Lonely Planet editor AnneMarie McCarthy recently returned from a jam-packed week in the Azores, exploring four different islands in 7 days.
As the lucky destination editor in charge of Lonely Planet’s Portugal coverage, I can tell you one thing with absolute certainty: you all love the Azores. Week after week, I see how readers like you are reading up on these green islands, which all your well-traveled friends are raving about.
When I got an invite from Visit Azores, I quickly packed up my rain jacket and sunscreen to check it out the archipelago for myself. Over the course of a week I visited the islands of São Miguel, Pico, Faial and Terceira, traveling between them mainly by plane but also by ferry.
What was the most touristy thing you did?
The most touristy activity I did was also my favorite: a dolphin- and whale-watching tour that set out from from Ponta Delgada on São Miguel. I’ve never had much luck with wildlife spotting, but since the Azores is one of the best places in the world for spotting cetaceans, I was optimistic. Between April and early July is an optimal time to set off, since the whales are on their annual migration and there are more species in the surrounding water. During nearly 3 hours at sea, we saw dolphins, orcas, sperm whales and pilot whales. All the whales kept their distance – but the dolphins got up close, chasing each other in front of the boat.
There are a limited number of companies in Azores with a license for this activity, and they all operate under strict “rules of engagement” – such as never approaching the animals from the front, and keeping a reasonable distance (the more vessels in the area, the further away they all have to be). None of this affects your chances of seeing them, however. I went with Futurismo, which offers two to three trips a day. The team is so confident you will have a successful sighting that if you happen to be unlucky, you can take a subsequent tour for free.
What was the handiest thing you packed?
My rain jacket. Although the sun did shine a lot, showers would blow through with little warning. The weather forecast on the islands is often not reliable – and when you’re spending so much time outside on hikes, you will want to be prepared for all eventualities. A lightweight, waterproof jacket will mean you can hike for hours without fear.
Yet no matter how well prepared you are, never hike off-trail, since you run the risk of damaging delicate endemic vegetation. What’s more, wild camping is not allowed anywhere on the islands. You’ll always be close to somewhere official to stay.
What’s your favorite photo from the trip and where was it taken?
This shot was taken at the bottom of a dormant volcano, Algar do Carvão. There are only three places in the world you can go inside one of these: Indonesia, Iceland and here, in the center of Terceira island. While you have to pass through a short tunnel to reach the interior, being inside doesn’t feel claustrophobic, as you can look up to the sky above.
You can also explore further into the caves to take in their cathedral-like spaces, all formed from volcanic stone. For something truly unique, occasional concerts take place here.
Best tip for someone who wants to plan the same trip?
Concentrate on fewer islands, or come for longer! Since the Azores lie in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the temptation to island hop is strong, particularly in the summer, when travelers are less likely to be affected by poor weather and subsequent plane and ferry cancellations. I would recommend sticking with two islands that suit your travel style for each week you’re in the Azores. You could stretch this to three, depending on the size and proximity of the islands you fancy. (Pico is very small, for example, and is only an hour for Faial by ferry, making for a faster and more convenient trip than the plane.)
The Azores are all about the outdoors and good food – and every island has both in abundance. Almost everywhere you stay will be peaceful. Which is why you’ll get the most out of your visit here when you have time to relax and soak it all in.
Where did you stay? What was the vibe?
With a lot of island hopping came a lot of lovely hotels, all of which brought something different. In São Miguel, the nature-themed Senhora da Rosa was lovely, with an outdoor pool and rooms decor inspired by the local landscape. The on-site restaurant, Magma, provided a great last meal of my trip.
The rooms in Pico’s Aldeia da Fonte Hotel are in buildings made of volcanic rock – yet they somehow all reminded me of an American summer camp (at least, like I’ve seen on television). On the property is a sea walk, complete with a terrace to watch the waves and a ladder to get down into the cove to swim. It’s a great place to relax after a day of climbing Mt Pico.
Faial’s Hotel do Canal is right on the pier, making it perfect for exploring the bright, colorful murals left by sailors over the centuries. And it’s within view of the famous Peter Café Sport, where the lemon gin-and-tonic is never a bad idea.
Quinta da Nasce Água in Terceira is just a 10-minute walk from the historic center of Angra do Heroismo but feels like it’s in the countryside. The staff was incredibly welcoming here. (And, in fact, everywhere I stayed.)
Best thing you ate?
This one is too tough! I enjoyed incredible food all week, ranging from the very traditional to the inventive. This being Portugal, you can expect a meat-heavy menu – although I did have the best mushroom risotto of my life at Sensi Azores Hotel. It’s essential to try a cozido das Furnas, an array of meats arranged in a clay pot that gets buried, then cooked (and flavored) by the geothermal heat of volcanic activity. I watched the cozido pots getting collected from Furnas Lake – before tucking into mine at nearby institution Tony’s.
Other memorable meals were at Pico’s famous Cella Bar, where on a windy day I had wine, tapas and a view of Faial. Don’t leave Terceira without trying the island’s famous Dona Amélia, a sticky, spicy cake. (In fact, each island has its own signature pastry.) I’d also recommend Quinta do Martelo’s alcatra: a comfort stew cooked in a clay pot with wine, simmering long and slow until the meat practically melts.
Did I mention the food was good in the Azores?
AnneMarie McCarthy visited the Azores at the invitation of Visit Azores. Lonely Planet does not accept freebies for positive coverage.
Want to get wed under wide open skies, or say ‘I do’ with sandy toes? Outdoor humanist, civil or religious ceremonies are legal in Scotland and Northern Ireland, but in England and Wales there are limitations: all marriages must currently be conducted under a permanent structure with a fixed roof and solid floor.
But the rules are set to change. Marriage laws (dating from the 1800s) are under review and by 2021, couples could have a wider choice of al fresco wedding venues. For now, here are some of the most beautiful outdoor wedding venues in the UK.
Fforest, Pembrokeshire
If you’re after a rustic, rural wedding but are worried it will look twee, Fforest Farm will allay your fears. Set within 200 acres of Welsh countryside, this secluded retreat is run by two creatives who have designed their lodges, barns, cabins and geodesic domes with effortless style, making use of local materials, handmade textiles and wild flowers picked on site.
Say ‘I do’ in an old quarry or in wide-open fields (humanist ceremonies can be held almost anywhere on site) or opt for a civil ceremony in the open-sided garden pavilion, before tucking in to a locally-sourced feast, raising a toast in a tiny 200-year-old pub and dancing around the outdoor fire pit.
