25+ years of magic, movement, and memorable moments.
Our very first Bikini Bootcamp retreat — more than 25 years ago — welcomed just one guest. Melissa, founder of Amansala, personally taught nearly every class herself, from fitness to motivation, with only yoga handed off to a wildly charismatic, ultra-fit dreadlocked yogi teaching in nothing but a loincloth. Iconic from day one.
The very first Bikini Bootcamp guest was a well-known NYC socialite, setting the tone early for an unforgettable mix of glamour, transformation, and adventure.
Long before "wellness retreats" became a global movement, Melissa created one of the first true wellness destinations in Mexico — blending yoga, fitness, nourishing food, Pilates, beach rituals, connection, and fun. This wasn't just yoga on a mat. It was a full Mind, Body & Spirit Tune-Up.
When Amansala first opened, there was no electricity. Evenings were lit by candlelight, the stars were brighter, and guests truly unplugged before unplugging was cool.
Before the guests arrived and the retreats began, Melissa flew in a team of Tibetan Rimpoches to bless Amansala — so that it would grow and grow, and become a place where women from all over the world could come to heal and transform. That blessing took hold. It still lives in every corner of this place.
Over the years, Bikini Bootcamp and Amansala have welcomed many notable guests.
(And many more who came quietly for a reset.)
Bikini Bootcamp and Amansala have been featured in some of the world's most prestigious publications — from Condé Nast to The New York Times, Vogue, and ABC News. When the world was looking for the next great wellness destination, they found us right here on the beach in Tulum.
Since opening, Amansala has hosted over 75,000 guests and yogis from around the world seeking movement, healing, joy, and transformation.
Melissa authored the Bikini Bootcamp Book, which has sold tens of thousands of copies, inspiring women everywhere to embrace health, confidence, and vitality.
What began as one woman, one guest, and a dream on the beach has become one of Tulum's most iconic wellness experiences — yet the spirit remains the same.
Move your body. Feed your soul. Have fun doing it.Bikini Bootcamp · Amansala · Tulum · Est. 2001