You can see a lot of Greece in under two weeks and get a real feel for its history, ruins, beaches, food, late-night revelry and a few of its many iconic islands. Ferries link many of the best places to visit, and lazing away the hours on deck gazing at the passing turquoise water is an irresistible interlude to more storied sights.
We’ve put together a detailed 10-day itinerary to show you the best Greece offers. Don’t have that much time available? Never fear – you can also curate your own ideal locations to build a blissful long weekend from our picks.
Day 1: start in Athens, the nation’s cradle
Don’t delay; climb the hill in the center of Athens to the magnificent Acropolis. Descending back into the land of mortals, wander the ancient Agora neighborhood before joining the merry mobs hopping from one taverna to another in the Plaka district. For extra credit, pause at some point at the extraordinary Acropolis Museum.
Go from Athens to Mykonos: Catch one of the many ferries that make the run from Piraeus, the main port of Athens, to Mykonos. The fast times are on speedy hydrofoils, while the slower runs are on traditional boats, with their broad and sunny decks.
Athen’s Plaka district comes alive at night with streetside dinging and people-watching. Shutterstock
Day 2: Sail the Aegean to Mykonos
Burn off your pre-trip stress on the island of Mykonos. One of Europe’s fabled party destinations (St-Tropez and Ibiza are rivals), this small island has just enough to keep you occupied by day. Explore the maze of covered lanes, boutiques and flower-bedecked cafes in the old town of Hora. Head to nearby beaches for your first dip in the ever-blue Aegean. But save some energy for well after dark when the notorious clubs like to party until dawn – or later.
Go from Mykonos to Delos: Boats to Delos make the run in a quick 30 minutes starting in the morning.
Day 3: Walk with the ancient Greeks in Delos
Fight off any after-effects of the night before and catch a morning boat to Delos, the mythological birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. The entire island is a sacred shrine – ruins stretch across the sunbaked landscape. Let your imagination run wild as you reconstruct this once magnificent center in your mind. Make the quick return to Mykonos by boat and cool off at a beach. Then get lost in Hora until you stumble upon the perfect seafood dinner.
Go from Mykonos to Paros: Several ferries a day make the run in about one hour.
The ruins on the island of Delos offer an incredible history lesson and picturesque views. Getty Images
Day 4: Relax on Paros
Something of a ferry hub for the Cyclades, Paros – the group of islands that in many ways defines Greece – literally has something for everyone. Flower-draped tavernas in the port town of Parikia make great post-ferry lunch spots.
Get a rental car and drive the circumference of the island. This can be an all-day adventure and includes plenty of beach access along the east coast. The island is also noted for its produce – especially the tomatoes – so enjoy something delicious in the oh-so-cute mountain village of Lefkes or the locally popular beachside town of Aliki.
Go from Paros to Antiparos: Car ferries link the adjoining islands in under 15 minutes.
Day 5: Slow down on Antiparos
Almost touching its much larger neighbor, the diminutive island of Antiparos really is the anti-Paros. Parts of the island qualify as sleepy, and there’s an unhurried vibe across its narrow, windy roads. Take the quick boat ride to Despotiko, a restored ancient sanctuary, then enjoy a seafood feast in Agios Georgios at a waterfront taverna. If you’re feeling sporty, join the windsurfers taking advantage of some of the most reliable winds in Greece.
Go from Paros to Santorini: Ferries take 2–3 hours.
Day 6: Join the throngs on Santorini
With its polychromatic cliffs soaring above its drowned caldera, Santorini is the definition of a ‘Greek island’ for many. Steep and narrow lanes are lined with brilliantly whitewashed houses topped with cerulean domes. Beaches dot the curving coast, and gentle hiking paths follow the island’s spine, offering sweeping views. Sunsets are mesmerizing. Take in the spectacle from tiny hillside village of Oia, which offers a choice of tavernas serving deeply traditional Greek fare (expect grilled meats, creamy tzatziki and more).
Go from Santorini to Crete: There’s usually one speedy ferry daily, making the two-hour run to Iraklio in Crete.
There is no bad view from the blue and white buildings and stairwells built into Santorini’s coastline. Piotr Piatrouski/Shutterstock
Day 7: Get lost in Greece’s best palace at Knossos
The island of Crete is so big that it can feel like its own country. The main city of Iraklio is best enjoyed for a quick lunch in a café and as a place to secure a rental car. From there, charge south for barely 20 minutes to one of the top ancient sites in a nation of ancient sites. The Palace of Knossos was built by the Minoans and is a vast and somewhat restored ruin where you can easily spend half a day or more. If you have time to take a tour, there are more than a dozen wineries nearby that make the excellent local wines you’ll enjoy with every meal.
Go from Iraklio to Hania: Rental car prices on Crete are competitive, and distances are manageable. The run between the island’s two main cities takes only two hours, although endless stops and diversions to admire incredible views can greatly extend that.
Day 8: Revel in the stunning beauty of Crete
Crete’s second city of Hania is really the island’s first city in the hearts of those in the know. The old town and harbor combine the legacies of the Minoans, the ancient Greeks, the Venetians and countless other influences from occupiers and others who just happened to sail by. The food here is extraordinary, and the chefs put Crete’s fabled produce to remarkable use. Two excellent detours are the absorbing ancient port town of Rethymno and the grand and glittery Orthodox churches in the hills, such as Moni Arkadiou.
Go from Hania to Elafonisi: Driving direct will take about two hours, but, as always, detours and myriad excuses to pause and enjoy the scenery will extend that greatly.
The beaches of Crete are impeccable for swimming, sunshine and relaxation. Shutterstock
Day 9: Hit the beaches of Crete
The Samaria Gorge is the most famous of southern Crete’s many gorge walks, which start high in the craggy hills and follow often-lush, stream-fed canyons down to little villages and beaches. If the crowds at Samaria are daunting, consider the Agia Irini Gorge instead. Finish your day at sublime Elafonisi Beach, where the sand has a pinkish hue in a certain light, and the swimming is superb.
Go from Hania to Athens: Frequent flights to Athens take under an hour from Crete’s second-largest airport.
Day 10: Stroll around Athens
The Acropolis is never far from view as you stroll the compact and endlessly fascinating center of Athens. Catch the changing of the guard at the center of government (and Athens) in Syntagma Square. Choose from sights such as the antiquity-stuffed Benaki Museum, the lush National Gardens, the ornate Hadrian’s Arch and the grandiose Temple of Olympian Zeus.
Finish your time in Greece with a languid session in the upscale neighborhood of Kolonaki and cafe-lined Plateia Kolonakiou.
Scotland often feels bigger than it is. That’s in part because of its impact on the world – think Edinburgh’s cultural clout and or Speyside’s famous whiskies – but it’s also because of the sheer range of things to do here.
Two fascinating, but very different, cities dominate Scotland’s central belt, the expansive Highlands feature some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes, while islands pack in wildlife and echoes of the past. There are fine sights all over the country, but these are some of the top experiences in Scotland.
Get into the spirit of Edinburgh during the Fringe festival. Dan Smith Photography/Shutterstock
1. Experience the creativity of the Edinburgh Festival
The world’s largest arts festival transforms Scotland’s capital in August. Everywhere turns into a venue (literally: swimming pools, fudge shops and public toilets have featured in recent years), the streets throb with performers and festival-goers and pubs are packed until the small hours.
The Fringe, International Festival and Military Tattoo are the biggest events. If you want to see popular shows, booking early is essential, but there’s plenty of diversity beneath the headlines – seek out smaller venues for a unique experience that will make you feel you’ve been in a different city to the crowds.
Local tip: Missed out on tickets for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo? Head to the top of Royal Mile and watch the troops parade down Castlehill, with bagpipes, brass sections, and colorful costumes, after the main performance at 10.30pm each night.
Glasgow comes to life after dark on Ashton Lane, a cobbled backstreet in the West End full of bars and restaurants. Getty Images
2. Get swept away by the music in Glasgow
By day, Glasgow’s grand architecture and resurgent museums are more than worth your time. But you may have the most fun at night, when glorious local scenes come alive and visitors to the city are treated with warm curiosity. Pubs host folk gigs, clubs judder to house and techno and the alt-rock scene bulges with talent. You can check out indie acts at King Tut’s, bounce on a historic ballroom floor at the Barrowland, check out a folk session at the Ben Nevis or get a sweat on at the Sub Club, which has been a temple to electronic music for over 30 years.
The colorful village of Portree, capital of the Isle of Skye. Getty Images
3. Find your own highlights on Skye
With its grand peaks, Gaelic culture and windswept beauty, Skye is the main draw in the Highlands. Rather than trying to cram its many highlights into a single itinerary – and risking getting stuck in a tourist traffic jam as you do so – it can be worth getting your perspective on this special island by choosing the part that most suits you and staying for a few days.
That might mean climbing the knife-edge ridges of the Cuillin Hills, exploring basalt sea stacks on the Trotternish Peninsula, eating roasted hake or devilled pigeon at the Michelin-starred Three Chimneys, or sipping ale at sunset on the little-visited Waternish Peninsula.
Planning tip: Stagecoach operates the main bus routes on the island, linking all the main villages and towns, but you’ll need your walking shoes if you want to go further afield.
4. Take in the lonely peaks of Assynt
Assynt, in the far northwest of Scotland, feels like a land apart. Here, isolated sandstone peaks rise like great monuments from the boggy moorland, giving the landscape an epic eeriness, and meaning the views from the top can – weather, of course, permitting – stretch for miles.
There are some excellent scrambling routes for which you’ll need some experience and a head for heights. An Teallach (1063m/3486ft) has a top-of-the-world traverse, Suilven (723m, 2,372ft) is a long, remote, broken-backed ridge, while Stac Pollaidh (612m/2008ft) reaches up like a ruined crown. It’s also the most accessible of the three. The coast here is also great for sea kayaking.
Local tip: The views from the roads that wind through this wilderness can be almost as good as the ones from the summits.
Detour to the impressive V&A Museum of Design on the Dundee waterfront. DigitalNatureScotland/Shutterstock
5. Soak up the culture on Dundee’s waterfront
Dundee’s docks once exported jute (a fiber used in textiles) around the world, but industrial decline in the 1980s hit the area hard. Regeneration came first in the form of the restored 1901 ship Discovery, which explored the Antarctic under legendary Captain Robert Falcon Scott and was built to withstand being frozen into the icepack.
In 2018, it was joined by V&A Dundee, a state-of-the-art museum whose slatted exterior looks like a spaceship crossed with a sea cliff. In between checking out top-notch visiting exhibitions at the V&A and stepping aboard Discovery, you can explore the city’s textile traditions at the Verdant Works or steer your own course through Dundee’s nautical heritage by going paddleboarding on the Tay.
6. Taste whisky in Speyside
Speyside, in Northeast Scotland, isn’t just about booze: there’s salmon fishing, historic railways and golf courses to experience in these parts. But most visitors are here for the region’s sweet and fragrant whiskies.
Marvel at the vast modern vats that make the stuff, the pleasingly battered casks (often previously used for sherry) that help give batches their unique flavor, and the streams and rivers that run down from the hills and into the distilleries, bringing a touch of local terroir.
There are plenty of great things to do here: you can stay overnight in classic lodges and sup your drinks in hushed, book-lined lounges, or stay at homely B&Bs where the morning smells of kippers and black pudding should add zest to any hangover you might somehow have developed.
Local tip: Speyside is home to the highest number of distilleries in Scotland, the most famous of which is Glenfiddich.
Step back in time in Orkney: the Neolithic Ring of Brodgar near Stromnness. Jiri Semerad/500px
7. Learn about Stone Age Orkney
The archipelago of Orkney, an hour’s ferry ride from Scotland’s northeast tip, has farmland, fishing villages and some of Europe’s greatest Stone Age remains. Skara Brae, a 5000-year-old settlement that lay preserved under sand dunes till 1850, brings the day-to-day world of Neolithic people to brilliant life.
Houses are connected by tunnels and filled with furniture – beds, fireplaces, dressers and cupboards. The stunning nearby tunnel tomb of Maeshowe, meanwhile, reveals this ancient people’s spiritual side. With its standing stones, giant flocks of seabirds and the mighty sea all around, modern Orkney remains a wild, evocative place.
8. Join the island adventures on Mull
Visiting the Hebrides is highly recommended. The islands are scattered off the west coast, one foot in Scotland, the other in the Atlantic. Mull is one of the finest of these islands, and once you get past its appealing towns (capital Tobermory’s chocolate-box harbor is something else), you can use it as a base for the wonderfully accessible outdoors. There are mountains, cliffs and achingly beautiful beaches, but a boat trip offers the greatest pleasures.
Nearby isles include Iona (whose abbey was a vital staging post in Christianity’s advance through Britain), Staffa (home to surreal pillars that inspired Felix Mendelssohn and Pink Floyd) and Lunga (where thousands of impossibly appealing puffins nest in spring and summer). It’s an especially fun thing to do for families – kids will love the excitement of the short boat trips.
