Retreat History
The Retreat
Gulf Shores Beach Retreat was started in the early 1990’s. It was in continuous operation until Hurricane Ivan ravaged the retreat. The next year Hurricane Katrina added it’s destructive touch. The damage was extensive and it looked like the beach retreat was finished.
Tim Hill bought the Gulf Shores Beach Retreat in March of 2007. It had sat empty for two years after the hurricanes. It was only by God’s provision that the retreat was restored and re-opened.
God brought people together to help rebuild the retreat. People from local churches brought their talents and skills and pulled off a miracle that most said could never be accomplished in time to be open for the summer season in 2007. God once again demonstrated that He is not bound by our circumstances. His provision was more than enough. God has been faithful to us through storms, oil spills, and economic difficulties.
The greatest thing about the retreat is experiencing God’s presence and His love for His children. So many people have been changed during their time here. Many youth have been baptized in the pools and Gulf of Mexico. Students have heard the call of God on their lives and become youth pastors , leaders, or missionaries. So many great testimonies have originated here and we look forward to many more.
The Gulf Shores Beach Retreat plays a role in the Kingdom of God. We are simply a way to help youth pastors reach their kids in a dynamic environment. Tim’s personal desire is to help youth pastors achieve their goals and help change lives. We hope the Beach Retreat helps you impact a young persons life in a profound way.
Tim Hill: Owner
I have owned the Gulf Shores beach Retreat since 2007. It has been an incredible experience. I have seen God touch so many people! The beach retreat exists to be a place that youth pastors can bring their students to have an intimate encounter with God, and I love being a part of that. My favorite thing is when I hear people talk about how God changed their lives at the retreat. I’m constantly hearing testimonies about how God called them to be a youth pastor or how they were baptized in the Gulf of Mexico or the pools at the retreat. It is so awesome to know that God is using this place to further His Kingdom. I have two sons’ age 17 and 18 that live with me at the retreat. When the boys and I are not cleaning the pools or doing repairs we love getting out on the water and fishing!
Avery Forrest: Manager
Avery has been working for the retreat since 2009. She is married to a local pastor and has one little boy named Carter. Avery is a “local” girl and she loves the beach. She is the Children’s Pastor at her church and she was in youth ministry for 6yrs. As someone who is in ministry she knows what it is that you are looking for in a retreat center. She will make sure your group has a wonderful stay at The Beach Retreat! Call Avery anytime to set up your trip today!