Hawaii Parents Retreat

Unfortunately because of overwhelming demand we're no longer able to accept any further waitlist registrations. To see other events available,  please check out our calendar of events page.

All surviving parents grieving the loss of a loved one who served in the Armed Forces are warmly invited to join TAPS for our Hawaii Parents Retreat.

While grief can sometimes feel fearful and lonely, your TAPS family is here to support you. Join other surviving parents in Hawaii for the opportunity to engage in physical activities while connecting with others who share a similar loss. This recreational retreat will include adventures such as kayaking, light hiking, and yoga. While enjoying the beautiful scenery of the island, you’ll also be able to focus on yourself and your healing, and share your fallen hero with others around you.

SCHEDULE 

Day 1: The first day is set aside as a travel day. Once you arrive on Oahu, TAPS staff will be there to greet you and get you checked in. Then, the day is yours to get settled in, meet fellow survivors, explore the area and relax.

Day 2: We’ll start the day with an opening ceremony, giving us the opportunity to introduce ourselves and our fallen heroes. The remainder of the day will be spent on beautiful Kailua Beach, kayaking and snorkeling in the ocean.

Day 3: On the third day, you will explore a different part of the island, walking along the coast and partaking in a light hike. Group activities will also be included.

Day 4: The final day includes a Gold Star Families ceremony at Punchbowl National Cemetery, and we will close out with honoring our loved ones and each other.

Day 5: We'll say goodbye and travel home.

ADVENTURE LEVEL

All retreats are designed to be physical in nature, and this retreat is rated as "Light Intensity/Recreational". You should expect to partake in physical activities each day that may slightly increase your heart rate, but certainly do not require you to be an "athlete." Walking to and from activities may also be required (up to one mile).

RETREAT FEES

Thanks to the generosity of our donors and sponsors, TAPS will provide lodging, most meals, and all activities at no cost to you. A $50 deposit will be collected at the time of registration. At the conclusion of the retreat, you may choose to donate this deposit to TAPS to support future programs; otherwise, it will be fully refunded to attendees.

LODGING AND TRANSPORTATION

Lodging will be provided for all attendees at the Hale Koa Hotel from Thursday to Monday. You'll share a room with another retreat attendee. TAPS covers the cost of lodging at no cost to you, and we'll take care of booking your lodging for the retreat. 

You'll need to cover the cost of your transportation to and from Oahu. The nearest airport is Honolulu International Airport (HNL). Please do not make travel arrangements until you receive a welcome email after registering.

REGISTRATION DETAILS

Registration and waitlist are now closed. Registration is conducted on a first come, first served basis; because of overwhelming demand, the waitlist is also closed. For other events available, please visit our calendar of events page.

Upon registration, you'll receive a confirmation email. Please email support@taps.org and retreats@taps.org if you do not receive a confirmation email after registering. Within 48 hours, you'll receive a welcome email from TAPS Retreats staff that includes information about accommodations, flights, etc. Please do not book your flight until you receive the welcome email.

If you have any questions, please email retreats@taps.org or call 800-959-TAPS (8277).