Isle of Coll, Inner Hebrides
Was your love written in the stars? Consider tying the knot on the wild Isle of Coll, Scotland’s only dark sky island. There are no street lights on this 13-mile-long Inner Hebridean island and only 200 residents, meaning light pollution is practically non-existent and the star gazing opportunities are out of this world – particularly on clear winter nights, when there’s even a chance of spotting the Aurora Borealis.
Local community centre An Cridhe – which means ‘the heart’ in Scottish Gaelic – can entertain up to 120 guests and you can say your vows on nearby Toristan Beach, where you may acquire a few extra witnesses in the form of bobbing seals.
Temple Island, Oxfordshire
Marriage isn’t always plain sailing – and it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Those are just two of the slightly misplaced idioms best men and fathers of the brides might feel compelled to use in their speeches during a wedding on Temple Island near Henley-on-Thames, since every summer it marks the start of the Royal Henley Regatta.
Yes, you can hire this tiny island on the River Thames in its entirety for your wedding blessing and reception. The temple itself is an 18th-century folly, complete with an Etruscan-style dining room which seats 40. With the addition of a marquee on the lawn the islet can host up to 120 guests, who will arrive in style by boat.
Finnebrogue Woods, County Down
If your officiant agrees, your wedding ceremony (even if it’s religious) can take place anywhere in Northern Ireland. And Finnebrogue Woods would be a fine choice. Set in the grounds of a private mansion less than an hour’s drive from Belfast, you can say your vows in a magical woodland glade above a 30-acre lough (lake) and dance the night away in a giant tipi surrounded by fairy-lit trees.
Doing it for the gram? Snag the perfect couple shots on a photo safari (where you’re driven around the estate to search for the ideal backdrops) – book to get wed in April to pose in a carpet of bluebells.
River Cottage, Devon/Dorset
Did your romance take root over a shared meal? Has your mutual love of food bonded you forever? Whether you choose to say ‘I do’ in the walled kitchen garden, the restored threshing barn or within the famous farmhouse itself, one thing’s for sure: you can count on fabulous (not to mention fresh, seasonal and organic) catering at River Cottage, along the Devon/Dorset border.
Unfortunately you can’t contract celebrity chef Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall to conduct the ceremony or walk you down the aisle (as far as we’re aware) but brides can still arrive in true pastoral style: on a tractor-drawn trailer!
Hush, Norfolk
Hoping for a festival-style wedding? Grab your flower crowns and get yourselves to Hush in Broads National Park. Here civil ceremonies are held in the Old Woodshed amongst ancient oaks and beeches – and outdoor hammocks, a communal fire pit and canvas tipi accommodation all add to the laid-back vibe. A limited number of weekend-long wedding slots are available each year, and the beautiful natural setting acts as a blank canvas with which couples can create their perfect day. Bonus for those worried about rain: Norfolk is one of the UK’s driest regions.
Tunnels Beaches, Devon
In North Devon you’ll need to venture through a 200-year-old tunnel to reach seaside Tunnels Beaches, where you can seal the deal beneath a gazebo overlooking a windswept beach and the Bristol Channel beyond. Ilfracombe’s four historic tunnels were carved by miners in the 1820s, opening up access to the coastline’s hidden beaches and a tidal pool – you and your guests will be free to explore the private beach after the ceremony, and can watch the sky turn fiery hues with a sundowner from the venue’s rooftop terrace.
Harvest Moon, East Lothian
Want a barefoot wedding? Just a 45-minute drive from Edinburgh awaits a broad sandy beach backed by dunes and tree-lined paths. With Harvest Moon Weddings you can get hitched on this wild stretch of coastline and party with your congregation in a marquee on the adjacent fields. There are seven luxury beach cabins, including a honeymoon suite with a four poster bed and sea views. In autumn and winter, you can opt for treehouse lodgings and a woodland ceremony.
Pergola and Hill Garden, London
Londoners needn’t be confined to stuffy hotels or chilly churches for their wedding ceremony – England’s capital is packed with quirky venues, including some al fresco gems. Hampstead Heath’s little-known Pergola and Hill Garden is one such spot; the 800ft-long walkway is a Grade II listed structure, and its vine and wisteria strewn columns ooze faded Edwardian grandeur. You can hire this venue for two hours only – so we suggest reconvening at a pub (with a garden) to continue the celebrations.
Carnglaze Caverns, Cornwall
They’re not technically out in the open-air, but Carnglaze Caverns are just as wild as any beach or forest wedding. There are four venues on site, two of which are underground. Choose to walk one of the longest aisles in Cornwall in the huge Rum Store cave (it’s 80 metres long), or descend 60 candlelit steps to meet your partner at the edge of the turquoise underground lake, which provides a more intimate setting. The temperature in the caverns is a steady 10ºC year-round, and there’s no chance of rain, so you can plan your outfits without worrying about the weather!
You might also like:
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How do you even begin to choose the best beach in the Philippines? With 7641 islands to choose from, you could throw a dart at a map and be confident of finding sandy shores and turquoise waters.
For decades, the Philippines has drawn travelers eager to trade skyscrapers for towering coconut trees. Sunseekers flock to islands such as Boracay, Bohol, Cebu and Coron, finding gleaming white beaches and vibrant dive sites just a short flight from Manila.
Reaching some of the best beaches involves inter-island flights, overland journeys and multiple sea crossings, but this is part of the charm of travel in the Philippines. Those willing to step off the beaten track will find blissfully uncrowded shores, year-round warm weather and an even warmer welcome from locals.
Whether it’s your first time in the Philippines or your fifteenth, here’s our pick of the best islands for beach lovers.
Idyllic beaches are only a paddle away at El Nido on the island of Palawan. John Seaton Callahan/Getty Images
1. Palawan
Best beaches for adventurers
You can’t go wrong with big-hitter Palawan, with attractions neatly packaged into organized tours. Kayak into secret coves to find empty beaches bordered by rugged limestone cliffs at El Nido, then dive into the glassy waters of Kayangan Lake or snorkel over shipwrecks in Coron.
Gorgeous beaches abound. On the mainland, try Nacpan Beach, a 4km (2.5-mile) crescent-shaped strip of creamy golden sand framed by azure waters. On the northwest coast, San Vicente shelters the country’s longest white sand beach; you could clock up almost 20,000 steps strolling the entire 14km (9-mile) stretch of Long Beach, but you may be content to simply doze off in a hammock instead.
