I arrived in Busan with a mix of excitement and nerves, a solo traveler drawn by the promise of a women-only surf retreat. The idea of spending three days surfing and doing yoga by the sea – with an instant community of like-minded women – caught my attention immediately. As a woman who often travels alone, I’m always on the lookout for experiences that are empowering yet safe. NomadHer’s Busan Women Surf Retreat sounded like the perfect blend of adventure and comfort. It offered not just private surf lessons and sunrise yoga, but also the chance to connect with other solo female travelers in one of Korea’s most vibrant beach cities. I couldn’t resist: I signed up, packed my swimsuit and sunscreen, and hopped on the next train to Busan.

Busan is a dynamic coastal city in South Korea, famous for its sandy beaches and welcoming atmosphere. Songjeong Beach, our surfing spot, is known as the heart of Korea’s surf culture – its gentle, rolling waves are perfect for beginners​

Even before I hit the water, I felt a thrill knowing I’d be learning to surf in a place locals lovingly call the birthplace of Korean surfing. Our retreat promised more than just surf skills, though. It was all about rejuvenation: sunrise yoga sessions for the soul, a 5-star hotel stay for rest, and even a sunset yacht cruise to celebrate our journey. Most of all, it promised a community. We were a small group of women from around the world, brought together by NomadHer’s vision of empowering female travelers.

When I first met my fellow NomadHers, I was relieved by how quickly the ice melted. A few of us bonded right away over coffee at the surf shop as we nervously joked about wiping out. There was an unspoken understanding among us—we were all here to challenge ourselves, learn something new, and make friends in the process. The vibe was welcoming and supportive from the start. I remember thinking, this is what I’d been looking for: an adventure where I didn’t have to worry about being the only woman in the room (or on the beach). Here, we were all women, all travelers, and all ready to cheer each other on.

Day 1: A Warm Welcome and the First Waves

Meeting the Group & Getting Oriented:

‍On Day 1, our retreat officially kicked off just before noon at a surf school called Surfbay, right by Songjeong Beach. I arrived at 11:30 AM as instructed, and the NomadHer hosts greeted me with big smiles and a welcome gift tote bag filled with a few goodies (including a cute retreat T-shirt that I’d soon wear proudly). We gathered in a circle for a brief safety introduction, which helped settle everyone’s jitters. The surf instructors – all experienced and encouraging local women – fitted us into wetsuits and made sure we stored our luggage and valuables safely at the shop. It was comforting to know we could stash our bags there so we didn’t have to worry about them during the lesson. After a quick stretch on the sand, we were ready to hit the waves. My heart pounded with anticipation as I lugged my surfboard to the water’s edge, surrounded by my new friends doing the same.

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Catching My First Wave:

The first surfing class began around noon, and each of us got a private small group lesson with a surfing coach Naeun KIm. This was a huge plus for a beginner like me. My instructor Naeun (a former national surfing champion, as I later learned!) was patient and upbeat. She showed me how to lie on the board, paddle, and pop up to my feet step by step on the shore before we ever ventured into the ocean. With her guidance, I managed to stand up on my very first wave – even if only for a few exhilarating seconds. The feeling was incredible: the rush of the cool water, the burst of triumph when I found my balance, and the chorus of cheers echoing behind me. Yes, cheers – my fellow surfers were whooping and clapping from the shallows, celebrating each time one of us stood up or even just tried. That set the tone for the whole retreat: every achievement, no matter how small, was a group victory.

By 1 PM we were all freely practicing, taking turns on the boards, and laughing whenever someone made an ungraceful tumble (which was often, and always met with friendly giggles and thumbs-ups). The instructors kept a close eye on us for safety, but also gave us room to enjoy our newfound sense of freedom in the waves. Those couple of hours in the water flew by. By the end of our first surf session, I was salty, sandy, and completely elated.

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‍Checking In at a Peaceful Haven:

After surfing, we peeled off our wetsuits, rinsed the salt out of our hair, and headed to our hotel for the retreat: the Park Hyatt Busan. Checking into Park Hyatt Busan, a five-star hotel as part of a surf retreat felt so peaceful.

It was the kind of panorama that instantly makes you exhale any stress away. In that moment, standing there with sand still between my toes, I felt like I had the best of both worlds: the rugged adventure of surfing and the indulgence of a peaceful escape.

