Replenish Tropical Paradise Writing Retreat
Sayulita, Nayarit, Mexico
February 17th to 21st, 2026
(Wednesday evening-Sun morning)
Are you longing for uninterrupted creative time in a beautiful tropical setting? Looking to reconnect with your creative spirit, move past creative blocks, or simply make space for the projects and ideas that matter most to you? Join writers and creativity coaches Jane Thatcher and Joy Sawyer for Replenish: Tropical Paradise Writing Retreat, an immersive creative getaway in the vibrant beach town of Sayulita, Mexico.
This retreat is designed around the belief that every creative journey is different. Rather than focusing on a single writing topic or genre, we'll meet you where you are. Whether you're working on a novel, memoir, essays, poetry, songwriting, a creative business, or simply trying to rediscover your creative voice, you'll receive personalized guidance, tailored writing prompts, and supportive workshops designed to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
Throughout the retreat, you'll participate in engaging writing exercises, creative explorations, and meaningful conversations that help you deepen your relationship with your work. You'll also receive individualized coaching from Jane and Joy, allowing you to focus on the specific challenges, goals, and opportunities that are most relevant to your creative life. Whether you're wrestling with self-doubt, perfectionism, procrastination, burnout, or uncertainty about your next step, we'll offer practical tools and compassionate support to help you reconnect with your creative momentum.
Just as importantly, you'll have ample time to rest, reflect, write, and enjoy the beauty of Mexico's Pacific coast. Wander Sayulita's colorful streets lined with boutiques, galleries, and cafes, savor incredible local cuisine, relax on sun-soaked beaches, swim in warm ocean waters, go surfing or whale watching, or explore the stunning landscapes and culture of Nayarit. Whether you spend your free time adventuring, creating, or simply soaking up the slower pace of coastal life, you'll leave feeling replenished, inspired, and more deeply connected to yourself and your creative work.
We're going to have a BLAST at this one-of-a-kind writing retreat in the sun-soaked beach town of Sayulita, Mexico!
We'll write... we'll swim... we'll explore... and we'll create space for inspiration to find us again.
Bring your curiosity, your creativity, and your favorite beach read—we'll provide the community, guidance, and adventure.
And don't worry, each day there will be free time for activities of your choice! Explore the town, nap, write, or consider one of the amazing activities Sayulita has to offer like:
Surfing
Sayulita's beach is famous amongst beginners and pro surfers alike for it's perfect waves
Beach Time
The Sayulita Beach is a beautiful spot to sun bath, swim, reach, nap, and day dream
Whale Watching
February is prime whale watching season in Nayarit! Hop on a whale watching boat tour or enjoy these magnificent creatures from the beach
Eat + Drink
Sayulita has delicious restaurants and bars with both authentic Mexican cuisine as well as foods from around the world
Jungel Hiking
Multiple beautiful jungle hikes can be accessed from the town of Sayulita. Jane can help coordinate a hike to some indigenous ruins
Shopping
Small boutiques, farmers markets, street vendors, popups, Sayulita has it all, for every budget!
Retreat Schedule:
WEDNESDAY EVENING, April 30th
6pm Margarita Open House Meet and Greet
For those who have a little energy left after a day of travel, we'll gather for margaritas, tasty bites, and easy conversation as we begin settling into the rhythm of the week. This relaxed, open-house-style welcome evening is a chance to meet your fellow retreat participants, soak in the tropical atmosphere, and gently awaken your creative spirit. Stay for a few minutes, linger for a few hours, or skip it entirely in favor of a quiet evening at your lodging—there's no wrong way to begin your retreat experience.
THURSDAY
9:30p to 12p Writing Workshop
12p to 1p Lunch on your own
1p to 5p Writers Choice Free Time
5p Catered Dinner with group
Gather with your fellow writers for a delicious catered dinner featuring authentic Mexican cuisine. Share stories, laughter, and conversation over fresh local flavors while enjoying a relaxed evening of connection, community, and inspiration in paradise.
7:30p to 9p Writing Workshop and sharing time
FRIDAY
9:30p to 12p Writing Workshop
12p to 1p Lunch on your own
1p to 5p Writers Choice Free Time
5p Optional dinner in Sayulita
Join the group for an evening out in Sayulita as we explore the town's vibrant food scene together. Enjoy fresh local cuisine, good conversation, and the colorful energy of this charming beach town.
7:30p to 9p Writing Workshop and sharing time
FRIDAY
9:30p to 12p Writing Workshop
12p to 1p Lunch on your own
1p to 5p Writers Choice Free Time
5p Homemade dinner
7:30p to 9p Sharing time + Poetry reading by Joy and live music by Jane (and her drummer/husband DAren!)
Sunday Morning
9:30a to 11a Optional writing workshop for those not traveling
Cost
Early bird special
(January 1)
$849
Full Price
$895
To confirm your spot, please Venmo payment to:
Joy Sawyer @memorypoet
(last four numbers of my cell phone are 1730)
Cancellation policy:
Before January 1: 100%
September January 1 to February 1: 50% refund
after February 1: No refund
Your registration will be complete after you have made your payment. Contact us for payment plan.
Places to Stay
There are loads of Airbnbs, VRBOs, hostels, hotels, and rentals in Sayulita! The retreat will be held at the north end of the beach/town. Choose a place that fits your budget and comfort level! We also love this locals-run website with great lodging options:
Sayulita Life
Upcoming Retreats