Detour: For the freedom to make up your itinerary on the fly, rent a motorcycle in Puerto Princesa for the trip to El Nido and back. Break the journey at Port Barton, where boat tours offer the chance to snorkel and swim with sea turtles. Head southwest from Puerto Princesa to reach Balabac at Palawan’s southernmost tip, where the pristine sands of Onok Island call out to thrillseekers with time and money to burn.
Many visitors to Boracay never stray further than the beach. Aleksandar Todorovic / Shutterstock
2. Boracay
Best for a group getaway
Backed by palm trees for 4km (2.5 miles), White Beach has long been one of Boracay’s top tourist draws. Air-conditioned hotel rooms, fast food joints and bars are just steps away from the sandy shore. Expect a flurry of activities, from dive trips to paddling on transparent kayaks, or sip on an icy-cold fruit shake or indulge in a soothing massage without straying from the sand. As the sinking sun blazes orange, pop into the Hue Hotel for a poolside cocktail or Los Indios Bravos for a craft beer, or board a paraw (outrigger boat) for a cruise; the sunsets are spectacular when viewed from the water.
Detour: To stretch your sea legs, rent a mountain bike and pedal to Mount Luho, the island’s highest point. Boracay is just 7km (4.3 miles) long, so you can loop the island in under three hours, passing rustic beaches such as Puka Beach and Bulabog Beach.
White sands are the prelude to spectacular diving and snorkeling at Moalboal on Cebu Island. photosounds/Shutterstock
3. Cebu
Best for underwater enthusiasts
Easily accessible by air and sea, the island of Cebu offers a bustle of beaches, accommodations, activities and excellent dining. Sun worshippers make a beeline for the white sand beaches of Bantayan Island, Malapascua Island and Mactan Island, while colorful coral reefs teeming with sea turtles and other marine life add extra appeal for snorkelers and divers. For something out of the ordinary, head to Moalboal or Pescador Island, where spectacular sardine runs can be seen close to the surface year-round.
Romantic views over lilting waters are part of Bohol’s timeless appeal. Julien Pons/500px
4. Bohol
Best for together time
Bohol is another effortless choice, with abundant lodging options and lots of fun activities to plug into your itinerary. Family-friendly resorts line lovely Alona Beach on Panglao Island, and there’s more picturesque white sand nearby on Dumaluan Beach. Bangka boats wait to whisk tourists offshore – on the islands of Pamilacan and Balicasag, you can bask on beautiful beaches and enjoy a spot of dolphin spotting and snorkeling on the side.
Anda on Bohol’s eastern edge offers a quieter getaway, with 3km (1.9 miles) of dazzling sand for undisturbed idling; the Amun Ini Beach Resort & Spa is a secluded spot for couples to cocoon.
Detour: For a change of scenery, head inland to visit Bohol’s Chocolate Hills and tarsier sanctuaries – always a hit with kids – then grab some fruity ice cream on the coast at Bohol Bee Farm.
There’s always time to surf on the idyllic beaches of Siargao. John Seaton Callahan/Getty Images
5. Siargao
Best for surfers
Home to the world-famous Cloud 9 break, Siargao Island draws surfers across the globe. The vibe is lively yet laid-back, and beginners can take surf lessons near the town of General Luna, where hip cafes, social hubs and budget hostels are clustered. Some shops rent out customized motorbikes with racks so surfers can ferry their boards to secret breaks along the coconut-tree-lined coast, including postcard-perfect Pacifico Beach.
Boat tours to islets, rocky tidal pools and the spectacular Sugba Lagoon are easy to book online. Beyond the surf, digital nomads and sociable solo travelers are drawn to Siargao by the allure of slow island living and many end up staying longer than expected.
Detour: The dreamy beaches of the Dinagat Islands are accessible via a new sea route launched in April 2024. This underrated destination is rarely visited even by locals; get here from the village of Del Carmen on Siargao’s west coast.
6. Romblon
Best for intrepid explorers
If you prefer the sound of waves breaking on the shore to the buzz of conversation, you’ll love Romblon. Hours will stretch into days as you wander from one beach to another on this easygoing island. A short tricycle ride from Romblon’s main town is Bonbon Beach, a low-key spot with soft sand and calm waters. When the tide is low, you can walk along the sandbar to a nearby islet or watch youngsters frolic in the waves. Romblon’s coast is studded with immaculate islets, with water so clear you’d think it was AI-generated.
Detour: You’ll find more fine beaches on the neighboring islands of Tablas and Sibuyan. Test your castaway potential by taking a trip to Cresta de Gallo, a snaking sandbar off the coast of Sibuyan where you can enjoy sweet solitude surrounded by sparkling seas. Return to Sibuyan to hike up the jagged slopes of Mount Guiting Guiting, one of the country’s toughest climbs.
Morong Beach’s rock arch is a Sabtang landmark. Joseph Christopher Oropel/Getty Images
7. Batanes Islands
Best for photographers
The islands of Batan, Sabtang and Itbayat in Batanes province in the far north of the Philippines hide some incredible stretches of coastline, though you may spend more time snapping photos than swimming on these remote islands. Despite the compact size of each island, exploration takes longer and memory cards fill up faster with so much striking scenery to record.
The landscape of the Batanes islands is defined by rolling hills topped by lighthouses and rugged beaches covered with volcanic rocks. Leap over the boulders at Valugan Boulder Beach on Batan for dramatic shots, then head over to White Beach, south of Mahatao, for a safe dip on a pebble-sprinkled strip of sand.
Heading on from Batan, board a wooden faluwa boat at Basco for the bumpy crossing to Sabtang Island. After snapping shots of the island’s iconic stone houses, head to Morong Beach, dominated by a natural rock arch. This scenic seaside stop is ideal for swimming and the best place on the island to enjoy local specialties such as turmeric rice, uvud (banana heart meatballs) and dibang (flying fish).
8. Santa Cruz Island
Best for an eco-escape
Santa Cruz Island, just off the coast of Zamboanga on Mindanao, has one of the few beaches in the world with pink sand. Stroll along the shoreline and you’ll immediately notice its blushing hue – caused by crushed red organ pipe coral mingling with grains of white sand.
It’s a rewarding escape for environmentally-conscious travelers; yellow-painted fishing boats offer trips into thick mangrove forests, where you can gather edible seagrapes and spot stingless jellyfish. At the center of the island lies a calm and shallow lagoon dotted with vintas – traditional Zamboango fishing vessels with rainbow-striped sails. It’s a picturesque spot for paddling.
Detour: Northeast along the coast from Zamboanga City are the Onse Islas, a cluster of eleven small islands with fine sandy beaches. Swimming, kayaking and nature treks are the main draws in these community-managed islands, which remain blissfully free of commercial development.
