How One Instagram Post Inspired A Spontaneous Trip to Nicaragua With SurfYogaBeer

We can probably all agree that sometimes social media can feel like a dark hole of fruitless scrolling…until it becomes the catalyst for an unforgettable and life-changing experience. Meet Pablo, who shares how a distant social media connection led to an impromptu trip to Nicaragua with SurfYogaBeer–one that turned out to be a game-changer.

What inspired you to join a SurfYogaBeer trip to Nicaragua?

I have been following Drew, one of the SYB leaders, on Instagram since we both live in Miami. He teaches yoga, and I had always meant to make it to one of his classes, but life and work kept getting in the way. Around that time, I was going through some personal stuff (like we all do) and felt the need to step away and reset. Then I saw Drew's post about a trip to Nicaragua—less than a week out, and without knowing what to really expect, I booked it. Best decision! 

What was different about this travel experience versus others you’ve had?

I’ve traveled quite a bit, but from the very beginning, this trip felt different. It all felt natural—nothing forced, nothing scripted. From the moment we met at the airport to the drive to Playa Maderas, conversations just flowed. I remember sitting in the van, a couple hours in, realizing how easy it all felt—like we had known each other for way longer than just a few hours.

What stood out was the balance between group activities and personal freedom. There was never any pressure to participate in everything, and everyone was encouraged to experience the trip in their own way. That openness created a space where there was no pressure even in a group of strangers in a foreign country—just good energy and the chance for connection while feeling the warmth of the sun tanning your skin during beach games.

Favorite moments during #SYBNicaragua?

Boat day and the wig party! We spent the afternoon on the water, paddleboarding and swimming, and a day on a catamaran with a bunch of fun people was such a vibe. The wig party was epic and such a fun way for the group to break the ice.

Boat Day

Biggest takeaway from your first group-travel trip?

This experience, especially the location, stripped away any pressure and created the perfect space to meet incredible people and form real connections. Stepping into a group travel vacation where I barely knew anyone was exciting and surreal—but in the best way. It helped me disconnect from the life stresses I had back home, gain clarity, and discover a new community I never expected to find just a week before in Miami. 

SurfYogaBeer wasn’t just a one-time trip. Who knew you needed to travel to Central America to find friends who are local to you at home? At least once a month, a few of us from our trip meet up, usually over Sunday dinners, with a fun theme (a little tribute to the legendary #SYBNicaragua theme parties.)  The people transcended the entire experience, and what started as a spontaneous getaway turned into something much bigger—friendships, a new way of experiencing community, and another trip to look forward to in the fall—pumped for #SYBDolomites! 

Horseback riding on the beach of Playa Maderas

Why social group travel?

Age, marital status, background, and location aside, we’re all looking for connection, and social travel is a pretty fab way to meet awesome people and extend bonds far beyond your trip.

This is why we love group travel:

Zero hassle: Once you’ve secured your spot, we handle the rest. From a curated itinerary and ensuring safe navigation to trip logistics, we’ve got it covered.

Social connections: Social group travel fosters opportunities for you to get away (to really dope destinations) while also experiencing them with ambitious, open-minded, adventurous people just like you. 

Life lessons to bring home: Traveling with a group introduces you to different perspectives, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of other cultures and lifestyles.

About Nicaragua with SurfYogaBeer

As one of our original trips, Nicaragua is the epitome of an undiscovered paradise. Tucked away from the crowds, Playa Maderas is where you trade the daily grind for a life that feels effortlessly beautiful. With SurfYogaBeer, you’re not just visiting another beach spot—you're indulging yourself in a paradise where sunrise yoga sets the tone for the day, and sunset beach hangs remind you why you came.

Here, the ocean is your soundtrack, the breeze your daily refresh, and the energy is unmatched. Whether you’re catching perfect waves, refocusing your mindset on a long beach walk, or enjoying the company of your new friends during beach volleyball, every moment here is a reminder that we all deserve a chance to disconnect and enjoy the simplicity of life (and in a gorgeous location).

For nearly a decade, we’ve been coming back to this undiscovered gem, curating an itinerary that includes the perfect balance of movement, connection, and pure fun. And trust us—you’ll leave feeling exhausted in the best way, yet somehow more alive than ever. We visit Nicaragua sixteen times each year, and we can’t wait to meet you there.

Pablo surfing

SurfYogaBeer is an active and social travel company focused on global, local, and private adventures, offering group trips for people of all ages and fitness levels. We're all looking for adventure. Travel with us–change your life.