Why the Osa Peninsula is the #4 Destination for 2026: A Masterclass in Wellness and Stewardship

Recently, the New York Times released its prestigious “52 Places to Go in 2026” list. Sitting proudly at number four globally — and ranking first in all of Latin America — is our very own backyard: the Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica. But the accolades didn’t stop there. Just days later, Costa Rica was named the “Best International Destination” at the Healthy Places 2025 Awards presented by the Spanish editions of Men’s Health and Women’s Health.

For those of us at Bodhi Surf + Yoga, this isn’t just a headline. It is a profound statement that validates what we’ve known since 2005: the South Pacific of Costa Rica is one of the most vital, vibrant, and sacred places on Earth.

However, with this global spotlight comes a responsibility we take very seriously. As the Osa Peninsula and its communities move from a “lesser-known gem” to a “must-visit destination,” we invite you to look past the trending tag and toward a more intentional way of moving through this landscape.

As more eyes turn toward our backyard, we want to help you find a more intentional way of moving through this landscape not just as a tourist, but as a responsible and empowered visitor.

Our Mission in a Changing Landscape

Since 2010, our goal hasn’t changed. We are here to educate, inspire, and empower you to live more in line with nature. Whether we are out in the waves or on the yoga mat, we use surfing, yoga, and nature immersion as tools to help you reconnect – not just with yourself, but with the community and the planet.

As the Osa Peninsula grows in popularity, this mission becomes even more vital. We believe that a “system reset” shouldn’t come at the expense of the destination. By choosing to visit mindfully, you aren’t just seeing 2.5% of the world’s biodiversity – you are helping us protect it.

Expert-Level Wellness: The Science of Longevity

While the NYT focuses on the geography, the recent honors from Men’s Health and Women’s Health highlight something deeper: the wellness validation of the Costa Rican experience. The judges for the Healthy Places Awards specifically chose Costa Rica for its role as a prime spot to boost physical and mental health, offering travelers a chance to step away from everyday stresses and link up with the natural world.

For our guests especially those seeking a total system reset — this is a crucial distinction. At Bodhi Surf + Yoga, our instruction isn’t just for a vacation “high.” We view surfing and yoga as tools for physical and mental longevity.

When you spend a week with us, you aren’t just trying a sport. You are engaging in a movement practice designed to improve mobility, build functional strength, and foster a meditative flow state. The Healthy Places Award recognizes that wellness is a blend of regular movement in outdoor settings, solid rest paired with time offline, and fresh, local ingredients. This is the exact blueprint of our Bodhi Sessions Adult Surf + Yoga.

Speaking of longevity – we’ve been doing a deep-dive into the ancient science of Ayurveda, which is essentially the science of longevity. Head over to our Ayurveda blog series to learn about this fascinating science and how to apply it to your life!

The Osa Peninsula: 2.5% Biodiversity, 100% Biological Medicine

The Osa Peninsula is biological medicine. The density of life here is so high it feels tangible. Holding about 2.5 percent of the world’s biodiversity in just 0.03 percent of the planet’s surface, Osa is a place where your nervous system begins to recalibrate the moment you arrive.

A major part of this “medicine” is our proximity to Marino Ballena National Park. Famous for its Whale’s Tail sandbar formation, this park is a sanctuary for humpback whales and a playground for our surf lessons. 

Further offshore, Isla del Caño stands out as a world-class destination for snorkeling and diving. Here, you aren’t just a spectator; you are immersed in a marine world of coral reefs, sea turtles, dolphins, and rays.

And let’s not forget the trails in Corcovado National Park which draw fewer crowds than those in the northern parks of Costa Rica, allowing you to experience the area’s land-based wildlife such as jaguars, tapirs, sloths, and nearly 500 species of birds more peacefully.

At Bodhi Surf + Yoga, we provide enough guidance so you can let your guard down. You don’t have to worry about all the logistics of navigating a “top destination.” Whether you’re standing up on blue-green waves or practicing yoga as the jungle breathes around you, we handle the details so the natural healing can take place.

The “Pura Vida” Hook: From Philosophy to Practice

Tourism Minister William Rodríguez recently noted that the “Pura Vida” approach is the backbone of our global wellness honors. At Bodhi Surf + Yoga, we take that a step further. To us, Pura Vida isn’t a catchy slogan for a t-shirt; it is a commitment to the Ocean Guardian philosophy.

True wellness is impossible if the environment around us is suffering. This balance is what keeps the peninsula’s natural features intact. Despite past deforestation from ranching, which cut forest cover by 25 percent since the 1950s, local communities and authorities have worked tirelessly on conservation.

By choosing us, a B Corp certified surf + yoga camp, you are ensuring that your reset contributes to the health of the local community and the continued resilience of the Osa. In 2026, don’t just visit a place, contribute to its wellbeing.

The “Small is Beautiful” Promise in a Trending World

The world is discovering what we’ve known for years: the South Pacific of Costa Rica is a miracle. But growth is inevitable, and with global attention, demand for paradise trips will increase. 

Because we limit our capacity to just 10 guests per week, we are able to maintain the intimacy and authenticity that a trending destination often loses. We aren’t interested in mass-market tourism; we are interested in deep, human experiences that invite people to slow down, move their bodies, talk to each other, and spend time paying attention. This is for the few who are ready to listen to the jungle, the waves, their pulse, and embrace our community. Read here to gain an insight as to what the guest experience with us looks like.

Our 2026 calendar is already shifting as travelers look to secure their spot. If you are ready to experience wellness and stewardship, we have biological medicine for you. Join us to understand why so many arrive as tourists/visitors but leave as a member of the Bodhi Surf + Yoga Family.

Frequently Asked Questions about Osa Peninsula Travel 2026

1. Why was Costa Rica named the Best International Destination for wellness?

The Healthy Places 2025 Awards by Men’s Health and Women’s Health recognized Costa Rica for its “Pura Vida” approach, which focuses on active lifestyles, mental health, and outdoor pursuits that foster a connection with nature. Check out what a day in the life as a Bodhi Surf + Yoga guest looks like!

2. Is the Osa Peninsula crowded now that it’s on the NYT list?

The Osa is still a much quieter option compared to northern Costa Rica. However, because it is the only Central American site on the 2026 list, visitor numbers are expected to rise. Booking with a “Small is Beautiful” operator like us ensures you avoid the crowds, as well as empowers you to give back to the destination.

3. What is the best way to get to the Osa Peninsula in 2026?

Improved access through direct flights to San Jose (SJO) has made the journey smoother. From there, a domestic flight or a scenic drive brings you to our home in Uvita, the gateway to the Osa.

4. Why should I book my 2026 retreat so far in advance?

With the New York Times and major wellness magazines spotlighting the region, demand is surging. Booking early ensures you secure your spot in our small-group sessions before prices increase due to regional demand.

Ready to start your 2026 journey?

The Osa Peninsula and our community of Bahia Ballena, Osa, Costa Rica is waiting to share its medicine with you. Click here to explore our 2026 availability and secure your spot in the heart of the world’s most biodiverse landscape.

Need a little more convincing? Surf over to our blog to learn why a surf + yoga retreat should be your next adventure!