There are places that stay in the heart. Sri Lanka with her golden Sunsets is one of them. Join us for 7 days on the south coast of Sri Lanka, where warm tropical waves, incredible food, rich culture and lush landscapes come together for a week centred around progression in longboarding and connection to self and everything around us. This retreat is designed for surfers who want to explore longboard and midlength surfing in depth — slowing things down, understanding the wave differently and developing the skills, style and confidence to make the most of these boards. At the heart of the retreat is dedicated surf coaching with Liam, one of the best coaches we know. Liam has been coaching for almost 15 years and holds extensive professional surf coaching certifications. By January 2027, we will have hosted our 8th retreat together. Throughout the retreat, Liam will take you through in-depth surf coaching and video analysis after every surf session, allowing you to see exactly what is happening in your surfing and understand what to work on next. The focus will include positioning, wave selection, stalling, timing, turns, cross-stepping and, for those ready, nose-riding. Alongside the technical coaching, Riany will guide you through the mindset and ocean-awareness side of surfing — working with confidence, trust, fear, presence and decision-making in the water. Through mindset coaching, sound healing, breathwork and movement, you'll explore the connection between what happens in your mind and what happens on the wave. The goal isn't simply to leave surfing better. It's to leave feeling more connected, confident and trusting of yourself in the ocean. We'll stay just outside the vibrant surf town of Ahangama, surrounded by tropical nature and close to beautiful surf breaks. Between sessions, there will be time for yoga, sound journeys, breathwork, exploration, relaxation and long meals. And then there is the food. Sri Lankan cuisine is fresh, vibrant and full of flavour, with local ingredients, fragrant spices and generations of tradition behind every meal. As someone who is half Sri Lankan, this retreat is also a personal invitation to experience a place that is part of my own heritage — through its people, food, landscapes and culture. Come for the surfing. Stay for everything else.
IN- DEPTH LOG COACHING
Surfing lies at the heart of every Floating You retreat. In Sri Lanka, we take this one step further with a dedicated focus on longboard and midlength coaching. This retreat is about breaking down your surfing, understanding the wave differently and developing the technique, style and confidence to make the most of these boards. We go deep into positioning, wave selection, timing, turns, cross-stepping and, for those ready, nose-riding. Our surf coaching is led by Liam, who has been coaching for almost 15 years and holds extensive professional surf coaching certifications. Every session combines in-water coaching with daily in-depth video analysis, giving you clear, personalised feedback and practical tools to progress. Sri Lanka's warm waters and mellow point and reef breaks provide the perfect setting to explore longboard and midlength surfing, with waves that give you the time and space to develop your technique. Small groups, expert coaching and a week dedicated to becoming a more confident, connected and stylish surfer.
SACRED SOUND HEALING
Our Sacred Sound Healing experiences invite you to step away from the constant pace of everyday life and into a state of deep rest. Through carefully layered frequencies and vibrations, sound becomes an invitation to slow down, quiet the mind, and reconnect with yourself. Throughout the retreat, selected yoga practices are accompanied by sacred instruments, including crystal singing bowls, to deepen relaxation and presence. One of the highlights of the week is our immersive Sound Journey, where you're invited to do nothing except surrender to the experience. Set in a breathtaking natural setting, you'll be guided by experienced facilitators who have devoted more than 25 years to the art of sacred sound. Many of the instruments have been handcrafted by the facilitators themselves, making each session deeply personal and unique. Using crystal singing bowls, Himalayan bowls, gongs, drums, tuning forks, chimes, and other sacred instruments, each Sound Journey creates a full-body listening experience. Many guests leave feeling deeply relaxed, grounded, and emotionally renewed
HEALING HOLISTICALLY
Our retreat is designed to support you in every stage of your journey. Every experience, from surf sessions and yoga to rituals and moments of reflection, is thoughtfully curated with intention and care. Rather than offering quick fixes, we create the space for meaningful transformation—inviting you to reconnect with yourself, cultivate self-awareness, and embrace lasting growth. Through powerful practices, expert guidance, and a supportive community, you'll leave feeling more grounded, empowered, and inspired to carry the lessons of the retreat into your everyday life.
