The Sevana Surf Programmes
The Sevana surf programmes are for women who have a passion and desire to improve their surfing. The bespoke and intimate women-only, women-led retreats are designed with attention to detail that goes beyond the surf. The blend of expert, personalised coaching with tailored support and understanding, all set within a uniquely designed sanctuary, will help you move closer to your surf goals and dreams.
I created The Sevana as a woman who started surfing at 39 (I’m now 53), after joining various international retreats, but never quite finding the one that felt right. I know what it’s like to feel excited, nervous and determined all at once - and I wanted to build a space where women could progress with confidence, style, empathy and support.
This is the first solo women-owned and women-led surf retreat of its kind in Sri Lanka, shaped not just for your surfing, but for your holiday time too.
Whether you are just starting out or ready to push your surfing to the next level, our small-group coaching will help you build your surf skills before, during and after your stay, leaving you strong confident and fully refreshed both in and out of the water. We combine daily in-water coaching with video analysis, short masterclasses and targeted training back at the retreat. You’ll be placed with women at a similar level, ensuring every session is supportive, progressive and tailored.
Living year-round in Sri Lanka since 2020 means I can choose the best waves for your level each day, whether reef or beach breaks. Back at the retreat, our private chef creates fresh, nourishing meals, while the pool, gym, yoga space and spacious cabanas are designed for your recovery, comfort and rest. Options for yoga and sightseeing are available, but always at your request, nothing is forced. This is your trip, and your choice.
My goal is simple: to create an abundance of fun, confidence and skill in the ocean through coaching that maximises your surf potential, while giving you space to relax and to connect with other incredible women.
Your surf retreat will also provide direct funding to organisations that support the empowerment of women and marginalised communities through surf and community initiatives here in Sri Lanka.
Who we cater for
The Sevana surf programmes have been designed for beginners and intermediates and include technical and skill development as well as, confidence, knowledge, ocean awareness and safety, helping you overcoming blockers and move towards realising your surf goals.
For beginners, we will get you safely and confidently into the water, support your transition from white water to green waves and into the line-up. For our intermediates, the focus is on trying and developing more advanced techniques and manoeuvres, supported by the safety net of an experienced coach.
Our post-surf atmosphere is one of relaxation and is perfect for solo travellers, friends and small groups. You can share the surf stoke together in and out of the ocean in a fun, supportive environment, whilst also having an opportunity to escape and relax in your own private or shared cabana suite.
At The Sevana we have retreats for 3 levels of surfers:
1. Whitewater Builder
For women who are new to surfing or surfing in the white water. We’ll guide you into safe and confident beginnings, support your transition to catching your first green waves, and help you build the ocean knowledge to feel at home in the line-up.
Goal: Confidence, safety, foundations, and fun.
2. Green Wave Improver
For women who are paddling into green waves but not yet consistently. Together we’ll refine your timing, positioning, and independence so you can start to feel flow and freedom in the line-up.
Goal: Consistency, confidence, and better decision-making in the ocean.
3. Independent Surfer
For women already catching green waves with confidence and looking to step up their surfing. With detailed coaching, video feedback and strategy sessions, we’ll work on manoeuvres, flow and wave selection so you leave with new skills and inspiration.
Goal: Elevate your style, refine manoeuvres, and surf with more intention.
The Sevana Surf Programme: What's Included
Our signature surf retreats run for 6, 13 nights from Sunday to Saturday between January and May. You will be placed in a group according to your experience and level. A maximum of 5 surfers in any one group ensures you get the necessary attention to address your individual goals as well as enjoying the company of like-minded women.
With a pre-arrival questionnaire, immediate and ongoing feedback during the surf retreat and a personalised programme to take home, our aim is to furnish you with a comprehensive skillset that will enable you to navigate different ocean experiences and master new skills with confidence both during your stay and for your ongoing surf progression back at home.
Your time here is designed to balance progression in the water with recovery on land. Each retreat includes:
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6 or 13 nights in spacious, AC , ensuite cabanas with veranda (single or twin)
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Chef-prepared meals - breakfast, lunch, dinner
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Pre-arrival questionnaire / call / zoom to understand prior experience, current level, goals and concerns
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Pre-arrival 'get surf ready' package with strength and mobility exercises.
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Small groups a maximum of 5 women per retreat at a similar level to ensure appropriate break selection and tailored coaching
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5 / 10 coached surf sessions (1.5-2hrs each) and 5/10 free-surf sessions (optional)
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Video analysis and surf theory to accelerate your progress including essential surf skills, technique, ocean awareness and improving confidence.
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Daily post-surf analysis with your coach for personalised technique and progression plans
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A personalised take-home plan so your growth continues beyond the retreat
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An on-site gym and yoga area for preparation and recovery sessions
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Transport to surf sessions
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Unlimited use of surfboards throughout your stay
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Surf photos; during one surf session a photographer will take photos for you to keep and take home (and also your videos)
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Contributions to women’s empowerment projects in Sri Lanka
For questions about the retreats, please see the FAQs or email info@thesevana.com
The Sevana sits within three acres of tropical gardens in Talalla, Matara, on Sri Lanka’s south coast. Our five cabanas are light, spacious, and private, each with a verandah to enjoy quiet mornings or evenings after the surf.
Between sessions, you can unwind by the pool, join a stretch in the yoga area, recover or workout on the gym or simply rest with a book under the palm trees. Our private chef prepares meals with fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from the land and locally to nourish and restore you.
Although surfing is at our heart, this is just not a surf retreat. It’s thoughtfully designed and where your comfort, recovery, and holiday experience matter just as much as your time in the waves.
Retreat Dates and Pricing Jan - May 2026
Retreat Dates Jan - May 2026
The Sevana surf retreats run from Sunday to Saturday, for either 6 or 13 nights. Each retreat is capped at a maximum of five women, giving you the attention and space you deserve.
Places are limited. Once a retreat fills, a waitlist will be opened for cancellations.
Still not sure where you fit? We’ll guide you to the right group before you book.
If you are not ready to book for these retreats, join the mailing list for updates on retreats coming in December 2026
If you have any questions please email: info@thesevana.com
Pricing (Jan - May 2026)
Prices are in GBP British Pounds. Please read the full T&Cs here
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Jan 11–17 · Green Wave Improver
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Jan 18–24 · Green Wave Improver
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Jan 25–31 · Independent Surfer
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Feb 22–28 · Green Wave Improver
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Mar 1–7 · Independent Surfer
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Mar 8–14 · Independent Surfer
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Mar 15–21 · Whitewater Builder
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Mar 22–28 · Whitewater Builder
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Mar 29–Apr 4 · Whitewater Builder
6 nights:
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Single occupancy: £1,995
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Twin occupancy: £1,735
13 nights:
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Single occupancy: £3,990
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Twin occupancy: £3,470
