Join us for a peaceful, mystical four-night retreat experience at Doe Bay Resort and Retreat on Orcas Island, Washington State with Mary Bue & Special Guest teacher Kim Tull-Esterbrook
Verdant … the tall trees, the Salish Sea. Brimming with green. Crisp, clean ocean air. Autumn’s chill, just barely. Polished stones, moss-covered moments. Fires and music, soaking & saunas, and watching for whales.
Practice Yoga, meditation & self-inquiry to rejuvenate your spirit and stoke your creative fire. Feel how the beauty and mystery of the land can inspire creativity. Enjoy outdoor hot tubs with a sea view, experience a gorgeous hike in Moran State Park, and bask in soulful music. Dine on local, organic vegan meals catered exclusively for us from Chef Bev and co at Doe Bay Cafe. We’ll practice with special guest teacher Kim Tull-Esterbrook, owner of Whole Life Yoga in Seattle, and your host, musician & teacher Mary Bue.
At this 4-night retreat, we will immerse ourselves in the mystical beauty of Orcas island. It is a bit of an epic journey to get here … and once we arrive we’ll slow down, settle in, and receive the fresh ocean mist and the blue-green scenes of the landscape to offer up a soothing balm for the eyes, mind, and heart.
Who is this retreat for?
- Lovers of nature: wild forested islands, the ocean, and the Pacific Northwest
- Spiritual seekers
- Friends/family who’d like to share cozy cabins, yurts, or camping
- Solo travelers seeking a safe space & adventure
- Vegans or the vegan-curious for delicious, healthy, organic, local plant-based meals
- Writers for practicing creative writing in community
- Yoga lovers of all levels – beginners welcome
- Whale lovers
- All genders
Everything is optional! All activities are merely suggestions. This retreat is for YOU to choose your own adventure, with the larger group or taking space for solitude, rest, and reflection.
Group size: 6 to 14
Doe Bay Resort & Retreat sits on 35 acres of pristine waterfront land in the San Juan Islands, of the coast of Washington State. Orcas Island is accessed by a gorgeous ferry ride from Anacortes. Doe Bay Resort is reached with a drive through rolling green farmlands by the sea, clear across the island on the south-eastern shore. One can stay in cabins, yurts, campsites, or perhaps a treehouse!
Doe Bay is a “rustic seaside resort in the San Juan Islands in Washington State with 30 cabins, 10 yurts and domes and 29 camp-sites. Located on Orcas Island with 35 acres of partially forested property, our community serves as the cultural and social hub of the Eastern side of the island. The resort features a third of a mile of waterfront with two pebbly beaches. Our waterfront looks out across Rosario Strait to many of the other islands of the San Juan Archipelago and has easy access to Moran State Park just about a mile from our entrance.”
Yoga Studio
We will have the private use of Doe Bay’s gorgeous yoga studio with “postcard-worthy views” of the ocean and other neighboring islands. We’ll have beginner-friendly daily practices including but not limited to asana (postures), pranayama (breathwork), meditation, yoga nidra “sleep of the yogi” and nada yoga “the yoga of sound.” We will also practice self inquiry svadhyaya via optional group sharing and creative writing practice.
Spa + Soaking Tubs
There are gorgeous, clothing-optional soaking tubs overlooking the Salish Sea/Puget Sound of which we will rent privately for our group one evening, and you can access for an additional fee at other communal open-soak times.
There is also a massage provider on-site at the spa. Reserve here!
Dining at Doe Bay Cafe
We will have the vast pleasure of private catering at the excellent Doe Bay Cafe for the first three days of our retreat experience. Doe Bay Cafe uses local, fresh, seasonal and organic ingredients and will be creating exclusively unique vegan/plant-based meals for us. On the last night of our stay, Doe Bay Cafe is open to the public for dinner and open mic night, so we will get to witness some of the island’s talent (and your host also plans to serenade you at the open mic)! Since this is an island, as much local produce from the San Juan Islands and Doe Bay’s garden is offered (and yay, October is within the great harvest season!), and other items will be brought in from the mainland. This organic, local, and private dining experience is top-notch and will be so special and delicious. Much gratitude to the chef, cooks, gardeners, farmers, and the beautiful land.
