comes to catering for specialised diets. As I have an array of intolerances, Jen not only made sure my nutritionl needs were met with an inimaginable abundance and diversity of delicious foods, but also generously shared her knowledge to give me greater insight, and compassion to tranform “problem” into joyful experiences! The days at Nereus Retreats were filled with learning, philosophy, sprirtual growth, strength, support, warmth, beauty, music, community, and beauty. I am profoundly grateful for this unforgettable experience, and only wish I could express my love and appreciation more strongly. Needless to say, I am dreaming of returning! Pura vida x "

"Just finished my 200h Yoga Teacher Training at Nereus with the incredible Michelle Garcia. So blessed to have the opportunity to learn in such a wholesome and beautiful place. The Nereus family made me feel comfortable and at home. The catering was a lavish multisensory experience inspired by Ayurveda and executed with local, fresh whole foods, that never failed to surprise me in the best way! I felt nourished and cared for and this allowed me to fully engage in the content of the course. Daily morning yoga in the gorgeous jungle shala was such a treat! Surrounded by nature and only steps away from the secluded Playa Preciosa. Michelle is an incredible teacher and person, she took my interest in yoga and turned it into a burning passion. I´m so grateful for the connections and community I made during my stay. Can´t wait to go back!"

"I did my teacher training at Nereus in January 2024 and is was absolutely incredible, the Hotel installations are really comfortable, my room was headed to the pool and at night I could here the monkeys. The food was really good and there is options for everyone you just have to ask! The training was demanding but fun and besides the yoga exercise and physical training you get to learn a lot about the yoga culture and science. I recommend this place a 100%, the beach is just right across the backyard and the nature is insanely beautiful, If you have the opportunity don´t hesitate and take your change to visit the beautiful Nereus Retreats. "

"My life has been forever changed after spending 21 days in the jungle at Nereus Retreats for an RYT-200 Yoga Teacher Training. When I was setting intentions prior to my visit I never knew it would be better than I could have ever imagined. Michelle and Bridget taught yoga in a way that was educational and inspirational. They showed acceptance and met me where I was at in my personal practice and yet inspired me to find my flow again. Their spirit will forever show up in the way I teach yoga in Minnesota. Jen, Stuart, Cameron, and the entire staff held space for the personal growth and the nourishing entrees served which I referred to back home as "Michelin" quality. Jen models a lifestyle that drew me in and my mind, body, and spirit responded in such a healing way. Dr. Frances Yahia provided insight into my life, my shadow-side, the reason for me coming to this lifetime and so much more. There are really no words to express the moments we shared and the change I experienced, all while enjoying hilarious laughter throughout. There will always be a part of my heart in Puerto Jiménez but I know I will be back as often as the universe lets me. I've traveled extensively during my life and have yet to find a place more special than Nereus Retreats in the Osa Peninsula. "

"What an amazing experience , beautiful location, beautiful people,,amazing food, beautiful experienced teachers inside and out. Thank you for providing memories that will last a lifetime. I would definitely recommend it to anyone that is looking for a memorable experience. Thank you to Jennifer, Stuart , Staff and the yoga teachers Michelle and Bridget and all of the other amazing people that made the experience what it was. "