YOGA
Our daily yoga practice takes place in our beautiful private, yoga shala—a peaceful sanctuary designed to help you slow down, reconnect, and return to yourself. The word yoga comes from the Sanskrit term meaning "union"—the coming together of body, mind, and breath. Through mindful movement, conscious breathing, and moments of stillness, yoga becomes more than a physical practice; it becomes a pathway inward. Each class is thoughtfully designed to complement your surf sessions, supporting recovery, improving mobility, building strength, and calming the nervous system. Whether you're flowing through an energising Vinyasa practice, grounding yourself in Hatha, or surrendering into the deep release of Yin Yoga, every session invites you to meet yourself with presence and compassion. At Floating You, we believe yoga is not about becoming someone else—it's about remembering who you already are. It is a practice of self-awareness, self-acceptance, and connection, both on and off the mat.
NEW MOON CACAO & FIRE CEREMONY
For centuries, ceremonial cacao has been honoured in Mesoamerican traditions as a sacred plant medicine and a ritual for connection, intention, and opening the heart. Rich in naturally occurring theobromine—whose name is derived from the Greek for "food of the gods"—cacao offers a gentle, uplifting experience that many people associate with feelings of warmth, presence, and emotional openness. Within our Floating You retreat, we gather in ceremony to slow down, reconnect with ourselves, and set meaningful intentions. Guided with care and respect for the tradition, ceremonial cacao becomes a beautiful companion for reflection, self-love, gratitude, and manifestation. Held under the energy of the New Moon, this intimate evening invites you to release what no longer serves you and create space for what you wish to call into your life. Through guided reflection, meditation, and ritual, you'll be supported in connecting with your inner wisdom and leaving the ceremony with greater clarity, intention, and an open heart. At times, we may also incorporate other natural elements and traditional practices to gently support the experience, always with mindfulness and respect.
INDULGE IN SRI LANKAS DIVINE CUISINE
A vibrant celebration of flavour, colour, and tradition. Every meal is thoughtfully prepared to complement your retreat experience, drawing inspiration from Sri Lanka's rich culinary heritage and the timeless principles of Ayurvedic cooking. Fragrant spices, colourful vegetables, tropical fruits, nourishing grains, and wholesome legumes come together to create dishes that are as beautiful as they are satisfying. Rooted in seasonal, fresh ingredients, Sri Lankan cuisine offers a naturally vibrant way of eating that celebrates balance, variety, and mindful nourishment. Each meal is designed to leave you feeling energised, grounded, and deeply cared for throughout your stay.
EXPLORATION OF ISLAND LIFE
At Floating You, we believe in the beauty of balance. Every experience—from surf sessions and yoga to meaningful rituals and moments of reflection—is thoughtfully curated with intention and care. Rather than offering quick fixes, we create the space for meaningful transformation, inviting you to reconnect with yourself, cultivate self-awareness, and embrace lasting growth. Through expert guidance, inspiring practices, and a supportive community, you'll leave feeling more grounded, empowered, and deeply connected to both yourself and the ocean. To complete the experience, we also embrace the spirit of adventure. On your day away from the waves, you can choose between a relaxed beach day, snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, or an unforgettable safari through one of Sri Lanka's breathtaking national parks, where you may encounter wild elephants, crocodiles, colourful birdlife, and—with a little luck—the elusive leopard.
IN-HOUSES SPA & OTHER GOODIES
Our sweet SURF & WELLNESS house has an in-house spa and daily therapists available. The first treatment is included but you can treat yourself every day & the best thing: It's just a doorstep away. We also have unlimited coconuts for you free of charge. Aswell as afternoon tea & snacks. Time to indulge !
