Join Henry Akins, a Rickson Gracie Black Belt, for a life-changing 5-day Jiu-Jitsu retreat in the tropical paradise of Tamarindo, Costa Rica, from March 6-10, 2025. This exclusive retreat offers an incredible opportunity to train with a master, explore a stunning destination, and support a worthy cause.
Experience world-class training in a small group setting, where you'll have the chance to learn from and connect with Henry Akins in an intimate and inspiring environment. Immerse yourself in the art of Jiu-Jitsu while surrounded by the natural beauty of Costa Rica's beaches and lush landscapes.
Choose from a range of package options. Our single-occupancy, ocean-view rooms provide the perfect sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation between training sessions. You'll also receive a custom rashguard, daily laundry service for your training gear, and a delicious welcome dinner.
Tamarindo offers something for everyone, from world-class surfing and zip-lining to horseback riding and sailing. Our retreat partners, Wyndham, Arco Iris, and Casa Leona, provide luxurious accommodations just a short walk from the beach and the heart of town. Extend your stay at reduced rates and explore nearby rainforests and volcanoes, or let our concierge service help you plan the perfect adventure.
But this retreat is about more than just Jiu-Jitsu and relaxation. By participating, you'll be supporting Hero Academy, a non-profit organization that provides free training to over 150 local children in Tamarindo. Your contribution will make a lasting impact on the lives of these young athletes and the community as a whole.
Don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to train with a legend, forge lasting connections, and make a difference in the lives of others. Join Henry Akins in Tamarindo for an unforgettable Jiu-Jitsu retreat in paradise. Book your spot now and get ready for an extraordinary Jiu-Jitsu experience in Costa Rica!
Join Henry Akins, a Rickson Gracie Black Belt, for a life-changing 5-day Jiu-Jitsu retreat in the tropical paradise of Tamarindo, Costa Rica, from March 6-10, 2025. This exclusive retreat offers an incredible opportunity to train with a master, explore a stunning destination, and support a worthy cause.
Experience world-class training in a small group setting, where you'll have the chance to learn from and connect with Henry Akins in an intimate and inspiring environment. Immerse yourself in the art of Jiu-Jitsu while surrounded by the natural beauty of Costa Rica's beaches and lush landscapes.
Choose from a range of package options. Our single-occupancy, ocean-view rooms provide the perfect sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation between training sessions. You'll also receive a custom rashguard, daily laundry service for your training gear, and a delicious welcome dinner.
Tamarindo offers something for everyone, from world-class surfing and zip-lining to horseback riding and sailing. Our retreat partners, Wyndham, Arco Iris, and Casa Leona, provide luxurious accommodations just a short walk from the beach and the heart of town. Extend your stay at reduced rates and explore nearby rainforests and volcanoes, or let our concierge service help you plan the perfect adventure.
But this retreat is about more than just Jiu-Jitsu and relaxation. By participating, you'll be supporting Hero Academy, a non-profit organization that provides free training to over 150 local children in Tamarindo. Your contribution will make a lasting impact on the lives of these young athletes and the community as a whole.
Don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to train with a legend, forge lasting connections, and make a difference in the lives of others. Join Henry Akins in Tamarindo for an unforgettable Jiu-Jitsu retreat in paradise. Book your spot now and get ready for an extraordinary Jiu-Jitsu experience in Costa Rica!
Henry Akins
Henry Akins holds a 3rd-degree black belt in BJJ under the legendary Rickson Gracie. He has the distinction of being the third American to receive a black belt from Rickson, achieving this rank in 2004 after only 9 years of training.
Akins served as the head instructor at Rickson Gracie's academy from 2005 to 2008, where he was responsible for training many high-level practitioners, including Rickson's son Kron Gracie during his colored belt years.In 2010, Akins founded Dynamix Martial Arts in Santa Monica, California, where he continues to teach. He is widely respected in the BJJ community for his deep understanding of the art's core principles and his ability to break down complex concepts into simple, applicable techniques.