“We offer some of the finest “Seed-to-Table” dining in the region. The fact that we grow most of what we serve in the Doe Bay Organic Garden is only part of the formula. We also work with the best purveyors in the area. Everyone in the cafe is a “foodie” and we try to indulge their passion for great dining experiences to bring you the same. Our team is always delighted when guests come in expecting “end of the road on an island” cafe food, only to finish their meal in awe saying, “That was the best meal I have ever had” Due to the nature of seed-to-table dining, our menu changes often based on season and supply.”
Itinerary subject to change ~ and everything is optional. Consider this a brief outline for our time together. Details for workshops will be added as it gets closer and also in alignment with the season and the moon/astrology cycles.
Monday, October 2nd
3pm Check in, settle in, explore …
5:30pm Happy Hour/Meet + Greet in the Yoga Studio
6pm Dinner
7:30pm Opening & Welcome Ceremony ~ introductions, details, gentle movement, yoga nidra, sonic blessings
Tuesday, October 3rd
Light breakfast on your own
10am Practice ~ Asana, Pranayama, Meditation, Writing
12:30pm Lunch
2pm Optional Hike in Moran State Park
4:30pm Workshop
6:00pm Dinner
Private soak in the hot tubs!
Wednesday, October 4th
Breakfast on your own
10am Practice ~ Asana, Pranayama, Meditation, Writing
12:30pm Lunch
Whale Watching!
6:oopm Dinner
7:30pm Meditation, Yoga Nidra, Sonic Blessings
Thursday, October 5th
Breakfast on your own
10am Practice ~ Asana, Pranayama, Meditation, Writing
12:30pm Lunch
Free Time ~ soak, kayak, hike, rest, enjoy
4:30pm Practice or Workshop
6pm Dinner with Open Mic Night Entertainment
Friday, October 6th
9am Closing Ceremony & Fond Farewells
11am Check out
Lodging is choose-your-own-adventure to fit your budget, style, preferences
Our package price includes all yoga practices & private use of the seaside yoga studio, beautiful privately catered meals especially from us from Doe Bay Cafe, whale watching, and more … from there, you can decide within your budget & desire how you would like to rest your head for four days! PLEASE NOTE that for our retreat, your 4th night of lodging is FREE!!
Lodging ranges from $50/night for camping, $80-200/night for yurts or domes, $150-$500/night for more luxe cabins.
When you are ready to choose your lodging, you’ll book it online or over the phone and let Shandra [email protected] know you’re coming on retreat and she will comp the fourth night. This will all be detailed in the “investment & registration” tab.
Work with the interactive resort map to find the campsite, yurt, or cabin of your choice! You will book this separately online or over the phone, and be sure to let them know that you get your 4th night free in this retreat package!
Cabins
From a rustic studio cabin to a 3-bedroom deluxe cabin, we have something to match everyone’s budget, group size, and amenities preference.
While being our most basic cabin type, these waterless cabins are our most economical, heated indoor spaces. Woodstoves provided in select rustic accommodations.
Providing an additional level of comfort, our Deluxe Cabins are equipped with a bathroom and kitchen (or kitchenette). Most of our Central Deluxe Cabins offer some of the best views on the property!
Harbor House and Retreat House are best suited for (but not limited to) family reunions, wedding parties, workshops, and retreats, offering the home-like comforts necessary for meal preparation, dining and entertainment.
Yurts & Domes
We offer a number of Yurts and Domes, each with their own unique location and view. While all Yurts and Domes are without water, we have recently upgraded a few Yurts that we are calling “On Grid” with electricity!
“On Grid” Yurts
Electricity, a minimal heat source, and year-round Queen bed/bedding
“Off Grid” Yurts and Domes
Queen bed/bedding provided from May 1-Oct 31.
Campsites
Doe Bay is one of the prime spots on Orcas Island for camping! With your choice of the following:
Drive-In Campsites – 2 person max (ideal for small camper vans and/or tenting with the convenience of your vehicle nearby).
Walk-In Campsites – 2 person max (for those who would like to pack out with a 5-7 minute walk), you can choose from forested sites to sites with the most incredible views that Orcas Island has to offer.
Family Campsites – are also available, accommodating up to 4 people.
Campfires ONLY permitted at our community fire ring.
We are trying something different with this retreat and leaving it up to you to choose the lodging within your budget and style! You can choose from camping, yurts, cabins, or maybe the treehouse! We hope this is helpful as you can share your lodging selection with friends or family of your choosing.
Our retreat package is per person and INCLUDES programming, food, and excursions. Once again, Lodging is purchased separately!
