Redwoods & Waves Retreat
Registration is closed for Redwoods & Waves 2024.
Click here if you would like to join the waitlist for our next retreat!
Registration is closed for Redwoods & Waves 2024
Click here to join the waitlist for our next retreat!
Revitalize
Mind | Body | Heart | Soul
Retreat to Trinidad, California
August 7-11, 2024
Retreat to the wild and beautiful landscape of Northern California!
Delight your senses with breathtaking ocean views, forest bathing in ancient forests filled with the tallest trees on the planet, tide pooling on agate beaches and kayaking in a pristine ocean harbor filled with a myriad of sea life.
You will learn Reiki & Yoga practices that help you cultivate a connection to the five healing elements in your body. We will explore nature as a profound gateway into healing, self-realization and interconnection with life.
Together in retreat, enjoy epic oceanside accommodations, delicious and healthy high-vibration food, sunsets, hiking, time on the beach, sound healing, chances to get all the way out on the water, sharing some sweet yoga practices, laughing + healing in community.
Let's make new friends and create an intimate container for deep healing and transformation, without sacrificing lightheartedness and fun!
You will leave this retreat with your roots nourished - your heart & soul replenished and your mind at ease.
All of this goodness awaits those who say YES YES YES YES to the spark of this retreat!
If you hear the call in your heart… start counting down the days until August!!!
We would LOVE to welcome you on an EPIC ADVENTURE to the PNW!!!
Keep reading to learn more about what this retreat has to offer you.
About Trinidad
Trinidad is a seaside town in Humboldt County, located on the Pacific Ocean 8 miles north of the Arcata-Eureka Airport and 15 miles north of the college town of Arcata. Situated directly above its own natural harbor, Trinidad is one of California's smallest incorporated cities, (with a 2010 population of 367). It sits as a gateway to the Redwood National Forest and is noted for its spectacular coastline with ten public beaches and dramatic offshore rocks.
In addition to its coastal assets, the city honors and works to protect its Native American cultural and historic heritage.
You will have the chance to kayak through Trinidad Harbor as part of this retreat!
Trinidad, California is the ancestral homeland to the Yurok, Wiyot and Tolowa people.
About the Redwoods
California coastal redwoods are the tallest known tree species in the world. Mature trees average 150 – 250 feet tall, and some of the tallest trees exceed 350 feet with a diameter that can surpass 20 feet.
These resilient trees often live several hundred years, and in some cases, more than 2,000 years. This makes them one of the oldest tree species in the world.
Redwood National & State Parks (RNSP) in Humboldt County, CA, is home of the world's tallest trees. Nearly half of the remaining old growth redwoods are in this park system, including giants five stories taller than the Statue of Liberty. They can live to be 2,000 years old and grow to more than 375 feet tall.
Together these parks are a World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve, protecting resources cherished by citizens of many nations.
On this retreat, you will get to witness two species of Redwoods and hike through ancient old growth forests!
YOUR RETREAT INCLUDES
4 nights oceanside accommodations in Trinidad or nearby Sue-meg State Park
3 delicious, high vibration meals prepared with love by the talented Casandra Kelly Catering
World class hiking in forests filled with the tallest tress in the world
Ocean kayaking in Trinidad Harbor
Day of surf & sand at the gorgeous Moonstone Beach
Daily Reiki, Yoga & meditation
Beachside sound healing from the gong goddess & sound alchemy of Jen Madrone
Cultivating a profound connection to nature using Reiki & Yoga practices to embody the five healing elements
Airport transfer from ACV
NOT INCLUDED
Flights to ACV
OPTIONAL
Private Reiki sessions with Carrie
Lomi lomi massage (traditional Hawaiian healing massage)
Surfing
Tennis
Gratuities
Alcohol
Local historic museum, lighthouse, gardens, shopping and dining in Trinidad
Accommodations are available for different body types & abilityMany of the activities are weather dependent. Backup plans will be made in the case of inclement weather.