We had a few hours of free time that afternoon, which I used to take a long, hot shower and even sneak in a short nap on the plush bed. Some of the others went out to explore the nearby Haeundae beachfront, but many of us simply relished the chance to rest. After the active morning, it felt heavenly to wrap up in a cozy robe and sip hot tea while gazing out at the marina.

Evening Welcome Dinner:

By early evening, we reconvened for a welcome dinner – the first of our NomadHer group gatherings. We decided on a restaurant at hotel.

As the sun set, painting the sky orange and pink, we toasted to our successful first day with a glass of wine at the hotel bar—and lots of laughter. I found myself sandwiched between two new friends – one from Seoul, the other from Italy – and we bonded over everything from the day’s wipeouts to our favorite travel memories. The conversation flowed easily. By the time we started cracking jokes about our surf techniques (or lack thereof), I realized I hadn’t felt this at ease with a group of strangers in a long time.

There was a special camaraderie at that dinner table; we were all solo travelers, yet here we were, sharing a meal like old girlfriends. One of the women from France, beamed as she said, “The surf class was my favorite part of today. Our instructor was awesome and really took the time to help each of us.” I couldn’t agree more.

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I fell asleep that night in my plush hotel bed, pleasantly exhausted, with the sound of the waves still echoing in my ears.

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Day 2: Sunrise Yoga and a Sunset to Remember

Saluting the Sun on Haeundae Beach:

Day 2 began before dawn, and to my own surprise, I leapt out of bed at 5:30 AM with more excitement than grogginess. We had a sunrise yoga session on the schedule, and it turned out to be one of the most magical parts of the retreat. In the grey-blue light of early morning, we met in the hotel lobby in our leggings and hoodies, and walked together to a quiet corner of Haeundae Beach. The NomadHer team had delivered yoga mats to our rooms the night before, so we each carried our mat under one arm and a cup of warm tea in the other hand. There was a serene hush over the city at that hour. As we reached the sand, the sky was just starting to glow pale orange.

Our yoga instructor, a local yogi named Mindy, greeted us with a gentle smile. We spread out our mats right on the beach. I remember digging my toes into the cool sand and inhaling the salty morning air as I stretched upward. The yoga flow was tailored for all levels – mostly gentle stretches and breathing exercises to wake us up. But it was the atmosphere that made it unforgettable. The sun inched above the horizon, casting a golden path over the calm sea, and a chorus of seabirds provided the background music.

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At one point, in a quiet meditation pose, I peeked around: eyes closed, faces calm, each of us soaking in a private moment of peace but also together as a group. It’s rare to feel so connected while also so personally reflective. By the end of the session, I felt not only limbered up for another surf day, but genuinely centered and recharged in my spirit.

We rolled up our mats, and on our walk back, the city was coming to life – a few early swimmers in the ocean, coffee shops opening, the neon signs from the night before finally blinking off. And there we were, a line of happy, barefoot women in yoga pants, greeting the day with contented smiles.

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A Leisurely Morning:

Back at the Park Hyatt, we had a well-earned breakfast waiting (one of the perks of Park Hyatt Busan stay!). The retreat package included a lavish breakfast buffet at the hotel’s restaurant, and it did not disappoint. We traded our yoga gear for sundresses and met up again over an array of pastries, tropical fruit, and Korean specialties. I loaded my plate with fresh croissants and Busan’s famous fish cake soup, an unusual but perfect combo.

There was a pleasant post-yoga calm among us. We chatted softly about how surprisingly nice it was to be up early. “I could get used to starting days like this,” someone mused, and we all nodded in agreement while sipping fresh juice and coffee.

With the whole morning free after breakfast, a few of the ladies decided to visit the hotel’s pool and a couple others went to check out a beach street cafe (NomadHer had provided a little Busan guidebook with cool tips for things to do in our downtime).

I chose to relax by the indoor pool overlooking the marina – a bit of solo time to reflect. Floating on my back in the pool, I replayed the events of the retreat so far and realized how alive and present I felt. Only a day ago I had been a stranger in this city, and now it almost felt like home, thanks to this group of sisters-by-the-sea.

