Every writer should try to attend a writing conference! And whether the writing conference is held on a rural college campus or in a bustling, big city hotel, it’s sure to be a wonderful, energizing experience. But if you’re thinking about combining your vacation with a writing conference, Writer’s Relief has a suggestion: Why not head for the islands? You can enjoy the sea breeze while honing your craft and relaxing at the water’s edge between sessions. A true writer’s paradise!

5 Writing Conferences With Island Destinations

Fiction & Autobiographical Fiction Writing Retreat, September 7-14, 2018

Irene Graham leads these focused workshops, starting on the Emerald Isle itself and then moving to Ireland’s Inis Mór Island. You’ll enjoy your own private en suite lodging, guided walks, visits to old pubs, and activities in Doolin, County Clare; Inis Mór in the Aran Islands; and Kinvara, County Galway.

Vancouver Writers Festival, October 15-25, 2018

Held on Granville Island in Vancouver, British Columbia, this festival welcomes both writers and readers to a variety of events with some of your favorite authors. Although the event does not include workshops, it does offer poetry and short story contests for adults and students.

Halloween Writer’s Bash, November 2-4, 2018

A three-day event held on Ossabaw Island, Georgia, the Halloween Writer’s Bash will offer workshops, seminars, readings, manuscript consultations, and ghost stories! Tuition for the long weekend also includes round-trip ferry transportation to and from the island plus lodging and meals while you are on the island. Application deadline is September 25.

Kauai Writers Conference, November 9-11, 2018

This writing conference, held at the Kauai Marriott Resort, Kalapaki Beach, Lihue, Hawaii, features an all-star lineup of classes taught by best-selling authors. Small group sessions and opportunities to pitch top-tier agents also are available. Pre-conference master classes are available the first week of November, followed by the conference itself.

Sanibel Island Writers Conference, November 8-11, 2018

On this island off the coast of Fort Myers Beach, Florida, you’ll enjoy a variety of workshops and discussions focused on fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, publishing, and editing. Classes are presented by well-known teachers. Current and aspiring authors are invited to work on new projects or complete previous work during the event.

Question: Would you choose a writing conference based on the educational opportunities or the location?