Akins is known for his emphasis on the fundamentals of BJJ and his ability to reveal the "hidden" aspects of techniques, which has earned him the moniker "Hidden Jiu-Jitsu". He runs an online training platform called Hidden Jiu-Jitsu, where he shares his knowledge with a global audience. His teaching philosophy focuses heavily on concepts and connections rather than just techniques, making BJJ more accessible and deeply strategic for practitioners at all levels. Akins is also known for his belief in the importance of training BJJ with strikes, emphasizing its effectiveness in self-defense situations. Henry Akins continues to be a highly sought-after instructor, conducting seminars worldwide and influencing the BJJ community with his unique approach to the art
What is included in the cost?
Every camp and package is a little different. Check your individual camp landing page for more detailed information. We also have 'Training Only' options for each camp if you'd like to arrange your own lodging (We have recommended condos / houses here)
What's the cancellation policy?
We have a lot of upfront costs for these camps so last minute cancellations are difficult and costly for our charity. All retreats are non-refundable but is fully transferrable to another party for the same camp. Sorry, no exceptions for injuries or personal circumstances.
What is the closest airport?
You fly into LIR Liberia Airport and take a shuttle to Tamarindo, 1 hour away. San Jose airport is over 5 hours away. Please keep in mind your airfare and airport shuttle are not included. If you must fly to San Jose, there are commuter flights to Tamarindo
How much will we train?
See schedule for your specific camp. You train direct with the trainer and groups are usually 30-50 people.
Can I train more?
Of course. If you would like we can set up some extra time for you. Someone always wants to get some rolls in.
Can I bring my spouse or kids?
Yes, this retreat is family-friendly. If you want to add your family, we are happy to work out some pricing for you. Just contact ron@herobjj.com and I will happily customize your accommodations and get you some pricing. Children (under 18) are not permitted in retreat sessions but can join in our kids classes.
Can I come early or stay a few extra days?
We highly encourage it. Costa Rica is an amazing country with so much to see and do. This is a short seminar so while we try to pack as much into the experience as possible, it’s best to add a few days before or after to your vacation if you want to see the sights. We are happy to help you plan your vacation. There are nearby Volcanos, Waterfalls and Rainforests that are easy to explore from town. PLEASE, for sake of the housing, if you come extra days plan them on one side of the camp. This helps you not having to move rooms as much.
Will I have time to do excursions, surf and see Costa Rica during the camp?
We do a lot of these camps and customize the schedule to give you ample time to experience Costa Rica and get in some adventure while you’re here. A few extra days on the front or back of your trip would make it more manageable if you want to have excursions.
What’s the interaction with other campers and instructors like?
There will be a maximum of 50 people, most groups are around 30. You will have direct access to the instructors to ask questions. All the attendees will stay in the same hotel and you will share the common spaces. Your interaction level is up to you. As much or as little as you like. Everyone has breakfast together before training and there are excursions and outings planned every day. Everything is optional. There will be a WhatsApp group and people constantly communicate through that to see what everyone is doing.
What is the room situation?
Everyone gets their own room unless you request otherwise. You can search Arco Iris Hotel, Wyndham Tamarindo, Hotel Elixir and Casa Leona to see they are highly rated boutique hotels. Beautiful amenities and prime location. Less than 10 minute walk to the beach, 2 minutes to the gym and 2 minutes to the center of town. They are hotel rooms, AC, refrigerators, wifi, and TV. Check out the hotel’s website for more info.
Can I come alone? What if I don’t know anyone?
Yes! You will make new best friends on the first day. Many ‘new’ people come every year and are quickly welcomed into the family. Most people attending our retreats, return and attend multiple camps per year with different instructors. This experience is second to none. Most of our camps are made of about 70% returning clients.
Is laundry included?
Yes! We wash all of your training gear for you. You have to leave it at the gym after the session. We are unable to use special detergent and we must machine dry.