Retreat Accommodations
We have rented three of Trinidad’s most picturesque vacation rentals for your retreat.
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The Bluffs
Welcome to The Bluffs, a newly remodeled vacation rental, situated in the pristine natural beauty of Patrick's Point, Trinidad, just steps away from the Sue-Meg State Park. This charming home offers three bedrooms and two full bathrooms, combining modern comforts with the tranquility of the breathtaking coastal views of the Pacific Ocean.
Nestled on a sprawling 3-acre property, The Bluffs presents a wealth of outdoor activities. Immerse yourself in relaxation with the hot tub and refresh in the outdoor shower, surrounded by nature's beauty. Multiple outdoor lounge areas are perfect for savoring the breathtaking views of the Pacific Coast Ocean. If adventure calls, step into the Sue-Meg State Park directly from the property, granting access to local trails, pristine beaches, and remarkable natural wonders.
At The Bluffs, you'll experience a harmonious blend of comfort and nature, making it the perfect destination for unforgettable coastal getaways.
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Casa Azul
3-bedroom, 3-bathroom spacious home offers a fantastic blend of comfort, convenience, and proximity to nature. Whether you're looking to relax indoors, explore the outdoors, or enjoy the local attractions, our property serves as an ideal base for your Trinidad, California getaway.
Casa Azul has three gorgeous bedrooms, two of which have their own private bathrooms. You will have plenty of space to relax in this home’s two living rooms. The main floor features a spectacular ocean view and an open floor plan, while the lower level accesses the private yard, media area, and yoga area.
There’s a telescope for scouting sea stacks, watching for whales, and checking out the Milky Way if our famous Humboldt fog cooperates.This property features a large yard, perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying the California ocean waves. Whether you want to play a game of catch, corn hole, sit by the fire pit, have a picnic, or simply soak up the fresh air, our yard provides a great space to do so.
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Treasure Cove
This custom, two story home is located just a few houses away from downtown Trinidad has great ocean views and coastal access. A trail located directly in front of home leads to Trinidad Head & Beach. The three bedrooms plus two marble full bathrooms are located downstairs. All bedrooms are very comfortable and well appointed.
The living room, dining area, kitchen have a spectacular view of Trinidad Head, Harbor and Humboldt Bay. Watch the sunset on this property’s expansive deck!
The furnishings are modern, stylish and comfortable. Relax by the fireplace with complimentary wood supplied.
After a day of exploring on retreat, soak in the hot tub under the stars and a panoramic view of Trinidad Harbor.
Retreat Schedule
Thursday August 8
Breakfast
Yin Yoga & Healing Circle
Lunch
Afternoon at Moonstone Beach
Vinyasa Yoga
Dinner
Sound Healing
Wednesday August 7
Check in 4pm
Welcome Circle
Dinner
Friday August 9
Morning Meditation
Breakfast
Gentle Yoga
Hiking in Redwood State & National Park
Afternoon at Gold Bluffs Beach
Dinner
Evening Bonfire
Saturday August 10
Breakfast
Ocean or Lagoon Kayaking
Lunch
Free time in Trinidad
Yin Yoga & Healing Circle
Dinner
Sunday August 11
Breakfast
Vinyasa Yoga
Closing Circle
Checkout by 11am
Want to Learn More?
Schedule a discovery call with Carrie to get all of your questions answered!
About your Retreat Facilitators
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Carrie Varela
Carrie is a Reiki practitioner and teacher, yoga instructor, Blissologist, mystic, lover, mom of toddlers and modern day healer. She inspires people to connect to Spirit, Nature and their truest essence through Reiki, yoga, meditation and nutrition. She is the founder of the Reiki Healing Society and the co-host of the Reiki Women Podcast.
Carrie offers trauma-informed services and uses decolonization principles which aim to provide a safe, supportive space for your healing and growth.