Retreat package investment
What is included:
- Daily practices with Mary Bue
- Two workshops with Kim Tull-Esterbrook
- Whale Watching excursion
- 7 meals at Doe Bay Cafe
- Welcome gift
- One private soak in the hot tubs
Investment for retreat package: $799
$300 Deposit (non-refundable*) – deposit here
Please note that preferred payment options after the deposit are check, Apple Pay, or Zelle. A small fee will be added for PayPal or Venmo due to their admin charges.
Half payment due by July 31st 2023 // Full payment is due by August 31st 2023
What is not included in retreat package:
- Lodging
- Flights/transportation to Doe Bay
- Travel Insurance
- Alcoholic beverages for meals
INSTRUCTIONS for Reserving
Please follow these instructions for booking ease!
1). Place your deposit here for the retreat package ~ or email Mary to pay in full
2). Reserve your choice of lodging here (please remember, lodging is not included in retreat package price). You will be required to pay for one night’s lodging as a deposit for Doe Bay. Also, note that the 4th night is free (4 nights for the price of 3) for our retreat so factor that into your budget!
3). Email or call ~ Shandra Augenstein ~ Spa and Events Coordinator at 360-376-2291 or [email protected] to let her know you are coming on retreat and she will discount your fourth night of lodging.
4). Get excited for our amazing adventure on beautiful Orcas Island together!
ONCE REGISTERED
As the retreat approaches, you will receive an informational email with more information about Orcas Island, getting there, what to pack, and more about our time together. You’ll also receive a waiver of liability to sign, knowing that you choosing to participate in this experience at your own risk.
REFUND POLICY:
Full refund (minus deposit) before July 31st, 2023
50% refund (minus deposit) between July 31st to August 31st 2023*
No refunds after August 31st 2023*
*If retreat is canceled by host, you will receive a refund in full. If 6 guest minimum is not met, you will be refunded in full.
* In case of extreme personal circumstances, we will consider full refunds less small administration fee on a case by case basis if your spot can be filled.
* If you cannot attend, you are welcome to sell your retreat package to another guest with approval of host. It is not the responsibility of the host to fill your place.
DOE BAY RESORT & RETREAT
Address: Doe Bay Resort & Retreat 107 Doe Bay Rd Olga, WA 98279
Front Desk: 360-376-2291
Cafe: 360-376-8059
Doe Bay is located on Orcas, Island in the San Juan Islands off the coast of Washington State. From Seattle, it is approximately a 3.5-4 hour commute to Doe Bay Resort and Retreat, depending on traffic and ferry times. It is a bit of a journey to get here and I (Mary) am happy to assist in figuring it out, and Doe Bay is a good resource to call as well (probably better)!
If anyone is interested in carpooling, we will do our best to connect you!
If coming from out of state, you could fly into Seattle Tacoma International Airport (RT from Minneapolis currently around $300) or Bellingham, WA. From there, rent a car or take a shuttle to the ferry in Anacortes.
Information to reach Anacortes Ferry Terminal via www.visitsanjuans.com/from-seatac-airport-shuttles:
By Car from Sea-Tac Airport or Seattle
Rent a car and drive to the Anacortes ferry landing in 2.5 to 3 hours to catch a Washington State Ferry. Ferry reservations should be made in advance.
Driving directions to Doe Bay via the Anacortes ferry terminal from Seattle:
- Take I-5 north
- Take Exit 230 to Burlington/Anacortes (or Exits 221 or 226 through scenic Skagit Valley)
- At the first light, turn left toward Anacortes onto Highway 20 west
- Follow Highway 20 west to Anacortes for about 16 miles
- Once you reach Anacortes merge right into the traffic circle and another right onto Commercial Ave.
- Take a left at 12th St, where signs point you to the San Juan Islands ferry, and follow for about 2 miles to the terminal
Allow a comfortable 1-1/2 to 2 hours to enjoy the drive and the scenery from Seattle, or Vancouver B.C., to the Anacortes ferry terminal.
Once arriving on Orcas Island by WA State Ferry (directions via TheDyrt.com)
For the most convenience, drive your car onto the boat. Alternatively, you can arrange ahead for a Doe Bay Shuttle to pick you up (charge is $20/person one-way, when available). For early-morning or later-evening pick-ups, there is taxi service on the island to take you to and from Doe Bay – (360)-376-TAXI. It is also possible to rent cars on the island, with free drop-off and pick-ups at the ferry dock if arranged in advance – (360)-376-RIDE.
Once you arrive on Orcas Island, just follow everyone off the ferry to the left onto Orcas Road.
