Emotional Leadership Retreat

Costa Rica - April 2026

On this page you’ll find all the information you need for our upcoming retreat to Costa Rica, including arrival and departure dates, schedule, accommodation information, details of the retreat center, and a suggested packing list.


If you have any additional questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to or email the team at admin@jenunderwoodleadership.com

The Details


What:
Emotional Leadership 2025/2026 Retreat

When: April 21st - April 26th

Where:
Peace Retreat, Playa Negra, Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Website: Peace Retreat Costa Rica

Inclusions

Your retreat package includes:

  • 5 nights / 6 days room and board at Peace Retreat

  • Shared accommodation in Casa Verde & Cabinas (shared bathrooms, fans available)

  • All meals (nourishing, locally sourced, plant-rich cuisine)

  • Round-trip transfers to and from Liberia International Airport (LIR)

Price: $1,190 per person

Upgrade Options: Bungalows (Limited – 5 available)

$250 per person (two-bed bungalow — both roommates pay the upgrade fee)

OR

$500 per person for a private bungalow

Each bungalow has its own unique design, set in lush jungle surroundings

👉 You may request a specific roommate if you’d like to share.


Schedule Overview:

April 21st: Arrival & Retreat Opening

  • Arrive at Peace Retreat between 3–5pm

  • Opening Circle & Welcome Dinner at 6pm.

April 22nd–25th: Retreat Days

  • Expect full days including somatic, reflection, integration practices and workshops & group facilitation

  • Evening: community time & shared meals

April 26th: Closing & Departure

  • Closing session 10am–12pm

  • Lunch together before departure

    We suggest not making any plans outside of the retreat schedules, as we will be together most of the day, and you will very likely want time to integrate.


About Peace Retreat

Peace Retreat is an intimate, boutique-style retreat centre and spa on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. It was founded with a vision to create experiences for groups and individuals looking for a safe space to grow, reset, and restore.

The retreat’s values support the human experience by encouraging greater levels of responsibility, expression, purpose, and quality of life.

Onsite amenities include:

  • A spacious open-air yoga shala

  • Saltwater pool and lounge areas

  • Spa & wellness center

  • Lush tropical gardens

  • Peaceful gathering spaces for reflection and rest

Spa & Wellness Add-Ons:

Peace Retreat offers a variety of wellness treatments available at an additional cost which you are welcome to enjoy.

Options include:

  • Massage therapy (Swedish, Deep Tissue, Hot Stone)

  • Energy Healing

  • Acupuncture

  • Holistic Bodywork

  • Facials & skin treatments

  • Specialized offerings such as the Yoni Package

About The Area

Costa Rica is world-renowned for its “Pura Vida” spirit — a phrase meaning “pure life” that reflects the country’s ethos of joy, simplicity, and connection. Nearly one quarter of the land is protected as national parks or reserves, making it a global leader in conservation and sustainability — and we are so excited to be holding our next Emotional Leadership retreat here!

Playa Negra is a small but lively beach town within Guanacaste, Costa Rica’s “Golden Coast,” known for its year-round warm climate, long stretches of beaches, and rich natural beauty. Playa Negra, or “Black Beach,” is famous for the volcanic-sand shoreline it is named for. The surrounding jungle and coastline are home to howler monkeys, tropical birds, and lush flora, offering a vibrant and peaceful backdrop. Playa Negra reflects both Costa Rica’s warm hospitality and Guanacaste’s relaxed coastal charm — the perfect setting for rest, reflection, and renewal.

The Area Highlights:

  • Beaches: Playa Negra’s volcanic sand beach is world-famous for its surf and sunsets. Nearby beaches such as Playa Avellanas and Playa Junquillal offer variety and beauty.

  • Village: The town of Los Pargos is within walking distance, with cafes, restaurants, and small shops.

  • Nature: Surrounding jungle and wildlife create a tranquil setting, with monkeys, birds, and tropical flora all around.

  • Access: About 75 minutes from Liberia International Airport (LIR), with transfers included in your package.

Playa Negra offers a balance of authentic Costa Rican culture and peaceful retreat space, making it the perfect backdrop for deep connection and leadership embodiment.

 

Nearby Restaurants, Cafes & Shops

Restaurants:

  • Cafe Playa Negra (0.5 miles): A relaxed spot with a variety of local and international dishes, popular for breakfast and smoothies.

  • Villa Dee Cafe (0.5 miles): Known for its fresh pastries, coffee, and healthy bowls.

  • Hotel Playa Negra Restaurant (0.7 miles): Open-air dining right on the beach, with seafood, Costa Rican classics, and cocktails at sunset.

  • Amigos Tacos y Beer (0.4 miles): A casual hangout with tacos, burgers, and — as the name suggests — beer.

  • Villa Dee Pizzeria (0.5 miles): A wood-fired oven pizza spot, perfect for a relaxed evening.

Bars & Evening Spots:

  • Kon Tiki (0.8 miles): A beachside bar and restaurant with live music, cocktails, and a laid-back surf vibe.

  • Cafe Playa Negra Bar (0.5 miles): Also doubles as a local gathering spot for drinks in the evenings.

Coffee Shops & Smoothies:

  • Villa Dee Cafe (0.5 miles): Espresso, cold brew, smoothies, and fresh pastries.

  • Juice Bar at Peace Retreat: Fresh juices and smoothies available on site.

Shops & Essentials:

  • Mini-Supers (small local grocery stores): Several in Los Pargos village for snacks, fruit, drinks, and essentials.

  • Souvenir Stalls: Small artisan stands selling jewelry, clothing, and beachwear are scattered around the village and beach.

Packing List

Costa Rica in April is tropical and warm, with daytime highs in the 80s°F (27–32°C) and cooler evenings.

Suggested packing:

  • Light, breathable clothing

  • Comfortable movement clothes for sessions

  • Swimwear

  • Sunhat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • Sandals + walking shoes

  • Water bottle

  • Journal & pen

  • Light rain jacket (occasional tropical showers)

Key Contacts

We will have a Telegram group chat for the retreat. You’ll receive the link closer to the date.

Jen Underwood: +1 360 961 2232 (emergencies only during retreat)

Tim DeSutter: +1 424 410 5288 (emergencies only during retreat)


✨ We can’t wait to gather with you in Costa Rica for this next step in your Emotional Leadership journey.