Finding Your Voice: Hawaii Island Writing & Yoga Retreat

This October 19-24, 2025, step into a new relationship with your creativity. Let the dramatic beauty of Hawaii's North Kohala Coast, the wisdom of yoga practice, and the power of generative writing converge to unlock the voice that's been waiting within you.

Led by Man Booker Prize long-listed novelist Virginia Reeves and experienced yoga instructor Michele Zentz, this retreat weaves together daily yoga sessions with generative writing exercises designed to unlock your authentic voice. Whether you're an experienced yogi or have never stepped on a mat, whether you write novels or journals, this retreat meets you exactly where you are.

Our intimate generative writing and yoga retreat offers a transformative journey that awakens creativity through mindful movement and inspired writing.

Imagine beginning each day with sunrise yoga overlooking dramatic cliffs and azure waters, your practice opening channels of creativity you didn't know existed. As your body releases tension through gentle stretches and conscious breathing, your mind clears, making space for stories, poems, and insights to flow naturally onto the page.

Each morning unfolds with intention: yoga practice attunes your body and breath, followed by generative writing sessions where Virginia guides you through exercises that complement the physical practice.

Write in genres that call to you—fiction, memoir, poetry, or hybrid forms. The afternoon offers time for reflection, optional beach visits, hiking ancient trails, or simply writing in paradise. Your mat and your notebook await.

No Application is Required. Space is limited.

Enroll Now to Secure Your Spot!

Dates:

October 19th - 24th, 2025

All interested writers are encouraged to take the leap and join us in Hawaii!

2025 Writing & Yoga Instructors

Generative Writing & Yoga Instructor Virginia Reeves is a graduate of the Michener Center for Writers at the University of Texas at Austin. Her debut novel, Work Like Any Other, was long-listed for the Man Booker Prize and the Center for Fiction’s First Novel Prize, and Booklist named it to their Top 10 First Novels of 2016. It has been translated into multiple languages and adapted into a graphic novel. Her second novel, The Behavior of Love, was released in 2019 and also translated into multiple languages. Virginia has taught writing workshops through writers-in-the schools programs, libraries, and museums, and she currently teaches writing and literature at Helena College. In addition to her writing life, Virginia is a 200-hour certified yoga instructor and teaches multiple classes at her local studio. She lives in Montana with her partner, daughters, and three-legged Pit Bull.

Yoga Instructor Michele Zentz teaches English and Physical Education/Health at an alternative high school in Helena, Montana. With over 15 years of experience, she integrates her deep passion for mindfulness, meditation, and yoga into both the classroom—supporting at-risk youth—and community studios where she guides adults through various practices including Yin and Vinyasa. Before stepping into education and healing arts, Michele played semi-professional soccer for the Seattle Sounders and later coached Division I women’s soccer at Boise State University. The arrival of her two daughters shifted her priorities, ushering in a new season centered on family, embodiment, and purpose. These days, you’ll find Michele hiking with her dogs, mountain biking rugged trails, or backpacking through Montana’s wild places. As she steps into her empty-nest era, Michele is diving deeper into her magic as a healer and embracing her creative voice through writing.

2025 Trip Guides

Trip Guide Danielle Kimzey has an MFA in Painting from the University of Iowa, where she received the Mildred Lynch Pelzer Fellowship. Her work has been exhibited internationally and across the United States; she is represented by Galleri Urbane in Dallas. Recently, her work has been shown at The Painting Center in New York, The Hawn Gallery at SMU, St. Ambrose University, and the Mesquite Arts Center. She has been a resident at the Vermont Studio Center and the Nemeth Art Center in Minnesota. In 2012, she was the Artist in Residence at Knox College, where she had a solo show at the Box Gallery and painted a large mural in downtown Galesburg, IL. In 2020, her design for a 30-foot-tall Living Wall in West Palm Beach, Florida, was realized at 205 Datura Street. Currently, she runs the Art Cottage Airbnb in Dallas. Danielle was a bicycle and Segway tour guide with Fat Tire Bike Tours in Nice and Paris, France. She has also worked as an art teacher to students of all ages and stages. She was the middle and high school art teacher at Cambridge School of Dallas. She taught Drawing at The University of Iowa, public art at Knox College, and Design at Texas Christian University. Currently, she teaches Art Appreciation and Painting at Dallas College. Danielle's art or writing has appeared in McSweeney's, D Magazine, The Dallas Morning News, Faultline: Journal of Arts and Letters, Rust Belt Bindery, and Her Royal Majesty.

