About Us

Samantha is the visionary behind Otra Ola. After spending three years living in a van, traveling, and surfing along the Pacific coast, she fell in love with the tranquility and simplicity of this lifestyle. As a certified yoga instructor and Ayurvedic practitioner, Samantha brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our retreats. In addition to her passion for teaching yoga, she also works as a translator and organizes various retreats in the places she loves. Samantha’s mission is to share her guidance and skills, offering guests an unforgettable experience that allows them to unwind, slow down, and connect deeply with nature.

Manuela and Samantha’s journey together began six years ago when they traveled in a van, igniting their love for surfing. As newcomers to the sport, they embraced it wholeheartedly, surfing multiple times a day and committing to a life filled with surf and yoga. Manuela, a vibrant and passionate individual from Brazil, is not only an exceptional surfer but also a certified yoga teacher and reiki practitioner. Her infectious enthusiasm and deep connection to her roots bring a unique energy to our retreats. Manuela’s goal is to inspire others to dive into the joy of surfing and yoga, just as she did.

Phil and Samantha currently live in a van and have been traveling throughout Latin America for over two years. Phil is the backbone of our operations, handling all the logistics and backend work that make these retreats possible. His contributions are invaluable, ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. Along with his love for surfing, Phil has a passion for mountaineering and mountain biking, bringing an adventurous spirit to our team. His dedication and hard work allow us to provide seamless and unforgettable retreat experiences.