Summer Retreats in California

Summer is often the only time you can slow down enough to plan a retreat. If your schedule opens up during the summer months, a retreat can give you space for prayer, reflection and rest away from daily pressure.

Old Mission Retreat Center in Oceanside offers summer retreats in California for individuals and groups. Below, you’ll find current summer retreat dates and programs, along with options for personal and group retreats.

Summer retreat offerings generally take place from June through August, with dates and themes changing each year.

Quick links: Retreat Schedule | Personal Retreats | Plan a Group Retreat | Program Inquiry

Summer Retreat Dates and Upcoming Programs

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The retreat listings above show current summer offerings and registration details. Additional retreats may be added as the season approaches.

Types of Summer Retreats Available

Personal Retreats

Personal retreats provide self-guided time on retreat. Many guests choose summer personal retreats when work or family schedules allow for longer stays. This format supports prayer, reading, journaling and rest at your own pace. Personal retreats may be scheduled as day retreats or overnight stays, depending on availability.

Find more details on this page.

Mission-Hosted Retreats

Mission-hosted retreats follow set dates and themes. These retreats are listed on the Retreat Schedule and typically include a shared daily rhythm and guided content. Summer mission-hosted retreats vary each year and may focus on prayer, reflection or specific retreat themes.

Related page: Retreat Schedule.

Group Retreats

Summer is a common season for group retreats, including parish staff, ministry teams, nonprofits and other organizations. Groups often plan multi-day retreats during this time when participants have more schedule flexibility. Groups can request summer dates and receive assistance with lodging, meals and meeting space through the Retreat Center team.

More details on pages: Plan Your Group Retreat | Program Inquiry

Planning a Summer Retreat at Mission San Luis Rey

Step 1

Choose your retreat format

  • Personal retreat (flexible schedule)
  • Mission-hosted retreat (scheduled dates and theme)
  • Group retreat (requested dates)

Step 2

Select your summer dates

Use the summer retreat listings above to view current availability. Summer weekends and extended stays may fill quickly, especially for groups.

Step 3

Contact the Retreat Center if needed

If you’re unsure which retreat option fits your needs, the Retreat Center team can help you review options and availability. Please contact us at (760) 757-3659 for more information.

VISIT RETREAT CENTER

What to Bring for a Summer Retreat

  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Lightweight clothing for warm afternoons
  • A journal and pen
  • A Bible or devotional (optional)
  • A light layer for evenings
  • Any personal prayer materials you use regularly

If you’re attending a scheduled retreat, review the retreat listing for any additional details.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be Catholic to attend?
No. Retreats are rooted in Catholic and Franciscan tradition, and guests from different backgrounds attend throughout the year.
Can I attend a summer retreat on my own?
Yes. Many guests attend personal retreats or scheduled retreats individually.
Are longer stays available during summer?
Depending on availability, longer personal retreat stays may be possible during the summer months. Check the Personal Retreats page or contact the Retreat Center for details.
How do I register for hosted retreats during summer?
Registration details are included with each retreat listing in the schedule above.
Can my group reserve summer dates?
Yes. Groups can request summer dates. Because summer is a popular season, early planning is recommended.

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