Hawaii Magic. Yoga + Adventure Retreat

Whale Spirit Sanctuary, Big Island, Hawaii

OY
Outdoor Yoga Retreats
  • Facebook verified
40 reviews
Oct 13 - 18, 2021
Group size: 10 - 18
Hawaii Magic. Yoga + Adventure Retreat
Whale Spirit Sanctuary, Big Island, Hawaii

Outdoor Yoga Retreats
  • Facebook verified
40 reviews

Oct 13 - 18, 2021
Group size: 10 - 18

About this trip

A rejuvenating yoga experience immersed in nature.

Dearest yogis! I'm thrilled to invite you to join me for a magical retreat on the Big Island Whale Spirit Sanctuary.  


From the moment I landed here on the Big Island in 2016 I knew it was a special place. I was lucky to have heard about the still somewhat secret spot of Kealakekua Bay from a friend. I visited and found one of the most pristine and peaceful places with magical nature spots all around.


Early in the morning, from 7-9, the dolphins are playing in the bay- you can go out and kayak and swim with them! The little park next to the bay is quiet with big palm trees and lush grass for reading and hanging in the afternoon. Just a mile down the road is Two Step, a local snorkeling spot with turtles and tons of fish. And about 2 miles down the road is a gorgeous historic national park with beaches and hiking trails. A few photos of each place are shown on the photo page.. 


I am so inspired to host retreats in places that are rich with prana (life force) that reminds us of just how alive we all are. The beauty here is awe inspiring - lush plant life and mountains, crystal bay waters, and the abundant sea life all can serve to remind us of our own beautiful inner space.  Each time I’ve been here has been a transformative trip in that I just arrive however I am and surrender to the healing nature of the island. It's a perfect place to turn off the world for a few days, live simply, and return to our natural state of childlike wonder, play, and adventure.

We will dive deep into daily practice each morning, enjoy restorative practice in the afternoon, enjoy the most amazing organic, seasonal local food, and have plenty of time during the day for rest, beach time, or island exploration. 


I'm super grateful as well that Whale Spirit Sanctuary has created a healing eco-resort here, integrated and respected by locals and known as a sacred space. Read more about this area of the island and about Whale Spirit Sanctuary below -- it's epic!! 


The daily yoga and meditation practices offered will draw on the healing powers of the island… reconnecting to intuition, a spacious mind, open heart and inner sanctuary space. All levels of yoga practitioners are welcome, all backgrounds, all open-minded, kind people seeking an extraordinarily beautiful and healing experience. I


 do ask that you have a regular yoga practice, and can make time at home or at a studio to practice at least twice a week leading up to the retreat, as this will just make it more enjoyable for you. Most who come on the retreat practice 'a bit' and enjoy yoga, but are not "advanced."


I so look forward to welcoming you here and to sharing in this beautiful experience that I know will change your life for the better! 


Big love 🌈 ❤️🌈

Julie


About the Sacred Land and Retreat Center of Whale Spirit SanctuaryWhaleSpirit Sanctuary holds much mana (supernatural or divine power, spiritual force) and is truly a sacred place. Our very private 5-acres, is a sacred, all natural, eco-friendly (chemical/toxin free) property overlooking the powerful vortex of Kealakekua Bay. We are ‘protected’ by the sacred pali (hillside) where ancient Hawaiian Kings and Queens are buried. We have an extensive variety of flowers, fruits and plants living along side you on our property.  Our Sanctuary is designed to be a quiet, relaxing, self-sufficient experience. Please understand we do not have full service staff like a Hotel or B&B so your time at our Sanctuary will not be disturbed. You may receive a warm “Aloha.” from our Ka Luna or a Malama (caretaker) quietly nurturing the property.  The Main Hale is the center and heart of the WhaleSpirit Sanctuary. The Main Hale’s Gathering/Yoga/Meditation room, front/back lanai and kitchen are reserved for your retreat/event.  