For beach lovers, it doesn’t get much better than Greece. Boasting hundreds of inhabited islands and thousands of miles of coastline, the country is home to an astonishing number of golden stretches of sand, lapped by the crystalline waters of the Ionian and Aegean Sea. Whether you’re looking for a spot well suited to younger swimmers, a popular strip of sand with a bit of a buzz, or a secluded cove to escape the crowds, here’s our pick of the best beaches in Greece.
1. Paleokastritsa, Corfu
The popular resort area of Paleokastritsa, 23km northwest of Corfu Town, stretches for nearly 3km through a series of small, picturesque bays. Craggy mountains swathed in cypress and olive trees tower above. The real treat comes at the resort’s end, where an exquisite little beach is said to be where the weary Odysseus washed ashore. Boat trips from the jetty include Paradise Sunset. Be warned: the beach is extremely popular during peak season and securing a sunbed or patch of sand to lay your towel can be a challenge, no matter how early you arrive.
How to get there: There are numerous public bus and shuttle services to Paleokastrista from Corfu Town and the coastal resort of Kerkyra.
The beaches of Falassarna are famous for their epic sunsets. Getty Images/iStockphoto
2. Falassarna, Crete
Crete’s best sunsets are refracted into millions of vermillion sparkles at Falasarna, a growing beach town with an alluring – and popular – long beach. This broad sweep of pink-cream sand is considered among the island’s finest and is famous for its stunning sunsets, clear water, rolling waves and watersports. It gets busy from mid-July to mid-August, primarily with day trippers from Hania and Kissamos. Spread your towel on the Big Beach (Megali Paralia) at the southern end or pick a spot in one of the coves separated by rocky spits further north.
How to get there: Falassarna can be reached from the popular resort town of Chania in 90 minutes via public bus. There are several car parking spaces above the beach too.
The famous Apella beach in Karpathos, Greece. Getty Images/iStockphoto
3. Apella Beach, Karpathos
However determined you may be to reach the village of Olympos, allow time to take the precipitous spur road that drops seawards from the east coast highway 17km north of Pigadia. Here, you’ll find award-winning Apella Beach; backed by a cascading hillside of wildflowers with towering cliffs to the north and south, it is the finest beach in the Dodecanese. It’s often described as “sandy,” though it was pebbly when we went there. Nevertheless, it’s gorgeous. There’s a good taverna at the road’s end, just above the beach.
How to get there: The winding road down to the beach is not for the faint-hearted. The best way to reach Apella is by boat from Pigadia.
With its white cliffs, golden sand and iconic shipwreck, Navagio Beach is a real stunner. Petr Kopka / Shutterstock
4. Navagio Beach, Zakynthos
The blockbuster of Greek beaches, Navagio on the island of Zakynthos really does have it all. Framed by towering vertical cliffs, the beach boasts azure waters, pure, perfect sand and, just to give it an extra bit of character, like a beauty spot on a face, a shipwreck. But just like any great Hollywood production, Navagio draws crowds. Travel off-season to have the best chance of seeing the beach at its most superb – a precarious lookout platform signposted between Anafonitria and Volimes offers bird-eye views.
How to get there: The beach can only be accessed by boat, but in summer, the waters immediately offshore are chock-a-block with sightseeing cruises.
Voidokilia Beach is considered to be Homer’s
5. Voidokilia Beach, Messina
Messina’s Voidokilia Beach with its perfect sandy crescent and clear waters is presumed to be Homer’s “sandy Pylos,” where Telemachus was warmly welcomed when he came to ask wise old King Nestor the whereabouts of his long-lost father, Odysseus, King of Ithaca. There are no sunbeds or parasols here so you’ll need to bring your own supplies.
How to get there: Follow the signs to Paleokastro and walk the lagoon-side track labeled “Nestor’s Cave” from the Paleokastro car park (20 minutes) or approach by road from the village of Petrohori, four miles (6km) north of Gialova off the road to Chora.
Platys Gialos is one of the most convenient beaches on this list with a wide range of facilities. Getty Images/iStockphoto
6. Platys Gialos, Mykonos
One of Mykonos’ most popular beaches, this broad stretch of white sand is lined with restaurants. It has an excellent water sports center where you can enjoy activities such as jet skiing, paddleboarding, windsurfing, and more. You could easily spend the day here by renting sunbeds and parasols, while snacking on fresh fruit from the beach vendors or with food from the cafes and mini markets nearby.
How to get here: Buses head here from Hora’s Fabrika station.
The trees on Koukounaries provide plenty of natural shade. Shutterstock / Aleksandar Todorovic
7. Koukounaries Beach, Skiathos
Framed by electric-green pine trees, two forested headlands and a small salt-water wetland, Koukounaries’ silky 3937ft-long (1200m) sweep of bleach-blonde sand is Skiathos’ – and one of the country’s – most sparklingly beautiful, with beach bars, sunbeds and water sports creating a buzzy vibe. The whole area is a protected nature reserve but still gets very busy in summer.
How to get there: Koukounaries is easily accessible by bus from Skaithos Town.
Myrtos beach may be challenging to reach but that doesn’t impede its popularity. Panos Karas/Shutterstock
8. Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia
From the road that zigzags down to it, you’ll understand why Myrtos Beach in Kefallonia is touted as one of the most breathtaking beaches in all of Greece. From afar it’s certainly a stunning sight, with electric-blue waters offset by what appears to be searing-white “sand” (in reality it’s white pebbles). Sunbeds and parasols are available to hire but most are snapped by well before noon.
Unfortunately, a scrappy car park rather spoils the idyll. Even so, it’s a beautiful spot and once you’re in the sea it’s heavenly – come early in the morning to see it at its most serene. The closest village is Divarata, which has a couple of tavernas, including Alexandros.
How to get there: Buses run from Argostoli to Myrtos daily.
Rust-colored Kokkini Beach is one of the most popular stretches of sand in Santorini. George Pachantouris / Getty Images
9. Kokkini (Red) Beach, Santorini
This stunning, surreal beach in southwestern Santorini is backed by rust-and-fire-colored cliffs, making it one of the most photogenic stretches of sand in the country. Arrive early in peak season to score a good spot. There are no facilities on the beach, but you’ll often find beach vendors selling fresh fruit and drinks during peak season.
How to get there: You can access the beach by boat or bus from Akrotiri or via a short walk (sturdy shoes recommended!) down from the nearby church, where there are parking spaces and a handful of good restaurants.