Trip Guide Crystal Franz worked as a bicycle tour guide with Fat Tire Bike Tours in Paris and Versailles. She holds an M.F.A. in theatre directing from Texas State University with a secondary focus in Shakespeare Studies. She studied and taught for two summers at the Shakespeare Institute in Stratford-upon-Avon. She taught directing, acting, and Intro to Fine Arts at Texas State University, as well as middle and high school drama at Headwaters School in Austin, TX. Her productions of The Triathlete by Gus Bennett, Lightning Girl by Rita Anderson, and Mother Enough? which she wrote, all won “Best of the Week” in Frontera Fringe Festival in Austin. She was selected as a national finalist in the SDC Directing Initiative and attended the KCACTF National Festival at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C., where she was invited to attend the M.F.A. Playwrights’ Workshop. Crystal strives to live creatively and seek out new experiences. You will find her outside, globetrotting, reading a book, learning to play the violin alongside her children, making dessert - something chocolate, or scooching her dog Bonzo off her yoga mat.

Lodging at Hawaii Island Retreat

Immerse yourself in both comfort and inspiration for 6 days, 5 nights at Hawaii Island Retreat. This 4-star eco-boutique hotel and wellness spa is a place of intentional peacefulness, set among towering evergreens and ocean breezes along Hawaii Island's North Kohala coast. Including your own room, three delicious daily meals are included in your workshop tuition. We selected The Hawaii Island Retreat specifically because of their commitment to green travel. Recognized by the Hawaiian Green Business Program as a leader in sustainability, you can learn more about their dedication to living in balance with the land here.

2025 Retreat Schedule

This schedule is tentative and exact times are subject to change. A final version of the schedule will be sent out a few weeks before the trip.

Sunday, October 19

Free Airport pickups from KOA (Kona International Airport) throughout the day. Hotel Check-in begins at 3:00 p.m. (if you arrive early you are welcome to leave your bags at the front desk).

Monday - Thursday

Mornings: generative writing and optional yoga classes.

Afternoons/Evenings: Lunch break, free time, and optional activities.

Friday, October 24

Optional morning yoga 7:00-7:45 a.m. Breakfast 8:00 a.m. Check-out at Hawaii Island Retreat 11:00 a.m. Free Airport shuttle drop offs to KOA (Kona International Airport) throughout the day.

2025 Included Optional Activities

Sunday, October 19

Free Airport pickups from KOA (Kona International Airport) throughout the day. Hotel Check-in begins at 3:00 p.m. (if you arrive early you are welcome to leave your bags at the front desk). Dinner at 6:30pm

Luau 12:30pm (Monday)

One of the most festive experiences to be had on a visit to the Hawaiian Islands is a luau – a Hawaiian feast featuring lively music and vibrant cultural performances from Hawaii and greater Polynesia.

Kohola Legends Walking Tour 2:00pm (Monday)

Step back in time and explore the verbal traditions of Kohala on an easygoing walk. Identify traditional plant medicine, customs, and stories of the area while basking in the valley's tranquility, the birds' songs, and the resident stones. Reconnect with your place and peace in the greater web of life.

Hike on the Pololu Trail Departing at 2:00pm (Tuesday)

On Tuesday afternoon, we will hike the Pololu Trail. The Pololu Trail offers a scenic, moderate hike that takes you down into the lush Pololu Valley, where you’ll be greeted with stunning views of dramatic cliffs, dense tropical vegetation, and the black sand beach below. There will be time for individual writing and yoga during this adventure, allowing you to connect with the landscape and your creativity in your own peaceful way.

