Location & fun
Shared & Private Rooms
Our rooms are comfortable, unique, and perfect to experience the natural beauty of Costa Rica while relaxing in between classes and exploring. All rooms have a private bathroom and air conditioning is available. Rooms are comfortable with double, twin, and bunk beds and include all basic features needed to ensure a comfortable stay and total privacy during your down time.
Cozy & Steps from the ocean
Our accommodations are designed to fit and blend in to our natural surroundings and tropical gardens. Relax and unwind as you hear the sounds of waves and wildlife. Our quaint beach town is a natural haven teeming with biodiversity and environmentally-friendly fun.
spacious & Unique
Just steps from the breathtaking endless beach and surrounded by lush tropical jungle! Picture a perfect morning starting with a breakfast special from our on-site restaurant before surfing a few waves. Then, relaxing and showering in your spacious private bathroom before heading to teach the local kids English at the public school.
Restaurant
Breakfast & Dinner Included for Guests
Enjoy healthy, locally sourced meals with the freshest ingredients along with caring, friendly service. We are proud to serve organic produce whenever possible in all of our dishes. Our extensive menu caters to all types of lifestyles and dietary requirements or preferences.
our Beach
Matapalo is a small beach town on Costa Rica’s Central Pacific coast that thrives on a new tourism industry. Matapalo reminds travelers of the Costa Rica of yesteryear. Restaurant owners and tour operators alike depend on the hundreds of tourists from around the world who come to Matapalo every year for its sandy beaches, picturesque waterfalls, and lush mountainous jungles.
Communal space
We spend every afternoon enjoying the blazing sunsets and often share time with evening bonfires as the moon rises over the ocean. WeVOL participants live in a tropical, coastal environment, it’s recommended that you bring plenty of sunscreen and bug spray. Be sure to bring a flashlight or headlamp. Don’t forget your swim suit and a rash guard. The weather is very hot, so pack light, summer clothes.
Tours & Activities
A dream destination for adventurous travelers, Matapalo reflects an authentic Costa Rica experience full of memories.
After waking up to the birds chirping and a delicious breakfast bowl in our open air restaurant, you pair up with your volunteer team and the WeVOL staff to practice your surfing skills on the endless Matapalo beach or trek through the lush jungle in Hatillo in search of waterfalls.
Back from your morning adventure, you end up in your room seeking a shower, still listening to birds chirping and get ready for your volunteer work. You head to the public school to teach English to children or prepare for your adult class. Maybe you are leading the community development project and prepare your materials for your day’s work.
After your rewarding time working in the community, you head back to the lodge to share a drink, hear others´ stories about the day, and you hit the beach for sunset. In the evenings, we share a healthy, delicious meal with the team before drifting off to sleep. You wake up refreshed, renewed, and ready to repeat with a smile.
Surf School
Whether you are a beginner, intermediate, or advanced surfer, our experienced surf instructors will lead you to safely and enjoyably master the consistent and fun waves in Matapalo. Plus, join Surf Safaris to Dominical, Dominicalito, and Hermosa weekly to explore new spots.
Waterfall Hikes
This magical area is overflowing with mountains and rivers which produce endless waterfalls and swimming holes. The WeVOL team will show you some secret spots that will take your breath away. Nearby, we also explore natural hot springs nestled in the lush tropical jungle.
Spanish Lessons
Conquer your lifelong dream of speaking a new language. Improve your Spanish conversation skills. Share more with local people. WeVOL’s Spanish lessons are personalized lessons based on learners’ levels and goals. Spanish class times are based on your volunteer schedule.
Horseback Riding Tours
Take a guided horseback riding tour along the beach and become mesmerized by some of Costa Rica’s most beautiful beaches and coastline. The horseback riding tour is about 3 hours and times are based on the tide. We recommend the tour at sunset for some incredible smiles and photos!
Kayak & SUP Tours
Immerse yourself into our amazing and different tropical environment called the mangrove forest. These tours guide you through our enchanting forest where you will see and learn about the plants and animals living harmoniously in the blend of fresh and salt water and indescribable beauty.
Canopy Zipline
Fly through the jungle canopy on a zip line – a Costa Rican favorite excursion! You will see the jungle from a whole new angle as you climb up the trees and ride through the zip line course located near Manuel Antonio. Take your trip to the next level with some extreme fun!