Elafonissi beach with its pink sand. Mustang_79/Getty Images
10. Elafonisi, Crete
Tucked into Crete’s southwestern corner, this symphony of fine pink-white sand, turquoise water and gentle rose dunes looks like a magical dreamscape. As the water swirls across the sands, rainbows shimmer across its surface. Off Elafonisi’s long, wide strand lies Elafonisi Islet, occasionally connected by a thin, sandy isthmus, which creates a lovely double beach; otherwise, it’s easily reached by wading through 50 yards (50m) of knee-deep water.
Alas, this natural gem is less than idyllic in high summer, when hundreds of umbrellas and sunbeds clog the sand, putting enormous pressure on this delicate ecosystem and on the minimal infrastructure, especially the toilets. Consider a trip out of season for an overall more tranquil, and sustainable, visit.
How to get there: You can reach Elafonisi via boat from Palaiochora or by bus from Chania.
The long, tranquil beach of colorful shells and crystal-clear water in the mouth of a mountain river is one of the Northern Samos’ most attractive; Potami’s beach bar is one of the best, too. Trekking up the river, you’ll reach a chain of waterfalls and pools, as well as a taverna hidden in the woods.
How to get there: Potami is accessible by public bus in high season.
An absolute beauty of a beach lies hidden at Possidi Cape in the Kassandra Peninsula. Miles of sand is lapped by crystal-clear waters, and it’s a rare place to find peace and quiet (though little shade) in the summer months. It’s a joy year-round and is backed by a lighthouse and a pine forest. There are no facilities here so bring the essentials with you. Be aware of dangerous currents at this beach; there is no lifeguard, so swim at your own risk.
How to get there: Possidi Cape is best reached by car or 4×4.
The small, stunning Seychelles Beach is 1.9 miles (3km) east of Manganitis on the island of Ikaria. Its marble pebbles, emerald water and giant rocks polished by the waves make you feel you’ve been teleported into the middle of the Indian Ocean – hence the name.
How to get there: To reach it, trek from the parking lot by the tunnel on the road to Manganitis, down an unmarked path leaning to the left side of the ravine. Don’t wear flip-flops.
Accessible via a windswept road that snakes 10km south from Kattavia, Prasonisi Beach extends to form a tenuously narrow sandy isthmus that connects to Cape Prasonisi, Rhodes’ southernmost point, in summer. The Aegean Sea meets the Mediterranean here, creating ideal wind and wave conditions for kitesurfers and windsurfers. Outfitters help with everything from rental equipment and lessons to overnight accommodation in surfer-dude-style hostels, but it all closes down in winter.
How to get there: The best way to reach Prasonisi is by car ferry from the Port of Rhodes or Port of Kos.
This article was adapted for digital from our guidebook on the Greek Islands, written by Kate Armstrong, Stuart Butler, Peter Dragicevich, Trent Holden, Anna Kaminski, Kate Morgan, Isabella Noble, Leonid Ragozin, Kevin Raub, Simon Richmond, Andrea Schulte-Peevers and Greg Ward.
There must be magic in the air down on the Outer Banks. How else can you explain a place where wild horses frolic on a beach and humans can learn to fly?
That’s what I thought on my first visit there as a lifelong resident of landlocked states who, truth be told, rarely craved a beach getaway. They were never as idyllic as the postcards promised – I guess I’d just never gotten one from the Outer Banks. Like so many others, my wife’s family would make annual pilgrimages, and after they offered me an introduction, I finally “got it.”
The natural barrier islands protect roughly 200 miles of mainland North Carolina coasts from Atlantic storms despite themselves being delicate land formations mere hundreds of feet wide in some stretches. Home to a dozen national wildlife refuges, protected seashores and state parks, the combination of beauty and power, immense breadth and serene fragility, make for quite the draw.
And travelers have definitely noticed. Between four and five million people will make the trek to the Outer Banks – or OBX – this year, nearly double the numbers from 15 years ago, according to the local tourism bureaus and park authorities, meaning it pays to plan ahead. Despite the crush of attention, the coastal towns and soul-restoring views still retain that breezy charm – yet another example of the magic of the Outer Banks. Here’s my top tips for making the most of your trip.
Location is key in OBX as each town has a distinct feel, yet traveling between them has its challenges. Traffic on Hwy 12, the main artery throughout the Outer Banks, can harsh the vibes up north, while Ocracoke Island to the south is only accessible via ferry. Beachside parking lots are also smaller and fewer in number than you typically see at mainland beaches, so you’ll need to gauge how important it is to be easily walkable to a beach access point. Here are some of the highlights, listed from north to south.
Corolla
Vibes: Upscale yet unpretentious mix of posh rental properties, shopping, and natural beauty. While geographically the Outer Banks start in far southern Virginia, typically people are referring to the communities of North Carolina when talking about OBX, and Corolla is as far north as you can drive in OBX without needing a beach-safe 4WD vehicle (Remember: pronounce the town name as kur-ALL-ah, and don’t get your kah-ROLL-ah stuck in the sand).
Do: Getting a glimpse of the wild mustangs, ancestors of Colonial Spanish steeds, on the dunes of Currituck National Wildlife Refuge is a trip-defining highlight. The nonprofit Corolla Wild Horse Fund has a resource page on how you can do this safely yourself if equipped with a 4WD, but if not, a plethora of local tour operators exist. In town, climb the steps at the Currituck Beach Lighthouse before grabbing a beach read at Island Bookstore.
Eat: Splurge on a crabcake benedict breakfast at Seanna Tavern before your lighthouse visit. In the evening, cool off with a drink at the laid-back Corolla Beer Garden.
Stay: Vacation home rentals are everywhere and for every budget across OBX. Go Airbnb if you are looking for a smaller or more affordable stay, but for large groups I’d recommend one of the local vacation rental outfits like Twiddy & Company, which dominates the northern OBX market and will have more staff support on-call. The Inn at Corolla boasts sunset views of Currituck Sound.
Vibes: Quaint and family-friendly, the town of Duck is a charmer with a boardwalk lined by souvenir shops and seafood joints. Art crawls and free concerts in the park will let you tap into a coastal town atmosphere straight out of Netflix’s Outer Banks (Disclaimer: I’ve never seen an episode, but the show is actually filmed in South Carolina anyway.)
Do: Rent a set of wheels from Ocean Atlantic Rentals and zip up the bike path before picking up a kite at the boardwalk shops to fly at the beach. Follow the boardwalk down to Duck Town Park and watch reeds dance in the wind.
Eat: Grab an almost-too-pretty-to-eat donut from the original Duck Donuts location that spawned the nationwide chain. The Blue Point serves up straightforward but delicious takes on seafood classics like scallops or shrimp and grits, while the Paper Canoe’s intimate dining room and creative presentations are perfect for date night.