The Powerful Vortex of Kealakekua Bay Our sanctuary overlooks Kealakekua Bay. Ancient Hawaiians came to this spot as a place for rest and revitalization. This bay is one of the planet’s 10 major vortices. According to mystics and sacred geometry, this location has a pre-disposition for inter-dimensional experiences as it creates a ‘portal’ or ‘star gate.’  Kealakeua Bay and our sanctuary sit exactly on the 19.5° latitude point. The 19.5° latitude point is believed to be the intersection between the light body of the planet and its physical surface. This intersection creates the ability to connect to other dimensions and offer the opportunity for energetic inter-dimensional experiences. Maybe this is why the Hawaiians refer to this sacred place as God’s Pathway.  There is a very unique and mystical anomaly that exists at our sanctuary as we sit directly on the pathway/grid line between the powerful vortex of Kealakekua Bay and the tip of active volcanic force of Mauna Loa. This particular Pali has a curved shape which forms an energetic resonance echo chamber. Many have shared how chanting/singing in the bay can be an omnipotent type experience. NOTE: When whales come into the bay, their songs can often be heard at our sanctuary. 


WhaleSpirit Sanctuary is truly a sacred place in Hawaii where love, wisdom and transformation are manifested simply by being here. 

What’s included

  • Daily Morning Meditation
    7:30 - 7:50AM: Meditation and Breathwork practice.
  • Daily Morning Yoga
    8AM - 9:15AM: Slow, Strong Vinyasa Yoga Practice
  • Restorative Yoga
    4 - 5PM: Slow + relaxing practice
  • 5 nights accommodation
    at Whale Spirit Sanctuary
  • Plant-based Organic Food
    Delicious local, organic meals! Gluten-free, plant-based and animal proteins optional.

What’s not included

  • 1 Dinner Meal
    Feel free to spend the evening out on your own or with us in Hanalei at a local restaurant. You're also always welcome to stay at the retreat center as well.
  • Flights
  • Uber to/ from airport.
    Retreaters often arrive at the same time as there are only a few flights into Kona from Bay Area / LA. You will be connected to other retreaters to share a car if you wish. It's about a 30 min ride.
  • OR rental car.
    Share a rental car with other retreaters. TURO is a relatively affordable option. This is helpful to travel to snorkel area and park which are a couple miles away. The bay and beaches are walkable!

Available Packages

Shared Room in Garden Suite

The Garden Rooms are a great place to relax and rest your soul on days you are not out exploring the island or swimming in one of several nearby bays or beaches. Imagine waking every morning to a symphony of bird songs. End your days quietly as the ocean waves lull you to sleep.


This room is on the lower level of the main structure and shares a newly remodeled bathroom with 1 other room and a lanai.


Note on Room: You can book this room with a friend, or I can pair you with someone of the same gender. I have hosted about 15 retreats, and on every retreat about half of the group shares a room with someone they've never met. 100% of the time it works out beautifully. If for any reason it doesn't work for you when you arrive or at any point during the retreat, there is always another solution.


Note on booking: the deposit for your room is non-refundable.  Final payment is due 2 months before trip begins, and the trip is non-refundable from there. I run small, high-impact retreats and simply need to ensure I am supported to make what I do possible. Travel insurance is available to you if that's helpful. Thank you for understanding and for your support in making these dream moments come to life and for the gift of allowing me to serve and support you in thriving.

$1,825
Shared Room in Balcony Suite

The Dolphin + Turtle Suites are two of our two most luxurious suites with balinese style decor. It is surrounded on three sides by a private lanai and the interior opens to cathedral ceilings.


Wake up every morning immersed in a gentle symphony of bird songs and fall asleep to the sounds of the ocean. Enjoy your morning meditation, yoga or breakfast on your own private lanai as it over looks Kealakeua Bay.

$2,335
Deposit: $500
Private Room in Cottage Temple

The prayer temples are a humble and secluded place to enjoy your stay. It is nestled within the native Hawaiian vegetation with a beautiful orchard and ocean view.