YOUR HOME FOR THE WEEK
A Charming Surf & Wellness House on Sri Lankas Southcoast
Welcome to a stunning 100-year-old colonial house with 3 twin bedrooms and 2 private doubles, nestled in the tranquil town of Ahangama, Sri Lanka. Surrounded by lush jungle and located just a short distance from some of the area's most incredible surf breaks, the villa provides the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure - spot on for a transformative Floating You experience. Just 200 meters away from the breathtaking beach and shouting distance from some of the best local cafes and restaurants, you can reach everything by foot between 5 and 15 min. A range of treatments are offered at the in-house spa. Whether you're looking to start your day with a rejuvenating massage or unwind after a long day of surfing, they have everything you need to unwind and recharge. Enjoy the communal dining experiences in the living space & beautiful Yoga Lessons in the newly build Shala in the garden! Use the afternoons to relax by the pool or read a book in the hamrock.
REVIEWS
My friend and I went to the Floating You retreat in Sri Lanka and it was the best experience of our lives! It was our first retreat ever and it exceeded our expectations to say the very least. Riany is such a beautiful person inside and out, from the moment you meet her you’ll feel right at home. She clearly has a genuine love and care for everyone she meets and made us feel comfortable from the very start. I’d had a tough time on the first day dealing with my own personal issues, but Riany was there with me to help me through it, spending some time with me on the shore, take me through some breath work and reminding of all the positive affirmations and words of gratitude I’d forgotten to tell myself each day. It really changed my entire mindset from then on and I ended up having so much fun and found a greater meaning in life through surf and just learning to let go. The holistic activities; daily yoga, value exercise, mindful painting, cacao ceremony, sound healing in nature were also pivotal in helping me on my healing journey. We were also so happy to have met everyone else from our group on the retreat! The vibe and energy was beautiful each and every day. Our surf instructor Liam was also amazing and really took the time to advise us during our surf analysis and keep us safe out in the water. The location and food was beyond expectations as well! The communal meals we had really brought us all together and made us feel right at home. All in all, I have absolutely no regrets joining this retreat and for anyone who is hesitant, don’t be. This retreat will change your life️
Sarah on TripAdvisor
I did have expectations but they were completely surpassed.. I went with my daughter and we both had the time of our life.. still having a smile on our faces and being thankful and humble, Riany took us on that journey… Strangers became family, the place was magic … I have no words.. Thank you so much Liam and his mom Helen for hosting us and feeling at home from the first moment.. his neverending patience .. Great soul Jay.. and everone who made this time so very special.. Riany is the most empathie Person I can think of.. you can feel it’s not a business.. it’s a deep passion.. Can‘t wait to come back and keep on floating and shredding some more waves ❤️.. thanks for having us!
Dagmar on TripAdvisor
Floating you is a labor of love ️ By far, the most transformative retreat I’ve ever been to. Everything is so well curated from yoga to surf, to the attention to detail, the personalized approach, the unique extra activities, the passionate team and the food I feel renewed, energized and filled with gratitude! Can’t wait for my next FY retreat!
Sophie on TripAdvisor
If I were to recommend an experience - it would be this one. Everything from the beginning to end was wonderful. Our days were filled with family meals, yoga, surf, and more than anything a warm heart. I could easily say that this was one of the best trips I’ve ever been on - Riany is a beautiful soul and she created this once in a lifetime experience for people - Sri lanka was such a dream , I can still hear the water and feel the warm sun when I think about it ! I love that it felt like I was with family the whole time, everyone was so welcoming!!!! The yoga instructor AMAZING - surf coaches AMAZING - you will not regret experiencing Floating You, I booked this for my birthday trip and I came home with memories that I will forever treasure. ️️️
Jaqui on TripadvisorROOM TYPES
Twin Share Double Ensuite