Stay: If Twiddy or Airbnb listings in Duck aren’t to your liking, Village Realty has an office in town. There’s also a string of hotels along the narrower stretch of land between Duck and Corolla, of which the posh Sanderling Resort is the most elegant.
Kitty Hawk/Kill Devil Hills/Nags Head
Vibes: This trio of neighboring communities has both more things to do and more people doing them than elsewhere else in OBX. Look here to trade a more crowded beach for more accessible amenities and rental prices.
Do: It was Kitty Hawk where the Wright Brothers famously launched their proto plane experiments, and the Wright Brothers National Memorial stands here to commemorate the exact spot the inventors squared off with gravity. Jockey’s Ridge State Park has the tallest living sand dunes system on the Eastern Seaboard. Want to try jockeying yourself? Book a beach horseback ride.
Eat: Beachside grillshack John’s Drive In has been slinging burgers and sweet treats for nearly 50 years, while Sam and Omie’s comfort food from the sea has been a crowd-pleaser for nearly 90 years.
Stay: You’ll find more motels and national chain hotels in this area if that fits your needs better than a full home rental. If you want to get away from the crowds, the kid-free Colington Creek Inn on the Roanoke Sound side offers a calm oasis in Kill Devil Hills.
Roanoke Island
Vibes: The community of Manteo on Roanoke Island in the sound should be your hub if you’re more of a museum hound and history buff than a beach bum.
Do: Try to solve one of the country’s oldest cold cases by investigating the notorious 16th-century disappearance of the “Lost Colony” at Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, where roughly 120 British colonists vanished without explanation. Walk among the flowers at the stately Elizabethan Gardens, a living memorial at the site.
Eat: The oysters, whether broiled or raw, at Blue Water Grill for lunch will tide you over till your reservations for a steak dinner at the 1587 Restaurant and Lounge inside the Tranquil House Inn.
Stay: The island features a number of cozy inns and traditional bed and breakfasts. There’s the aforementioned Tranquill House, but the views and boardwalk access at the Roanoke Inn are tough to beat.
Vibes: At the end of the line at the far south Outer Banks are Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands, the more secluded and chilled-out alternatives to the bustle of northern OBX (though accommodations still fill quickly in peak season).
Do: Just getting here will be part of the adventure. The drive down Hwy 12 to Hatteras along Cape Hatteras National Seashore will treat you to views of both the ocean and the sound, while Ocracoke is only accessible via ferry. Once settled, enjoy a less-crowded beach or walk the trail through Buxton Woods.
Eat: Howard’s Pub is a funky favorite hangout in Ocracoke with decent burgers, or change it up with Thai curry ramen at Cafe Pamilco.
Stay: Home rentals in these areas are best accommodated through one of the rental offices that specializes in these communities, like Ocracoke Island Realty or Hatteras Realty.
Step 2: Booking your accommodations
We’ve done large home rentals for our trips to OBX, a must for a dozen people traveling together, including kids, but researching options can feel daunting. Not only are there multiple rental agencies, but prime spots book up quickly, over a year in advance in some cases, and Twiddy warns that its stock of large homes is nearly 80% booked for the summer by January 1 of a given year. What’s tricky is that due to variable leasing agreements between homeowners and rental management companies, booking availability can feel a bit scattershot, with rates for future years listed as subject to change even as you are allowed to place a hold. If going with a rental home, start looking now and reserve immediately. Even if you plan to keep your eyes open for alternatives and would have to forfeit a small hold fee for a change, better to lock in early.
Home rentals aren’t necessary for every group, understandably, but if staying in a hotel, splurge on that quaint inn if at all feasible. Many bars aren’t open late and the OBX nightlife is more chill than thrill, so stay somewhere you’ll enjoy relaxing in the evenings.
I’ve listed a bunch of recommendations above, but we all know the reason you’re going to the Outer Banks: the beaches. Numerous options exist for renting beach gear including seating and umbrellas, paddleboards or even golf carts to shuttle your crew to different beach access points. Advance reservations are a must to get quality equipment. If you’re in a pinch and forgot something, call around to various rental agencies rather than just skimming their sites for a last-minute Hail Mary chance at snagging something.
The Wright Brothers launched their early flights from here because of the consistent sea winds, and you can glide along yourself with kitesurfing or glider lessons from Kitty Hawk Kites. I’m more grounded (i.e. terrified of heights) so a novelty kite that can fly over our beach chairs is more my speed. Keep an eye on surf and wind reports before committing to a plan for the day; poor water conditions or a strong wind out of the west (which blows in more mosquitoes and flies from the still waters of the sound) may be a reason to skip the beach that day and check out one of the towns instead.
Lastly, check the launch schedules at NASA’s Wallops Island and Kennedy Space Center facilities. They are sporadic and highly dependent upon the weather conditions being perfect at launch time, but we were fortunate enough to witness one in 2023, and watching a craft literally leave Earth’s atmosphere is a powerful and humbling experience. I can only imagine what Orville and Wilbur Wright would think.
Step 4: Plan your menu
Endless mid-scale dining options exist throughout OBX, with an emphasis on seafood, naturally, but anywhere that takes reservations will likely book up days to weeks in advance in peak season, so make some bookings before you even leave home.
If you’re traveling with family or another large group, an easy and fun way to beat the crowds is to have a seafood boil at home. Outer Banks Boil Company will assemble your preferred combo of shellfish and sides tossed with butter and seasoning, all wrapped to go. You’ll just need a stove to boil it on. It still pays to reserve your pot ahead of time in the high season.
Step 5: Decide how you’re getting there
The closest major airport is Norfolk International, which is a roughly 90 minute drive, without traffic, to the Wright Memorial Bridge into the Outer Banks, and depending on where exactly you’re staying, it could be another hour driving through OBX. Key words being “without traffic”, as high season will bump this up considerably, particularly at choke points near the bridge and in town centers. Do everything possible to arrive and leave midweek, as arriving on a Saturday midday will mean spending most of your first day of vacation staring at brake lights.
Whether coming from Norfolk or from further to the north, make a pit stop at Morris Farm Market near Barco, N.C., which has the largest selection of goods – and cleanest bathroom stalls – of the markets that dot the northern route into OBX. The southern route across Roanoke Island on Hwy 64 is typically less crowded, and the main way you’ll go if coming from Raleigh. Ferries to Ocracoke launch from Swanquarter and Cedar Island on the mainland, and as with everything in high season, book ahead for peace of mind if going that route.