Surf’s Up, Round Two:

By late morning, it was time for our second surfing lesson. We regrouped and traveled by van back to Songjeong Beach, chatter and laughter filling the ride. The sun was shining brightly, and we were grateful for the cool breeze off the ocean as we suited up for Surfing Class #2. This time around, I felt a new confidence putting on my wetsuit – no longer anxious, just excited to get back on the board.

Naeun impressed by our progress (and perhaps our enthusiasm), challenged us to paddle out a bit further and try slightly bigger waves. It was comforting to know she was right there alongside us in the water, giving pointers and making sure we were safe. By now I was able to catch waves on my own, though not always gracefully. Every time I managed to stand up for more than three seconds, I’d hear a cheer from someone nearby. We had naturally started to watch out for each other; if one of us struggled to get past the break, another would paddle over to help push her board or just offer moral support. Between rides, we bobbed in the water and shared tips we’d learned (“Keep your knees bent!” “Look forward, not down!”).

The sense of teamwork was wonderful. One of my favorite moments was when a fellow surfer, who had been nervous on Day 1, absolutely nailed a long ride into shore. We all erupted into applause and happy screams so loud that other beachgoers glanced over, wondering what was up. It felt like our victory. Later, while floating on our boards and waiting for the next set of waves, I struck up a conversation with a woman from Italy. She told me this was her first-ever trip abroad alone. “During my solo trip to Korea, this retreat has been the sweetest experience,” she said, water dripping from her face as she grinned. “Sharing surf, yoga, talks and walks with amazing women from different parts of the world – I’ll never forget it.” Hearing that, I realized that what we were doing here was more than a fun holiday; it was a genuine life experience that we’d carry with us.

After another satisfying surf session (and yes, my arms were officially sore by now), we packed up our gear. Day 2’s afternoon was free for us to enjoy at leisure. I opted for a power nap back at the hotel (surfing is an amazing workout!), while others ventured out to see a bit more of Busan. A couple of the girls found a famous local bakery and brought back treats for the group. By early evening, we were energized again and eager for our next adventure. Little did we know, the best was yet to come.

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Sunset Yacht Cruise – A Night Out at Sea:

The grand finale of Day 2 was the much-anticipated yacht night. This is something I’d never done before: a girls’ night out on a yacht. We made our way to the nearby yacht marina around 6 PM. The yacht was a sleek white vessel gently swaying in the golden hour light. As we climbed aboard, the captain welcomed us and we set sail out of the marina just as the sun began its descent. We cruised along the coastline from Haeundae to Gwangalli, and the timing could not have been more perfect.

The sky was a watercolor of orange, lavender, and deep blue. With a light breeze in our hair, our entire group gathered on the deck, leaning on the rails to watch the sun sink into the sea. Someone put on a playlist of upbeat pops and soon we were all laughing and snapping photos of each other with the stunning Gwangan Bridge in the background, its lights twinkling on as dusk fell.

It felt wonderfully liberating to be out on the open water with a dozen adventurous women, music playing, and not a worry in the world. We even attempted a little dance party on the deck, stumbling with the boat’s motion and giggling non-stop.

As twilight turned to night, we opened a few snacks and drinks we’d brought onboard (one of the retreat tips was BYO snacks for the yacht), and lounged on the deck’s cushioned seats as the warm evening air settled around us. In one particularly heartwarming moment, we all fell quiet just watching the city lights reflect on the gentle waves. I think each of us was awash in gratitude – for the chance to be there, in that moment, and for the company of each other. A Korean-American woman in our group raised her paper cup of tea and said, “To nights like this – and new friends!” We all echoed her toast. In that instant, I felt a swell of sisterhood so strong it almost moved me to tears. Here I was, thousands of miles from home, yet I’d never felt more at home in my own skin.

After an hour or so, the yacht returned to the dock. We disembarked with windswept hair and eyes full of stars (figuratively and literally!). Some of us were eager to keep the night going – a few ladies headed off together to check out Gwangalli’s beachfront bars and maybe taste some street food. NomadHer had ensured we always felt safe, and even at night, going out in our all-female group felt comfortable in Busan’s friendly environs. A handful of us decided to walk back to the hotel, enjoying the balmy night and chatting about everything from the day’s surf conditions to our jobs and families back home.

I loved that we could transition from silly fun to deep conversation seamlessly. That night, I fell asleep with the gentle rocking sensation of the boat still in my body and a happy thought in my mind: this has been one unforgettable day.