Detour: There are dozens of operators around the coast offering whale-watching boat trips lasting from a couple of hours to all day; some have sighting success rates of 95% in summer.
Scotland’s most famous driving route heading over the Kylesku Bridge. Helen Hotson/Shutterstock
9. Drive the North Coast 500
Scotland’s most famous driving route starts in Inverness, the Highlands’ likable capital, and makes a great loop around the dramatic west coast and the wild, remote top of Scotland. You’ll pass superb seafood restaurants, distilleries (not all for whisky), villages, farmhouses and pubs.
But the star here is the scenery: lochs that look like they go on forever, huge sea cliffs, rugged mountains, lonely beaches, machair grassland and hills topped with heather. It gets busy in summer: the best time to go is the shoulder season, and a week will allow you to take decent pit stops, breathe in the sea air and treasure the shifting light and the contours of the land. If this doesn’t appeal, Scotland has other amazing road trips to get you exploring.
The West Highland Way is Scotland’s most popular through-hike but you can tackle a section. Shutterstock
10. Hike the West Highland Way
The West Highland Way takes you from the Lowlands to the Highlands, from the outskirts of Scotland’s biggest city, Glasgow, to the base of Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis. It passes rivers, lochs, mountains and moorland, traveling on old cattle roads and railway lines – meaning that this is one epic journey on which it’s hard to get lost. For the more adventurous hiker, there are other less well-trod paths to also investigate.
The 96-mile (155km) West Highland Way takes most hikers around a week, although it’s possible to just take on parts of it. You can make it easier, by asking a tour company to drop your baggage at your hotel each night; or harder, by wild camping all the way and rounding it off with the climb up Ben Nevis (4413ft/1345m).
Local tip: Pre-book accommodation or campsites during the European summer as this is a popular through-hike. Some pubs and inns will only serve food to guests who are staying, so if you are wild camping make sure you carry enough food for meals between major towns.
11. Explore historic Edinburgh
Outside of festival time, Edinburgh is one of Britain’s most spectacular cities with plenty of things to do, and its Old and New towns provide a luminous history lesson. The Old Town is crowned by a mighty castle, from where the cobblestoned Royal Mile descends past tangled medieval wynds (alleys) and cozy pubs to the Scottish Parliament.
The neighboring New Town, a mere 200 years old, has Neoclassical streets arranged into an elegant pattern of squares, crescents and boulevards. The city’s hilly nature means that wherever you go, a new view can surprise you. The National Museum is the best of many, although you can also get a vivid sense of Edinburgh’s rich history just by strolling its streets.
With its impressive terrain of imperious mountains, volcano-ravaged landscapes and sumptuous rainforest, Washington state is understandably renowned amongst keen hikers.
It is home to the northern terminus of the Pacific Crest Trail (part of the “Triple Crown” of US hiking), the headquarters of the American Alpine Institute and three pioneering national parks: iconic Mt Rainier, the primeval Olympic peninsula and the lonesome mini-Alaska of the North Cascades.
When you’re done pacing the state’s saw-toothed mountains and rain-soaked forests, you can stroll the less threatening fields and hedgerows of the bucolic San Juan Islands, or warm down on the pleasantly paved (and accessible) Burke-Gilman trail in urban Seattle. These are the best hikes in Washington state.
1. The Wonderland Trail is a challenging multi-day hike
93-mile loop, 10–12 days, hard
Backcountry endurance athletes will love the Wonderland Trail, Mt Rainier’s classic long-distance hike, a 93-mile pilgrimage that completely circumnavigates the mountain and logs a cumulative elevation gain of 21400ft. Conceived in 1915, the trail is well-marked and completed by between 200 and 250 hikers a year. Incorporating multiple ecosystems into its course, it reveals captivating vistas of Rainier and its 25 glaciers from every angle.
Longmire near Mt Rainier National Park’s Nisqually entrance is the most popular starting point for the multi-day extravaganza. Most hikers tackle the route in a clockwise direction in July or August after the snow has melted and the mountain’s famous wildflowers are in bloom. There are 18 backcountry campsites en route. Don’t worry if you’re new to backcountry camping and don’t know where to start. Our handy guide will ensure you have the time of your life.
2. The Enchanted Valley Trail is the best hike for wildlife-spotting
27 miles round-trip, 2 days, easy
Billed as one of the easiest and downright charming ways to delve into the roadless interior of Olympic National Park, this gentle, easy-to-follow trail stretches for 13.5 miles from the Graves Creek trailhead to a large riverside meadow, the site of a handsomely mildewed wooden cabin dating from the 1930s. Much of the early miles are through a wooded valley studded with a magnificent old-growth forest and bisected by the gurgling Quinault River.
After passing the O’Neil Creek campsite, the trees slowly thin out to reveal sheer cliff faces and peaks rising 2000ft from the valley floor. During the spring snowmelt, the precipice is drizzled by innumerable waterfalls (locals claim there are 10,000!), while the valley is decorated with a rich rainbow of wildflowers. You can camp by the enchanting but closed-to-public cabin before hiking back the way you came. Berry-seeking bears, shy deer and herds of elk are common in these parts.
The northern half of Washington is characterized by its wild, storm-lashed beaches, many of them protected within Olympic National Park. For a taste of this remote, elemental coast, come to Lake Ozette, 31 miles southwest of the town of Clallam Bay. It’s the location of a 2000-year-old Ozette-Makah village uncovered during a Pacific storm in 1970 (most of the archaeological site was backfilled in the 1980s).
From the lake, you can follow the 3.3-mile Cape Alava Trail to the westernmost point of land in the Lower 48. The trail, much of it across a raised boardwalk, delivers you to a rocky weather-beaten beach speckled with islets and sea stacks. Turn south here and – tide permitting – traverse the beach for 3 miles. Rocks, sand and fallen trees make it tough going (check tide charts in advance) but, halfway along, you’ll stumble upon the Wedding Rocks, the most significant group of petroglyphs on the Olympic Peninsula.
Loop back to the Lake Ozette trailhead by following the well-marked Sand Point Trail that plunges inland from the beach, completing an almost perfect triangle.
4. Cascade Pass to Stehekin Valley is a hike to an off-the-grid village
23 miles point-to-point, 2 days, hard
Bereft of road connections to the outside world, the remote Cascadian village of Stehekin is reachable only by boat or seaplane – unless you’re up for a bold backcountry adventure on foot. Three main trails head south off Hwy 20 to converge on the isolated community. The quickest and most spectacular is the 23-mile hike over Cascade Pass (reached via a steep 3.7-mile climb from the Cascade River Rd) that follows the route of a former Native American trading path switching back to the 5392ft subalpine saddle. The area is the current focus of a national park revegetation effort.
After ascending to the pass, the path continues down the other side into the Stehekin River Valley, where it joins briefly with the Pacific Crest Trail before descending to High Bridge. From here, you can catch a four-times-daily (in the summer and fall season) shuttle bus for the last 11 miles into Stehekin. Numerous backcountry campsites are available en route.
5. Desolation Trail is a great route for literary enthusiasts
7.9 miles round-trip, 7 hours, hard
Loaded with historical and literary significance, the Desolation Trail up to Desolation Peak (6102ft) in the North Cascades takes you to a historic fire lookout, built in 1933, the one-time refuge of American Beat writer Jack Kerouac. He worked as a watchman at this remote spot during the summer of 1956. The shortest ascent to the lookout from Ross Lake follows a steep, strenuous trail that gains 4475ft in less than 4 miles. The reward is stunning vistas of the twin peaks of Hozameen and, perhaps, echoes of the literary inspiration that prompted Kerouac to write Desolation Angels and The Dharma Bums.
To complete the hike in a day, you’ll need to catch a water taxi from Ross Lake to a trailhead on the lake’s upper eastern shore. Alternatively, the peak can be hiked via a longer 43-mile round-trip route starting from a trailhead at milepost 138 on Hwy 20.
6. Chain Lakes Loop has the best mountain views
7.1-mile loop, 4 hours, moderate
If you’ve grown tired of climbing through thick forests to peek-a-boo viewpoints, this hike will save you some grunt work. Set in a high alpine nirvana amid the lake-scattered bowls and slopes of Mt Baker and Mt Shuksan, the Chain Lakes Loop starts at Artist Point (5100ft) at the end of Mt Baker Hwy, enabling you to get above the treeline by car. It’s important to check the weather before you set off – snow can keep the road closed until early July.
The hike itself follows a moderate, well-trafficked route that’s spectacular from start to finish. From the parking lot, it traverses the lava walls of Table Mountain before dropping down to pass a half-dozen icy lakes surrounded by huckleberry meadows. Iceberg, Hayes and Bagley Lakes all unveil their glassy beauty. In the background, you’re treated to intermittent snapshots of Mt Shuksan (9131ft), the peak that launched a thousand calendar spreads, and Mt Baker (10,781ft), northwestern Washington’s omnipresent sentinel and one of the snowiest places on earth.
After passing the Heather Meadows Visitor Center, take the Wild Goose Trail back to Artist Point.
7. Dog Mountain Trail is the best hike for wildflowers
7.2 miles round-trip, 5 hours, hard
The toast of all Columbia Gorge hikes is a steep 3.8-mile climb up Dog Mountain, the best place in southern Washington for late-spring wildflowers. The uphill trek is unrelenting, but it ends in open fields full of balsamroot, paintbrush, lupine and more, framed by sweeping views over the mighty Columbia River, as wide as a lake at this point in its course. Oregon occupies the opposite bank and various Cascade volcanoes flash their brilliance in the distance.
The hike operates a permit system in the spring months to minimize crowds – book online in advance.
8. Bluff Trail is a good hike to do as a family
5.6-mile loop, 2 hours, easy
If your knees aren’t up to mountain scrambles or bushwhacking through Washington’s backcountry, try this bucolic stroll through a National Historical Reserve that embodies Washington state’s best parks, where the elevation change is minimal and the wildest animal you’re likely to see is a startled rabbit. Welcome to Ebey’s Landing, a 17,000-acre patchwork of working farms, historic blockhouses and coastal bluffs spread across two state parks on the western shores of Whidbey Island, 30 miles north of Seattle.
The reserve’s best walk, the Bluff Trail, departs from the Sunnyside Cemetery just outside the historic town of Coupeville near the island’s narrowest point. The white hump of Mt Baker dominates the eastern horizon, and the peaks of the Olympics march away to the west as you head through wheat fields to a coastal bluff where the trail loops past wind-contorted trees and flower-covered slopes. Zigzagging down to a beach backed by a lagoon, the path doubles back on a parallel route to the start. Interpretive boards, wildfowl and marine ecosystems provide distractions en route.
Tucked away in the forest on the southern side of Mt St Helens, Ape Cave is a 2-mile-long lava tube – the longest in the western hemisphere – formed around 2000 years ago in one of the volcano’s earlier eruptions.
It allows you to take an unguided cave walk up to 1.5 miles long (although there’s a shorter 0.8-mile option) and digest a bit of the area’s volcanic history as you go. Interpretive boards explain the basic geology, and forest rangers lead guided walks in summer. Bring good footwear, several torches/flashlights and a jacket (it gets cold even in summer).
Stairs aid entry to the cave but, once inside, passages are narrow and several lava falls must be climbed over, including one that’s 8ft tall. From the upper entrance, a forest path meanders 1.5 miles back to the parking area.
Planning tip: A permit system has been introduced to enter the cave, so book online before your visit.
10. Skyline Trail is the best route for glacier viewing
6.2-mile loop, 3.5 hours, moderate
Starting behind the historic Paradise Inn perched at 5400ft on the southern slopes of Mt Rainier, this gorgeous loop climbs approximately 1900ft, taking in the lofty lookout of Panorama Point, which provides some of the best views of Mt Rainier (in close-up), as well as the more distant Tatoosh Range.
Best done clockwise, the circuit incorporates glacier views, above-the-treeline paths patrolled by whistling marmots and expansive flower meadows replete with lupine, paintbrush, asters and bistort. Due to its famed beauty, the trail is well-signposted and trafficked. There are a couple of opportunities to cut corners and make the loop shorter.
Planning tip: Late July and early August are peak wildflower season and the best (but busiest) time to visit. Pick up a trail map at the Henry M Jackson Visitor Center next to Paradise Inn.
11. Heliotrope Ridge Trail is a top choice for glacier enthusiasts
5.5 miles roundtrip, 4 hours, moderate
Located on Mt Baker, Heliotrope Ridge Trail begins off Forest Road 39, where the dense forests quickly give way to expansive views of the surrounding peaks. Within 1 mile of a gentle ascent, you’ll cross the first of several small streams cascading down from nearby peaks and soon meander through wildflower-filled meadows, especially from late July to early August when the flowers are at their peak.
The moderate elevation gets more noticeable around the 2-mile mark, as you approach the treeline. The gain leads you gradually up to the edge of the Coleman Glacier, with blue ice caves offering a striking contrast to the surrounding landscape – you may even spot adventurous ice climbers making their way up the face.