Speaking of routes, doublecheck that GPS and make sure it’s not inadvertently directing you to a ferry in an ill-advised attempt to avoid traffic. Likewise, your GPS may route you through neighborhood side streets once in OBX, despite local attempts to have tech companies stop recommending these shortcuts (I’ve even seen locals post signs saying “Google Maps lies! Don’t drive this way!” to deter detours). If you just can’t help yourself, at least be sure to drive slowly and respectfully through neighborhoods off the main drags.
Step 6: Pack your bags
For us, this is one of those “pack the car to the gills” kind of trips, as we bring food and supplies to stock the rental property during our stay. Aside from sunscreen and bug spray, you’ll also want to bring any toiletries and laundry soap that might not be provided by the rental. Better to bring from home rather than waste your time in long lines to pay premium prices after you arrive.
Buy the nicest, heaviest beach umbrella or canopy you can manage, as the winds will turn a cheap one inside out or send it flying down the beach, and you’ll need a respite from the sun. Pack a nicer lightweight button-up or dress if you want to spruce up for a dinner or two, though you can get by with beach casual pretty much anywhere.
Cantinas and cathedrals. Art and archaeology. Mariachis and mountains. Ruins and rainbow reefs. Mexico makes a mesmerizing escape for lovers of adventure, romance, history, culture, food, and fiery festivals.
Then there are the much-lauded beaches with clear, blue waters you’ll want to step right into and silent paradise islands without a soul in sight. From the deep canyons of Chihuahua to the peaks of Veracruz, these are the best places to visit in Mexico.
1. Mexico City
Best place for art and vibrant culture
Wondering where to go for your first trip to Mexico? Start in the bustling capital that brims with skyscrapers, markets, gardens and parks, awe-inspiring museums and more than 22 million residents.
Top Mexico City sights include “Casa Azul,” better known as Museo Frida Kahlo, where the celebrated artist lived and died.
For artsy folks, Mexico City is where many of the country’s top muralists left behind their most important works. Peruse Diego Rivera’s cinematic murals in the Palacio Nacional and the social-realism work of José Clemente Orozco in the Palacio de Bellas Artes.
For a taste of culture, float along the ancient canals of Xochimilco with a mariachi band serenade, or savor piping-hot tacos from the many street-food stalls in the downtown areas before catching a show at one of the city’s 160-odd theaters.
High-spirited high jinks and chihuahua-sized micheladas are on offer when catching a lucha libre (Mexican wrestling) match at the sprawling Arena México. You might be lost for words, but you’ll never be short of things to do in Mexico City.
Planning tip: Couple your Mexico City stay with a trip to see the pyramids at Teotihuacán. This archaeological site is located 50km (31 miles) northeast of Mexico City, and it was one of the largest in the Americas in the pre-Columbian era. Visit during the vernal equinox to celebrate spring.
2. Isla Holbox
Best island for bioluminescence and flamingos
For its size, Isla Holbox packs a strong biodiversity punch. Only a mile wide and 26 miles long, this is one of the best places to visit in Mexico to see bubblegum-pink flamingos in the wild (head to Punta Mosquito), catch a glimpse of whale sharks (between mid-May and mid-September), and witness the mesmerizing show of bioluminescent phytoplankton glimmering in the water.
Comparable to sparkling underwater fireworks, these glowing micro-organisms are best seen on moonless nights.
Holbox (pronounced hol-bosh) is a laid-back dream of an island off the northern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula.
With no vehicles to disturb the peace (cars are banned), sandy streets lead to endless beaches with warm, inviting water that’s waist-deep at most for adults. The island’s one alleged drawback? Unreliable wi-fi (which encourages travelers to disconnect).
Wander the colorful streets of artistic haven San Miguel de Allende. Marco Bottigelli/Getty Images
3. San Miguel de Allende
Best place for craft shops and folk art
This Mexican beauty has it all: a fantastic spring-like climate, extraordinary light, breathtaking architecture, superb handicraft shopping, and well-attended art workshops. With a high gallery-to-resident ratio, San Miguel de Allende is one of the best places for creative types to visit in Mexico.
The cobbled city has been luring retirees and bewitching artists since the first art institute opened in a former convent back in the 1930s.
It then enticed Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, and Neal Cassady, who came to drink, write and read poetry in the 1960s (the latter stayed there until his death).
Today, San Miguel de Allende’s narrow, sloped streets house boutiques and cafes that dangle multicolored ribbons from wrought iron window bars, and its vibe is akin to a sepia-toned postcard from the past.
Buildings in the historic district adhere to a color code of saffron, rusty orange, ochre, terracotta, and mustard yellow. Grab a birdseye view of them from one of the city’s numerous rooftops, like Luna Rooftop Tapas Bar at Rosewood San Miguel de Allende, a firm favorite.
Planning tip: San Miguel de Allende is a three-hour drive north of Mexico City in the state of Guanajuato. Visit in spring to see the purple jacaranda trees in full bloom.
4. Bacalar
Best place for lagoon living and Maldives vibes
Everything about Bacalar is magical. Not only was it recognized by the Mexican government as a Magic Town (Pueblo Mágico) in 2006, but it’s also known for its ethereal jewel-toned lagoon, serene spas offering Mexican healing rituals and a distinct bohemian vibe.
Diners enjoy live music sessions beside bright indoor murals at tropical restaurant-meets-gallery El Manati, and wellness-minded travelers experience temazcal sweat ceremonies and copal cleansings at Casa Hormiga boutique hotel.
The prized activities in Bacalar are kayaking, paddleboarding and boating on the 26-mile Bacalar Lagoon, which is known as the Lagoon of Seven Colors (Laguna de Los Siete Colores) due to its mesmerizing gradient of blues and greens.
The town also has a 90m-deep (295ft) cenote (freshwater pool) and an old Spanish fortress. Nicknamed “the Maldives of Mexico,” unhurried Bacalar is one of the best places to visit in Mexico to get away from it all.
Planning tip: Bacalar is in the state of Quintana Roo, close to Mexico’s border with Belize. To get there using public transportation, take the ADO bus from Cancún, Playa del Carmen or Tulum.
Find out about harvesting agave for tequila on an agave plantation in Jalisco. Getty Images
5. Guadalajara
Best city for mariachi music, tequila and fine dining
Guadalajara, Mexico’s second-largest city, is a dynamic cultural hub in the state of Jalisco. This is the tequila-producing region where Mariachi music was born, as well as charrería, Mexico’s national sport (don’t miss September’s annual International Mariachi and Charrería Festival).
