⸺ Algarve, Portugal · Women’s surf camp
Team
⸺ Founder and owner
Katrien
Hi, I’m Katrien, founder of Chicks on Waves, a women’s surf and yoga retreat in the Algarve.
I’ve been surfing for over 25 years after discovering the sport in my twenties. My love for the ocean eventually brought me to Portugal, where I found the beautiful coastline and playful waves that still make me smile every time I paddle out. I’m a proud mum of two boys, an ocean lover, and a true small-wave chaser. For me, the sea is where I find peace, balance, and a deep connection with nature.
But Chicks on Waves has always been about so much more than surfing.
My greatest passion is bringing women of all ages together in the ocean. There is something truly special about watching women encourage one another, celebrate every wave, step outside their comfort zones, and leave with friendships that last a lifetime.
I genuinely care about every woman who joins us. I love creating a place where you feel welcomed, supported, and completely at ease from the moment you arrive. Every retreat is thoughtfully designed with love and attention to detail because I believe it’s the personal touches that create unforgettable experiences.
My goal has always been simple: to create more than just a surf holiday. I want every guest to leave the Algarve feeling stronger, more confident, deeply connected to the ocean, and inspired by the incredible women they shared the journey with.
⸺ Chef
Anina
Anina has been part of the Chicks on Waves family since day one. For over 18 years, she has been welcoming our guests with delicious, nourishing meals and the warm, caring energy that makes everyone feel at home.
Originally from Switzerland, Anina has called Portugal home for more than 20 years. Like the rest of our team, she’s a passionate surfer who embraces the simple, healthy lifestyle of the Algarve. Her love for the ocean, fresh local ingredients, and genuine hospitality shines through in everything she does. Each day, Anina prepares colourful, wholesome meals using seasonal produce sourced from local farmers and markets whenever possible.
Whether you’re gathering around the table after a morning surf, enjoying a long lunch in the sun, or sharing stories over dinner, her food is an important part of the Chicks on Waves experience. For many of our returning guests, Anina’s meals are just as memorable as the waves.
⸺ Chef
Anina
Anina is our lovely chef and will serve you delicious and healthy food with fresh and local products carefully chosen from the market every day. She is also a passionate surfer. She’s originally from Switzerland.
⸺ Surf coach
Roza
Roza has been our Head Surf Coach for over six years and is at the heart of the Chicks on Waves experience. Her positive energy, patience, and ability to make every woman feel confident in the water have made her a favourite among our guests.
Originally from the Netherlands, Roza fell in love with surfing from the moment she caught her first wave. She always dreamed of living somewhere with endless coastline, sunshine, and quality waves—a dream she found in the beautiful southwest Algarve, where she now calls home.
For Roza, surfing is about so much more than standing up on a board. It’s about building confidence, celebrating every small victory, and creating unforgettable memories together. Whether it’s your very first lesson or you’re working towards catching green waves, she’ll be by your side, cheering you on every step of the way.
Her passion for coaching, combined with her calm and encouraging approach, creates a supportive environment where women of all ages and abilities can learn, grow, and enjoy the ocean at their own pace.
Join Roza and the Chicks on Waves team for a week of surfing, laughter, breathtaking beaches, and genuine connection. You’ll discover the best waves the Algarve has to offer—and chances are you’ll leave with friends for life.