12. Snow Lake Trail showcases the beauty of Alpine Lakes Wilderness
7.2 miles roundtrip, 3.5 hours, moderate
Within the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, Snow Lake Trail is a rewarding hike that provides picturesque lake views. The trail begins at the Alpental parking area near Snoqualmie Pass, immediately diving into a forested path lined with towering evergreens and dense undergrowth. The trail descends toward the lake and levels out around the 3-mile mark.
The lake is an ideal spot for a lunch break or a snack, and in the late summer months, you may even spot wild blueberries along the trail for delicious foraging. If you have the energy, continue past Snow Lake to Gem Lake, just over a mile walk, for a quieter spot.
13. Ptarmigan Traverse is Washington’s toughest hike
35 miles point-to-point, 5–7 days, extremely hard
If you’re a serious hiker with days to commit, the Ptarmigan Traverse is a legendary route winding through the Washington Cascades with some of the state’s most difficult and remote alpine terrain. This epic 35-mile trek, often described as Washington’s most grueling hike, requires a high level of mountaineering skill, route-finding expertise and experience with glacier travel.
The journey begins near Cascade Pass in North Cascades National Park and covers dramatic landscapes marked by towering peaks, steep inclines and expansive glaciers. The first major ascent takes you over Cache Col Pass, then traverses multiple glaciers, including the Dana, Middle Cascade and LeConte.
One of the most stunning sections is White Rock Lakes, where clear blue lakes reflect the jagged peaks that tower overhead, offering a backdrop for those able to reach this remote spot. The final portion of the traverse brings hikers over Spire Col and Dome Peak, two of the highest and most challenging points on the route.
14. Aasgard Pass is Washington’s toughest one-day hike
12 miles roundtrip, 8–12 hours, extremely hard
If you want to tackle a tough hike but only have a day to commit, the Aasgard Pass in the Enchantments Core Zone is hailed as Washington’s most difficult one-day hike, testing even the most experienced hikers. Starting at the Stuart Lake Trailhead near Leavenworth, this hike offers stunning rewards but demands intense effort.
The initial portion leads through lush, forested trails, climbing steadily until reaching Colchuck Lake at around 4 miles. From there, you’ll confront Aasgard Pass head-on. This brutally steep ascent climbs 2000ft in less than a mile. Snow patches here can linger well into summer, adding to the difficulty and unpredictability. But when you reach the top, you are rewarded with an entry into the Enchantments Basin, filled with sapphire-blue lakes, wildflower-dotted meadows and the occasional mountain goat roaming freely among the granite.
15. Rattlesnake Ledge is the best hike for beginners
4 miles roundtrip, 2 hours, easy
Still, Washington offers a number of trails that introduce newcomers to hiking in the state. One of the top trails for beginners is Rattlesnake Ledge, located in Rattlesnake Mountain Scenic Area near North Bend. The trailhead starts at Rattlesnake Lake and begins with a gentle incline, winding through a dense, shaded forest of towering cedars and firs.
The well-marked trail continues to climb gradually, providing several spots to stop and rest along the way. At around 1.5 miles in, the trail steepens slightly but remains easily navigable, with switchbacks helping to ease the climb. The path is wide, well-trodden and lined with ferns and moss until you reach Rattlesnake Ledge’s rocky outcrop. From here, enjoy the sweeping views before retracing your steps back.
16. Hurricane Hill Trail is the best hike in Olympic National Park
3.2 miles roundtrip, 1.5–2 hours, easy to moderate
For the best hiking in Olympic National Park, Hurricane Hill Trail is one of the state’s most-visited trails. Starting near the temporary Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center (the permanent building burned down in 2023), this hike takes you along a paved path that gently climbs through alpine meadows filled with wildflowers during the summer months.
The hike begins with a moderate ascent, but the well-maintained trail and gradual incline make it manageable even for beginners. After 1 mile, you’ll reach a ridge with views of the Olympic Mountains – on a clear day, you can even see as far as Vancouver Island.
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From the Caribbean to the Pacific Northwest and beyond, Lonely Planet editors have picked the 28 best beaches in the US.
From Clearwater Beach in Florida to Venice Beach in California, the best beaches in the US can be found throughout the country. Whether you relish the calm waters of a small town’s public beach to vacation with the kids, or you imagine romantic evening strolls along endless stretches of white sand beach, Lonely Planet Editors aim to awaken your inner beachcomber with their top picks of the 28 best beaches in the US.
In our latest edition of Lonely Planet Best Beaches, you’ll find many more great beaches around the world. Caves and coves; driftwood-laden coastlines shrouded in mystical fog; offshore coral reefs and sprawling cliffside clear water pools — we cover 100 favorite shorelines across the globe
We are delighted to present to you our 28 best beaches in the US to help you plan your own dreamy beach getaway.
The spider-like branches of gnarled oaks draping the golden sands of Jekyll Island off the coast of Georgia are eerily haunting. The trees pull you in for a closer look, whispering of mysteries from centuries past. You can maybe even envision tall tales of zombies here—The Walking Dead filmed scenes for its 10th season at this Georgia beach.
With that said, the scene is far from morbid. Kids can safely explore tide pools and climb onto sun-bleached tree trunks without fear of a zombie attack. Instead, you can expect a steady stream of brides and grooms smiling for wedding shots among the branches at sunset, making the most of the technicolor backdrop.
Once part of a maritime forest, the trees fell as the beach eroded and their roots were exposed to sun and salt. Some trees may be more than 500 years old while others have collapsed more recently due to storms and the relentless encroachment of the Atlantic.
2. Grayton Beach, Grayton Beach State Park, Florida
The sugar-white sands of Grayton Beach billow like delicate frosting, their ephemeral beauty ever-shifting thanks to winds and waves along the Florida panhandle. They’re a striking contrast to the clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico lapping the shore.
But this one-mile (1.6km) strip of pristine sand, part of Grayton Beach State Park, is more than just a pretty Florida Beach. The beach’s dunes protect three coastal dune lakes, which are a rare natural phenomenon found in only four countries in the world. A 4.5-mile (7.2km) multiuse trail winds through the woods and along the 100-acre (40-hectare) Western Lake, the largest of the park’s coastal dune lakes. Its dazzling blue waters are open for kayaking, canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding.
A sparkling confection of sunshine, style and beautiful people, South Beach embodies the good life. Just east of downtown Miami in South Florida, SoBe dazzles like a kaleidoscope paused.
Aquamarine waters lap luxurious white sands while the tidy greenery of Lummus Park and the Promenade unfurls just west. Candy-bright lifeguard towers bring whimsy to the beach, hinting at the vivid facades of Miami’s Art Deco Historic District. Built in the 1930s, art deco hotels along Ocean Drive are showpieces of geometry, color, and function. Caribbean flourishes and soaring palm trees add more aesthetic oomph while neon and nightclubs, in contrast to the more laid-back but still vibrant North Beach, bring late-night sizzle.
Cheap sunglasses are for sale in every direction on the Venice Beach Boardwalk, a 2-mile (3.2km) strip of creativity hugged by weed dispensaries, t-shirt shops and French-fry joints in southern Los Angeles – and that’s just the view on the inland side.
On the ocean side, palm trees frame the sandy beach and the Pacific, with views interrupted by bodybuilders pumping iron at Muscle Beach, basketball players shooting hoops on busy courts and skateboarders gliding skyward at the shiny skateboard park. Take a seat to watch the action. Jugglers, gymnasts and artists all vie for attention—and a few bucks—along the way.
A “pocked beach” in western Malibu, El Matador may be tiny but it packs an oversized visual punch. One of three small beaches comprising Robert H Meyer Memorial State Beach – the other two are El Pescador and La Piedra – El Matador hugs the base of craggy bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean beside Pacific Coast Highway (PCH or California Highway 1).
A dirt path drops down the rugged cliffside to a set of stairs that descend to the soft sands of the beach, where the real visual feast begins. A cluster of rocks and sea stacks extends from the cliffs edging the cove into the sea. The largest formations hide arches and caves, which are prime candidates for exploring and photography—as are the tide pools filled with sea life. The setting sun illuminates the rocks with a golden glow, casting shadows and revealing new treasures. On a quiet afternoon the effect borders on the sublime.
For several weeks in late December, coinciding with the winter solstice, the setting sun pierces Keyhole Arch with a luminous golden light. Staged at a sliver of coastline along the rugged Big Sur coast in California, it’s a spectacular ode to nature’s other-worldly gifts. And the spectacle becomes sublime when a wave crashes within the arch, its spray aglow with the ethereal light.
After rainstorms, the crescent-shaped beach may turn purple in spots due to the manganese garnet washed down from the coastline’s crumbly bluffs. Due to dangerous surf, Pfeiffer Beach isn’t recommended for swimming, and it can get windy – but walking, beachcombing and sunsets are superb.
Local tip: The Ambrosia burgers are great and so is the view at Nepenthe, a oceanfront restaurant perched high on a cliff between Pfeiffer Canyon Bridge and Castro Canyon on Highway 1.
Haystack Rock is a mood. A volcanic remnant formed by 17 million years of uplift and erosion, it rises 235ft (72m) above Cannon Beach. A basalt monolith, it was likely familiar to the Clatsop and Chinook tribes and the Lewis and Clark Expedition, which wintered near here in 1805 and 1806. Today Haystack Rock and the beach are popular destinations for beachgoers seeking wildlife and amazing sunset views.
Within the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge on the Northern Oregon Coast, Haystack Rock is a haven for tufted puffins, seals and sea lions. At low tide, beachcombers can walk to its base and explore its tide pools, home to sea stars and anemones. Gray whales and humpback whales migrate along the coast in winter and again in spring. Held in June, the Cannon Beach Sandcastle Contest is truly ephemeral—all the entries are washed away by high tide after existing for a mere five hours.
On a spring day, when the crowds are light and the snow still tops the Sierra Nevada mountains. Sand Harbor and its lakefront boulders evoke a land that time forgot. Crystal blue waters. Ancient white sand beaches. Jefferson pines that soar overhead. There’s an ageless and transportive tranquility here—at least until summer, when beach umbrellas and stand-up paddleboards disrupt the spell as the crowds roll in.
Lake Tahoe, which straddles the California–Nevada state line, is the largest alpine lake in the country and the second-deepest. The water is so clear that sometimes you can see objects as far as 70ft (21m) below the surface. You can appreciate that clarity at Sand Harbor, especially if you rent a kayak and paddle its small bay.
9. Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland and Virginia
With wild horses galloping across its windswept beaches, Assateague Island National Seashore exudes a surprisingly feral vibe, a rarity along the highly developed shores of the Mid-Atlantic. Thick maritime forests and rugged dunes round out the dramatic scene. A barrier island, Assateague hugs the coast of Maryland and Virginia on the Eastern Shore, a three-hour drive from Washington, DC. Beach camping is permitted, so city dwellers can easily dig into its untamed splendor—and wake up to gorgeous sunrises.
The park’s 37-mile (59km) beachfront is divided by the Maryland–Virginia state line. Low-key adventuring is a hallmark of the Maryland side, with hiking on nature trails, kayaking in bayside marshes and 4 miles (6.4km) of road cycling on Bayberry Dr. At Maryland’s Assateague State Park, which is tucked inside the national seashore, there is a bathhouse and, in summer, lifeguards. Stay at least 40ft (12m) away from the horses – they’re more bad-tempered than polite.
Local tip: More than 300 wild ponies roam the beaches and salt marshes. They’re beauties but stay at least 40ft (12m) away from the horses—they’re more bad-tempered than polite.
A doorstep to the heavens? At Kauaʻi’s Hanalei Bay, a 2-mile (3.2km) crescent of golden sand carved into the northernmost island of the Hawaiian archipelago, you’ll find one of the best beaches in Hawaii. Just west of Black Pot Beach Park, the photogenic Hanalei Pier juts into the soft blue waters of the bay. Framed by rumpled green mountains and blue skies brushed with clouds, the 300ft-long (91m) pier is the only thing keeping this North Shore masterpiece tethered to reality.
The beach is divided into four named sections. Kayakers and novice surfers flock to the area around the pier, where the surf typically features calm waters. Surf lessons are offered just west. Big swells draw experienced surfers to Waiʻoli (Pine Trees) Beach Park near the middle of the beach in winter. Swimming conditions vary by location and season but are typically best in summer. Sunbathing and snorkeling are also popular.
Local tip: It’s a short drive from Hanalei Bay to Smith’s Fern Garden. Board the boat for the 2-mile ride upriver on the Wailua River through the lush tropical landscape. Besides the view, on the boat performers in island garb share stories and sing traditional Hawaiian songs. Disembark for some serious photo taking and follow the short path to the grotto.
