SANTA TERESA
LIFEGUARD academy 2026

If you are a waterperson, want to give back to your ocean sharing community and save lives, this is for you!

Join the Academy

Every rescue begins with training.

Before someone is pulled from a rip current, before CPR is performed, before a life is saved, there are countless hours spent preparing for those moments.

That is exactly what the Santa Teresa Lifeguard Academy is all about.We are excited to announce that registration is now open for our 2026 Lifeguard Academy, taking place November 2–7, 2026.

Over six intensive days, participants will develop the practical skills, confidence, and teamwork needed to respond in real-life emergencies. Training includes open-water rescue techniques, CPR and first aid, physical conditioning, rescue scenarios, and emergency response in one of Costa Rica's most challenging coastal environments.This academy is more than a training course—it's an investment in the people who keep our beaches safe.

This academy is more than a training course—it's an investment in the people who keep our beaches safe. Every graduate leaves with the knowledge, confidence, and responsibility to make a difference when it matters most.

Public Registration

Public registration is now open, and spaces are limited. Whether you're beginning your journey as a lifeguard or looking to advance your rescue skills, we encourage you to apply early.

Sponsored Places for Lifeguard Associations

As part of our mission to strengthen beach safety across Costa Rica, we are offering 10 sponsored places for members of other lifeguard associations. These positions will allow more lifeguards to receive advanced training and bring valuable knowledge back to the communities they serve.If you represent a lifeguard association and would like to apply for one of these sponsored places, please contact us by email.

Whether you're looking to join the academy, sponsor a participant, or support the next generation of lifesavers, we'd love to hear from you.

‍Key Details
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Dates: November 2-7 , 2026
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‍Registration deadline: October 20, 2026
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‍Price: $300 USD (50% deposit required at registration)Your contribution is a donation that directly supports the Santa Teresa volunteer lifeguard program
‍Includes: Daily lunch during the academy
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‍Not included: Housing (we recommend Don Jon’s Hostel, located just across the street)
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‍Limited spots

‍Requirements
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To apply, please send:
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100m best swim video
500m swim under 11 minutes video
25m underwater swim video

Send your application to: info@santateresalifeguards.org


This is not only a chance to gain skills, but to give back — to stand watch, to learn responsibility, and to be part of something bigger than yourself. By joining, you help strengthen a movement that saves lives in Santa Teresa and inspires safer communities everywhere.