Sand Sea & Spirit
The Tradition Continues
In 1991, Joe and Dottie were walking the beach in Gulf Shores,
Alabama. They talked about how nice it would be to bring some
friends to this beautiful setting to exchange knowledge and
talents – to learn more about T’ai Chi, meditation, yoga, reiki,
massage, diet and all modalities would help keep them healthy
and happy.

The first retreat started with a Native American earth blessing led by life-long friend
Kristy McElwee, which has become a tradition over the years. Fifty-six friends attended
what was thought to be a one-time event. By the end of the week, friends started talking
about next year when “we come back”.

After that first year, Dottie and Joe decided that they wanted to continue their dream of
creating an environment in which people from all walks of life would come to enjoy a new-found
togetherness, or to be enlightened about issues important to their well being.
Watching people learn, grow and be happy has been their greatest reward. More than
anything else, they wanted to create a way to inspire people to find peace and balance
between their work, personal and spiritual lives. They also wanted to build a sense of
community, and so the idea of Sand, Sea & Spirit was born.

Over the years they have made friends from all over the world who have traveled to the
white beaches of Alabama’s gulf shore to share in a week of discovery. All guests have
become part of Sand, Sea, & Spirit extended family.
Experience a feeling that you will want to keep with you forever.
Experience the ultimate in vitality and well being.
Experience Sand, Sea & Spirit
Our Story
The Beginning of Sand Sea & Spirit