Carrie has over 1,050 hours of yoga teacher training experience, taught over 5,000 yoga classes and lead 80 transformative Reiki trainings. It is her intention to show up for you with an open heart, mind and curiosity to support your healing & growth with Reiki & Yoga. Her lifelong passion for travel and adventure has inspired her to offer yoga, Reiki and healing retreats in some of her favorite places, both locally and internationally.
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Christine Barnett
Christine is an Adolescent Coach based in Boulder, Colorado. She is an avid yogi, hiker and a nature inspired designer and artist.
Christine facilitates empowerment circles to bring groups together where each person is heard, seen, and valued.
Her gentle guidance often yields inspiration for greater self love, healing and increased awareness & care for our precious planet. She is a long time yoga student of Carrie and has received Reiki from Carrie on many occasions.
Christine loves to fill her days and heart in deep reverence for Mother Nature and is eager to experience Earth Medicine with all who are called to share this experience.
Healthy, Delicious, High Vibration Food from Casandra Kelly Catering
Casandra’s mission is to create simple yet delicious + digestible meals that make those fresh ingredients pop! Inspired by nature, they like to emphasis thoughtfully sourced, seasonal, organic and wildcrafted foods in all their cooking and choose local products whenever possible. Casandra proudly provides catering services to, and identifies as part of the lgbtqia+ community. We've grown accustomed to hearing that our meals were the highlight of the retreat!
Feedback from past retreats on Casandra’s catering:
Sarah:
“OMG…There aren’t enough words to describe how awesome Casandra and her talents are!
How would you rate the quality of food from Casandra from 1 to 5?
11!
Our Retreat Partners
Ensuite Lomi Lomi Massage
Lomi Lomi is used to refer to any traditional Hawaiian massage. The definition of Lomi is “reconnecting with spirit”. Ancient Hawaiian massage acknowledges and honors the sacredness of all life. Each human being is seen as precious, and the bodywork honors the whole. Lomi Lomi is truly about sharing Aloha (Love). Lomi will leave you feeling luxurious, with your soul soaring.
You will have the option to book a Lomi Lomi massage in your room should you desire on retreat! (Please note that the price of a massage is not included in the retreat.)
Gong Goddess & Sound Alchemy Vibrations from Jen Madrone
Jen Madrone is a sound healer, reiki master, body worker, author and teacher. Her sound healing journeys are intuitively guided and use a wide variety of sound tools to create the frequencies and vibrations that encourage your body, mind and soul to relax, let go and to remember how to heal itself. She uses planetary gongs and tuning forks, crystal and Tibetan singing bowls, drums, bells, chimes and more.
Jen will be providing a sound healing journey for us one evening of the retreat!
Kayak Trinidad
Kayak Trinidad is Humboldt County’s premiere paddlesports instruction & guiding center. Nestled along the rugged redwood coast, Trinidad offers up some of the most spectacular coastal paddling in the world. Whether you’re new to ocean paddling or a salty veteran, Kayak Trinidad offers a variety of options for all levels of paddler. With over twenty years of experience coaching and guiding under our belt, you can rest assured your safety and enjoyment is our primary objective.
Kayak Trinidad will be providing expert kayak instruction and all equipment on your retreat!
Want to Learn More?
Schedule a discovery call with Carrie to get all of your questions answered!
Travel Information
Flights
Fly to Arcata/Mckinleyville Airport (ACV)
Flying to ACV - Is the easiest, most convenient flight option. ACV is a small airport and is ideal because your Trinidad destination is only 15 minutes from ACV. The retreat includes airport transportation from ACV airport.
Flying to SFO - San Francisco is the closest large airport to Trinidad, CA. It is a beautiful, 5.5 hour drive from San Francisco to Trinidad. You can fly to SFO and drive to Trinidad in one day. Transportation from SFO to Trinidad is not included in the retreat, you would need to rent a car or arrange a different mode of transportation.
