FAQs

What is the menu for the retreat?

Please see the Menu and Schedule page for full details about the retreat menu and food.


What if you aren’t offering the food I need for my food plan?

Please see the Menu and Schedule page for full details.


When does Retreat start and end?

The Retreat begins Friday night 6 pm (4 pm earliest check-in, no earlier arrivals, no exceptions) to Sunday 1 pm. See Schedule for more details.


Are there any microwaves in the rooms?

No, there are no microwaves or refrigerators in individual rooms. You can use the microwave in the main kitchen.


How do I get a scholarship?

Have your sponsor email a letter stating you are working the program and are in need of financial assistance.

If there are scholarships still available you will receive an acceptance email and directions on how to register.


How can I find a ride to the retreat?

Please indicate when you register that you are interested in carpooling. A few weeks prior to the retreat, you will receive an email with contact details to connect with others interested in carpooling.


What should I wear?

Comfortable casual clothes, and dress in layers, as sometimes in late April it can be chilly or warm. It is always a good idea to check the weather forecast for Santa Cruz a few days before the retreat. When yoga is offered, some beach towels are supplied. You may want to bring yoga or loose-fitting clothes and your yoga mat for comfort.


How are the retreat rooms assigned?

Rooms are assigned on a first-come, first-serve basis when you submit your retreat registration.*

* Room assignments may be changed at the discretion of the committee. We will do our best to accommodate everyone's special requests.


What if I need to switch roommates?

When you arrive on Friday evening, please feel free to make arrangements with the people involved. You do not need to obtain approval from anyone on the Serenity Retreat Committee or the Villa Maria del Mar staff.


What if I can only attend one day of the retreat?

We do not offer a prorated retreat fee. The retreat center allows participants that are staying for the full weekend only; no spaces are available for partial day participants.


Is there any free time during the retreat?

Yes, Saturday afternoon is open to do to with as you wish. The title of this retreat is called the “Serenity Retreat” because it is designed so every member can find the peace, serenity and the connection with his or her Higher Power. If you want to sleep in and skip a meal, to take a walk on the beach, to hear what the speaker has to offer or to be with other compulsive overeaters, it’s up to you to decide. This is one time when take what you like and leave the rest is so important. Please take good care of yourself and enjoy because this is your retreat.


Is there beach access?

Yes, the retreat center is located on the bluffs, directly overlooking the beach. Some beach towels are provided and there are a few beach chairs available on the property for guest use.


What if I need to cancel my retreat reservation?

ALL REFUND REQUESTS MUST BE SUBMITTED VIA EVENTBRITE. (See your confirmation registration email for the link).

* As of the 2020 retreat, there is a new cancellation policy in place. See below for dates and terms.

  • From May 2, 2020 to March 7, 2021, refunds will be given minus 10%
  • From March 8 to March 23, 2021, refunds will be given minus 20%
  • From March 24 to April 8, 2021, refunds will be given minus 50%
  • From April 9 to April 15, 2021, refunds will be given minus 75%
  • No refunds will be issued after April 16, 2021, no exceptions


What should I bring?

The speaker suggests bringing your Big Book and a journal or writing paper and pens. Some literature will be available for sale. You are welcome to bring your musical instruments for Saturday night’s evening of fellowship and fun. Be certain to bring a $5 refundable deposit for each room key.


How can I be involved in helping to plan future Serenity Retreats?

This retreat is made possible because of a lot of hard work done by a group of volunteers. There are positions open for next year’s Serenity Retreat for anyone who would like to strengthen their program through service. Please see the list of positions and contact us with any questions you may have!

Here is feedback from a committee member:

“Giving service on this retreat was such a gift to me. I’ve never been a big risk-taker and I was really uncertain at first. I was like a fledgling. Could I do this? The committee was really there for me, they shared their experience and I got all the help I needed. I learned how to do new things and stretched out of my comfort zone. Best of all, I learned what it was like to work together using the traditions and principles of the program. I have more confidence and my recovery is stronger.” – Karen

While I cannot commit to working on the committee, how can I help out with the retreat in some way?

There are always jobs to be done either prior or during the retreat. Please indicate your preference during your registration, or send an email to OASerenityRetreat@gmail.com letting us know that you are able to provide service and your availability.