Happilates Santa Teresa

Santa Teresa is a booming yet tiny health and wellness beach town in Costa Rica. Most people come for the surf but over the years it has drawn all types of people who just want to live a healthy lifestyle. I have never felt so balanced in my life than I did during my 6 weeks in Santa Teresa.

Originally known for a few yoga spots and the lifeguard gym, ST now has many options for whatever your workout style is. I tried almost all the gyms and studios in town. As I type this I already know of an expansion on Activo and a new mat pilates studio opening soon (founded by my teacher of this specific class I’m reviewing)!

Happilates is right above the Somos Cafe, a smaller version of Somos that’s about 1 mile up the street. El Somos cafe is a great spot for remote work and truly the best cinnamon roll you will ever have in your life (cardamom and pistacio).

El Somos!

Before taking my class, I got some work done underneath the studio and noticed a flood of, mostly women, in matching sets getting their iced matcha’s after the class times. The combo of the cafe and studio creates a beautiful “regular” culture encouraging community - which is my favorite thing about travel.

If you love pilates, then go to Happilates! The studio is filled with state of the art equipment, natural light and great instruction. They were adaptive to beginners and more advanced students. I unfortunately waited until my last week to come here, which will be a different story for when I return! Of all the studios i’ve been to around the world, this is easily top 3!