There’s something pleasingly untamed about Oneloa Beach, a broad strip of golden sand in the far southern reaches of Maui, the second largest island in Hawaii. This beach is part of Makena State Park, where lifeguards scan the Pacific, but the setting remains wild. A tangle of tropical greenery presses in on the sandy path that leads to the near mile-long (1.6km) beach—oneloa means “long sand” in Hawaiian—and the Pacific pounds the shore with waves that are an otherworldly shade of blue.
Beachgoers should be aware that shore breaks (steep waves that break near the shore) can be too brutal for swimming. But from atop the lava-rock promontory at Oneloa’s south end, views of the beach—which is flanked by the lush slopes of Haleakalā—are magnificent.
It looks like a giant emptied his pockets on the shores of Ruby Beach in Olympic National Park. Tree trunks are strewn like matchsticks. Sea stacks cluster like crumbled chocolates. And a colorful assortment of agates, garnets and sea glass add a touch of glitter to the captivating mess.
The sea stacks, reachable at low tide, are the public face of coastal erosion here. Once part of the mainland, they formed after a centuries-long onslaught by ocean waves, which also carved out their caves and arches. Flanked by forested sandstone cliffs, Ruby Beach is a wonderland for children, with tide pools hiding anemones, sea urchins, purple starfish and skittering crabs. The shore and its polished rocks – the agates give the beach its ruby coloring – also hold treasures for sharp-eyed rockhounds and seashell hunters.
13. Playa Tortuga, Isla Culabrita, Puerto Rico
As the name suggests, Playa Tortuga (or Turtle Beach) is a prime spot to view the local population of turtles who use this beach as their breeding ground every year. You can find this beach on Isla Culabrita, a tiny island off the shore of Isla de Culebra that’s part of the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge. And since you can only reach this beach by boat, that makes it feel much more secluded and tranquil.
Beyond the turtles, Playa Tortuga is great for snorkeling and swimming with the colorful tropical fish. If you prefer staying closer to shore, you can explore the tide pools, which locals refer to as “The Jacuzzi” due to the churn of warm water you’ll encounter here. Even if you just want to stroll along the powdery white sand and enjoy the views of the crystal clear water, you will surely love your time at Playa Tortuga.
14. Trunk Bay, Virgin Islands National Park, St. John
You might hear folks call this beach one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Once you make your way to Trunk Bay, which is part of Virgin Islands National Park, you will quickly understand why so many visitors are awestruck and mesmerized by this beach’s remarkable beauty.
If there’s any downside to visiting Trunk Bay, it’s that this beach can get quite crowded—especially when cruise ships head this way. As long as you can handle the crowds, you will be rewarded with an incredible underwater snorkeling trail, crystal clear turquoise water at the surface, pristine white sand on land, plenty of nearby amenities (including lifeguards and accessible restrooms), and some of the best views you’ll find anywhere in the Caribbean.
Local detour: Visit the ruins of the Catherineberg Sugar Mill, a former 18th-century sugar and rum factory with a large windmill tower, located in the Virgin Islands National Park. The ruins, from the Danish Colonial period of the island’s history, are among the largest and best preserved on the island.
15. Treasure Island Beach, Laguna Beach, California
Is this St. Tropez? Might this be Bali? Could this be Punta Mita? Nope, this is actually one of Southern California’s best beaches. If you time it right, Treasure Island can feel pretty secluded, despite this public beach’s location near this perennially busy stretch of Pacific Coast Highway in Laguna Beach. But even if crowds descend onto the shore from the highway and the nearby Montage Resort, you can still enjoy the perfect beach day here.
If you fancy a dip in the (admittedly cool) Pacific Ocean water, head to Goff Island Cove at the north end of Treasure Island Beach for calmer water that’s great for swimming and snorkeling. For longer walks on the sand, take the wheelchair-accessible ramp down to the main beach area and explore the shore all the way down to the busier Aliso Beach. And for a leisurely walk with great views, you can take the bluff-top trails by the resort—You might even find artists finding inspiration as they paint their newest masterpieces!
16. Cumberland Island, Georgia
Nestled along the southernmost stretch of Georgia’s coast, Cumberland Island (which is a National Seashore) looks and feels picture-perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those who simply want an idyllic beach day with minimal outside disruptions.
For 17 miles (or about 27.4km), Cumberland Island stretches out and reveals one of the Northern Hemisphere’s most unique natural wildlife habitats. Here, you can find some rare (and endangered) loggerhead sea turtles, where they come to nest May through September. Cumberland Island is also great for spotting wild horses, armadillos, and an incredible variety of birds who call this island home. Even if you’re not in the mood to spot wildlife, you can simply walk to the beach and stroll along the island’s wide open spaces full of dazzling white sand.
Local tip: The best time for sea shell hunting is during low tide. The most common shells are knobbed whelks, lettered olives, moon snails, pen shells and heart cockles. Less common but still a possibility are sand dollars, sea beans and sea urchins. Keep in mind, only unoccupied shells and fossilized shark’s teeth can be taken home.
17. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
Located about 70 miles west of Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park not only offers an escape from the ordinary, but it’s also the perfect spot to experience a different side of the Florida Keys removed from the hustle and bustle of the touristy hotels and resorts.
So, what makes Dry Tortugas one of the best beaches in the US? Simply put, this is the closest beach to the US mainland that offers a Caribbean-like remote tropical beach experience. While you will notice Fort Jefferson, one of the nation’s largest 19th-century military forts and the largest brick building in the Western Hemisphere, it’s otherwise easy to find a welcoming stretch of white sand to stretch out and relax. And since Dry Tortugas is only accessible by boat, that simply adds to the charm and the allure of this uniquely coastal national park.
18. Sand Beach, Acadia National Park, Maine
Not to be confused with Sand Harbor Beach at Lake Tahoe (see above), Sand Beach may be the best spot to dip your toes in the sand at Maine’s famed Acadia National Park. If you plan to visit during the popular summer season, expect some big crowds here. But even if you come during the colder months, you will still be rewarded with gorgeous coastal views at one of New England’s most beloved national parks.
While it is generally safe to swim at Sand Beach, take note that the water tends to stay chilly year-round—yes, even during summer. For those who prefer getting their steps in on dry land, Sand Beach also offers easy access to great hike and bike trails. Pro tip: Like the rest of Acadia National Park, Sand Beach is a wonderful area to marvel at the fall colors during autumn leaf peeping season.
Detour: It’s only five miles to historic Bar Harbor, the largest town on Frenchman’s Bay on Maine’s Mount Desert Island. It’s a wonderful destination for trendy shops and restaurants as well as green spaces and pretty parks. While there, be sure to indulge in that Northeast speciality and consume a lobster roll or two.
19. Gray Whale Cove State Beach, California
Though it’s sometimes called “Devil’s Slide,” the views at Gray Whale Cove State Beach can be outright heavenly. Located about 20 miles (or 32km) south of San Francisco and 8 miles (or 13km) north of Half Moon Bay, Gray Whale Cove feels far removed from the massive sprawl of the Bay Area, even though it’s actually this close to the city.
With its perennially icy water and frequent rip currents, Gray Whale Cove isn’t really the ideal beach for swimming. But if you simply need a beach where you can leave all your troubles behind, the picturesque beauty of this beach is hard to beat. And yes, as the name suggests, this beach is a superb spot to find gray whales migrating northward during the spring season.
20. Seacliff State Beach, California
Why go to a beach that’s best known for its huge concrete freighter? In short, Seacliff State Beach seamlessly blends fascinating history with timeless natural beauty. Yes, it’s pretty easy to spot the SS Palo Alto from the beach. Yet considering this ship’s backstory as a “Cement Ship” meant to serve during World War I, and as a go-to venue for lively beach parties during the 1920s, the Palo Alto somehow feels right at home at this beach.
Beyond the SS Palo Alto, Seacliff is also a rare Bay Area beach that’s safe for swimming, and it’s a perfect place for family picnics and fun beach days with the kids. Due to recent winter storm damage, it’s always a good idea to check in advance to ensure that everything you want to do will be available. Still, this is one Northern California beach that’s always worth stopping for.
21. Padre Island National Seashore, Texas
Yes, you really can find beaches in Texas. After all, the Lone Star State sits right by the Gulf of Mexico! And in the case of Padre Island National Seashore, you will discover 66 miles (or about 106km) of blissfully beautiful Gulf Coast shoreline nestled between Corpus Christi and the US-Mexico border.
Who knew that South Texas has its own 130,000+ acre expanse of white sand beaches, one of the last natural coastal prairies in the United States, a cherished sea turtle nesting ground, and prime opportunities to spot other animals like coyotes, deer, and ghost crabs? Well, now you do. No matter what you’re hoping to do at the beach, this beach is one that basically lets you see and do it all with classic Texas flair.
22. Henderson Beach State Park, Destin, Florida
Florida has an abundance of scenic beaches, and this one Florida beach really delivers in unique, breathtaking scenery. Located in the heart of Florida’s Emerald Coast in Destin, Henderson Beach State Park doesn’t just have white sand beaches—It also has 30-foot (or 9-meter) high white sand dunes that must be seen (and felt) to be believed.
Not only can you marvel at the majestic dunes, but you can also hit the state park’s pet-friendly trail, throw a feast at the beach’s designated picnic and barbeque facilities, spot all kinds of wildlife (including dolphins, sea turtles, butterflies, and rabbits), and swim in the warm Gulf Coast water. And whenever you’re ready for more, you’re a short walk, bike ride, or drive away from all the rest that Destin has to offer.
23. Edisto Beach State Park, South Carolina
There may be plenty to cherish, and perhaps even worship, in the “Holy City” of Charleston. But when you want to go to the beach, you will need to drive out of town to reach one. So, where can you go for a proper Carolina-style beach day? Fortunately, one of South Carolina’s best beaches is a short drive away at Edisto Beach State Park on Edisto Island.
Edisto Island may only be about 45 miles (or 72km) southwest of Charleston, yet it feels a world away from the city. After all, Edisto has 4 miles (or about 6.5km) of wheelchair-accessible trails, magnificent live oak forests, a laid-back fishing pier and boat docks by Big Bay Creek, and 1.5 miles (or about 2.5km) of beautiful palmetto-lined beach that offers some of the most stunning sunrises on the Eastern Seaboard.
24. Atlantic Beach, North Carolina
Atlantic Beach may only be about 150 miles (or 241km) from North Carolina’s state capital of Raleigh, yet the vibes here let you feel like you’re very far removed from the hassles and hubbub of the Research Triangle metro region. Located on the barrier island of Bogue Banks, Atlantic Beach is a wonderful spot to head to the beach and enjoy as active (or chill) a beach getaway as you want.
For those who want to get or stay active, Atlantic Beach is great for parasailing, jet skiing, kayaking, swimming, and even surfing. (Yes, Atlantic Beach offers gnarly swells for surfing at Fort Macon State Park!) For those who want to stay chill, Atlantic Beach has plenty of wide, sandy beaches that are perfect for casual strolls and scenic sunbathing.
25. Siesta Key, Sarasota, Florida
With a name like Siesta Key, it’s easy to assume that this Florida beach can be a pretty sleepy one. Indeed, this can be a very relaxing place, if that’s what you’re here for. But if you prefer a more active kind of beach vacation, Siesta Key has you covered, too.
Siesta Key has 99% pure quartz sand that manages to stay cool to the touch year-round, so you might find it quite easy to play all day at the beach. Even better, Siesta Key’s recent amenities to its public beach—including a new pedestrian esplanade, raised concessions, and more parking—means you can spend less time worrying about what you need, and more time enjoying the beach. And whenever you want to see and do more, you’re minutes away from all the world-class museums, art galleries, shopping districts, and restaurants that Sarasota has to offer.
Local tip: Beachcombers can hope to easily find such shells as Augers and Lightning Whelks. Sand dollars and horseshoe conchs are less common but get up early and beat the other shell seekers.
26. Melbourne Beach, Florida
Central Florida is chock full of incredible sights and sounds, from otherworldly fantasy lands at Orlando’s famed theme parks to a real-life space center at Cape Canaveral. When you simply need a good beach to take the family (or just yourself), where should you go? Luckily, Melbourne Beach offers an abundance of open sand to stretch out, along with cool, laid-back beach vibes to help you chill after a busy day at Disney World or Universal Orlando.
This might sound awfully cliche, but the best part about Melbourne Beach is how calm and relaxing it can be down here. Sure, you can keep yourself booked and busy at the area’s golf courses, parks, and nature preserves. But when you really need an easy day at the beach, it’s hard to envision a better place than Melbourne Beach to let it all go.
27. Hana Beaches, Hana, Maui
If remote beauty far off the beaten path is your thing, then follow the Hana Highway from Kahului to Hana. The 60 mile trip on a narrow two-lane road is known for stunning views of the lush tropical forests on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other. If you’re so inclined to count, the two-to-four hour journey (and that’s just one way) has 620 sharp curves, 59 bridges traversing canyons far below, and more than 18 waterfalls.
