05/03/2025
There is no better place to seek out a healthier wellbeing than on Hatteras Island. A barrier island surrounded by the Earth’s elements and natural wonders, the two go ceremoniously hand in hand.
In 2018, Mary Joyner Whitaker relocated from Raleigh to Hatteras Island, and with a love for life on the mat, she tapped into that natural connection and started Dare to Yoga. Boasting the 200-hour Registered Yoga Teacher training (RYT), she also achieved certification in Paddleboard Yoga and Mat Pilates, and is additionally a Reiki Master. Without a brick-and-mortar location, she used her robust portfolio of training to focus on teaching classes in other studios and unique locations, as well as offering private classes on the beach and in her clientele’s personal or vacation rental homes. Fast forward to 2025, and she has instilled her passion into her community with a cult-like following that consists of locals and visitors alike.
Now, firmly planted in Girl Boss pose, she has taken her success all the way to the Shops at Stowe on 12 in Hatteras Village where she opened Dare To Yoga Studio and Wellness in January 2025. Offering classes in both yoga and Pilates, one thing that she has made crystal clear is that there is something for everyone and all are welcome. Designating her studio as a “safe place” to practice, her doors are open to everyone of all shapes, sizes, genders, and levels.
Demand for studio classes is high and space is limited, so reserving your spot in advance on her website is highly recommended. She also offers a 4-class pass and an 8-class pass where you get a class for free. Whether purchasing one class or a pass, you simply pay upon arrival where she accepts cash or Venmo.
While she can now provide more classes to a wider audience, the portion of her customer base that prefer the one-on-one will be happy to hear that she does still offer private classes as well. With these classes, her clients have the ability to create a personalized schedule, work on an in-depth practice, overcome health concerns, focus on personal goals, and much more. Although now they have the added option of taking place in-studio, you can rest easy because in-home classes and beach yoga are still alive and well…if you Dare.