Flying to SMF - Sacramento is another flight option and is equidistant to San Francisco. You can expect a 5.5 hour drive from Sacramento to Trinidad. Transportation from SMF to Trinidad is not included in the retreat, you would need to rent a car or arrange a different mode of transportation.
Flying to Santa Rosa (STS) - Is another option although it isn’t likely to be much less expensive than ACV and it is a 4 hour drive to Trinidad from Santa Rosa. Transportation from STS to Trinidad is not included in the retreat, you would need to rent a car or arrange a different mode of transportation.
Airport Shuttles
We will pick you up and return you to the ACV airport. If you are traveling prior to Wednesday, August 7th or traveling through a different airport, contact Carrie to discuss your travel arrangements.
Visas
Not needed unless you are traveling to the United States from another country.
Transportation within Retreat:
Transportation to all retreat activities and airport transfers to ACV are included in the price of the retreat. The retreat accommodations of the Casa Azul and Treasure Cove are located in the town of Trinidad. The Bluffs vacation home is located 4 miles from Trinidad. Rides to/from meals and activities are included. If you are unable to walk up or down hills or are unable to walk ½ mile distances or more please contact Carrie to discuss. If you would like to have your own access to transportation you are encouraged to rent a car.
Testimonials from our Past Retreats
FAQs
Can I attend the retreat all by myself?
A retreat is a wonderful way to make new friends. More than likely if you are traveling alone, you won’t be alone! Most of our retreat go-ers in the past have come by themselves. Coming with a friend or as a couple is also a great option.
What if I don’t want to participate in one or more of the activities?
All retreat activities are optional. If there is one or more activities you do not feel comfortable with or is inaccessible for you, we can work together to set up an alternative activity. Yoga classes are designed for beginner to intermediate practitioners and can be modified for your body type and ability within reason. Beginner yoga students might want to set up a yoga private lesson with Carrie in advance of the retreat to ready themselves for the experience.
What is the food like? Can you accommodate my dietary restrictions?
We will be serving fresh, healthy and locally sourced food. When you register for the retreat we will ask you if you have any dietary restrictions. Based on our responses, we will build a meal plan that accommodates everyone. A few weeks prior to the retreat we will follow up with all retreat participants to ensure the meals work for you.
How do I get around on retreat?
Transportation to all retreat activities and airport transfers to ACV are included in the price of the retreat. The retreat accommodations of Casa Azul and Treasure Cove are located in the town of Trinidad. The Bluffs vacation home is located 4 miles north of Trinidad. Rides to/from meals, activities and one trip to Trinidad are included per day. If you would like to have your own access to transportation you are encouraged to rent a car. If you are unable to walk up or down hills or are unable to walk ½ mile distances or more please contact Carrie to discuss.
Can I set up a payment plan?
You can reserve the room of your choice for a $500 non-refundable deposit. Carrie will contact you to set up a payment plan for the remainder of the balance due. A small fee of $25/per payment on the payment plan is applied. Retreat must be paid in full three weeks prior to the retreat. Please see retreat terms and conditions for more information.
What’s the weather like?
Weather in coastal California is wonderfully cool, around 50 - 75 degrees F. Generally, we enjoy mild, slightly cool weather without a lot of extremes in temperature. August is typically our warmest month of the year. Weather at the time of the retreat is approximately 50 degrees F at night and can swing up to 75 degrees F during the day.
In practical terms, I find that I am most comfortable wearing pants and a t-shirt with an additional layer as necessary. At night, I wear a sweatshirt . When I am outside during the day in the sunlight the weather is quite comfortable. We might experience rain and wind on retreat but a good rain jacket and hat will keep you sufficiently warm.
We will be monitoring the weather and ocean currents carefully in the days prior to the retreat and potentially re-arranging the schedule so that we can kayak on the days with the most ideal weather patterns.
Check Out the Amazing Scenery You Will Enjoy on this Retreat!
Want to Learn More?
Schedule a discovery call with Carrie to get all of your questions answered!