Sea & Soul Retreat:
Ocean Wellness Journey
March 7-14, 2026
Join a Transformative Veterinary CE Wellness Retreat in Costa Rica’s Blue Zone!
Immerse yourself in a 7-night, beachfront retreat designed for veterinary professionals seeking RACE-approved continuing education, rejuvenation, and ocean conservation experiences. Located in the heart of Costa Rica’s Blue Zone, this unique retreat blends marine conservation, ocean activities (scuba diving, surfing, secret beaches), and wellness-focused CE to support both professional and personal growth. Enjoy easy access to jungle trails and breathtaking waterfall hikes, while reconnecting with nature and your passion for veterinary medicine.
Earn CE, restore balance, and make an impact! Limited spots are available—secure yours today!
10 Medical credits, 5 Non-Medical credits
Retreat Details
Experience Wellness In the Blue Zone of Costa Rica
7 nights accommodation at Amor de Mar Hotel
Breakfast/ Lunch and at least 2 dinners
Daily yoga
Wellbeing workshops and activities
Scheduled excursion and transportation
Marine education and activities or 10 RACE approved CE credits depending on the type of retreat
Plenty of free time to explore and connect with the local vibe!
Your retreat includes:
3.5% surcharge if paying balance by PayPal (wire transfers and direct deposits have no additional cost)
Flights (international or domestic)
Ground transportation from Cobano Airport to accommodations
Not included:
Explore The Blue Ocean Waters
Get up close and personal with some of the ocean’s most majestic animals on our scuba diving adventures. Past retreats have been jam-packed with sightings of humpback whales, giant manta rays, and dolphins to name a few! Experience the ocean like never before.
No Scuba Certification? No Problem!
You don’t need to be a scuba diver to participate in our ocean conservation and Citizen Scientist initiatives! There are plenty of ways to get involved in marine conservation from land, or you can choose to:
✔ Get scuba certified or upgrade a specialty certification
✔ Enjoy the ocean’s beauty from shore with guided beach activities
✔ Explore alternative adventures like horseback riding on the beach, jungle hikes, and waterfall excursions
DVM, CVA, CVFT, AVMA Wellbeing Educator
Dr. Galina Bershteyn, a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (2009) from Ontario Veterinary College, is also a Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist and Certified Veterinary Food Therapist. With over 20 years of experience in veterinary medicine across Canada, the US, and the UK, she has worked in companion animal, equine, emergency, and exotic practices. In Canada, Galina ran a holistic practice specializing in acupuncture, food therapy, and integrative medicine. Galina leverages her expertise in veterinary team dynamics and wellbeing to support professionals in building healthier work environments through programs like the AVMA’s Veterinary Wellbeing Educator.
Speaker: Dr. Galina Bershteyn
Marine Vertebrate Ecology and Conservation
Marine scientist, football wonder, PADI IDC Staff Instructor, talented cook, but above that: Elly is kind, fair, fun, caring, and her heart is as big as the ocean she adores. At Iguana Divers she established and leads the oceanic manta ray research program, guides our divers through specialty courses and in any spare minute she never hesitates to go out for a rewarding surf. We admire her motivation and discipline on all projects, and we are always happy to be with her in our Iguana Divers team! PADI Pro #363670
Speaker: Eleanor Dove MSc
Room Options
Amor De Mar is a beachfront, family-run, historic eco-hotel in the heart of Montezuma focused on the Love of the Sea.
Amor De Mar
Enjoy a private room with Wifi, AC, mini fridge and safe box.
$4000 per person
Private Room
Shared Room
Enjoy a shared room with Wifi, AC, mini fridge and safe box.
$3300 per person
A portion of proceeds from each retreat funds local marine conservation research and veterinary care for wildlife and community animals, ensuring that your participation makes a lasting impact.
See what past participants are saying...
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"Pura Vida Veterinary Wellness Retreat is an incredibly fun, relaxing, informative continuing educational experience in the most magical country in the world. This retreat was life changing!!"
Pamela Dragos, DVM, Arizona USA
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“If you have never done a CE retreat like this one you need to! An excellent stress free week with plenty of time for exploring. We loved it and are leaving Costa Rica rejuvenated.”
Emma Jerome Smith DVM, Alberta Canada
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“Everyone was so accommodating, kind and welcoming. They made Costa Rica feel like home for the week, and I am so grateful for Pura Vida Veterinary Wellness Retreat’s support!”
Robyn Baldwin DVM, Florida, USA
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“I loved that the CE was well-timed so you still had time in the afternoon for individual activities before the planned activities began. A fantastic experience!"
Lauren Vankuppenveld DVM, Alberta Canada
Join us on the blue waters of Costa Rica for the experience of a lifetime!
FAQ
General Information
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Our retreats provide wellness and relaxation in the stunning natural beauty of Cabuya and Montezuma, Costa Rica. Some are exclusive to veterinary professionals and include RACE-approved CE, while others, like our Sea & Soul Retreats, are open to all adults.
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• Veterinary Retreats: Exclusively for licensed veterinarians, technicians, and team members.
• Sea & Soul Retreats: Open to any adult seeking a peaceful, wellness-focused getaway.
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Our retreats take place in lush jungle and beach settings around Cabuya and Montezuma, where you’ll experience a tranquil escape surrounded by vibrant wildlife and tropical beauty.
Travel and What to Pack
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• Lightweight, breathable clothing for hot, humid weather.
• Sturdy hiking sandals or water shoes for jungle treks.
• Swimwear, sunblock, and insect repellent.
• A reusable water bottle and a rain jacket or poncho.
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The region’s rich biodiversity includes ants, scorpions, and other small jungle creatures. Encounters are rare if you stay mindful, but packing insect repellent and being cautious outdoors is recommended.
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Expect warm, tropical weather year-round, with occasional rain showers. Temperatures typically range from 75–95°F (24–35°C).
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Yes, we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover unexpected events, including cancellations, medical emergencies, or trip interruptions.
Registration, Payments, and Policies
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Click on the Registration button of the retreat you would like to register for. The link will take you to a google form to fill out and deposit details will be shared to secure your spot.
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A non-refundable deposit of $1000 USD is required to secure your spot. However, if you need to cancel, the deposit can be rolled over to a future retreat within 24 months.
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Yes! We offer flexible payment options to make it easier to plan your retreat.
Activities and Programs
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Activities include:
• Yoga, meditation, and mindfulness workshops
• Nature hikes and beach time in a less developed part of the country with wildlife in close proximity
• RACE-approved CE (veterinary retreats only)
• Stress management techniques
• Ocean education and adventures like scuba diving and sea safaris
• Plenty of free time to relax or explore
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Not at all! Customize your experience by choosing the activities that resonate with you.
Contact Us
Have more questions?
Email us at gbershteyn@gmail.com or call us at 506-8473-9531
Ready to renew? Reserve your spot today and join us in Costa Rica!