Trip to either Hapuna Beach or Spencer Beach Departing at 2:00pm (Wednesday)

On Wednesday, we will take a trip to either Hapuna Beach or Spencer Beach (the exact beach will be chosen on the day based on wave conditions and the safety of swimming). Both beaches are stunning in their own way, with Hapuna offering wide stretches of golden sand and crystal-clear waters, while Spencer Beach is known for its calm, protected waters, perfect for a relaxing afternoon by the shore. There will also be time for individual writing and yoga, giving you a chance to enjoy the serene surroundings and let inspiration flow.

Hike at Kalōpā State Park Departing at 10:30am (Thursday)

Kalōpā State Park offers a peaceful escape through a beautiful forest of native Hawaiian trees. The hike here is easy to moderate, with shaded trails and a serene environment perfect for reflection and connection with nature. Enjoy the quiet beauty of this often overlooked gem in the mountains of the Big Island. On the way to the hike, we’ll stop in Waimea for a leisurely lunch, where you can savor some local flavors before heading out into the tranquility of the park. Writing time will also be available on this trip, allowing you to reflect and capture your thoughts in this tranquil, natural setting.

Trip to the town of Hawi for souvenir shopping and art galleries departing at 2:00 p.m. (Thursday)

Hawi, a charming little town known for its vibrant arts scene and historical charm. Nestled in lush landscapes, it offers a peaceful retreat with a friendly, small-town vibe. On our visit we will explore quaint shops offering unique souvenirs, from handmade jewelry to local crafts. The town’s rich history and artistic spirit make it a delightful stop for both relaxation and discovering local treasures.

Friday, October 24

Optional morning yoga 7:00-7:45 a.m. Breakfast 8:00 a.m. Check-out at Hawaii Island Retreat 11:00 a.m. Free Airport shuttle drop offs to KOA (Kona International Airport) throughout the day.

Tuition

Tuition is $2,495, $2,995, or $3,695 depending on room-type and includes the following:

Lodging at Hawaii Island Retreat for 6 days, 5 nights.
Daily breakfast, lunch & dinner (except lunch on Thursday in Waimea).
All writing and yoga classes.
Optional afternoon activities, including hiking and trips to the beach.
Luau on Monday.
Free shuttle pickup and drop off from Kona International Airport (KOA) on the first and last day of the workshop.
The time of your life.
Payment Plans: retreat attendees will have the option to pay their tuition in full or opt for a payment plan divided into equal monthly payments by selecting Affirm (for U.S. & Canadian residents) at checkout.
Accommodations: Our retreat offers 3 rooming options:
$2,495 for a shared hotel room with one other guest.
$2,995 for your own yurt accommodation. Yurts come with a private toilet and sink, but will utilize a shared shower area. In the common shower area there are four private shower stalls, two indoor and two outdoor.
$3,695 for a private hotel room.
Accommodations are first come, first serve, for retreat attendees.
FAQ at the bottom of this page.

Hawaii Retreat Testimonials

"The Workshop in Hawaii exceeded my expectations. I loved connecting with other writers in such a beautiful and inspiring place. I also reconnected with myself. Thank you to the organizers, instructors, and guides. It was a magical experience that I'll never forget. The trip was so refreshing, and helped me reconnect with myself and connect with other writers. The space was also amazing. The combination of both made for the best time I've had in years. Diana is great and definitely helps me think about things in a whole new way. I loved the authenticity of the place and the owner. It felt like a true Hawaiian experience - spiritual and peaceful. The instructors. The guides. People make the experience, and there were some wonderful folks on this trip." -Sam H.

"I don’t want to say this retreat was life changing because that sounds too unbelievable—but it maybe was. Picture an off-the-grid vacation with the Pacific Ocean and lush kale salads happening alongside a craft workshop with talented writers and instructors. This retreat was a large investment, but ultimately the cost of four days of intensive workshopping and touring around the remote north on Hawaii’s Big Island was incredibly worth it. Beyond our critique hours, I found value in spending so much concentrated time with other writers and thinkers. As writers, we always hear that so much of our practice doesn’t involve writing at all. This immersive retreat was a testament to that, with so much hearty conversation, star gazing, rock skipping, and feasting that I’ll be ruminating on for weeks to come. Do it!!" -Jenna K.