40m² of Sri Lankan Charme • 2 x 140 x 2 m Queensize bed's • Mosquito Net's • Garden view • Wifi • Daily Cleaning Service • AC • Ceiling Fan
FROM$2,731.44/pp
Double Room Ensuite
37m² of Sri Lankan Charme • Double bed 160 x 2 m • Mosquito Net's • Garden view • Wifi • Daily Cleaning Service • AC • Ceiling Fan
FROM$2,969.06/pp
WHAT'S INCLUDED
What's Included
6 Nights in a newly renovated colonial Surf & Wellness House
7 x Healthy Nutritious Brunch, based on Ayurvedic Principles
5 x Dinner by in-house Sri Lankan Chefs
1 X Tropical welcome drink and fruit platter
Daily Yoga Classes (Mix of Hatha, Vinyasa & Yin Yoga)
2 x Special Yin Yoga Classes paired with Sound Healing
5 High End Surf Coaching Sessions
5 X Surf Video Analysis
Multiple Surf Theory Classes through the week
1 X Full Moon Cacao & Fire Ceremony
1 x Full Sound Journey in a Jungle Shala by a river
1 x Breathwork Session
1 X Creative Canvas Session
Self Development Workshop
Complimentary Massage at in-house SPA
Unlimited Coconuts
Daily Afternoon Tea & Snacks
Free drinking water
Footage from the Video Surf Analysis
Floating You Goodie Bag with a gift or two
Free use of surfboards and Yoga mats
Transport to all surf sessions & excursions
Help with all requests towards your stay with us
Transport to the Beach on our Off Day
What's Not Included
Flights to Colombo, Sri Lanka
Airport pick up & drop of (duration: 3 hours: 80 EUR private car oneway/ can be shared if the pickup times are matching)
special beverages / softdrinks
any kind of alcoholic drinks
Scooter rental if needed
travel insurance
Healing Reiki Session: 100 EUR
Excursion to Yala Nationalpark on surf-off day: 100 EUR
High Edited Photo Package form the week: 50 EUR
2 x Dinner in town
A DAY WITH US
Depending on the ocean tides, most likely our days at Floating You look as followed:
Previous
Next
Early Birds
Waking up hearing tropical birds singing. Gently starting to move your body & set your mind for a beautiful day ahead with a healing Yoga exercise in our in-house Yoga Shala (Including breathing exercises and meditation to sink deeper into the magic of your true self)
Later that Morning
The waves are calling ! Getting ready for our daily Surf with Head Surf Coach Liam: Packing our Beachbag, preparing the Boards and jumping into the Tuk Tuk's (Sri Lanka's famous 3 wheelers) in search of the best waves fo us this morning.
Brunch & Analysis & Rest
Coming home, fuelling ourselves with some Sri Lankan brunch-Goodness, lovingly prepared by Helen - the Lady of the house, who's mission it is to pamper each one of us with delicious food & the sweetest support in any way. Most often we gather for our Surf Analysis and enjoy a little rest by the Pool or a near by beach.
The Afternoons
We come together in the late afternoon for Sound Healing, Self Development Exercises, our New Moon Cacao Ceremony, a Meditation or a painting Session.
End of day
Rounding up the Day with Candles at the end of an Afternoon gathering. Followed by a communal Dinner around the Lotus Table or a Dinner out in the the buzzing town of Ahangama - that has several treats to offer aswell.
GALLERY
ADD ON'S
Reiki Treatment & Energy Healing
Reiki is a old Japanese energy healing technique that promotes relaxation, reduces stress and anxiety through gentle touch. Reiki practitioners use their hands to deliver energy to your body, improving the flow and balance of your energy to support healing....
Read More
FROM$118.81/pp
ADD THIS
Safari Trip to Yala National Park
Yala National Park is a huge area of forest, grassland and lagoons bordering the Indian Ocean, in southeast Sri Lanka. It’s home to wildlife such as leopards, elephants and crocodiles, as well as hundreds of bird species. Inland, Sithulpawwa is an ancient Buddhist monastery. The drive is 2 1/2 hours from Lotus House. Pick up is usally at 7 AM and return is 4 PM. The price includes private Transfer, Entry in the park & private Safari Jeep....
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FROM$130.69/pp
ADD THISFAQs
When should I arrive in Sri Lanka ?
We recommend to arrive at least a day earlier to beat the jetlag and settle into the area.
When does the Retreat start?
Check in is from 1 PM on the 17th of January
When does the Retreat end?
All activities will end at 11 AM.
What languages do our Hosts & Facilitators speak ?
The retreat is mainly in english. Riany, the founder is half german & half Sri Lankan. She speaks fluently german and can assist in any way if needed. Liam our head Surf Coach has been living on the island since 8 years. British/ Australian roots with some 'Sinhala' (language in south Sri Lanka) skills.
Can I join as a Surf & Yoga Beginner?