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Day 3: Farewell Waves and New Beginnings

Slow Morning & Last Breakfast:

Our final day began with a relaxed morning, allowing us to soak up the highest-valued experience of the hotel one last time. There was no crack-of-dawn schedule, which after two very active days, we appreciated. I woke up around 7 AM to find the sky clear and the city already humming below my window. Busan had given us perfect weather throughout. I took my time packing my suitcase, making sure my still-damp swimsuit didn’t dampen my clothes, and headed to breakfast. Over another hearty meal (by now we all had our favorite picks from the buffet – I couldn’t resist the Korean Juk and fresh fruit platter), we chatted about our travel plans for the rest of the week.

A few women were heading back to Seoul, and others, like me, were extending our stay in Busan for a day or two. The conversation was lighter this morning, a mix of satisfaction and a bit of sadness that the retreat was nearly over. We lingered over coffee, none of us wanting to rush off. Our check-out was scheduled for 11 AM, so eventually we had to bid farewell to the Park Hyatt’s comfort and assemble in the lobby with our bags. By now, packing up didn’t feel so bad – remarkably, I felt recharged. Two nights of good sleep, ocean air, and heartwarming social connection had done wonders for my mind and body.

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One More Surf Session:

The retreat saved a grand finale for the very end: one last surf session at Songjeong Beach. We returned to Surfbay around midday for our third lesson, and it felt a bit like coming full circle. Back into wetsuits we went (slightly damp and sandy from prior use, but by now we were used to it!). Today, there was an extra buzz in the air – perhaps because we knew this was our last chance to catch waves together. I was determined to make the most of it. With the basics well in hand, many of us ventured further out, attempting to ride the larger swells. Our instructor Naeun cheered us on proudly.

The improvement from Day 1 was evident: I spotted one woman executing a near-perfect turn on a wave, and another who initially couldn’t balance now popping up like it was second nature. I managed to ride a couple of my longest waves yet, earning high-fives from the girls paddling next to me. We also got a bit playful, taking group photos with our surfboards before getting in the water, and even trying a goofy synchronized surfing pose for the camera (which ended in a hilarious wipeout).

The laughter and positive energy were contagious. It struck me how fearless we’d become in such a short time – not just in tackling the ocean, but in being our authentic selves. No one worried about looking good or silly; we were well past that. We were just a bunch of brave, joyful women enjoying the ocean and each other’s company.

After an hour or so of lesson and then free surfing under the sun, it was time to wrap up. We clambered back onto the beach, breathless and beaming, and helped each other carry boards back to the shop. As we rinsed off and changed out of our wetsuits for the last time, the mood was bittersweet. Farewells are never easy, especially after an experience that bonded us so closely. We gathered in a circle one final time outside the surf shop, still in our damp bathing suits and sandy flip-flops, and our NomadHer hosts handed out little certificates of completion (a cute surprise!).

There were hugs all around – some of us even exchanged teary-eyed promises to meet again on another NomadHer retreat in the future. In the span of 72 hours, we had gone from strangers to surf sisters. I felt a lump in my throat when saying goodbye to the women who had become friends, mentors, and cheerleaders all in one. We posed for a final group photo with the ocean behind us, arms thrown around each other’s shoulders. In it, we’re all mid-laugh, sun-kissed, and genuinely happy – a perfect snapshot of what this retreat meant to us.

As I waved goodbye and headed off to collect my luggage, I took a last look at the surf rolling in. Three days ago I had arrived alone, unsure what to expect. Now, I was leaving with salt in my hair, strength in my muscles, and an overflowing heart. This retreat was so much more than a surf-and-yoga package. It was a safe space to challenge myself, an inspiring travel experience, and a supportive circle of new friends all rolled into one. I came to Busan seeking a bit of adventure and wellness, and I left feeling empowered, connected, and truly refreshed.

If You Go: Practical Tips for the Busan Women’s Surf Retreat

Before you pack your bags for this incredible experience, here are some handy tips (gleaned from the retreat’s own guidebook and my personal experience) to help you make the most of the NomadHer Busan Surf Retreat:

• Registration: Reserve your spot through the NomadHer app well in advance. Retreats are offered on select dates (primarily spring through fall), and they can fill up quickly.
  