"The Writing Workshops Hawaii experience was absolutely phenomenal. Connecting with writers from all different parts of the country with varied lived experiences was invaluable, and at the end of every day I felt inspired and renewed. The property was incredible, and I loved that all of our workshopping and seminars were done outdoors, the ocean in view. Blake + Mike went above and beyond to make sure everyone felt comfortable and informed, and did a great job coordinating full, fun days that included not only writing-themed activities but exploring the surrounding areas. It exceeded my expectations, and I look forward to joining another Writing Workshops session in the future!" -Emmy F.

"The communication leading up to the workshop was excellent. Diana was a wonderful workshop leader and I would gladly take a class from her again. As organizers, Blake and Mike cover all the bases so attendees can totally relax in the environment and focus on writing and group connections. The overall experience, the inclusion of food and housing, the community that was built, the work we did -- thumbs up on everything!" -Catherine V.

"My time in Hawaii was an absolute dream of a vacation. I went somewhere new and exciting, I got to live in a yurt in the jungle 'glamping' with very accomplished and creative writers who I now have the privilege to call my friends. Being in the company of industry professionals Mark Gottlieb and Ying Compestine as well as Blake Kimzey for a week was amazing. The conversation and networking potential for all of us was unique and unlike anything you could possibly get online or even at a big conference. I came home feeling empowered and excited to continue working on my manuscripts with excellent advice from accomplished authors and a top agent. Watch out publishing world, here I come! Thank you, Blake and Mike, for the experience. It is something I will never forget." -Blair W.

"Best experience I've had as a writer. I have done writing workshops before, but nothing like this one. I received genuinely transformative feedback, knowledge, and social support around my writing and novel. I will always be grateful for all I gained, learned, and experienced in this workshop. I can wholeheartedly say that the amateur writer who came into this workshop is now a tremendously evolved amateur writer with a new lens on transferring thought into text. I learned so much about my own craft, and how to tailor the style, and plot points to better suit the story I want to tell. The adventures, authors, experiences, feedback, people, places and workshops were gratifyingly high quality. It felt safe being an amateur. I received transformative feedback on my current WIP which has greatly shifted the ways I write." -Enrique E.

"The workshop exceeded my expectations. The support from my group members was so helpful, but group cohesion was much better than I could have predicted. I looked at the week as a personal retreat, so the money was worth the time alone. And then being able to enjoy the grounds of the retreat and the company of other writers made it even better. I appreciated Brandon Hobson's generous feedback and the way he structured the workshops to allow specific and focused feedback. It was a lovely hotel with beautiful grounds and a great staff." -Margie D.

"I loved my first experience with Writing Workshops Hawaii. The teachers were amazing, the location was beautiful, and the community of writers were inspiring to be around. The entire trip was well thought out and organized, from the shuttles to the planned activities. For me it's not the destination, it's the workshop itself. I'll probably follow you anywhere." -Diane F.

"Brandon Hobson was very helpful and I’m returning home feeling inspired and re-invigorated. The week overall provided a great balance of structured group time and individual time. It was a fantastic experience and I’m glad I did it. I would 100% recommend Writing Workshops Hawaii!" - Aubrey M.

"Writing Workshops Hawaii was one of the most amazing gifts that I have ever given myself. I did not have to think of anything but writing and taking in the beauty and wisdom that Hawaii offers because everything was already done and thought of for me. All you have to do is show up. A truly magical and rejuvenating experience where you get to create, travel, and hangout with like-minded people. I will never be able to travel to Hawaii and do the touristy thing because I've been spoiled by Writing Workshops. And Diana Spechler made me feel like I have a seasoned writer on my side for life. I gained so much knowledge about the writing and publishing process on this trip. I also learned from Brandon Hobson and would recommend taking a course or at a retreat with either of them. I received an invaluable one-on-one with Diana. She had thorough feedback regarding my writing and also about publishing. Diana's time did not feel rushed and she tailored a plan for me based on my unique writing style and my desires as a writer. Diana is like the friend who succeeded and is willing to share all her secrets. I found the afternoon seminars extremely valuable. There were a lot of questions asked by other writers that I found helpful. If you're thinking about applying, you should!" -Corrie C.

