It all started with a kind of heartbreak
Not from another person, but from losing myself. My spark. My joy. The light that used to make everything feel bright.
One day, it just wasn’t there anymore.
I tried to push through. I even tried antidepressants. But something inside me knew this was deeper than brain chemistry. Something in me needed to be felt, not fixed.
So I turned to water. I swam laps every day in a public pool. The rhythm of it softened something inside me… but still, London felt loud and heavy.
Then, on a whim, I booked a solo surf retreat in Portugal.
I knew I was drawn to water. What I didn’t know was that learning to surf would change everything.
As Featured In
WHAT TO EXPECT AT OUR RETREATS
A community that feels like family — warm, welcoming, and built for solo travelers as much as groups.
Joy — surfing, exploring, connecting, playing — the kind that reminds you you’re alive.
A full-body pause — space to reset, rest, and breathe again.
Adventure without overwhelm — high-end experiences that are supportive, not intimidating.
No Expectations — come as you are, with all your ‘stuff’ and take what you need.
Our Retreats
The Marnie Rays experience
More than a surf retreat. Marnie Rays is a space to reconnect with yourself.
We keep our groups intentionally small, so every woman feels seen.You’re welcomed like a friend: thoughtful gifts from brands we love, beautiful shared meals at local restaurants, slow mornings, salty hair, sunset pizza on the beach.
We surf. We stretch. You don’t need confidence or to “be good” — just a willingness to show up.
You’ll leave feeling lighter, braver, and more like yourself.
FAQ's
Can I come solo?
We couldn't recommend solo travel more. It can feel scary but we promise you it'll be one of the best things you ever do! Plus, our job is to make sure you have the best time and make new connections (if you'd like to!). We've got beautiful group dinners, and lots of other things we'll do as a little Marnie Rays community. You're in the best hands.
Cancellation policy
We know that sometimes life gets in the way of adventures, and we’ll always do our best to be understanding. That said, once you book your retreat, we begin planning and committing to accommodation, partners, and our team well in advance to make your experience happen.
For all new bookings made on or after 27th April 2026, if you can no longer join the trip, we can transfer your payment to a future retreat within one year of your original booking date, provided you notify us at least 30 days prior to departure. Deposits are non-refundable and can only be transferred once.
Bookings made before 27th April 2026 remain under the original 60-day policy agreed at the time of booking.
As we commit to costs in advance, cancellations or changes made within 30 days of departure are non-transferable and non-refundable. In these cases, the full balance remains payable.
If your balance is not paid by the agreed due date, we reserve the right to cancel your booking and retain any payments made.
If you are unable to attend your retreat for any reason, including illness, personal circumstances, or travel disruption, our standard cancellation terms will apply.
We are not responsible for travel disruption outside of our control, including (but not limited to) flight cancellations, delays, or global events.
We strongly recommend that all guests take out comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking, covering cancellation, travel disruption, and unforeseen circumstances.
For full details, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.
How do payments work?
Please note that deposits are non-refundable.
The balance will then need to be paid six weeks before the retreat starts. You will have the option to pay in monthly instalments.
What's included?
Accommodation
All activities
Brand gifts
Details of meals in each experience page
I’m a beginner surfer, can I still come?
Yes! We welcome you with open arms. Most of our guests have never surfed before! It's a beautiful thing to learn together in a safe and supportive environment.
What shall I pack?
- Surf wear, shorts, bikini, leggings (if you are prone to a rash) etc.
- Swimwear
- Beach towel
- Waterproof sunblock and zinc
- Sun hat
- Yoga gear
- Water bottle
- Light clothing
- Some long-sleeved tops incase it gets chilly
- A personal first aid kit containing disinfectants, band aids, perhaps some antibiotics
- Comprehensive travel insurance including watersports
We will always send out a packing list for each experience.
How long are the surf sessions?
Each surf session will be around 2.5 hours long - you will spend some time on the beach with the coach first and be in the water for around 1.5 hours.
Are there any vegan/vegetarian options?
Yes! We cater for all dietaries and allergies.
Where do guests come from?
We have guests travel from all over the world to come surf with us! America, Europe, the UK, Australia & New Zealand!
Why Marnie Rays?
Marnie Rays is a retreat with a difference. We offer so much more than your standard wellness retreat thanks to our incredible guest chefs, gifts from our brand partners, tailored yoga & meditation classes and extras such as local fun nights out together, a focus on joyful community, all set within a super premium location.