When?
June 1st – 6th, 2026, 5 nights & 6 days
What is this retreat about?
Breathe Deep, Feel Whole: Reconnecting to Authentic Self with Nature’s Embrace
Tapping into the present moment- The sun warms your skin, a gentle breeze whispers through leaves, the river flows nearby, and birdsong fills the air. In this moment, amidst the symphony of nature, a profound feeling washes over you – connection.
It’s a feeling we sometimes forget, woven into the tapestry of our being yet often overshadowed by daily routines. But the truth is, we are part of nature, not separate from it. And reconnecting with this fundamental truth can be transformative.
This connection isn’t just a fleeting feeling; it nourishes our well-being in profound ways. In these simple moments, it reminds us that we are part of something greater than ourselves.
The intention behind this retreat is to create a space for you to come, nurture, and reconnect to this part of yourself and with others. To be present. To take an intentional pause from the chaos of life. To shed the masks and layers holding you back from revealing who you truly are and living a life of alignment with your values. Letting go of negative self-talk and limiting beliefs. Feeling light, whole, expansive, free, confident.
Join us in Costa Rica as we take intentional time to tap into authenticity in a supportive community while immersing yourself in nature. Leave with a renewed sense of being… a coming home… to YOU.
Why Uvita, Costa Rica?
The short answer is….it’s off the beaten path and absolutely stunning.
Known for beautiful mountain landscapes that stretch down to palm-fringed beaches, Uvita is centrally located on the southern Pacific coast of Costa Rica. It’s more specifically known as Costa Ballena or the Whale’s Coast, for the large number of migratory whales spotted here, as well as the whale tail shape of the coastline during low tide. This quaint little village consists of a few dirt roads, lined with farms, underpopulated beaches, mom ‘n pop shops, and a scattering of hotels in the jungle-covered hills above.
Uvita is home to breathtaking waterfalls, warm uncrowded wilderness beaches, a pristine marine reserve, and an unparalleled richness of beautiful plant and animal species.
It may seem surreal that this environment is as untainted as it is. With its gentle pace of life, it will give you a good idea of what the central Pacific coast was like before the tourist boom….it’s truly “off the beaten path.” It likely won’t stay like this forever though, conditions will one day change and the best kept secret of the Costa Ballena will be out.
Where Are We Staying?
Manoas is a privately-owned sanctuary on a beautiful, expansive property located in the heart of the jungle. It’s a hidden gem, perfect for a retreat, where you’ll find yourself surrounded by tropical birds, native flowering plants, and if you’re lucky, the howler monkeys will visit. The grounds are gorgeous, just a few minutes drive away from the Pacific Coast remote beaches, and sided by a crystal clear river that is perfect for swimming and exploring. The resort offers a safe alcove to truly escape in a vacation setting, surrounded by nature.
Being a little higher in elevation and somewhat secluded, Manoas makes for a perfect place to softly land at the end of a day full of adventures! Every room is cutely furnished with a private bathroom. The property has a pool with covered cabana, free wifi, beautiful villas, glamping tents, and large community deck wrapped around an ancient wise tree. The staff is present & knowledgable. We ask that all guests be over 18.
What’s on the Itinerary?
Day 1: Welcome to Pura Vida
• The group will arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) and board an air conditioned minibus to begin our road trip to Uvita. It takes about 3 hours & we will make a couple of stops.
• On the way to Uvita we will stop in the famous Playa Hermosa to catch a glimpse of a stunning scenic ocean view and enjoy eats and a welcome drink at Bowie’s Point. This surfers’ hangout is complete with resident dogs, a pot-bellied pig named Morita, and beach front seating.
•Once we get into town, we will stop at the local grocery store to grab anything you’d like to have on hand. Here you can find many of the goodies you are used to, like kombucha, milk alternatives, and toiletries. We will then jump in 4 wheel drive SUVs and head up the mountain to check-in at Manoas.
• We will gather for a light welcome dinner cooked by our private chef as you take in the sounds of the jungle and wind down for the night after a long-ish travel day.
Day 2: River Hike and Recharge
•Opening circle and workshop with Kim. We will explore your values and shedding narratives that no longer serve you, as we prepare for our personalized embodiment photography sessions- an empowering practice that uses movement, stillness, and presence to capture your authentic essence, helping you see yourself beyond old stories and into your truest expression.
•Together we will explore the hiking trails and river of the property where we are staying. With a little help from our friends, we will cross the river and navigate through the beautiful river’s edge until we reach a crystal clear swim hole and “secret” waterfall. The pebbles on the river bank make for a natural clay beauty masks that we will learn how to apply. Who doesn’t need a little natural pampering?!