Do I need a car?
No. Everything in town is walking distance. There are 50+ bars and restaurants at your front door. The gym is 2 minutes away, the beach 10. If you want to explore nearby beaches or towns, we can help you rent a car.
What’s Tamarindo like?
Tamarindo is a legendary Costa Rican beach perfect for beginner to intermediate surfing and swimming. The beach is lined with bars and restaurants. The town itself is a small but popular tourist destination. Sunset is an event here everyday. The entire town comes down to the beach to enjoy the end of the day. Popular Yoga/Fitness/Surfing destination, very active with options to do whatever you want on your vacation. It is very safe and anyone can walk around at night alone.
What kind of activities are available?
We can set up anything you want to do. Check out volcanoes, mud baths, hot springs, waterfalls, zipline, horseback rides on the beach, spearfishing, surf lessons, deep-sea fishing, ATV, Catamaran sunset cruise and much more.
How much money do I need to bring? What should I budget?
There are options for every budget. If you want to eat for 20 bucks a day or have a nice steak dinner, all those options are available for you. Just talk to Ron and he will steer you in the right direction. All businesses accept US Dollars.
What’s the training space like?
Hero Academy is a large bodega space in a quiet location on the backside of town. 3500 ft2 of Zebra and Dollumar mats with huge barn doors for an amazing cross breeze.
What is Hero Academy?
We have been planning fitness retreats in Tamarindo since 2016 and do over 15-20 events per year. We are a non-profit 501c3 in the USA and Costa Rica that trains over 150 local kids free of charge. The retreats fund our kids program.
What’s up with COVID?
As of April 1, 2022, there are no longer Covid related requirements to enter or leave Costa Rica. No testing, insurance or forms.
Got questions?
I'm happy to help. Shoot me a message ron@herobjj.com or WhatsApp +506 8710-5304.
Tamarindo is a legendary Costa Rican beach perfect for beginner to intermediate surfing and swimming. The beach is lined with bars and restaurants. The town itself is a small but popular tourist destination. Sunset is an event here everyday. The entire town comes down to the beach to enjoy the end of the day. Popular Yoga/Fitness/Surfing destination, very active with options to do whatever you want on your vacation. It is very safe and anyone can walk around at night alone.
Our hotel partner, Wyndham Tamarindo is a beautiful hilltop oasis with incredible views. Walk or shuttle to the beach, gym, restaurants and all Tamarindo has to offer. Stay a few extra days at our reduced rates or hop in a car and visit the nearby rainforests and volcanos. Whatever your desire, we can help you make it happen.
TENTATIVE SCHEDULE
Thursday
2:00PM - Check in at Hotel
4:00PM - Sunset on the Beach at El Be Restaurant
6:30PM - Meet and Greet at Hero Academy
7:00-9:00PM - First No Gi session
Friday
8:00AM - Breakfast poolside with your fellow retreat goers
9:00-10:00AM - Work with the HeroKids
10:00-12:00PM - Gi Session at Hero Academy
1:30PM - Optional Activity Surf lesson with Nacho
4:30PM - Sunset meet-up - Chringito
7:00PM - Welcome Dinner Aqua Salada
Saturday
8:00AM - Breakfast poolside with your fellow retreat goers
9:00-10:30AM - Gi session at Hero
12:00PM - Optional lunch - El Mercaditio
4:00PM - Hilltop No Gi Sunset Open Mat
7:00PM - Dinner Suggestion - Dragonfly. Reserve on your own
Sunday
8:00AM - Breakfast poolside with your fellow retreat goers
9:00-11:00PM - No Gi session at Hero Academy
12:45PM - Optional activity Sunset Boat cruise. Reserve using link in email.
Monday
8:00AM - Breakfast poolside with your fellow retreat goers
8:30AM - Open mat No Gi
11:00AM - Check out of the Hotel and catch your shuttle. Thank you for coming and see you again soon!