It’s not for the faint of heart but that doesn’t stop a caravan of cars traveling on what is considered one of the most beautiful highways in the U.S. Because not only is the journey worth it, but Hana, a charming but very small village, has some of the most unique beaches including the Black Sand Beach at Wai’ānapanapa State Park, the crescent-shaped Hamoa Beach and the Red Sand Beach at Kaihalulu Beach. Hana Bay Beach Park is a community gathering place with black sand beaches, a dog park (if you brought Fido along), picnic tables, and grills.
Detour: In Keanae stop at the brightly painted Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread with its outdoor eating area for, obviously fresh from the oven, banana bread made with local fruit as well as Kalua pork sandwiches, coconut candy, and jars of Lilikoʻi Butter made with passion fruit. But one caveat, they often sell out shortly after noon.
Planning Tip: Plan on plenty of stops along the way. Several of the waterfalls such as Ching’s Pond and Falls, Upper Puohokamoa Falls and Haipuaʻena Falls have natural ponds for swimming. And, of course, you’ll want to take plenty of photos.
Local Tip: Mark your calendars for such special events in Hana as the Taro Festival in March, in celebration of Maui’s Taro Farmers and the Canoe Regatta in April, marking the official opening of the island’s Canoe Season, which marks the official opening of the local canoe season in April.
28. Opal Beach, Saugatuck, Michigan
Nestled on a curve of the Kalamazoo River as it flows into Lake Michigan, Saugatuck is a sizzling destination with streets filled with waterfront restaurants, marinas, boardwalk, shops, and art galleries. Known as the Best Place for LGBTQI+ travelers, the historic village is also famed for Oval Beach, one of the best beaches in the state.
A short distance from downtown, it’s accessible by car (though the parking lot fills up fast) but if you’d rather travel by foot, take the Saugatuck Chain Ferry. Dating back to1838 and operated by a hand crank, it is the only remaining chain-driven ferry in the U.S. It’s less than five-minute ride across the Kalamazoo River and then the real work begins. It’s a 250ft walk up the 303 wooden steps leading to the observation deck on Mount Baldy. Take a breather and enjoy the stunning view of Lake Michigan and then run down to the beach.
With its sugar sand shoreline, crystal clear waters and a backdrop of soaring dunes and whispering dune grass, it’s the prime place to lay down a blanket and soak up some rays. Lake Michigan can be nippy early in the season but usually by late June the water is warm enough even for less hearty types.
There are concession stands, bathrooms and a strict no dogs and no alcohol policy. Easily accessible from the parking lot, water wheelchairs are allowed.
Planning tip: Remember the cars your parents or maybe even your grandparents drove–the ones with lots of chrome and shark-like fins. Well, back in the 1940s to the 1960s, there were plenty of boats designed like that as well. Known as atomic boats, they were painted in Easter egg shades of lavender, pink, and blue. The boats went out of style and ended up abandoned in barns and old garages. But now refurbished you can rent one at Retroi Boats and take a spin along the river and towards the lake.
Planning tip: Saugatuck is no hidden gem but instead is a mega tourist destination. Don’t plan on just showing up. Make reservations.
Want to add a new kind of joy to your holiday season? Escape to the Caribbean for Christmas and swap snow for sun, sand and tropical drinks.
December weather in the Caribbean is particularly dry, with a “Christmas breeze” that locals wait for all year. Add in easy flights, affordable lodging, unique cultural festivities and an ideal party-relaxation balance, and there’s little reason you wouldn’t want to spend Christmas this year in these Caribbean destinations.
Christmas is a major holiday in Puerto Rico. Getty Images
1. Puerto Rico: parties, historic charm and wild beaches
Best for parties, historic charm and wild beaches
For either parties or seclusion at an affordable price, head to Puerto Rico come December. It’s an easy flight from the US, with no passport required for US citizens. Spend the first night in Old San Juan to explore its charming streets for shopping, history and food – then dance the night away to live salsa or bomba.
The island of Vieques is an easy hop on the ferry from Fajardo; arrive early to ensure availability. You should also book your rooms and car rentals in advance. Continue the holiday party vibe on the busier side of Vieques in Esmeralda, or escape into the hills near wild black-sand beaches.
The Boxing Day festival of Junkanoo is reason alone to visit the Bahamas. Montez Kerr/Shutterstock
2. The Bahamas
Best for Junkanoo, shopping and seclusion
The Bahamas’ annual Christmas Junkanoo Festival on Boxing Day is reason alone to visit this beautiful archipelago for the holidays. The colorful parade in Nassau, the largest on any of the country’s islands, is an excuse for everyone to dress up and dance in the streets.
Christmas shopping attracts arts-and-crafts vendors from around the islands to the capital; visit Festival Place at Prince George Wharf for locally made items. When you’re ready to escape the crowds, hop over to Eleuthera, Bimini or any of the Out Islands to lie out of the beach.
Proximity to the US and numerous nonstop flights make visiting the Bahamas for Christmas a no-brainer.
3. Jamaica
Best for fresh sorrel, fruit cake and reggae fests
The best part of Christmas in Jamaica is the food. The markets are livelier than ever, with the season’s favorite fruit – sorrel – in high demand. Feast on seasonal specialties like curried goat or ham with rice and beans, fruit cake and sorrel juice made with a hint of ginger and rum.
A huge Christmas tree in Santo Domingo’s Plaza España marks the season each year. Matyas Rehak/Shutterstock
4. Dominican Republic
Best for waterfalls, free concerts and nightlife
The holiday season is particularly festive in the Dominican Republic, where it’s celebrated through music, shopping and food. In Santo Domingo, malls are beautifully decorated and host indoor arts-and-crafts markets featuring locally made products. In the Zona Colonial, you’ll find live music daily, with free concerts beside Plaza Espana’s giant Christmas tree every weekend evening.
In Puerto Plata, beaches and resorts are less crowded and outdoor adventures are plentiful. Hike to waterfalls in the countryside, tour a chocolate factory and take part in the Christmas Eve ritual of an overnight pig roast. Dancing merengue and bachata until sunrise is also tradition – so head to a few local bars or nightclubs before the big night for a little practice.
At your resort or in town, you can sample Christmas dishes like pasteles en hoja, plantain dough stuffed and wrapped in a green plantain leaf. And don’t forget to order a class of Dominican ponche.
After celebrating Christmas with traditional Belizean food and dancing, retreat to a bungalow on Tobacco Caye. Paul Harding/Shutterstock
5. Belize
Best for rainforests, culture and cays
Christmas in Belize is a chance to experience some of its unique cultural events, in between island hopping and rainforest hikes. Lodging remains reasonably priced during the season, as more tourists visit in January and February.
Check into a riverside lodge in the towns of Burrell Boom or Crooked Tree Village (outside Belize City) to enjoy a traditional Kriol Christmas dinner of turkey with cranberry jelly, rice and beans, ham, potato salad, black cake and rum popo. On Boxing Day, head to the Burrell Boom horse races or to the Brukdong Bram celebration in Gales Point.
In Dangriga, Christmastime draws junkanu and charikanari dancers to the streets. A hunting dance, charikanari features participants wearing headdresses that resemble a cow’s head (including real horns), and hunting a “two foot” cow, which dances and teases the crowds in the street.
Afterward, head to affordable Tobacco Caye for snorkeling and relaxation along Belize’s Barrier Reef.
Often called one of the most underrated cities in the Midwest, Milwaukee is full of farmers markets, festivals, beer gardens and more than 150 spacious parks. The best part? Many of these activities are free to experience.
Here’s our guide to the best free things to do in Milwaukee.
1. Milwaukee Public Market
Located in the Historic Third Ward, the Milwaukee Public Market is not your everyday market. Besides offering a cornucopia of fresh produce, local artisan food products, and handcrafted wares, enjoy cooking classes presented by local and national chefs. Dine at one of the market’s many restaurants, such as Cafe Benelux, which is inspired by the eponymous European region that includes Belgium and The Netherlands. Thirsty? Check out one of the market’s seven bars.
Planning tip: Check out the market’s website for their list of current events. And, download a market map here.
2. Black Cat Alley
One of the few curated outdoor street art galleries in the city, visitors to Black Cat Alley can view works by creatives and muralists from Milwaukee, Los Angeles, Berlin and more. Take a moment to snap a selfie or two in front of Black Cat Alley’s many beautiful backgrounds. The art rotates, so check the website to see which artists are showcased and when new work is making its debut.
3. Alice’s Garden Urban Farm
Alice’s Garden Urban Farm is a locally led community space for people to connect and bond in a beautiful outdoor setting. This two-acre farm on Milwaukee’s north side hosts events such as contemporary dancing with Danceworks, a local dance company, guided and self-guided meditative walks in an herbal labyrinth, art activities for kids, movie nights and live music on fish-fry nights.
Free pre-scheduled tours or self-guided tours are available for those eager to learn the garden’s history as a stop on the Underground Railroad.
Browse the garden’s Artisan Market, where local farmers and vendors sell fresh produce, jewelry, herbal skincare and more.
Planning tip: Check their website for dates and times. Although most events at Alice’s Garden are free, a few special events require a small fee.
4. Hank Aaron State Trail
Hit many of the city’s premiere destinations while following the 14-mile Hank Aaron State Trail, named for the Milwaukee baseball legend. As you follow the trail, choose the experiences you’ll encounter along the way: wildlife and nature activities at the Urban Ecology Center, viewing Santiago Calatrava’s white wings art installation that dominates the pavilion of the Milwaukee Art Museum, catching the waves at Bradford Beach and hunting sea glass along the water’s edge at Lakeshore State Park. The trail also connects to other city trails, including Beerline and Oak Leaf.
Planning tip: The Milwaukee Art Museum is free for all visitors on the first Thursday of each month.
A section of the Oak Leaf Trail winds through Veterans Park, an oasis of green and garden spaces near downtown Milwaukee. Lining the shore of Lake Michigan, in good weather, activities include boat rentals for plying the waters of the 14-acre lagoon and the Gift of Wings Kite Store’s free kid-friendly movies in the park.
The park also hosts its annual free Kite Festival, where hobbyists showcase their best and biggest kites in stand-out shapes, such as whales, yellow butterflies and orange jellyfish.
6. Swing Park
Milwaukee has no shortage of parks for visitors to explore, but Swing Park is one of the most delightful – and most under the radar of them all. It is the only Milwaukee park with adult-size swings, but it’s kid-friendly too.
Find Swing Park underneath the Marsupial Bridge Media Garden and Holton Street Bridge, not far from busy Brady Street, one of the coolest streets in the city, with its many shops and restaurants,
Planning tip: The Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory (The Domes) is another intriguing spot to explore. There’s a minimal charge to get in except for the first Thursday of each month when admission is free.
7. Bradford Beach
Pack snacks and a beach towel and head to the lakefront to bask in the sun at Bradford Beach. Catch a free sand volleyball game put on by a local league, join a frisbee game, hop in the freshwater lake, or just lay out on the sand all day. You’ll also see people rollerblading and biking along the sidewalk on the inland areas surrounding the beach.
Bradford Beach is the go-to summer spot where you can experience Milwaukee in action, especially on a hot day. Be prepared to hear music, smell delicious food, and see people of all ages running and playing around Lake Michigan and on the beach.
Planning tip: Bring plenty of sunscreen because you’ll want to stay a while.
8. Milwaukee farmers markets
There’s no charge to explore the many seasonal farmers’ markets. Besides local goodies and fresh produce grown nearby, many of the city’s markets have live performances. The Shorewood Farmers Market offers a mix of fresh local produce and food trucks serving empanadas, waffles, spring rolls, homemade donuts and more. There are both farmer stalls at South Shore Farmers’ Market near Lake Michigan as well as pop-ups from local coffee roasters, ice cream makers and barbecue restaurants.
Planning tip: Most markets run from June through October with several reopening during the holiday season.
Open to all, the Basilica of St. Josaphat, a grand granite structure stunningly accented with Italian-style domes and decorative plaster, was built for the Polish immigrant community that flourished on Milwaukee’s South Side. The red, blue, yellow and orange stained-glass windows from Austria and its European-style murals contributed to St. Josaphat being named the third basilica in the United States in 1929. To visit, schedule a free tour online or opt for a self-guided visit. Both choices include a free exhibit detailing the basilica’s history.
10. Milwaukee Public Library
Established in 1878, the Milwaukee Public Library system is the largest public library system in Wisconsin, and the downtown branch is the most extravagant. Visitors can admire the mosaic-tiled floors, marble columns and grand staircases reminiscent of the French and Italian Renaissances. The downtown branch also provides free activities and storytimes for families.
Planning tip: Visit the Library Bookseller, the library’s used bookshop operated by Friends of the Milwaukee Public Library.
11. Jazz in the Park
For lovers of jazz, blues and funk, Jazz in the Park is a must-visit free event. Jazz in the Park has been a staple for almost 30 years and takes place at Cathedral Square Park. It is Milwaukee’s largest weekly music series, with more than 5000 people attending each week. Families, couples and friends all come to hang out and enjoy the music every Thursday from May to September.
