Every year, when the desert sun hits just right and the water starts to shimmer, the Costa Vida team heads south to one of the most breathtaking places in the world—Lake Powell. It’s not just a trip. It’s a tradition. A pause in the whirlwind of daily restaurant life to reconnect with what makes Costa Vida special: our people.
From the moment boats hit the water, you can feel the energy shift. Phones are set aside, laughter replaces meeting agendas, and teammates from across departments—operations, marketing, and finance—come together as one crew. It’s a chance to trade aprons and spreadsheets for swimsuits and paddleboards, to build trust through shared experiences, and to remind ourselves that great culture doesn’t just happen inside four walls. It’s built on relationships, respect, and moments like these.
Lake Powell is a natural fit for Costa Vida. The red rock cliffs, endless sunshine, and open water mirror the spirit of our brand: fresh, bold, and full of adventure. Days start with early-morning breakfast on the deck of a houseboat, followed by a full slate of water sports, cliff jumping, and team challenges. Evenings bring everyone together around a shared meal and board games, where the conversations run deeper and the laughter louder.
But this trip isn’t just about fun—it’s about alignment. Each year, leadership takes time to share company updates, celebrate milestones, and look ahead at what’s next. The discussions are open, honest, and collaborative. It’s a space where ideas are sparked and connections are strengthened. Many of our best initiatives and innovations have started right here on the water, between wakeboard runs and shared meals.
What makes Lake Powell truly meaningful, though, is the reminder of why we do what we do. Costa Vida’s mission has always been about creating happiness through fresh food, genuine service, and positive energy. This trip lets our team live that mission together. It’s a reset button for the heart of our culture, where every person, regardless of title, feels valued and seen.
When you watch someone teaching a first-time visitor how to drive a boat, or see a corporate teammate cheering someone on as they learn how to wakeboard, you realize what makes Costa Vida so special. It’s not just the food—it’s the people who pour their passion into it every day.
We always leave a little sunburned, a lot re-energized, and completely inspired. These moments remind us that great companies aren’t built by strategy alone. They’re built by people who trust, laugh, and grow together.
At Costa Vida, we believe culture isn’t something you write down; it’s something you live. And every year, Lake Powell reminds us just how good it feels to live it fully.
