Share Your True Story by the Sea
You have a story that keeps asking for your attention.
This retreat is the space to finally share it.
Over four days by the sea at the Kimpton Mirador Pacific Grove Monterey, you will clarify the story you are ready to tell, get words on the page with guided prompts and focused writing time, and leave with realistic next steps for sharing your work beyond the weekend.
No performance. No perfection. Just your lived experience, honored exactly as it is.
This is not a critique-heavy workshop. It is a guided, encouraging space where every voice is respected. No formal writing experience is required.
This retreat is a good fit if you: Want support and structure to finally get your story on the page Want a safe, encouraging circle instead of critique Want a clear path to share your story beyond the weekend.
This may not be the right fit if you: Are looking for line edits or critique-intensive feedback Are looking for instruction in writing fiction or novels.
What We Will Do Together
Join Us in Pacific Grove
July 16–19, 2026
Kimpton Mirador Pacific Grove Monterey
Pacific Grove, CA
Your Weekend by the Sea
Thursday (3:00–5:00 PM)
Arrival + Opening Circle
We settle in, set intentions, and create a safe, supportive space for the weekend. You will be guided through a short grounding practice and reflective prompts to clarify what you want from your retreat.
Friday (9:00 AM–5:00 PM)
Write + Reflect Day
A full day of guided writing, gentle reflection, and structured creative work time. You will move through prompts designed to help you access your most honest story, with breaks for quiet integration and optional coastal walks.
Saturday (9:00 AM–5:00 PM)
Share + Practice Day
We deepen the work by practicing how to share your story aloud with care, intention, and confidence. You will be supported in sharing in a way that feels authentic, and you will receive gentle facilitation to strengthen your voice and presence.
Sunday (9:00 AM–12:00 PM)
Story Roadmap + Closing
A practical morning session to help you take your story beyond the retreat. We will explore realistic options for sharing your work, including blogging, self-publishing, traditional proposals, social media, and short-form video. We close with integration and next steps so you leave feeling clear and supported.
Your Investment
Retreat fee: $333.33
Your retreat fee includes all sessions, materials, and facilitation. Paid directly to John Mothershead.
Lodging: $449/night plus applicable taxes and fees. Rooms are booked separately with the hotel. A limited number of discounted rates are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Booking details will be shared after registration.
Local to Pacific Grove or the Monterey Peninsula? You are welcome to join us for the retreat and return home at the end of each day.
A Beautiful Place to Return to Yourself
Pacific Grove is a beautiful place to return to yourself.
It is quiet, walkable, and surrounded by a coastline that naturally invites reflection. The ocean gives you space to breathe. The fog gives you permission to slow down. The rocks, the waves, the cypress trees, the library, the coastal path, and the little pockets of stillness throughout town all create something rare.
A kind of listening.
During reflection time, you will be encouraged to choose a writing spot that fits your energy. That may be the hotel courtyard, nearby Jewel Park, the Pacific Grove Library, Lovers Point, or the coastal trail.
Where You Will Stay
Retreat rooms are available at the Kimpton Mirador Pacific Grove Monterey, a beautifully situated hotel steps from the coast. Rooms are booked separately with the hotel at $449/night plus applicable taxes and fees.
A limited number of discounted rates may be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Booking details will be shared after registration.
Local to the Monterey Peninsula? You are welcome to join us for the retreat and return home at the end of each day.
FAQ
Who is this retreat for?
This retreat is for anyone who has a story they have been meaning to write. A memory, a turning point, a loss, a healing journey, or a life chapter they are finally ready to put into words. You do not need writing experience. You only need a story that keeps asking for your attention.
Do I need writing experience?
No. This retreat is guided and supportive. Come as you are.
Do I have to share my story aloud?
Sharing is encouraged, never forced. You choose what feels right for you.
What should I bring?
A journal or notebook you love, a pen, and layers for coastal weather.
Are meals included?
Meals are not included in the retreat fee. The hotel offers dining on site, and downtown Pacific Grove has a wonderful variety of restaurants within easy walking distance.
What is the cancellation policy?
The retreat fee is non-refundable. All sales are final. If you are unable to attend, you may request store credit toward a future offering, subject to availability and approval.
Hotel reservations are booked separately and are non-refundable. Any changes or requests related to your hotel stay must be arranged directly with Kimpton Mirador Pacific Grove Monterey and are subject to the hotel's policies.