The Owners
Stillpoint is a second-generation, family owned and operated lodge. Long time Alaskans Jim and Jan Thurston originally built the lodge, christened The Alaska Center for Creative Renewal in 2003, to host retreats for artists and interfaith spiritual groups. A transition to the name Stillpoint Lodge in 2007 marked an inclusion of more events such as board retreats, weddings and workshops including continuing education.
Under the new direction of son JT Thurston, Stillpoint Lodge is now opening its doors to not only cater to groups, but also welcome individual vacationers, families and executive travelers. Pairing playful eco-adventures with revitalizing leisure activities and traditional lodge offerings has created the "Perfect Escape".
So how did it all begin?
After living most of their adult lives in Anchorage, Jim and Jan moved to Halibut Cove seeking quiet and stillness for their retirement. They enjoy the unmatched beauty of Halibut Cove, an art studio for Jan and a workshop for Jim.
But Jan had always had a dream of owning a retreat center.
When a parcel of land adjacent to theirs became available, they immediately knew that their retreat center was meant to be. "It was as though the dream followed me here," says Jan. They both believe that this opportunity was given to them for a reason: to create a peaceful place where people can reconnect with nature.
The reality of their dream is far beyond what they imagined: Stillpoint Lodge has become a rustic yet luxurious Alaskan destination lodge, a peaceful retreat for adventure, leisure and renewal. Whether sitting in the lodge gazing out the window or on an invigorating guided excursion into the wilderness, connecting with nature is inescapable.
The Thurstons' half-century marriage has stood the test of time. They have a symbiotic relationship that has given the lodge a life and energy all its own. Jan, a talented Alaskan artist, adds creativity and spiritual energy to Stillpoint. Jim, a former airplane pilot, is a great storyteller and has been the glue that holds the lodge together. Like yin and yang, their talents formed the vision of the lodge.
In 2014, Jan and Jim chose to take a step back from the daily direction of the lodge, and passed the torch to their son, JT. Jan and Jim continue to live in their lovely home on the grounds and their legacy endures through the long-time service of managers Beka and Lucas Thoning. During the winter of 2015-16, Stillpoint is taking on a major renovation project, adding private, luxurious bathrooms to each guest cabin, a full-service bar in the lodge, a beautiful cedar hot tub gazebo beside the waterfall and pond with an enchanting fire pit alongside. Many other upgrades will welcome guests for the 2016 season, with more to come following the plans and aspirations of JT.
The Thurstons and the Thonings all feel that this special treasure has been entrusted to them and that they are custodians of something far greater than themselves.
The Managers
Beka & Lucas Thoning have been managing Stillpoint Lodge for close to a decade. Their keystone is maintaining a focus on sustainability and wellness and continuing the mission to provide a place where people can disconnect... and reconnect with nature.
Beka first came to Halibut Cove from Texas in 2006, and immediately fell in love with this quirky little artist community, where everyday is an adventure. She loves gardening and utilizing the fresh produce in the kitchen. As the executive chef, she is a true foodie, specializing in creative flavor and considering sources, with a focus on organic, local, seasonal cuisine. As manager her positive attitude and attention to detail greet guests and employees alike.
Lucas moved to Halibut Cove in 2002, and worked various jobs over the years gaining skills in carpentry, wilderness survival and marine navigation. His primary roles at Stillpoint are head guide and maintenance manager. He has been certified as a yoga instructor, boat captain and Wilderness First Responder. Lucas is an entertainer who passionately shares his love of adventure and knowledge of nature.
Beka, Lucas and their two daughters live in Halibut Cove for half the year, and in Homer for most of the school year. They enjoy all that the area has to offer, and love raising their daughters in such unique communities. During their free time, you can usually find them out fishing or on the trails of Kachemak Bay State Park. During the winter, the Thonings enjoy traveling and creating art and music.
