8-Day Women's Yoga, Meditation & Surf Escape on Kauai's North Shore

Kauai's North Shore is the setting for this eight-day women's retreat, which runs out of shared houses and condos in the Hanalei area. Mornings begin with yoga — sometimes vinyasa, sometimes slower hatha — followed by breakfast. From there the day can go several ways: a surf session at Hanalei Bay, a meditation workshop, or a guided hike to a beach or lookout that Mary knows from living on the island. Afternoons are kept open for the beach, journaling, or simply resting, and the evening often includes a guided or silent meditation to close the day.

What sets this apart from a standard yoga retreat is the mix of movement and place. You're not just on a mat indoors; you're surfing an iconic bay, walking trails with someone who lives here, and learning about Hawaiian culture from a guide with family roots on the island. The two surf sessions are led by professional coaches who work with all levels, and the group size is kept small so everyone gets feedback in the water. There's also a hands-on art and painting session, which gives the week a creative outlet beyond the physical practice.

Mary, your lead guide, moved to Kauai in 2018 from Colorado. Her husband's family has multi-generational roots in Hawaii, and she uses those connections to take groups to lesser-known spots — a quiet beach, a trailhead that isn't on the tourist maps, a local food stop. She's been running retreats on the island for several years and leads with a calm, practical style. She's also the person who handles the logistics, so you're dealing directly with the person who runs the week rather than a booking agency.

The accommodation is in shared houses or condos, with options for private rooms, shared rooms, or a condo suite at a nearby resort. Meals are tailored to the group and dietary needs, and the food tends toward fresh, local ingredients — think fruit, fish, and vegetables rather than heavy resort buffets. The week is designed to be flexible: if you want to skip a session and go to the beach, that's fine. If you want to add the Napali Coast boat day, that's arranged through a local operator for an additional fee.

If you've been curious about surfing but not sure where to start, Hanalei Bay is a good place to learn — the waves are friendly and the bottom is sand, not reef. If you already surf, the coaches can help you refine turns or get you into better position. Either way, you'll leave with a week of yoga, time in the water, and a sense of having actually seen Kauai rather than just staying at a resort.

What's included

- 8 days/7 nights accommodation in shared house or condo - Daily yoga and meditation sessions - Two surf sessions at Hanalei Bay with professional coaches - Guided hike to local beach or lookout - Art and painting workshop - Journaling and reflection sessions - Most meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner on most days) - Welcome circle and closing circle - Local guide (Mary) throughout the retreat

What's not included

- International and domestic flights - Travel insurance - Airport transfers (can be arranged) - Some meals (a few dinners and lunches may be on your own) - Optional Napali Coast boat adventure (additional fee) - Personal expenses (souvenirs, extra activities) - Alcoholic beverages