Wake up every morning immersed in a gentle symphony of bird songs and fall asleep to the sounds of the ocean. Enjoy your morning meditation, yoga or breakfast on your own private lanai as it overlooks Kealakekua Bay.


*Couples / friends are welcome to rent this room. The charge for the second person is $1500. 


Note on Room: You can book this room with a friend, or I can pair you with someone of the same gender. I have hosted about 15 retreats, and on every retreat about half of the group shares a room with someone they've never met. 100% of the time it works out beautifully. If for any reason it doesn't work for you when you arrive or at any point during the retreat, there is always another solution.


Note on booking: the deposit for your room is non-refundable.  Final payment is due 1 month before trip begins, and the trip is non-refundable from there. I run small, high-impact retreats and simply need to ensure I am supported to make what I do possible. Travel insurance is available to you if that's helpful. Thank you for understanding and for your support in making these dream moments come to life and for the gift of allowing me to serve and support you in thriving.

$3,400
Deposit: $1,600


Your Organizer


OY
Outdoor Yoga Retreats
40 reviews
I draw on the contemplative traditions of reiki, meditation, yoga, nutrition, positive psychology and integrative wellness to address the entire human experience - physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. I teach a steady, strong and spirited vinyasa class. Classes are thoughtfully designed to the seasons and time of day. You can expect to chant, sweat, feel your heart come alive and learn new elements of yoga philosophy in each class. I also love teaching restorative yoga and yoga nidra in late afternoons and evenings on retreat.

Reviews

MF
This was a more beautiful experience than I ever could have imagined! Thank you Julie and Kirin for creating such a wonderful atmosphere. I met a lot of amazing women here. The yoga classes and other programming were excellent all week.
By Magdalena F for Soulful Yoga Retreat from Women on Feb 22, 2024
A fabulous experience—Julie and Kirin did such a good job creating a safe space for us to feel rejuvenated and connected to ourselves and each other. There was a good mix of standard yoga flow classes with other uplifting and empowering experiences including a pose lab, yoga nidra and hypnotherapy, and an introduction to the practice of somatics. The retreat center environment was stunning—we saw macaws every day and ate delicious, healthy food for every meal. I can’t recommend this experience highly enough and I hope to be able to return again next year!
By Makenna M for Soulful Yoga Retreat from Women on Feb 19, 2024
It was wonderful! Fabulous yoga instructors/leader and great group of people. The resort was divine and Costa Rica was magnificent! Thank-you thank-you for a restful recharge.
By Cheryl M for Soulful Yoga Retreat from Women on Feb 19, 2024
SD
I have been involved with Outdoor Yoga SF for around five years, attending local yoga classes at the beach and have now joined for two international retreats. Both in Costa Rica and both have been amazingly refreshing and rejuvenating. Even these words do not really do justice to how my body, mind and soul feel after spending time with only women and in such beautiful lush scenery. The Outdoor Yoga community is so special and attracts people of all backgrounds and various personalities all of whom value nurturing and nourishing our bodies and souls. The founder Julie and teacher extraordinaire Kirin make the retreat experience unique and special! My favorite parts of the retreat have been the level and mix of yoga and other exercises such as Barre or partner yoga, dance, reiki and background/education on foundational yoga poses. There are always opportunities to learn more such as with a somatic overview, tapping or hypnotherapy. My favorite part about these retreats is that there is no pressure for joining every single thing offered, but usually I want to go to everything! I am already over scheduled in my regular life that I don't want to feel that way on vacation. I honestly don't have a lot of feeback on ways to make these retreats better because Julie has already made them so special and will continue to eb and flow with new and fun opportunities. The food was great and healthy and the amount of exercise feels really good and a privilege. I will also say, when you travel you cannot guarantee anything and sometimes there may be issues; Julie is a strong advocate for her retreat members and will support you if there are any issues at all. The excursions offered were also a nice perk to this experience. Last year I rode a horse on the beach and on a hike to a waterfall and repelled down the waterfall; it was EPIC! Riding the horse through the fields with parrots and toucans all around felt very magical! The music and singing/chanting was also one of my favorite things about this space! The music is soothing and inspirational. Thank you so much Julie and Kirin for this abundant opportunity! I look forward to more <3 
By Susie D for Soulful Yoga Retreat from Women on Feb 18, 2024
CS
Absolutely life-changing! Julie and Kirin are truly one-of-a-kind human beings and it was one of the greatest joys of my life to spend a week learning from them and practicing with them. The picturesque location, nourishing food, and beautiful accommodations really set the stage for an unforgettable experience. The workshops, meditations, and yoga practices were all incredible resources I could seamlessly integrate into my daily life. The other women attending this retreat played a pivotal role in making my experience exceptional. The group radiated grace, vulnerability, acceptance, and openness. I am profoundly grateful for the connections formed during this retreat, and having these incredible individuals in my life is a true blessing. Julie and Kirin have a remarkable talent for bringing together like-minded and like-hearted people. It felt like every single persons' attendance was fateful and that this group was really meant to be there together. We had women join from all over and though a lot of us came to the trip solo- there was an immediate soul connection. This retreat served as a genuine reset for my life, and I believe it's such essential priority for our well-being- one I knew I needed but didn't realize how much I needed it until I was there and afterwards. To those hesitant about investing in such an experience, I can confidently say that the returns, in numerous and unexpected ways, are tenfold. The impact on your life is truly well worth the investment!
By Christina S for Soulful Yoga Retreat from Women on Feb 13, 2024
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References