Planning tip: Be sure to pack a picnic basket to bring with you, along with a blanket or lawn chair for the lawn seating.
12. Sculpture Milwaukee
The outdoor exhibition Sculpture Milwaukee brightens up the tall buildings and parking structures downtown. More than 20 sculptures are scattered over two miles, from Sixth Street to O’Donnell Park. Along the way, you’ll spot abstract sculptures, including larger-than-life blue pickup sticks, a bronze statue of a Black sportsman and a colorful blob monster. Each piece showcases the style and identity of local artists and artists from around the world. The installations change every year, and the exhibit is open only in summer.
Planning tip: Also free is the 40-acre Lynden Sculpture Garden.
Originally constructed in 1891, the restored North Point Lighthouse in Lake Park is a picturesque landmark reflecting the city’s maritime history. Explore the grounds for free. Admission is $8 for adults and $5 for students – a small price to pay for a climb to the top to see the panoramic view of downtown Milwaukee and the vast expanse of Lake Michigan beyond.
14. Milwaukee RiverWalk
Follow the three-mile Milwaukee RiverWalk as it winds through the heart of downtown. Open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, access points let strollers explore the many stops along the way. Relive the city’s history while exploring the artsy Historic Third Ward neighborhood with its centuries-old repurposed warehouses and the European-style Old Third World Street that pays homage to Milwaukee’s German roots.
Planning tip: Download a map of the riverwalk.
15. South Shore Beach
Take a break from the hustle and bustle of downtown Milwaukee and the fun but busy Bradford Beach and instead spend a day relaxing at South Shore Beach on the city’s South Side. Green spaces and soft sand protected by a breakwater create a comfortable spot for relaxation. Amenities include volleyball nets, a playground and restrooms. Arrive early and climb the rocks to snap photos of the sun rising over Lake Michigan.
Keep planning your trip to Milwaukee:
Exploring Milwaukee’s neighborhoods Exploring Milwaukee’s best city parks 6 secret American road trips to add to your bucket list Make a great escape to Wisconsin’s Geneva Lake
There is a lot of snow in the world. True powder hounds may say that it’s not nearly enough, but trust me, it’s a big world with so many amazing places to ski (and board, of course). And some of those spots are a side slip away from the big, famous names. Hit a godly ski area in Greece, or head to Chile where the food is as big of a draw as the powder — magical slopes await all around the world.
So pack your bags and wax your planks – you might be about to discover your new favorite riding destination.
Make friends and enjoy reliable snow at Portillo in Chile. Getty Images
1. Portillo, Chile
Best for a southern snow fix
This South American superstar in Chile is nothing short of epic, like an all-inclusive cruise ship marooned on a mountain. This big, yellow hotel with a slope-side pool offers four meals a day (including high tea and top-quality South American steaks), and reliable snow. Numbers are capped at only 450 beds, creating such an exclusive club feel that you’ll be saying “hola” to everyone by week’s end.
A week here involves plenty of late morning starts, long lunches at Tio Bobs, early hot-tub sessions, a siesta, dinners that start at 9pm and memories of mingling with like-minded skiers, Pisco Sour in hand. And naturally, there are epic slopes where you can hit the powder without the crowds or lift lines.
Best alternative for a southern snow fix: New Zealand’s Treble Cone offers surreal views of Lake Wanaka and snowy Southern Alps peaks.
2. Nozawa Onsen, Japan
Best for local culture
There you are, surrounded by wooden ryokan, ski pants rolled up with post-riding feet soaking in a roadside foot onsen, a vending-machine coffee in hand after riding Siberian-grade powder that makes Utah’s cold smoke goods look like lard. Welcome to Japan!
A ski trip to the Land of the Rising Sun (or, for skiers, the land of Japowder, with 12m/39ft of annual snowfall) is the ultimate cultural immersion served on a side of snow. In particular, the ancient feudal farming town of Nozawa Onsen will charm the pants off you — quite literally. You’ll come for the riding but before you know it you’ll be stripping down with strangers in a steamy room like an onsen-loving local.
Best alternative for local culture: Poiana Brasov, located deep in the Carpathian Mountains in Transylvania, Romania, boasts Bran Castle and medieval Brasov nearby, plus ski rentals are the price of a coffee in Zermatt.
Check out the frozen trees that haunt the upper slopes of Canada’s Big White ski resort. Shutterstock
3. Big White, Canada
Best for ski-in ski-out
Big White’s tagline should be “no schlep.” Ski-in ski-out accommodation, the kind where you can reach through the kitchen window and grab a snack mid-run, is the holy grail of skiing. This family-friendly resort in Canada’s British Columbia is entirely ski-in ski-out — even the main road is listed as a piste.
The absence of car parking and lack of stairs, where kids could face-plant as they carry their big skis, aren’t the only reasons to love Big White. Its 7.5m (24ft) of powder is enough to bury a house, it has the biggest night-skiing area in Western Canada (38 acres/15ha), the country’s second-largest lifting system and “snow ghosts” – frozen trees like stalagmites – haunting the upper slopes for an “only-in-BW” experience.
Best alternative for ski-in ski-out: Fire up the fondue, France’s Les Arcs 1950 is the most charming (and newest) of the five Les Arcs villages, entirely ski-in ski-out with fairy lights strung between traditionally built wooden houses and 425km (265 miles) of slopes to explore.
Engelberg, popular with off-piste skiers, is no longer a well-kept secret. Geir Pettersen/Getty Images
4. Engelberg, Switzerland
Best off-piste skiing
Engelberg may not have the name recognition of Chamonix, but this is to Europe for off-piste skiing what California’s Mammoth Mountain or Switzerland’s LAAX are to freestyle. Up until a few years ago Engelberg in Switzerland’s central Uri Alps had been a well-kept secret. However, the recent influx of Instagramming pro skiers and ski films featuring its mountains have seen Engelberg rise in popularity and gain a cult-like status.
To find the best lines from the 3292m (10,800ft) Titlis (reached by a revolving cable car the Titlis Rotair) check in with the freeski crew at the Ski Lodge Engelberg. The Lodge alone is almost reason to come here. The stuff of après legends, it’s overflowing with life-loving Swiss-based Swedes who ski hard and party even harder.
Best alternative for off-piste skiing: If Wyoming’s Jackson Hole is good enough for mountaineering legend Jimmy Chin to call home, it’s challenging enough for us mere mortals. You’ll need nerves of steel to attempt areas like Fat Bastard.
5. Austria
Best for après-ski
You might return from an Austrian ski holiday in desperate need of a holiday. Austria is bulging with world-class ski areas like an overflowing Santa stocking, with cute-as-a-button villages, glaciers galore, pistes for every standard and ski days fueled in part by Leberknödel (ground liver dumplings). The raucous après culture isn’t limited to certain niches of Austria. Everywhere in the country reverberates to the clang of ski boots on cobblestones crossing villages at 8pm.
In Saalbach, one of the partying capitals of the Alps, you’ll find the steeps are as hard as the shots. In St Anton (nicknamed “St Man-ton” due to the prevalence of men on group ski trips) the high-octane Las Vegas of the Arlberg siblings (including St Christoph, Stuben, Lech and Zürs), legendary tales have been born at the MooserWirt. Ishgl is the OG party stronghold.
Best alternative for après-ski: The live acts at La Folie Douce in France’s Val d’Isere never disappoint.
Alta Badia offers one of the best budget ski experiences in Europe and some delicious local dishes too. Getty Images
6. Alta Badia, Italy
Best for food
Ski areas are famed for US$10 soggy, cold fries. Enter stage left – Italy, where incredible slopes, scenery and gastronomy overlap in a Venn diagram of what a perfect ski area looks like. Especially Alta Badia, with the most on-mountain restaurants in the Alps (45 at last count) in cozy refuges. And because skiing and eating here costs less than elsewhere in Europe, you can try everything with change to spare.
Deep in Italy’s Dolomites, pause for a hearty dish of Tyrolean Schlutzkrapfen. Your heart will race from heady aromas swirling from the doorway, or maybe the altitude. Either way, you won’t be able to click your skis off fast enough. Luckily, when you’ve finally had your fill, you’ll be able to hit some incredible slopes as well.
Best alternative for food: The bright lights of Japan’s Niseko offers a food fiesta whether Asian or international cuisine is your yen.
7. Parnassous, Greece
Best under-the-radar spot
As if the islands, historic cities and lip-licking cuisine aren’t enough for Greece, it’s also home to some worthy ski areas. Eighty percent of Greece is mountainous and if planning for a trip packed with more high points than Zeus’s quiver of thunderbolts, say yassou to Parnassous.
This is the country’s biggest ski resort and the most popular. It’s only three hours from Athens, but avoid weekends when lift lines can be long. Following a multistage overhaul, since 2014 the resort has two connected areas with 21 ski runs. The best thing about skiing in Greece, though, is the Greeks, specifically their philotimo to foreigners – hospitality given with generosity and kindness.
Best alternative under-the-radar spot: I have no idea why Big Sky Montana near Yellowstone Park, as the third-largest in North America, ever gets overlooked, but it does. With the resort transforming and the ambitious Big Sky 2025 10-year project nearing completion, run don’t walk to the ski industry’s Next Big (Sky) Thing.
8. Aspen, USA
The complete package
The unbeatable combination of four individual mountains, MoMA-level art exhibitions at the Aspen Art Museum, chic shopping and cosmopolitan eateries mean you need a reason not to visit Aspen Snowmass in Colorado.
Some ski areas have epic mountains, but charmless purpose-built towns. Others have dynamic towns, but “meh” slopes. Aspen makes a clean sweep with the rare combination of a historic Victorian mining town plus endless skiing on the downtown glamazon Aspen Mountain, local favorite Aspen Highlands, beginner skier and X Games home Buttermilk plus behemoth Snowmass.
Don’t be deterred by the glitz and glamour reputation, peek below to discover a tribe of forward-thinking snow-lovers who emphasize community and inclusivity. I came here 25 years ago for the snow and was hooked by its soul.
Home to one of the world’s most accessible live volcanos, the tiny island of Tanna in Vanuatu’s south is ready-made for unforgettable adventures.
Vanuatu is an archipelagic country of 83 islands in the South Pacific. The sixth largest, Tanna is just 40km (25 miles) long and 19km (12 miles) wide – but visitors will find plenty to see and do among its minimally developed tropical landscapes. Two-thirds of the island’s 30,000 inhabitants live traditionally, deep in the mountains, where they raise their families in thatched huts and grow produce in the island’s rich volcanic soil. These resilient local traditions and warm Pacific Islander hospitality – in addition to the exciting allure of wild nature – make Tanna a top location for an adventure holiday. Here are five ways to get the most of it.
Once located, Tanna’s Blue Cave is understandably hard to leave. Emily McAuliffe for Lonely Planet
1. Squeeze your way into the magical Blue Cave
Tanna’s Blue Cave is a remarkable example of nature showing off. The cave is accessed via an unassuming entrance carved in a limestone cliff, and requires a sharp set of eyes (or preferably a tour guide) to spot. You’ll then need to roll into a shallow duck-dive at high tide to pass through the opening.
You’ll pop up in a secret paradise.
Inside, a ray of light beams through an opening at the top of cave, creating an intense spotlight on the turquoise water. Smooth rocks jut out of the water around the cave perimeter: perfect spots for sitting down and taking in the gentle lapping sounds. Don’t forget your waterproof camera or case for your smartphone, for you’ll want a visual memory of this place.
Fireworks on show: Mt Yasur constantly belches lava and smoke. Tom Pfeiffer/VolcanoDiscovery/Getty Images
2. Watch the fireworks at the rim of Mt Yasur volcano
Tanna’s main calling card is its active volcano, Mt Yasur. A thick plume of smoke constantly hovers above the mountain, tempting visitors game enough to peer into its red-hot crater, poised for the intermittent eruptions that shoot streaks of glowing lava up to 200m (656ft) into the air. A small visitor center sits at the base of the mountain, from which guests get transported up the 360m(1181ft)-high mountain in 4WD vehicles. A steep 10-minute walk from the drop-off point leads to the crater rim.
It’s best to arrive late afternoon to admire the elevated view across the green plains and distant mountains in the daylight, then watch the impressive show of lava fireworks after dark. Yasur is a place to keep your wits about you: be sure to heed local warnings and snap selfies with caution, as the rim has no safety railing.
The Sulphur Bay hot spring sits at the base of Mt Yasur. Emily McAuliffe for Lonely Planet
3. Have a soak in Sulphur Bay’s hot spring
Since Sulphur Bay sits at the foot of Mt Yasur, the villagers who live there occupy some of the best real estate on the island. Tropical palm trees fringe a long stretch of white sand, bordered by a mountain on one side and a rugged red cliff face on the other. Beneath the cliff is a shallow hot spring, which runs to a piping 60°C (140°F) at its source but feels more like a pleasant hot bath as it flows downstream and dissipates into the ocean.
