We just wrapped up an incredible climbing retreat in Puerto Rico, hosted in collaboration with Earth Play Retreats! Over the course of a long weekend, we surfed, climbed, slacklined, and played acro in some of the island’s most stunning locations. The experience was filled with rainbows, misty mornings, breathtaking sunsets, and, of course, tons of adventure. If you’re curious about what to expect when you join one of our events—or if you’re thinking about joining us for New Year’s in Puerto Rico—read on! You can also review our packing list here.
Arrival Day: Jumping Right In!
Our retreat began with a warm welcome at our beautiful house by the ocean, where participants started getting to know each other. We wasted no time diving into the experience with an acroyoga and slackline yoga session, setting the tone for the days ahead. The evening was capped off with a shared group dinner, where we talked about our climbing and surfing experience and shared our hopes and goals for the weekend.
Day 1: Surf, Acro & Slack

After our surf session, we took a well-deserved break from the sun with an indoor acroyoga session, followed by a sunset slackline yoga lesson. The day wrapped up with a perfect balance of movement, play, and skill-building—capped off with a delicious, home-cooked BBQ.
Day 2: Climbing in Caliche

Here, climbers quickly discover the awesome texture of the Puerto Rican limestone! We set up over 10 different lines, from a welcoming 5.7 to a solid 5.10b. The climbs ranged from short, fun routes—perfect for those learning to lead—to long, stunningly vertical walls like the classic Blanca Nieves. For those craving an extra challenge, pumpy and overhanging sections rounded out a well-balanced day on the rock.
Day 3: Climbing in Monagas, an Urban Jungle
What's Next?
If reading this has you dreaming of a climbing adventure in Puerto Rico, then you won’t want to miss our New Year’s Retreat!
New Years Climbing Retreat in Puerto Rico
Yoga, Climbing, Slacklining, AcroYoga & Surfing!
Dec 28 - Jan 2, 2026
- It’s during the holidays, so it won’t interfere (hopefully!) with work.
- Cooler weather makes climbing even more enjoyable.
- Fewer mosquitoes—always a win!
- Say goodbye to the old year and hello to the new one doing what you love, surrounded by an incredible community.
- There's a festive spirit throughout the Island!
Save the dates and join us for an unforgettable New Year’s experience in Puerto Rico!
Plus! If you want to learn how to kitesurf, talk to us about joining the week before or staying for the week after.
We can’t wait to climb, surf, play and celebrate with you!
Want to learn to Kite Surf?
Talk to us about coming a week early or staying a week later!
Will it be the same event?
In the same way you can never step into the same river twice, no two events are ever exactly the same. With so many incredible climbing locations in Puerto Rico, endless beaches to explore, and trails to hike, every experience is unique—in the best way possible! Plus we select the climbing spots and routes based on the participants experience. So whether you come once, twice, or as many times as you like, you’ll always find something new to discover.
We are looking forward to welcoming you—whether it’s your first time or a return adventure—in Puerto Rico!
Meet the Instructors
Our retreat was led by an incredible team of experienced instructors, each bringing their unique expertise and passion for adventure:
Heidi Wirtz
Aka Heidi Almighty is the founder of Earth Play Retreats. A premier adventure climber known for her bold ascents, technical prowess, and holding the women’s speed record on The Nose, El Capitan, for over 10 years. With over two decades of exploration, she has pioneered new routes on big walls and remote peaks worldwide.
At the event, Heidi brings her deep technical expertise, sharp eye for movement, and a wealth of experience in both climbing and mental training. She helps participants refine their skills, push past mental barriers, and approach climbing with greater confidence and efficiency.
CREDENTIALS
AMGA Certified Rock Guide
AMGA Apprentice Alpine Guide
AMGA Apprentice Ski Guide
Wilderness First Responder
Mark Pietrolungo aka "Petch"
Petch has been climbing since 1989, with a passion for teaching and guiding that matches his enthusiasm for the sport. As the owner of Lover’s Leap Guides, he has played a pivotal role in developing numerous climbing routes in the Lover’s Leap area. From 5.5 to 5.12d, some of his first ascents have become modern day classics.
At the event, Petch brings his wealth of experience, sharp eye for technique, and an endless supply of climbing wisdom, helping participants refine their movement, build confidence on the rock, and tackle new challenges with efficiency and ease.
CREDENTIALS
AMGA Certified Rock Guide
Wilderness First Responder
Sam Salwei
A lifelong adventurer, slackliner, and movement educator with a passion for pushing limits and finding balance in all aspects of life. As co-founder of the YogaSlackers, his journey began at Northern Heights Climbing Gym in North Dakota, where slackline yoga first took shape. Every climbing event brings him back to those roots, blending balance, strength, and playfulness into the experience.
At the event, Sam brings his expertise in balance, creative movement, and dynamic problem-solving, leading slackline yoga and acroyoga sessions that challenge participants both physically and mentally. When he’s not on the line, you’ll find him behind the lens, capturing the adventure and the unforgettable moments that unfold along the way.
CREDENTIALS
Slackline Yoga and AcroYoga Teacher
Adventure Photographer
IKO Kiteboarding Instructor
Wilderness First Responder
Raquel Hernández-Cruz
A dedicated movement educator, yogi, and adventurer, born and raised in Puerto Rico, making her your local guide for this experience. With a deep love for balance, strength, and play, she has spent years refining her teaching style, blending yoga, slackline yoga, and acroyoga into a unique and holistic practice.
At the event, Raquel brings her expertise in mindful movement and creative progressions, leading yoga sessions and co-teaching acroyoga and slackline yoga—all while sneakily slipping in handstand training drills. Whether on the mat, the line, or exploring the island, she is thrilled to share her home, culture, and passion with you!