Yes Yes Yes.. this Retreat is made for you :-) 60% of all participants are beginner Yogis / Surfers. Sri Lanka especially is very good to start your surfing journey as we mostly have gentle and mellow waves.
Is it safe to travel to Sri Lanka as a solo traveller / female ?
We hear this question often & the answer is 100% yes. One thing to just keep in mind: We recommend to wear long pants and a normal tshirt on longer drives in the car. This is more for respect to the culture than safety. Sri Lanka is a touristic destination, in the beach towns its fine & normal to wear your summer clothes.
How long is the drive from the airport to Ahangama?
The drive is 2 1/2 Hours. There is a stop on the way where you can use clean bathroom facilities & buy a drink.
How is the weather in January?
Sooo nice ! Constant 29 /30 degerees. Almost no rain: if it rains, then just a tiny bit. Get ready for that winter tan :-)
Can I surf in a bathing Suit / Bikini ?
Absolutely yes ! The water temperature is around 25 /26 degrees. We recommend to bring your own Rashguard though, as sun protection.
Do I need a Visa to enter Sri Lanka?
Yes - Sri Lanka requires an 'ETA' : Electronic Travel Authorisation. For most countries it costs around 40 EUR for 30 days within the country (can be extended up to 3 months). You can get it online here: www.eta.gov.lk
REVIEWS
My friend and I went to the Floating You retreat in Sri Lanka and it was the best experience of our lives! It was our first retreat ever and it exceeded our expectations to say the very least. Riany is such a beautiful person inside and out, from the moment you meet her you’ll feel right at home. She clearly has a genuine love and care for everyone she meets and made us feel comfortable from the very start. I’d had a tough time on the first day dealing with my own personal issues, but Riany was there with me to help me through it, spending some time with me on the shore, take me through some breath work and reminding of all the positive affirmations and words of gratitude I’d forgotten to tell myself each day. It really changed my entire mindset from then on and I ended up having so much fun and found a greater meaning in life through surf and just learning to let go. The holistic activities; daily yoga, value exercise, mindful painting, cacao ceremony, sound healing in nature were also pivotal in helping me on my healing journey. We were also so happy to have met everyone else from our group on the retreat! The vibe and energy was beautiful each and every day. Our surf instructor Liam was also amazing and really took the time to advise us during our surf analysis and keep us safe out in the water. The location and food was beyond expectations as well! The communal meals we had really brought us all together and made us feel right at home. All in all, I have absolutely no regrets joining this retreat and for anyone who is hesitant, don’t be. This retreat will change your life️
Sarah on TripAdvisor
I did have expectations but they were completely surpassed.. I went with my daughter and we both had the time of our life.. still having a smile on our faces and being thankful and humble, Riany took us on that journey… Strangers became family, the place was magic … I have no words.. Thank you so much Liam and his mom Helen for hosting us and feeling at home from the first moment.. his neverending patience .. Great soul Jay.. and everone who made this time so very special.. Riany is the most empathie Person I can think of.. you can feel it’s not a business.. it’s a deep passion.. Can‘t wait to come back and keep on floating and shredding some more waves ❤️.. thanks for having us!
Dagmar on TripAdvisor
Floating you is a labor of love ️ By far, the most transformative retreat I’ve ever been to. Everything is so well curated from yoga to surf, to the attention to detail, the personalized approach, the unique extra activities, the passionate team and the food I feel renewed, energized and filled with gratitude! Can’t wait for my next FY retreat!
Sophie on TripAdvisor
If I were to recommend an experience - it would be this one. Everything from the beginning to end was wonderful. Our days were filled with family meals, yoga, surf, and more than anything a warm heart. I could easily say that this was one of the best trips I’ve ever been on - Riany is a beautiful soul and she created this once in a lifetime experience for people - Sri lanka was such a dream , I can still hear the water and feel the warm sun when I think about it ! I love that it felt like I was with family the whole time, everyone was so welcoming!!!! The yoga instructor AMAZING - surf coaches AMAZING - you will not regret experiencing Floating You, I booked this for my birthday trip and I came home with memories that I will forever treasure. ️️️
Jaqui on Tripadvisor