Scrub yourself down with the fine black ash of the riverbed as the warm water washes over you, then refresh with a dip in the cool sea. Since the spring acts as their permanent hot-water tap, you might see a few locals doing the same. If asked politely, the residents will be all too willing to host a tour of their village.
Green turtles, eels and spotted rays are known to frequent the coral gardens off the coast of Tanna. Nicky Dowling/Getty Images
4. Go snorkeling and scuba diving to marvel at the sea’s bounty
The waters off Tanna typically have excellent visibility, making the island a prime location for snorkelng and scuba diving. White Grass Ocean Resort and Spa has the only PADI-accredited dive center on the island, Volcano Island Divers, which offers a range of courses for beginners through to seasoned scuba experts. Following an assessment in the pool, go in search of the bale of green turtles known to grace the coral gardens off the short of the resort, and look out for eels, spotted rays and dolphins. Those without dive accreditation can head out with a snorkel.
Divers can choose from a series of other shore and boat dives, including the blue holes, connected by swim-through caverns; the wreck of MV Jean Percy, which sank in 14m (46ft) of water after striking a reef; and Kamtiua Reef, where experienced divers can witness sheer drop-offs and swim with yellowfin tuna and barracuda.
It’s a bumpy journey to Yakel village by 4WD, but the experience is worth the effort. Emily McAuliffe for Lonely Planet
5. Expect a warm welcome at Yakel village
The best way to get an insight into Tanna’s local way of life – seeming unchanged for centuries – is to visit a mountain village. Made famous through the Oscar-nominated film Tanna, Yakel is one of the island’s most popular kastom villages (meaning it respects the island’s traditional way of life) for visitors.
After a rough 4WD trip through the mountains, community members will greet you with a traditional dance, singing and stomping the dirt dressed in grass skirts and loin sheaths. After the performance, let the locals lead you to their village, where chickens and pigs roam freely among thatched living quarters.
The lure of commerce hasn’t escaped the village people, so bring some cash if you want to pick up local handicrafts.
How to get to Tanna Island
Tanna’s Whitegrass Airport is less than an hour flight south of the country’s capital, Port Vila, with operators like Air Vanuatu providing regular service.
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by Sedona’s staggering scenery and unique vibe.
Best known for its stunning red rock formations and energy vortexes, Sedona’s reputation as a hotspot for wellness is rightfully earned. Every rambling trail of the geological wonderland seems to have a backstory that deepens every experience. It’s a place that strikes a bold balance: a haven for visitors seeking spiritual enlightenment, or those wanting adrenaline-spiking adventure among the ancient red rocks and swaths of pine forest.
The Arizona city’s location in the high desert adds to its distinctive – and authentic – allure and cool convergences lie everywhere. Locally produced wines pair well with desert cuisine. Pine forests flank red rocks. And Buddhist shrines and natural-vortex sites crackle with good vibrations.
From among such exciting options, here are 17 experiences not to miss in Sedona.
Sedona’s natural sacred sites have long been lured by those seeking spiritual enlightenment. The area’s history originates with Indigenous people, who consider this land a holy place intended for healing and transformation. Yet it might seem surprising to find a pair of Buddhist stupas – mound-like shrines filled with relics and ritual offerings – erected among the red rocks. Located near Chimney Rock at the base of Thunder Mountain, Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park stretch across 14 acres of junipers and pinyon pines.
The peace park was created by Kunzang Palyul Choling (KPC), a Buddhist organization and study center with roots in Tibet. The 36ft (11m) Amitabha stupa, built according to principles of sacred architecture and geometry, was completed and consecrated in 2004; a bronze image of its namesake Buddha of Limitless Light is inside the stupa’s faceplate. The 6ft (2m), white Tara Stupa is named for the female Buddha. Practicing Buddhists pray to her for health, longevity and compassion. Anyone can visit this site: the organization emphasizes that it’s a place for “prayer, meditation and the experience of peace,” regardless of one’s faith.
2. Sip local Arizona wines
While you shouldn’t confuse it with Sonoma, Sedona sits in Central Arizona’s Verde Valley at almost a mile in elevation, making it a great region for grape growing. Downtown, the Art of Wine provides a primer on local wines with by-the-glass offerings. And this range is far-reaching: Bordeaux blends, a single-varietal malbec, the familiar chardonnays and rieslings, plus an Arizona fave, Malvasia Bianca, a fruity white with a floral bouquet. Less than half a mile away is Winery 1912, which features Spanish and Iberian varietals grown at Dragoon Mountain Vineyard in the town of Willcox, one of Arizona’s three unique American Viticultural Areas (AVA) (the other two are nearby Verde Valley and Sonoita, south of Tucson).
Winemaking isn’t new to Arizona (Jesuit priests first planted grapes here in the 1690s) – or even to this desert city. Back in the 1880s, when Sedona was a budding village, a homesteader planted grape vines in the high-desert grasslands, where the combination of warm days and cool nights created favorable growing conditions. Sedona today is once again leaning into these agricultural roots, and a number of companies now offer tours to wineries along the Verde Valley Wine Trail.
Planning tip: Skip the driving and learn as you sip. Sip Sedona Wine Tours offers customized excursions led by a wine-industry professional, while Wine Tours of Sedona has a range of fun tours, including a date night for two at one of the area’s estate vineyards.
Featuring such evocative shapes as cathedrals, castles, bells – and even Snoopy reclining on his doghouse – Sedona’s landscape is like a city carved out of sandstone. The sheer diversity of these red-rock formations is a draw for photographers (pros and Instagrammers alike), with bright-blue skies providing contrast to the iron-rich rock and dark-green junipers that frame undulating trails.
The desert’s drama softens in spring (late April through June) when delicate fuchsia and yellow flowers bloom from the paddles of prickly pears and branches of cholla cactuses, lending color and whimsy to these spiky plants. Visit in winter and you might witness a veil of snowy white to the ancient peaks.
Walking through the desert in the coolness of the evening when it’s aglow with moonlight puts a fresh spin on exploring Sedona’s terrain. You don’t need to wander alone to watch the last light of the day burn out as the moon makes its ascent: naturalists at Red Rock State Park offer guided interpretive hikes during the full moon. The tour covers two miles and you’ll learn about Sedona’s fascinating geology, history and plant life.
“Southwestern” food is one of those all-encompassing terms that can describe multitudes. In Sedona, though, you’ll sometimes see the term “high-desert cuisine” on menus – with rattlesnake as an extreme example, alongside tamer examples like peach cobbler. Syrups made from agave plants and the ripe fruits of prickly pear (or “tuna”) cactus make welcome additions to cocktails, especially margaritas. The pads of those same cactuses, called nopales, turn up in a salad at award-winning Elote Café, and you’ll often find them sizzled up like fries, such as at Cowboy Club.
Local tip: Linger at Cowboy Club to soak in some Hollywood history. Back in the day, celebrities like Elvis Presley, Joan Crawford, John Wayne and Rock Hudson hung out here, often when working on the Westerns filmed in the area during the 1950s and ’60s.
Imagine the feeling of weightlessness and 360-degree views while drifting above Sedona’s buttes, mesas and pinnacles as the sun slowly climbs, bathing the red rocks in light. A hot-air balloon ride offers an awe-inspiring way to get oriented to the sprawling landscape. Flights take off early when the wind conditions are most favorable and last for up to four hours. What’s more, this mode of exploration is a more environmentally sound way to see Sedona from above. In an effort to enhance the city’s natural peace and quiet as part of its Sustainable Tourism Plan, the city of Sedona has asked helicopter tour operators to adhere to no-fly zones.
Planning tip: Tour operators such as Northern Light Balloon Expeditions and Red Rock Balloon Adventures provide year-round sunrise trips (the latter has some closures in summer), so check the schedule before you travel if you have your heart set on a flight.
The two million acres of national forest land and 200 trails traversing 400 miles in Sedona means the potential for riding single-track routes is boundless. People new to mountain biking can find plenty of wider and less-steep routes to get comfortable in the saddle, including parts of Slim Shady and the Bell Rock trail. Advanced riders might want to take on the Hangover trail or Cathedral Rock Big Loop, which gains 1054ft (321m) in elevation.
With Sedona’s mild weather, you can go mountain biking any time. (Be aware that heavy rainfall can create flash floods during the summer monsoon season.) Cyclists will enjoy visiting in March, for the three-day Sedona Mountain Bike Festival.
For those enchanted by the desert and its quiet beauty, check out these dreamy day trips.
Local tip: Remember to never “bust the crust.” These signs on Sedona’s multi-use trails are reminders of the fragility of the desert ecosystem – and to stick to the pathways.
Indigenous people first settled in the fertile Verde Valley as far back as 650 BCE: first the Sinagua, followed by the Hopi, Yavapai and Apache. You can discover these cultures’ histories at Arizona’s national parks, and monuments and historic sites run by the US Forest Services, including Palatki, Honanki and Crane Petroglyph (formerly called V Bar V). At these living archeological sites, you can take a guided tour along unpaved pathways to see cave dwellings carved out of the sandstone, and discover the difference between petroglyphs and rock art. Before you go, brush up on your archeological site etiquette.
Another way to learn about Sedona’s thriving Indigenous culture is by – yes – shopping. Fine arts and crafts are for sale at a handful of top-quality galleries and boutiques, such as Sedona Artist Market & Gallery, Hoel’s Indian Shop and Garland’s, where staff are generous with their time and knowledge. Every vintage blanket, squash-blossom necklace and sand painting has a fascinating story of culture and craftsmanship passed down through generations.
Local tip: Shop carefully to make sure you’re purchasing truly Indigenous-made artifacts rather than knockoffs.
It’s not unusual to find a swimming hole near a clear creek – but one with a natural slide? To skim down an 80ft (24m) sandstone chute into Oak Creek, grab your gear and head to Slide Rock State Park. The park’s stone channel has a seven-percent decline and gets its slickness from algae, which helps slingshot swimmers into the creek’s cool water. It’s one of the many free things to do in Sedona.
Local tip: With half a mile of the creek to splash around in, wildlife clusters in Slide Rock in summer. Think more than 140 bird species (look for hummingbirds and Steller’s jays), javelinas (aka “skunk pigs”), Coues (pronounced “cows”) white-tailed deer and even black bears.
10. Search for UFOs in an International Dark Sky Place
With billionaires blasting off to explore space, would it be such a stretch to think that aliens are visiting us, too? Not in Sedona, which is considered a superb place to see otherworldly aircraft. First off, it’s ultra-dark in Sedona (Oak Creek Village is on the roster of International Dark Sky Places), so it’s easier to pinpoint potential extraterrestrial activity pulsating in those clear, jet-black skies. Second, people believe Sedona has four vortexes – natural sites that emanate a type of energy.
Sedona’s metaphysical community offers educational tours that typically combine UFO sightings (many guarantee you’ll see paranormal activity) and vortex visits; you can only imagine what you might make out when staring at the stars while wearing military-grade night-vision goggles. Regardless of whether you’re a believer, you’ll find out why so many people find Sedona a mystical place.
11. Gaze up at the Chapel of the Holy Cross
The soaring Chapel of the Holy Cross, set on a 200ft rise against a backdrop of dazzling pink and red buttes, is among the most beautiful sights in Sedona.
Just south of the city on State Road 179 and within Coconino National Forest, the chapel, completed in 1956, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Marguerite Brunswig Staude, a sculptor and local rancher, was inspired by the newly built Empire State Building to commission building the chapel. Its most distinctive feature – besides the view – is its 90ft iron cross.
Planning tip: There’s a bit of a climb from the parking area, so wear comfortable shoes.
12. Indulge in a luxurious resort
There are many high-end resorts to choose from in Sedona, including L’Auberge de Sedona. Located on the banks of Oak Creek, this resort has a natural spa and views of the red rocks in the distance. Its wonderful restaurant, with a menu featuring French–inspired dishes with an American flair, is designed for leisurely dining, conversation and sipping wine.
13. Explore a mini-Grand Canyon: Oak Creek Canyon
Oak Creek Canyon is sometimes described as a magical, miniature Grand Canyon. The canyon’s two-lane road twists and turns through deep gorges and high cliffs, winding through one of the largest juniper forests in the world. The canyon is a stunner in the fall, when the leaves reach their crescendo of color.
Amazing and intriguing recreational opportunities include the hike to Midgley Bridge and Slide Rock State Park, a former 43-acre apple farm. You can still pick apples there in the fall and the park is also home to the state’s largest natural water slide. Wear your bathing suit in the summer and descend 80ft into Oak Creek – but be warned. The water is typically cold and the smooth rocky bottom slippery.
Detour: The real Grand Canyon is just over two hours away.
