WHIDBEY ISLAND SUMMER RETREAT
July 21 - 27, 2025
Registration is open for our 2025 Summer Retreat at the Whidbey Institute on Whidbey Island near Seattle, Washington. All students who have learned the first third of the tai chi form with a Tai Chi Foundation teacher are welcome.
Having a few days to immerse ourselves in the study and practice of tai chi reminds us of our perfectly aware, peaceful self. Retreat days begin outside with a half hour of silent tai chi practice, led by an instructor. Between breakfast and lunch all students are engaged in classes. There are more classes in the afternoon, followed by time for rest, walking in the woods, or venturing out to a local lake for a swim before dinner. Evenings include group activities, as well as time to play outside or socialize.
Classes are focussed on relaxed, contemplative movement that replenishes the body, calms the mind, and refreshes the spirit - with a supportive, friendly community. Each class is tailored to the needs and stage of tai chi learning of the students. The schedule is fine-tuned after we have received all the registrations and know what classes are needed. Greg Woodson, Jonathan Stow, Sherry Kent, and others are scheduled to teach.
There are a few single rooms as well as double rooms and cabins available. We also have tent camping in the meadow and room for a few small camping vehicles in the parking lot. Retreats include delicious, nourishing meals from Chef Christyn Johnson. The kitchen staff is expert at accommodating special food needs, just let us know what you need on the registration form.
Arrival and Departure
Accommodations
The Whidbey Institute offers several different room types. You can learn more here. Rooms will be assigned on a first-come-first-served basis. Tent camping and camping in small vehicles (vans and pick-ups) is a wonderful option. The newest building on campus houses bathrooms and showers as well as a kitchen and sitting area near the camping meadow. (Please ask if you need help with gear.)
This year, you register for a single or shared room, choosing whether you want to be in the Farmhouse, in Grannies, or in a cabin, which includes Meadow Row. Because of changes in how the Whidbey Institute is managing registration, we have less control over room assignments. For those who want a single or a specific room, you will need to register very early. (As of March 16, singles are full. Email for singles waitlist. There are 3 beds available in shared cabins and a few in Grannies. There is still room for camping.)
Please use the Accessibility Needs box on the Your Information section of the registration form to let the venue know about dietary needs and accessibility concerns.
It is also possible to stay offsite. There are two lovely hotels in nearby Langley: The Inn at Langley and the Boatyard Inn. There are also homes available to rent on AirBnB and VRBO. Whidbey Island is very popular in the summer. Book early.
Meals
The kitchen at the Whidbey Institute is known for its delicious, locally sourced food prepared in-house by their expert staff. The kitchen can easily accommodate most food needs and preferences. You can tell us about your dietary needs on the registration form. Three abundant meals a day, plus snacks, tea and coffee, are included.
Transportation
In non-rush hour traffic the Whidbey Institute is about 90 minutes northwest of Seattle, WA, by car and ferry. However, there can be a wait time of two hours or more to board the ferry in the summer. For those flying, the closest airport is Paine Field, which is a small airport in Everett, WA. SeaTac Airport is much larger, but farther away. The Whidbey Shuttle provides transport to the island from SeaTac and we can arrange to pick you up from the shuttle stop. (You need to reserve the shuttle in advance. Choose the Langley/Clinton shuttle stop at Ken's Korner when reserving. Happily, the shuttle bypasses the ferry line.) If you fly into Paine field, you can take a taxi/Uber to the ferry at Mukilteo. We can pick you up from the ferry in Clinton on Whidbey Island.
Prerequisite
Beginning Form, 1st Third (as taught by the Seattle School of Tai Chi and the Tai Chi Foundation).
Cost
$1350 - $2250, depending on type of accommodation.
Cancellation Policy of the Whidbey Institute:
We understand that unexpected things happen in life; we request your help in ensuring that we are operating together in integrity. If you find it necessary to cancel, a full refund, minus a non-refundable registration fee of $125.00, will be given if notice is received at least 60 days prior to the beginning of the event. For cancellations received less than 60 days prior to the start date, NO refund will be given, regardless of the reason. Please communicate changes as soon as possible to registration@whidbeyinstitute.org.
Email us with questions about this retreat.