•Lunch at Manoas followed by free time. Explore a spot to lounge, find your way through the property nature trails, and look for the abundant local wildlife.
• Sunset yoga & dinner at Manoas
Day 3: Horseback Riding to the Iconic Nauyaca Waterfalls
•Early breakfast at Manoas, then you’ll meet your horse and saddle up at the Nauyaca ranch. Anyone who chooses not to ride will have the option to join this excursion by jumping on an open bed pick up truck….just as much fun!!!
•Together will follow a guided, gentle trail through rainforest and ranchland toward one of Costa Rica’s most iconic two-tier waterfalls. The ride includes a few stream crossings and plenty of wildlife-spotting. After tying up at the end of the trail, you’ll walk a short path to the falls, where you can swim in the emerald pool beneath the lower cascade and explore viewpoints of the upper falls.
•On the way back, we will stop halfway at the ranches to enjoy a delicious, traditional Costa Rican lunch and a cup of high-quality coffee from the Pérez Zeledón region.
• Dinner at Manoas
Day 4: Vitamin Sea Beach Day
• Embodiment session and workshop with Kim after breakfast.
• Just minutes from our retreat center lies the breathtaking Playa Ventanas, a hidden gem on Costa Rica’s southern Pacific coast. Known for its unique sea caves carved into the cliffs—“ventanas,” or windows, that open right out to the ocean—this beach is a place of wonder and natural beauty. At low tide, you can walk through the caves and hear the ocean echoing all around you, while at high tide, waves crash dramatically against the rocks…..magical spot to connect with nature, play in the waves, or simply relax beneath the palm trees.
• Afterwards, we’ll gather for a delicious lunch at Aracari Restaurant, a vibrant local spot nestled in the lush surroundings of jungle with ocean views. Aracari is known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients and creative dishes. It’s the perfect place to slow down, savor authentic flavors, and enjoy meaningful conversation while surrounded by the beauty of the tropics.
• Dinner with our chef and sleep like a sloth surrounded by the sounds or the rainforest.
Day 5: Restore Even More
•Morning Meditation, Breathwork, Yoga….or sleep in and recharge!
•If you booked yourself a massage (optional add-on), you’re in for a treat! The therapists will come to the property and set up your table in outdoor locations, so you can have your session with the backdrop of the nature sounds.
•After lunch there will be lots of free time to lounge and relax. Find your favorite spot for a photo shoot, explore the nature trails, or go for a swim in the pool or river. There’s no where to go, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you can book your own taxi and enjoy your afternoon offsite.
•Dinner at Manoas
Day 6: Adios Pura Vida
• Early to-go breakfast.
• All aboard for our road trip back to the airport to catch flights home for a safe and smooth trip home.
• Time permitting, and if we didn’t already see them on arrival day, we will stop at Rio Tarcoles to see the American Crocodiles on the way to the airport. The amount of crocs in this river is simply astounding. It is considered to have the highest population in the world….and quite possibly the biggest!
NOTE: While changes are unlikely, the itinerary may be adjusted due to tides, weather, or updates from our trusted vendors and tour partners. Any modifications will be made thoughtfully to prioritize your safety and elevate your experience—at no additional cost.
Retreat Cost & Room Options
• A $500 deposit is required to hold your spot. Deposit goes towards your total trip cost.
OPTION 1.
STANDARD Villa Room: Includes A/C, king or queen bed, private bathroom in each room, lock & safe, shared kitchen & common areas & shared washer/dryer, close proximity to pool.
Single $2,350 pp
Double $1,977 pp
OPTION 2.
UPGRADED Villa Room: Includes A/C, private bathroom, hammock, jacuzzi hot tub, second outdoor shower, lock and safe, washer/dryer, river and rainforest view.
Single $2,550 pp
Double $2,100 pp
OPTION 3.
Glamping Experience: NO A/C, floor & ceiling fans, power outlets, full size bathroom with shower, king bed, rainforest view.
Single $2,100 pp
Double $1,818 pp
- Rates listed are per person.
- Double occupancy includes sharing a king bed and/or additional twin or bunk in the room.
- Balance due in full by March 1st ,2026. Payment plans are available if needed.
- Deposit and/or trip payment is 100% fully refundable by March 1, 2026 with written notice. No refunds after March 2nd, 2026 at midnight for any reason. Trip Insurance is recommended, but not required in the case of unforeseen/uncontrollable circumstances occur such as personal emergencies, natural disaster, etc.
- Triple accommodations are available too….ask for special group rate.
What’s Included?
•A 1:1 embodiment photography session with Kim, as well as opportunities for photoshoots throughout our group experiences
•Access to an online album of photos from your retreat experience that you will be able to download.