14. Channel your spiritual energy at Boynton Canyon
Part of the sacred land of the Yavapai–Apache Nation, Boynton Canyon is surrounded by soaring buttes, red rock cliffs and a high desert landscape studded with giant Ponderosa pines. As the location of the Kachina Woman Vortex, one of four energy vortexes in the area, it’s one of the most magical places in Sedona. The Boynton Canyon trail is also one of the most popular in Sedona due to Subway Cave
A parking area nearby makes the canyon easily accessible. Take a hike on the dog-friendly, 6.1 mile trail. Though there are some steep inclines, the hike is considered easy-to-moderate. Wildlife includes rabbits, whitetail deer and javelinas. Though the latter look fierce (and smell even worse), they’ll keep out of your way unless threatened.
15. Immerse yourself in the red rocks along a scenic byway
A two-lane road, the Red Rock Scenic Byway connects centuries of cultural significance, awe-inspiring natural sites, the land’s long history and recreational opportunities.
The byway is just 14.49 miles long, but the drive is so stunning, you can expect it to take an hour or more. Keep your camera ready for amazing vistas and soaring cliffs, wildlife and desert landscapes.
A must-stop on the byway is the castle-like Bell Rock, shaped from red sandstone and surrounded by greenery, standing at almost 5000ft. South of Sedona and north of Oak Creek, Bell Rock has long drawn visitors with its beauty and energy, said to instill a sense of serenity in onlookers.
The 2.8-mile trail to and from the butte is a moderately challenging route, as is the Bell Rock Pathway, a 3.6-mile trail.
Make sure to plan plenty of time for photo ops and enjoy the views as you navigate through the awe-inspiring Coconino National Forest.
Planning tip: A parking area is available at the Bell Rock trailhead, though you may have to wait a few minutes for a parking space. For those who like to avoid crowds, early morning and late afternoon are the best times to visit.
16. Experience traditional arts, culture and food at Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Center
Celebrate local and regional art and culture at Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Center, which offers the ambiance of a Mexican village. Like Tlaquepaque, the centuries-old art colony near Guadalajara, the center abounds with artists and their work.
Wander under adobe arches and along cobblestone streets, past fountains and public art installations. Poke around galleries featuring textiles, pottery, oils and statues.
As unique as the setting and art, restaurants run the gamut, from Mexican to Italian. For a traditional experience, enjoy sweet corn tamales and shrimp tacos while sipping a margarita and listening to flamenco music at El Rincon Restaurante Mexicano.
17. Hang out in trendy West Sedona
Those who only visit uptown Sedona with its trendy bars, eateries and many shops are missing some of this red rock city’s best neighborhoods.
West Sedona offers an exciting food scene and a cool but neighborly vibe. Dining in West Sedona is like choosing from a world-wide smorgasbord.
Have a taste for French? Sedona Crepes offers both savory and sweet crepes. For Mexican food, check out the shredded beef chimichangas at Los Rosales or the chile cheese rellenos at Nick’s on the West Side, a casual eatery. Order Asian dishes at Szechuan Restaurant and Fresh & Natural Thai Kitchen, or go for creative American food at Casa Sedona Inn, a resort tucked away in a forest of Juniper pines and known for its breakfast and brunch.
Keep planning your trip to Sedona
Discover the best time to visit this four-season city and how to get around.
The distances within Scotland may seem small – but the country’s landscapes are epic.
A journey that seems just a few miles as the crow flies can take hours once you factor in all the glens, lochs and mountains in the way. Remember, too, that large parts of Scotland lie off the mainland, scattered among the choppy waters of the North Sea and the Atlantic.
With this in mind, the most important consideration when planning a trip around Scotland is time. On a fleeting visit, try not to be too ambitious about how much ground you can cover, and plan train journeys and ferry trips in advance so you’re not caught off guard by limited schedules in outlying areas.
Cost-wise, getting around in Scotland can be expensive compared to the rest of Europe. Despite an impressive network of train, bus and ferry routes, the easiest option is usually to travel with your own car, particularly if you want to get off the tartan-and-shortbread tourist trail. Yet outlays can mount quickly if you plan to park in larger cities or take your car on the ferry.
Traveline Scotland is a good source of information and up-to-date timetables on all forms of transit, including ferries and short flights to the Scottish islands. And our breakdown of the different ways to get around the country will help you get your dream trip to Scotland planned in no time.
Train journeys in Scotland – such as the West Highland line – are some of the most scenic in all of Europe. Pajor Pawel/Shutterstock
The train is a great option between major towns and cities
Scotland’s extensive train network covers all major cities and towns. But do keep in mind that the railway map has large blank areas in the Highlands and the Southern Uplands where you’ll need to switch to road transport – in many cases, a local bus.
The West Highland line, from Glasgow to Fort William and Mallaig, and the Inverness–to–Kyle of Lochalsh line are two of the world’s most scenic rail journeys. ScotRail’s website is a good source of information on routes, fares and timetables.
Buses serve most places – but not always frequently
Scotland is served by an extensive bus network that covers most of the country. In remote rural areas, however, services are geared to the needs of locals, for example shuttling students to school or the shoppers to the nearest large town. This means they may not be conveniently timed to the needs of visitors.
Often, buses run into towns and cities in the morning and back to outlying villages in the afternoon – which is inconvenient for those planning day trips. Local bus services are particularly sparse on the islands: the last postbus – a rustic rural transport operation that saw passengers joining vans with the mail service – ceased operation in 2017.
Several bus companies operate services around Scotland, with long-haul routes to destinations in England provided by National Express and Megabus. Within Scotland, Scottish Citylink runs a network of comfortable, reliable buses between large towns. Away from the main roads, you’ll need to switch to local buses, which are often much less frequent. First, Stagecoach and Lothian Buses are the main local bus operators.
Renting a car gives you maximum flexibiilty to explore Scotland. But the costs do add up. Helen Hotson/Shutterstock
A car or motorcycle of your own gives you the most flexibility
Scotland’s roads are generally well-maintained and are far less busy than those in England, meaning you can concentrate on all that lovely scenery. Do keep in mind that authorities take speeding and drunk driving seriously, with speed traps common. Stick to the limits.
A non-UK license is valid in Britain for up to 12 months from your date of entry into the country, and you’ll need to be age 21 or over to rent a car; surcharges and restrictions apply for drivers age 25 or under. Renting in town is usually cheaper than at the airport.
If you’re bringing your own car from Europe, make sure you’re adequately insured, always drive on the left and stay aware of local speed limits. If you’re planning a road trip encompassing the UK and the Republic of Ireland, car ferries run from Scotland to Northern Ireland, allowing you to loop south before getting back on a ferry to Wales and England, and then heading back north to Scotland. Make sure your insurance covers your time passing through an EU country.
Limited mainly to southern and central Scotland, motorways (designated “M”) are toll-free dual carriageways; you’ll quickly notice their absence once you drive north of Perth. Main roads (“A”) are dual or single carriageways and are sometimes clogged with slow-moving trucks and caravans. The A9 from Perth to Inverness is notoriously busy.
Life on the road is more relaxed and interesting on the secondary roads (designated “B”) and minor roads (no letter) – though in the Highlands and on the islands, there’s the added hazard of sheep wandering onto the road (be particularly wary of lambs in spring). Winter driving conditions can be challenging; keep food, water and blankets in the car in case of blocked roads or breakdowns.
Gasoline is more expensive than in countries such as the US or Australia but roughly in line with the rest of Western Europe. Prices tend to rise as you get further from the main centers and can be more than 10% higher in remote areas, where gas stations are far apart and sometimes closed on Sundays. Fill up whenever you get the chance.
Tip for renting a car: Inter-island car ferries can be a major cost. If you’re planning to visit the Outer Hebrides, Orkney or Shetland, it’ll often prove cheaper to hire a car once you arrive on the islands rather than paying to take your rental across on the ferry.
Ferries operated by Caledonian MacBrayne connect the many islands that lie off Scotland’s west coast. Shutterstock
Ferries cross the lochs and link the Scottish islands
Ferries run by Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) serve Scotland’s west coast and the myriad islands to the north and west of the country, with smaller local ferries linking the islands of the Inner Hebrides to the mainland.
Northlink Ferries travel from Aberdeen and Scrabster (near Thurso) to Orkney, from Orkney to Shetland, and from Aberdeen to Shetland. Tourist-oriented water bus services ferry passengers across some of Scotland’s larger lochs, including Loch Lomond.
CalMac offers some pre-bundled inter-island tickets on its website, which also has comprehensive timetable information. Note that ferry services are significantly reduced in winter.
Tickets for passengers on foot cost a fraction of the price charged for cars, so consider picking up a rental car once you arrive on a given island rather than taking your car across.
Tips for traveling by ferry: If you feel up to tackling the islands by bike, bicycles can be carried for free by foot passengers – particularly useful when reaching smaller islands by ferry. On most routes, children under 5 also travel for free, while kids ages 5 to 15 pay half the adult rate.
Small planes connect some of the more remote islands in Scotland. Shutterstock
Domestic flights link up remote island communities
Domestic air services in Scotland either cater to business travelers or serve as lifelines for remote island communities. Flying is a costly way to cover relatively short distances, both for your own pocket and the environment – yet this is an option worth considering if you’re short on time and want to visit the Outer Hebrides, Orkney or Shetland. And especially if you’re an aviation geek: with a journey time of as little as 1 minute, the flight between Westray and Papa Westray in Orkney is the shortest scheduled flight in the world.
The main domestic airline in Scotland is Loganair, with flights from Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Inverness to many smaller destinations across Scotland, including inter-island flights in Orkney. Hebridean Air Services flies from Connel airfield near Oban to the islands of Coll, Tiree, Colonsay and Islay.
Cycling in Scotland is one of the best ways to explore – especially the smaller islands. Will Salter for Lonely Planet
Cycling is ideal for exploring the islands
In a country as compact as Scotland, traveling around by bicycle is a perfectly feasible proposition if you have the time – and the stamina. Indeed, touring around the islands on a bike is both cheaper than driving (with lower ferry fares, too; see above) and better suited to the islands’ short distances and leisurely pace of life. Any pedaler should be ready for uncooperative winds and weather, and persistent midges at rest stops in spring and summer.
VisitScotland has good information about bike rentals, while Sustrans details routes that form part of the UK-wide National Cycle Network. Spanning 200 miles (322km) and 10 windswept islands between Vatersay and the Butt of Lewis, the Hebridean Way is a bonafide cycling classic.
Transport Passes for Scotland offer good savings on trains, buses and ferries
Even with the multitude of companies providing different forms of public transport in Scotland, there are a few useful passes that allow intermodal travel on trains, buses, ferries and other forms of transport. ScotRail’s Spirit of Scotland pass allows unlimited travel on trains, buses and ferries for foot passengers, for either four days of travel over eight consecutive days (£149) or eight days of travel over 15 consecutive days (£189). There are also several other passes for train travel across Scotland or within specific regions, plus combined passes for trains and buses or trains and ferries.
Scotland is also part of the same scheme of rail passes as the rest of the UK, with various options offering up to a third off standard rail fares, usually for a one-off annual fee of £30 – a good deal if you’ll be making lots of journeys by train or are on a longer trip.
Although the Scottish government’s generous free-transport scheme for young people is only open to Scottish residents, visitors can get discounts using the 16–25 and 26–30 rail cards; there’s also a Senior Railcard for the over-60s. For travelers with kids in tow, the Family & Friends Railcard is a smart investment. Note that all these cards cover train travel across the UK, not just Scotland.
Several bus companies offer their own transport passes. Stagecoach has the Megarider, offering savings of at least 40% compared to buying daily tickets: passes are valid for seven or 28 days and cover specific areas of the country. Citylink has the Explorer Pass, allowing unlimited travel on their buses for three days within a timeframe of five consecutive days; five days within 10 consecutive days; or eight days within 16 consecutive days.
Scotland can be both impressibly accessible and frustrating for those travelers with disabilities. Shutterstock
Accessible transportation in Scotland
Travelers with disabilities will find that Scotland can be both impressively accessible and frustratingly tricky to navigate. Larger cities are the most well-adapted locations for mobility issues: buses and local trains are wheelchair-accessible, pavements and buildings have ramps, and most access points are well set up.
Across the country, most major tourist sights cater to those with mobility issues, though historic buildings and ancient sights can be harder to explore for the less mobile. The biggest challenge will be the hills, which can make getting around a chore even in the middle of Edinburgh. Efforts are underway to make the countryside more accessible, with wheelchair-friendly nature trails in some areas.
Away from the cities, newer buses are usually wheelchair-accessible, though it’s wise to check before setting out. Older train stations are being upgraded to ensure they are accessible, and disabled travelers can get extra assistance by filing a request an hour or more ahead of travel – the ScotRail website has details.
The Disabled Persons Railcard offers discounts on rail travel for eligible travelers and a companion. Ferries offer boarding assistance at staffed ports for disabled travelers, and large boats usually have accessible toilets and cabins.
Tourist attractions usually have reserved parking spaces near the entrance for drivers with disabilities. Many places, such as ticket offices, are fitted with hearing loops to assist the hearing-impaired; look for a posted symbol of a large ear. VisitScotland has information on accessible transportation and accommodations, along with information on beach-wheelchair rentals.