CB
Julieanne and Kirin's retreats are the perfect blend of soul food style movement, downtempo relaxation time in a gorgeous environment, friendship, delicious healthy food and fun. I can not provide a higher endorsement for a trip with these women and feel so lucky to have experienced multiple yoga vacations. Honestly, the most relaxing, deeply nourishing and low stress trips of my life. If you are reading this.....just book the damn trip. You will not be disappointed.
By Chelsea B on 21 Feb, 2023
I recently returned from an incredible 7 day retreat at the wonderful Blue Osa in Costa Rica, hosted by Julie and Kirin. The community formed in a week amongst 15 women, ranging in age from 23-73, without expectation, and trusting something was there for all of us, was truly magical and something I have never experienced. Julie and Kirin created a safe space for us to share our grief, tender spots, goals and vulnerability. This retreat was long overdue for me, as a mom of two young girls, it truly was one of the best experiences of my life. The retreat gave me the space to be held in nature, by new friends, through delicious healthy meals and most importantly fill my cup first so I can give back to my family and those around me. Julie and Kirin are authentic, loving and inspiring in their own unique way, it was truly a gift to be able to practice alongside them and a group of beautiful women. I highly recommend any retreat with Julie and Kirin as it will change your life forever!
By Kirsten F on 08 Feb, 2023
Since returning from Kauai, I have felt a sense of retreat throughout my days. Peace and serenity weave through my day, easing the stress from work and everyday tasks. I am motivated and inspired to continue what I have learned on the retreat and bring it into my daily life. This retreat showed me what it was like to take care of myself and ultimately how that will help me to take care of those around me. From eating healthy meals, to practicing yoga regularly, to calming my mind and practicing kind observations. A huge thank you to Julie for her care and support during the retreat. It was a treat being able to spend this time with her guiding our group. She was prepared and had lots of information and goodies to share, yet was flexible and open to changing the itinerary based on the needs of the group and the weather. Her knowledge of yoga, the island, cooking, and many other great things kept us inspired and in awe. I would recommend a retreat with Julie to anyone with a curious mind, an open heart, and anyone who wants to truly relax and retreat in a healthy and rejuvenating way.
By Hannah E on 30 Sep, 2018
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