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Art by Trish Heully, winner of the 2026 retreat logo contest

by Ann Rousseau Smith, SCBWI CenCal News Liaison

Join us for a weekend of adventure, pursuing creativity at the Cavalier Oceanfront Resort in San Simeon along the beach – March 6-8, 2026. You decide how much you want to participate. Choose to do as much or as little as you wish.

The Cavalier Oceanfront Resort, San Simeon

The early-bird price of $350 includes all meals, a short introductory talk by literary agent Kayla Cichello of Upstart Crow, inspirational critique groups, plenty of time to write and create, and evening campfire fun – perfect for those who just want to get away and concentrate on writing or illustrating.

You can choose to add any or all of the following for an additional cost:

Kayla Cichello

MANUSCRIPT PITCH WITH AN AGENT $60

Pitch your manuscript to Upstart Crow Literary agent Kayla Cichello. She’ll hear 10 minute in-person pitches on picture book text, middle grade, young adult, nonfiction, and picture book dummies. Appropriate for anyone with a completed manuscript who is looking for representation. Limited number of slots.

Alexis O’Neill

SCHOOL VISIT HOW-TO SESSION $50

Learn how to craft a great school visit program with Alexis O’Neill. Find out what components to include to attract educators and please young audience members, as well as how to seek out bookings. Suitable for anyone with a published or soon-to-be published book looking to do school visits.

Rebecca Langston-George

WORK-FOR-HIRE HOW-TO SESSION $50

Discover how to design a work-for-hire submission packet to advertise yourself as a skilled writer available for assignments, and find out which publishers are looking for talent. Led by Rebecca Langston-George. Great for anyone, beginner or pro, who wants to learn about paid writing opportunities beyond submitting an original manuscript.

Hotel rooms are booked separately on your own with the Cavalier Oceanfront Resort at a discounted price. Commuters are welcome. Check the CenCal Website for more information.

For more fantastic content, community, events, and other professional development opportunities, become a member today! Not sure if there is a chapter in your area? Check here.

Images provided by the SCBWI Central-Coastal Region and Cavalier Oceanfront Resort, San Simeon.