Sun, Sand, and Sea
an oceanside escape for the woman who needs to replenish, restore, and revive her divine self
May 11 - 16, 2026
OCEAN ISLE BEACH, NC
About Black Cat Retreats
Meet Your Host - Tracy Barton
I’m Tracy, and I grew up in Toledo, Ohio—birthplace of women’s rights advocate Gloria Steinem (and, for those who love a little nostalgia, Jamie Farr from MASH*). In 2017, I followed my daughter to Wilmington, North Carolina because I was ready for a warmer, healthier lifestyle. I’ve always known I thrive in places where I can get outside, walk, breathe, and feel the sun on my skin—so settling on the coast has felt like a true homecoming.
A Traveler and Seeker
Travel has always been at the heart of who I am. I’m not someone who simply “takes vacations”—I’m a traveler. To me, being a traveler means being a seeker… a student of the world. I want to experience cultures deeply, learn bits of the language, study the art and architecture, and understand how a place’s history shapes its present. My background as a college professor only strengthened this part of me—I’m a lifelong learner who is endlessly curious about nature, art, philosophy, and humanity.
Retreat Leader
This curiosity is what first drew me to retreats. I’ve participated in two art retreats—one in Mexico and one in Italy—and a yoga retreat on the coast of Florida. Each one was transformative. They were all attended by women, mostly in their 50s and 60s, who came together not just to do yoga or make art, but to experience the magic that happens when women gather: friendship, encouragement, laughter, depth, and genuine support.
Those retreats awakened something in me. They showed me how powerful it is to step out of routine, to experience new cultures, to nourish our bodies, and to reconnect with joy. That’s why I became a retreat leader—because I want to offer these same experiences to other women who crave beauty, connection, and meaningful exploration.
Before stepping into retreat leadership, I spent 35 years as a college professor and administrator. My graduate work centered on communication, leadership, and women’s and gender studies. I’ve always been passionate about equity and about helping women dismantle the internal and external obstacles that limit them.
Now, as a woman in my 60s, my deepest passion is helping other women age with grace, vitality, and self-compassion. I want to help you feel good in your skin, energized in your body, and confident in your reflection—wrinkles, curves, and all. We deserve to thrive, not shrink, as we age.
I’m also a certified yoga instructor and have been a vegetarian—some might say a lifelong wellness enthusiast—for 48 years. I bring all of this experience, passion, and joy into the retreats I create.
If you’re a fellow traveler, a seeker, or a woman craving renewal and connection, I would love for you to join me.
Let’s explore, learn, and grow together.
Why "Black Cat" Retreats?
Romeo
Black Cat Retreats is named for my black cat, Romeo. He is no longer with me, and is deeply missed. Romeo was a character. He was a snuggle bug, insisted on helping me do everything (he was especially helpful when I made the bed), and he always assisted when I got out my yoga mat.
Serene Retreat Moments
