Cozy Pacific Northwest waterfront view
Now Booking 2026 & early 2027 Retreats

Escape.Exhale. Explore.…one page at a time.

A weekend retreat in charming Gig Harbor, WA for women that love books.

All-inclusive accommodations, meals, bookish activities, and cozy beautiful views.

Women reading together at a cozy retreat house

Welcome

A Weekend Made for Book Lovers

Unplug, unwind, and connect over the books you love.

Harbor Nook Retreat is a curated weekend getaway for women who love books, connection, and a little coastal magic. Set in the charming waterfront town of Gig Harbor, WA, each retreat is thoughtfully designed to give you space to breathe, read, and make memories with like-minded women.

See upcoming retreats →

What's Waiting for You

Harbor Views & Waterfront Walks

Harbor Views & Waterfront Walks

Stroll the Gig Harbor waterfront, browse local shops, and soak in the stunning Pacific Northwest scenery.

Meals & Connection

Meals & Connection

Every meal is included - the perfect setting for great conversation and new friendships.

Laughter & Lasting Friendships

Laughter & Lasting Friendships

Meet women who love books as much as you do. Leave with a full heart and a longer reading list.

Bookish Crafts & Author Talks

Bookish Crafts & Author Talks

Hands-on bookish crafts, intimate author conversations, and great book recommendations from your new friends .

Upcoming Retreats

November 13–16, 2026

November 2026 Retreat — 3 Nights

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February 5–7, 2027

February 2027 Retreat — 2 Nights

Learn More
Denise Zeis, host of Harbor Nook Retreat

Your Host

Meet your host, Denise Ivie

I created Harbor Nook Retreat because I believe every woman deserves a weekend to exhale. As a lifelong book lover and Gig Harbor local, I wanted to create a space where women could gather, connect over stories, and leave feeling refreshed and inspired. I love to chat about travel, writing, raising puppies for Guide Dogs for the Blind, and my local dragon boat team. I adore Gig Harbor and want you to feel its charm and magic. Every detail — from the meals to the activities and the guest authors — is chosen with intention, love, and the desire to spoil you the entire weekend.

What Guests Are Saying

“Denise is as delightful as she looks on her website! Her warm hospitality enveloped me from the moment I arrived. Each thoughtful detail made me feel cared for and free to enjoy myself. Her love of people, reading and Gig Harbor was evident and made for a memorable experience. I highly recommend her reading retreats!”

Julie

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything You Need, Nothing You Don't

What's Included

  • All meals (Friday dinner through Monday breakfast for 3-night retreats and Friday dinner through Sunday dinner for 2-night retreats) Wine, (themed) cocktails or mocktails with dinner
  • Comfortable accommodations
  • Welcome goodie bag
  • Bookish craft activities
  • Author talk & book signing
  • Waterfront exploration and independent bookstore visit (Invitation Bookshop)

Not Included

  • Transportation to/from Gig Harbor
  • Personal purchases & souvenirs
  • Harbor cruise (may be purchased as an add-on)
  • Any activities not listed above

Get in Touch

Ready to Join Us?

Stay in the loop — get retreat updates, author announcements, and early booking access.