"Writing Workshops Hawaii was an incredible experience. Everyone was so supportive and the energy from not only the retreat itself but the people as well, was an amazing opportunity and experience, one that you can’t recreate. Brandon Hobson has a very calm and genuine way of helping you better your writing. The support of the entire group was really great and appreciated. I liked that the retreat is secluded. It’s very relaxing and has an authentic feel to it. The staff was amazing. It’s a once in a lifetime experience." -Samantha B.

"The organizers are great at selecting attendees and instructors, organizing a wonderful balance of work-time and relaxation in beautiful settings and an eye toward sustainable tourism. Everyone involved was warm and engaged and provided the perfect structure for getting valuable input on my writing from peers and experienced industry professionals. The courtesy and inclusion shown to people with disabilities was amazing. We had fun! We worked hard! We grew!!!!" - Mysti B.

"I loved this experience. Mike & Blake, y'all are amazing and I look forward to keeping in contact with you both and going on future trips. The connections I made on this trip are impactful and I had so much fun. It was the perfect trip for me writing-wise and personally. THANK YOU." -Jason M.

"The best part of the Hawaiian Writing Workshops Retreat was the people I met. I am walking away with a lifelong group of friends that can support each others' writing, and that's a huge deal. I gained a lot of confidence in my own writing, and I know that I have two professionals in my corner when I am ready to make big moves with my novel." -Ellen G.

"This Writing Workshop that required submitting a writing sample as an application challenged me to see if my in-progress novel would pass the test. When it did (thank you Blake) and I spent 4 days in lively conversations with 16 other writers and the 2 professionals (Agent Mark Gottleib and Ying Compestine who candidly gave us their complete attention), I left Hawaii so motivated to complete my project that I fired up the laptop and wrote during the long flight home." -Mary P.

Application & General FAQ

What is the enrollment deadline?

Enrollment is open. Early enrollment is encouraged. Click here to enroll now.

What is the difference in tuition price?

The cost of a shared hotel room is $2,495 and you will be paired with one other retreat guest (or you can share a room with a friend/partner if you prefer).

A solo yurt for the retreat is $2,995. Yurts come with a private toilet and sink, but will utilize a shared private shower area. In the common shower area there are four private shower stalls, two indoor and two outdoor.

The cost of a private hotel room is $3,695.

Accommodations are first come for attendees and a limited number of each room type is available.

How advanced are the yoga classes?

Our yoga classes welcome all levels of experience.

Are Payment Plans Available?

Yes. Retreat attendees will have the option to pay their tuition in full or opt for a payment plan divided into equal monthly payments by selecting Affirm (for U.S. & Canadian residents) or Lay-Buy (for applicants inside or outside of North America) at checkout.

Are Scholarships Available?

Unfortunately, we do not have the ability to offer scholarships for this workshop. However, we do have payment plans available.

What does tuition include?

Lodging in your own room at Hawaii Island Retreat for 6 days, 5 nights
Daily breakfast, lunch & dinner (except lunch on Thursday in Waimea).
Luau on Monday
Optional afternoon activities including hiking and trips to the beach.
Free shuttle pickup and drop off from Kona International Airport (KOA) on the first and last day of the workshop.
The time of your life
Note: retreat attendees will have the option to pay their tuition in full or opt for a payment plan divided into equal monthly payments by selecting Affirm (for U.S. & Canadian residents) at checkout.

Where is the hotel and retreat venue?

Is alcohol included in the price?

No, but you will have the opportunity to purchase beer and wine if you like.

What is your Refund policy?

Given the intimate nature of our destination workshops and our own, non-refundable deposit schedule as organizers, our refund policy is as follows:

90+ days before your trip, tuition payment minus a $900 deposit is fully refundable.

60+ days before your trip: 50% of your tuition is refundable.

30+ days before your: 25% of your tuition is refundable.

Less than 30 days before your trip: no refunds can be offered.

By making your tuition payment in full, you agree to these terms.

What will you do with my email?

We respect your privacy. We will only use your email to send you information about Writing Workshops. We won't sell or rent your email to other organizations.