•6 days / 5 nights comfortable rainforest accommodations in Costa Rica.
•All Meals: 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 5 dinners. Most special dietary needs can be accommodated. Let us know in advance.
• Ground transportation within Costa Rica will be provided with professional local driver.
• English speaking guides and translator when necessary.
• All activities outlined in itinerary.
•Some tips included such as porters, offsite restaurant tipping, and taxis / airport transfer.
What’s Not included?
• Airfare is not included. This trip launches at SJO airport (San Jose, Costa Rica) on June 1st, 2026 at 12pm and ends the early-mid morning of June 6th, 2026 at SJO. Please send Christina your desired flight itinerary prior to finalizing your booking.
• Some tips will be given directly by the group to members of our local team. It’s a meaningful way to show appreciation to the excursion guides and the wonderful Manoas staff who work with so much care to support our experience. You’ll receive suggested tipping amounts in your welcome packet to help guide you.
• Trip Insurance is not included. Although not required, it is recommended that each participant purchases a travel policy in the case of an emergency or unforeseen circumstances. Without insurance, any unforeseen circumstances could cause participants to forfeit their payment.
• Our trip launches and ends at SJO. You may wish to arrive early and stay after the retreat at your own cost.
• Any costs such as transportation/meals/activities/etc during your free time or if apart from the group is not included.
• Extras such as alcoholic beverages, massage, medical care, local or global calamities or other unexpected happenings such as pandemic related interruptions, airline cancellations, etc.
Do you have questions?
Email me or call/text me (407) 234-6454
Read the FAQ
About Kimberly
Kimberly Dawn, RN
Nurse | Coach | Photographer
Kimberly is a dedicated registered nurse whose compassionate care has made a difference in countless lives. Off the clock, she is a board-certified Nurse Coach (a nurse certified in life and wellness coaching), guiding others to step into their purpose and reclaim their joy. With her camera in hand, she captures moments of beauty, light and authenticity – whether a heartfelt laugh, a quiet sunrise, or a bold portrait.
Her passion lies at the intersection of health, empowerment, and art (and travel of course!) Through nursing, she serves with empathy. Through coaching, she helps others heal, grow, and thrive. Through photography, she preserves stories, one frame at a time.
Join her on this retreat for a journey where healing, growth, and creative vision meet.
“Doing an Empowerment Photoshoot with Kim was an incredible experience. She supported me to connect with my intention and my most authentic self before the session then during the photoshoot she provided a safe and comfortable space for me to express it. I think everyone deserves to feel this way. There’s just something about seeing your most authentic self mirrored back to you through a photo.”
-Sabrina
“I had an empowerment photoshoot session with Kim on the beach. She prompted me to think about who I am, who I want to portray, and what I truly want to show to the world- and I definitely feel like the end result was exactly what I had in mind!
All in all, I would totally recommend Kim MacDonald coaching if you are seeking to be truly seen so that you can shine your unique and embodied light!”
-Reniah
“Doing a photo shoot with Kim is such a special experience. She invited me to slow down, breathe, envision and create. She opened the space up to play and fun to capture me and not just my connection with her camera. Thanks so much Kim for the beautiful photos!”
-Caroline
“Working with Kim has been life-changing. Through her kindness and understanding, Kim has created a safe space where I’ve not only built confidence but also learned to recognize my worth. Her life coaching sessions empowered me to see that I deserve more in all areas of my life, teaching me how to set boundaries, stand up for my needs, and value myself more. This shift has transformed my relationships and brought me a deeper sense of personal fulfillment.
Kim has also helped me break habits that weren’t contributing to my success, allowing me to create healthier patterns in both my personal and professional life. These changes continue to improve my overall well-being, help me be more mindful, and allow me to enjoy life more fully. I’m deeply grateful for Kim’s unwavering support, empathy, and guidance throughout this journey.”
-Valerie
-Caroline
“When I started working with Kim, I had a stressful corporate job, and after 6 months of coaching, I left my hated job and was able to set up 2 own businesses, which was my dream for a while. Additionally, while working on my career goals with Kim, I started recognizing other areas of my life that were unfulfilled. So we started targeting my relationship and personal growth in our coaching sessions with success. I was able to leave my unfulfilled relationship after 27 years and build confidence to walk my life path as my true self. It was very easy to build a safe and trusted coaching relationship with Kim. I was able to open up easily and communicate effectively my struggles to achieving career goals. This lead to huge positive changes in my life that I was not able to see and expect ever before. I was able to improve much more in my personal life than I initially attempted. I would recommend Kim as a life coach to anyone who is struggling setting goals related to career, relationship, mindset, self-awareness or work-life balance.”
-K.S.