  
• What to Bring: Pack light, comfortable clothes and beachwear. Essentials include flip-flops (for walking on the sand), a swimsuit (to wear under the provided wetsuit), a sun hat, and plenty of sunscreen. Don’t forget a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated during activities, and a light jacket in case of sea breeze or unexpected rain.
  
  
• Arrival & Check-In: Plan to arrive by 11:30 AM on Day 1 at the Surfbay surf shop in Songjeong Beach. That’s where you’ll meet the group and kick off with a safety briefing. Punctuality is important – you won’t want to miss the introduction. If you’re coming from outside Korea, let the team know.
  
  
• Luggage: No need to haul your bags around all day – you can store luggage securely at the surf shop during the Day 1 and Day 3 surf sessions. The organizers have you covered, so you can jump into the water worry-free.
  
  
• Accommodation: You’ll be staying at the Park Hyatt Busan, a 5-star hotel, for two nights. Check-in is usually after the Day 1 surf lesson (around 3 PM). The team provides yoga mats in your room for the sunrise session, and the hotel offers amazing amenities (pool, gym, spa) – take advantage of them during your free time! Breakfasts at the hotel are included and not to be missed. (Pro tip: try the Korean specialties at the buffet for a taste of local flavor.)
  
  
• Meals: Some meals are included (like the hotel breakfasts), but others – such as the welcome dinner on Day 1 – are not, so have some cash or a card handy. You pay your share separately. If you have dietary restrictions (vegan, allergies, etc.), let the organizers know in advance so they can accommodate you as much as possible.
  
  
• Surf & Safety: All surf lessons are beginner-friendly, and gear (boards, wetsuits) is provided. Listen closely during the safety briefings and don’t be shy about voicing any concerns. The instructors are there to help you succeed and stay safe. While the surf school has basic insurance for the lesson itself, it’s highly recommended to have your own travel insurance that covers adventure sports, just to be extra safe during the free surf periods and the rest of the trip.
  
  
• Solo Traveler Safety: Busan is known for being welcoming and safe, and NomadHer’s staff is very attentive. Still, it’s wise to follow standard travel safety tips: keep your valuables secure (use the hotel safe or the provided storage), stay aware of your surroundings, and stick with the group when exploring at night. The good news is you’ll rarely be alone – that’s the beauty of a group retreat!
  
  
• Weather & Contingencies: The retreat runs rain or shine. If the weather doesn’t cooperate (for example, if there’s heavy rain or high surf warnings), the organizers may adjust the schedule – they might substitute an indoor wellness workshop or cancel a surf session.
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• Tech Tips: Download Naver Map on your phone before your trip. It’s the Korean equivalent of Google Maps and will be very handy for navigating Busan if you venture out on your own (Google Maps isn’t very reliable in Korea).
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• Openness: Come with an open mind and a spirit of camaraderie. This retreat is all about connecting and trying new things. You don’t need any surfing or yoga experience at all – just a willingness to learn and a positive attitude. Everyone is nervous on day one, but trust me, by the end of the first surf lesson you’ll be cheering each other on like old friends.
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As I reflect on my three days in Busan, I’m amazed by how much growth and joy can be packed into a long weekend. I arrived alone, unsure of what would happen, and left with new skills, a rejuvenated spirit, and a whole circle of friends I’d met along the way. The NomadHer Busan Women’s Surf Retreat truly lives up to its promise of empowerment and connection. It’s not just about riding a surfboard or perfecting a yoga pose – it’s about the empowering feeling of doing those things in a supportive all-female environment. There’s something incredibly uplifting about women uplifting each other, whether it’s in catching a wave or simply deciding to take time for ourselves.

If you’re a woman who’s been craving adventure but hesitating to go it alone, this retreat might be exactly what you need. It’s the kind of trip that gently pushes you out of your comfort zone while cushioning you with friendship and encouragement. I came home with sore muscles, yes, but also with a confident glow that hasn’t faded. I’m already dreaming of the next getaway with these amazing women.

To any solo female traveler reading this, curious about joining: take the leap. You’ll conquer waves – both real and metaphorical – and you’ll do it with a tribe of sisters by your side. The Busan Women’s Surf Retreat is more than a trip, it’s a celebration of what we can do when we come together. And the best part? NomadHer is just a tap away on your phone, ready to welcome you to the family. Happy solo female travels, and see you on the next wave!