I have a question not answered here.

Please contact us and we’ll reply promptly. You can also Chat with us (lower left of your screen).

Terms and Conditions: WritingWorkshops.com 2025 Generative Writing & Yoga Retreat in Hawaii (October 19th–24th, 2025)

Safe, Respectful & Inclusive Environment: WritingWorkshops.com is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all participants at the 2025 Generative Writing & Yoga Retreat in Hawaii. Inappropriate behavior—whether written, verbal, or physical—is strictly prohibited. Such behavior may include (but is not limited to) abuse, threats, derogatory or discriminatory language, gestures, or actions; any form of harassment, racism, sexism; or any other targeted conduct that violates local, national, or international laws or that causes harm to another participant. This applies to interactions before, during, and after the retreat, whether in-person in Hawaii, at associated events, through the WritingWorkshops.com website or social media channels, during any online component, or by any other method of communication. WritingWorkshops.com reserves the right to take appropriate action—up to and including revoking admission without refund—against any individual(s) or group(s) that violate this Code of Conduct.

Health & Safety Guidelines: All attendees are expected to follow relevant public health guidelines, including those related to COVID-19 or other pandemic-level communicable illnesses. This may include social distancing, frequent hand washing, and refraining from attending sessions if feeling unwell. Should you observe or experience a violation of these guidelines or any other part of this Code of Conduct, please contact WritingWorkshops.com immediately.

- Reporting to WritingWorkshops.com does not replace notifying local law enforcement of suspected legal violations.

- In case of an emergency, dial the local emergency number immediately.

- For non-emergencies, local law enforcement contact information will be provided in retreat materials.

Photo, Video & Audio Recording Release: By participating in the WritingWorkshops.com 2025 Generative Writing & Yoga Retreat in Hawaii, you waive all rights to any claims for payment or royalties in connection with the use, exhibition, streaming, webcasting, televising, or other publication of any photos, videos, or audio recordings taken of you during the retreat. You also waive any right to inspect or approve these materials. By registering, you acknowledge that you have been fully informed of your consent, waiver of liability, and release.

Assumption of Risk & Waiver of Liability: By paying your tuition and attending the 2025 Generative Writing & Yoga Retreat in Hawaii, you acknowledge that you are participating voluntarily and assume all risks associated with the retreat, including, but not limited to, injuries, illnesses, damages, theft, or loss of life. WritingWorkshops.com, its organizers, affiliates, and agents (“Organizers”) are not responsible for any injuries, death, or damages—physical or emotional—that may occur during or as a result of your participation. You hereby release, waive, and discharge the Organizers from any and all claims, demands, liabilities, or causes of action arising from or relating to your participation. By paying your tuition, you explicitly agree to these terms.

Travel Documentation & Requirements: Attendees are responsible for ensuring they possess the appropriate documentation required for travel to Hawaii. Should the state of Hawaii (or any relevant authority) implement COVID vaccination or other health requirements, attendees must comply accordingly.

Cancellation & Refund Policy:

Force Majeure / Government Restrictions: If the state of Hawaii forbids entry during October 19th–24th, 2025, or if the retreat venue in Hawaii closes for those dates and no comparable location in Hawaii can be secured, WritingWorkshops.com will offer a full refund of the retreat program fees. WritingWorkshops.com will not reimburse any airline tickets or additional trip-related expenses incurred by participants.

Retreat Proceeding as Scheduled: If the 2025 Generative Writing & Yoga Retreat in Hawaii proceeds on the scheduled dates (October 19th–24th, 2025), no program fees will be reimbursed, regardless of attendance.

Agreement to Terms: By registering for and participating in the WritingWorkshops.com 2025 Generative Writing & Yoga Retreat in Hawaii, you acknowledge that you have read, understand, and agree to abide by these Terms and Conditions. Your registration and payment of tuition constitute a binding agreement to uphold this Code of Conduct and all associated policies.

For questions or additional information, please contact WritingWorkshops.com. We appreciate your cooperation and look forward to creating a welcoming, inspiring, and productive retreat for everyone.

Shopping Cart