The Haven

Learn, connect, and come alive

Canada Gabriola paid

Gabriola’s quiet coastal setting gives The Haven room for work that reaches beyond a conventional meditation retreat. This permanent learning center brings people together for group programs focused on self-responsible relational living, with yoga and meditation among its practice topics. Its five-day Come Alive program invites participants to try a different approach to shaping their lives, drawing on faculty whose work has inspired thousands. The surroundings feel comfortable and grounded rather than resort-like: guest rooms look toward the water, while rustic cabins sit among the trees. Three meals a day are served in an ocean-view dining room, with regular and vegetarian meal packages and special diets accommodated for an extra charge. Program formats and schedules vary, so check the current offerings before planning a visit. For a change of pace between sessions, the island’s natural quiet is part of the appeal.

Highlights

Five-day Come Alive program focused on shaping life in a new way
Group learning centered on self-responsible relational living
Rustic cabins among trees alongside rooms overlooking quiet coastal water
Ocean-view dining room serving three meals daily

Good for

personal growthgroup learningyoga practitionersmeditation newcomersnature lovers

Setting

The property sits amid Gabriola’s coastal calm, with rooms facing quiet water and rustic cabins among the trees. It is a comfortable, practical setting for learning and retreat, with a natural environment that feels far removed from everyday bustle.

A typical day

Daily structure varies by program; group learning is central, and the center serves three meals in its ocean-view dining room. Check the current program page for session times and free periods.

Accommodation

Stay in rooms overlooking the coastline or in rustic cabins among the trees. The facilities are designed to support program participants and offer quiet comfort rather than resort-style luxury.

What to bring

Pack comfortable clothing for yoga or meditation sessions, plus layers and rain protection. Gabriola’s summers are generally warmer and drier, while winter and autumn months tend to be wetter and cooler.

Website haven.ca

Address Gabriola Island, Gabriola, BC V0R, Canada

How to get there

The Haven is on Gabriola Island, reached by a roughly 20-minute BC Ferries crossing from Nanaimo. A float plane from Vancouver is also noted as an option; check current routes and onward transport before travelling.

Nearest airport: Nanaimo Airport (YCD) (13 km)

Nanaimo Airport (YCD) is approximately 13 km from the center, but reaching Gabriola also involves the crossing from Nanaimo. Confirm onward transport and ferry arrangements with the center before travelling.

Nearest city: Nanaimo

Public transport: BC Ferries connects Nanaimo and Gabriola Island, with a crossing of about 20 minutes.

Languages

English

How to book

Review current programs and registration instructions at haven.ca/programs.

Pricing

Programs are paid, but rates vary; check the current program page for fees. Special diets can be accommodated for an extra charge.

Interested in this center? Check availability and upcoming retreats on their official site.

Visit The Haven website

Climate

Climate Zone: Temperate

Best Months: Jul, Jun, Apr

Avoid: Dec, Mar, Oct

Gabriola has a mild coastal climate, with an annual average temperature of 10.9°C. July, August and September are among the warmest months, while December, March and October tend to be wetter; summer is generally drier.

Location

Frequently asked questions

How long is The Haven’s Come Alive program?

Come Alive is a five-day program. Check haven.ca/programs for current dates and registration details.

Can I attend if I am new to this kind of personal growth work?

Come Alive is described as an invitation to try a different approach to shaping your life. Ask the center whether a particular program suits your experience and needs.

What food is served, and can special diets be accommodated?

Three meals are served daily, with regular and vegetarian meal packages. Special diets can be accommodated for an extra charge; confirm arrangements with the center.

How do I get to Gabriola Island?

BC Ferries connects Nanaimo with Gabriola in about 20 minutes. Check current ferry details and your onward transport to The Haven before travelling.

Where can I find program dates and booking instructions?

Review the current programs and registration instructions at haven.ca/programs.