You will drive about 10 miles, and then the speed limit slows to 25 and a right-hand turn lane opens up. There is a bank with a clock tower on this corner. Turn right to drive through the town of Eastsound. This is a great chance to stock up on groceries, gasoline, or other shopping needs.
Orcas Road will become Main Street, and then Main Street will become Crescent Beach Drive. Proceed along Crescent Beach Drive, and take a right at the T (last gas station is on your left) onto Olga Road.
After about seven more miles, you will drive through Moran State Park (please drive slowly through the park!). Three more miles of driving and you will see the Olga Café, here turn left to stay on the main road, called Point Lawrence Road.
After approximately three more miles you will see a Doe Bay sign on the right with two deer on it.
By Private Charter
Also from Anacortes, splurge with Island Express Charters – the most enchanting way to arrive on Doe Bay’s shore! Boat can drop you right on the Doe Bay Beach, depending on tides. Recommended for special events groups. For more information and to reserve, call: (877)-473-9777 or (360)-299-2875
Yes. Fly Kenmore Air or San Juan Airlines and take a taxi to the Fest. Priciest but most glamorous way to travel, especially if you are not a regular on seaplanes. There are a few Orcas Island taxi services to help transport you to Doe Bay: (360) 376-TAXI or (360) 298-1639
Parking is ample and available at Doe Bay, including some drive-up camping, yurts, and cabin options.
MARY BUE
I am a lifelong musician, traveler, poet, journal writer, vegan, Nada Yogi, adventure seeker, retreat guide, solitude craver, and yoga instructor of 14+ years, e-RYT 500, Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Provider (YACEP). I’m based out of Minneapolis, roaming this beautiful world as much as possible. I am grateful to be named “Best Songwriter” of 2020 by City Pages and have been writing music and performing since 1998, with 8 albums out now! I believe deeply in the richness of a creative life that is ever unfolding. One doesn’t have to play an instrument, write a novel, paint like Frida, or write like Mary Oliver to live a creative life. Every moment that unfolds offers opportunities to make something beautiful. While this may seem like a lot of pressure, rest in knowing that potential is ever unfolding, even in the silent and restorative times (like sleeping!). I look forward to sharing this beautiful & inspiring place with you. Please let me know if you have ANY questions. I am pretty much an open book (most of which can be discovered in this website or listening to my music!). Contact me via the contact link here or at marybue @ gmail.com
Kim Tull-Esterbrook
Kim Tull-Esterbrook is an advanced 500 hour level trained yoga instructor and owner of Whole Life Yoga. Kim uses yoga as a tool to help her know and understand herself and the world more fully. Kim is a certified Mindfulness Meditation teacher through the Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification Program designed and led by renowned meditation teachers Jack Kornfield and Tara Brach. Kim is also trained in the HEAL method, pioneered by Dr. Rick Hanson, using the tools of positive neuroplasticity to increase resilience and foster greater wellbeing and happiness. She believes deeply in the power of these practices to ease suffering, enliven joy, strengthen resilience and create a more compassionate and caring world!
FROM TAOS CREATIVITY + YOGA RETREAT 2021/2022:
This retreat was transformative for me. From the moment Mary welcomed me to the Blue Sky Retreat Center to the moment we left, I felt loved, supported, and surrounded by new friends. Doing yoga in a circle in the yurt was especially spiritual and created meaningful connections between us. There was a great balance between time together, organized excursions and time to be alone, with everything being optional to fit our personal needs. Mary’s energy and radiance was evident in every aspect of the retreat and the concert in the yurt was amazing! I feel incredibly blessed to have had this experience and hope to make it to the next retreat. – Mary Z.
Mary Bue is truly an inspiration. I could not be happier with my first experience on a yoga retreat. I felt heard, cared for, and elevated. This retreat is suited for any and all experience levels with yoga. The friendships and connections I made with myself and others will last a lifetime!! So grateful!! – Melissa R.
The most calming, nourishing, peaceful time of my life – Maren L.
This was my first retreat with Mary Bue, and it won’t be my last. Mary did an awesome job crafting an interesting itinerary, and making changes as needed due to COVID restrictions. It was very obvious that she cared that each of us had the best experience possible. Our retreat allowed for time to bond with other retreaters as well as exploring the beautiful Taos town and culture. I recommend Mary and her retreats to anyone looking to enrich their life and make life long connections and memories. ❤️ – Lisa P.