Must-sees in Guadalajara include a lienzo (a charrería arena), the vivid frescoes of the Instituto Cultural de Cabaña – a testament to the genius of one-handed muralist José Clemente Orozco – and the three-story Mercado San Juan de Dios, Latin America’s largest indoor market.
Despite being deeply rooted in tradition, Guadalajara has recently gained recognition for its modern gastronomic excellence with multiple appearances on the coveted World’s 50 Best lists.
Delight in upscale, globalized Mexican cuisine and cocktails at Alcalde and El Gallo Altanero.
Planning tip: Guadalajara’s allure extends beyond its city limits. Use it as your gateway to Lake Chapala (one of the largest freshwater lakes in the country), the agave-clad fields of Tequila, or other charming Magic Towns like Tlaquepaque or Tapalpa.
6. Puerto Vallarta
Best place for sand, adventure and LGBTIQ+ events
With climactic and wild scenery, Puerto Vallarta is a popular vacation destination for Mexicans and foreign travelers alike. Framed by the Sierra Madre Mountains and the Bahía de Banderas (Bay of Banderas), it’s a place where thrill seekers conquer rugged terrain and rappel down waterfalls, and families frolic on sun-kissed beaches – Playa Conchas Chinas, Playa Las Gemelas and Playa Mismaloya are noteworthy sandy spots.
The city is also popular among LGBTIQ+ travelers; there are gay-friendly Puerto Vallarta hotels, beach bars, restaurants, and nightlife establishments.
Lovers take to the Zona Romantica (Romanic Zone) for alfresco meals, and strolling along the picturesque Malecon boardwalk, with its numerous bronze sculptures and street performers, is one of the best free things to do in Puerto Vallarta.
There’s also plenty going on in the ocean, where you can see humpback whales breaching on the horizon, pods of dolphins rising from the waves, and mother turtles arriving to lay their eggs.
Planning tip: The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta to witness a baby turtle release is between July and December. Selected hotels like Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa host newborn turtle release ceremonies.
7. Playa del Carmen
Best place for beach-meets-city vibes
Playa del Carmen is the best of both worlds: a thriving city with a bounty of enticing restaurants and pinch-me-please white-sand beaches (one is even connected to a cenote).
The palm-lined Quinta Avenida is the city’s bustling artery with an eclectic mix of shops, lively street performances, and gourmand-pleasing international eateries.
In this versatile beach destination, families build sandcastles alongside digital nomads and solo travelers seeking spirited adventures, while night owls congregate around Calle 12 (12th St) for throbbing nights at Mandala, La Vaquita and Coco Bongo.
Another Playa del Carmen accolade is the variety of rooftop bars, from the sleek UMI Rooftop and Tokyo Kitchen to the laid-back BeRoof.
From Playa (as locals call it), day trips to Riviera Maya towns like Akumal (known for turtle encounters) are all within easy reach using colectivos (minivans). There is also a direct ferry to Cozumel with Winjet or Ultramar.
There is more to Chichén Itzá than El Castillo pyramid: explore it all at your leisure. Sorin Colac/Alamy Stock Photo
8. Chichén Itzá
Best place to see pre-Columbian architecture
If you’ve always wanted to see one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichén Itzá is one of the best places to go in Mexico. With origins dating back to the 5th century, this is undoubtedly the most popular of Mexico’s ancient sights.
From the imposing, monolithic El Castillo pyramid (where the shadow of the plumed serpent god Kukulcán creeps down the staircase during the spring and autumn equinoxes) to the Sacred Cenote and curiously designed El Caracol observatory, Chichén Itzá is spectacular.
Planning tip: Book a Chichén Itzá tour with an English-speaking guide to learn about the mind-blowing legacy of Maya astronomers. Note that the heat, humidity and crowds in Chichén Itzá can be fierce, so try to explore the site either early in the morning or late in the afternoon, though keep in mind that the 5pm closing is a hard exit. There is also a post-sunset sound-and-light show.
9. Zihuatanejo
Best place for an Old-Mexico feel
Zihuatanejo benefited from the fortunes of neighboring resort town Ixtapa, which Mexico’s tourism body carefully developed in the 1970s. This was a direct attempt to replicate the Caribbean splendor of Cancún on the Pacific coast.
Ixtapa’s hotspot status trickled 6.5km (4 miles) south to Zihuatanejo, which feels like a sleepy fishing village elevated by a handful of relaxed seaside sanctuaries like Thompson Zihuatanejo on Playa La Ropa.
In this blissed-out traditional Guerrero town, there are storied, curiously named beaches that are great for surfing, diving, fishing and seafood-feasting in the presence of crashing waves.
Take a walk on Playa Las Gatas (Cat Beach), reportedly named after land wildcats or the whiskered nurse sharks in Zihua’s waters, or make a dash for the aforementioned Playa La Ropa (Clothes Beach), the town’s most popular beach, which incorporates a legend of a Spanish shore wreckage containing washed silk clothes.
Paddleboarding off the UNESCO-listed Espíritu Santo island in the Gulf of California. Justin Foulkes for Lonely Planet
10. La Paz
Best place for quiet beaches
La Paz, the capital of Baja California Sur, has something for every kind of beach lover. The city is a delightful springboard to adventures on the Sea of Cortez, home to 39% of the world’s marine mammals.
Around 40 minutes from La Paz, Playa El Saltito feels tranquil and isolated during the sweltering days, and its crystal waters come alive with bioluminescence at night. Though competition is tough, Playa Balandra, with its unique mushroom-like rock formation, is heralded as one of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches.
The impossible-to-miss destination in the region is the UNESCO-listed Espíritu Santo island, where you can camp under a canopy of stunning stars, snorkel with playful sea lions and even peek at congresses of clumsy blue-footed boobies. A number of operators run activities here, including kayaking and snorkeling.
11. Tulum
Best place for wellness and boho vibes
Over the years, Tulum shed its former name (Zama), and its position as a secluded and sleepy beach-meets-jungle town in Riviera Maya and subsequently ripened into a world-famous pilgrimage for honeymooners, hedonists and holistic tourists.
The spirituality-focused traveler will find a host of things to do in Tulum ranging from cacao ceremonies to pre-Hispanic sound healing and open-air rooftop yoga classes.
Tulum is a well-rounded destination with scrumptious restaurants and bars, and accommodations for all budgets, from waterfront shacks to top-end resorts and thatch-roofed boutique boltholes like La Valise Tulum.
The beaches are postcard-ready, the most celebrated stretch being Playa Ruinas with its strikingly well-preserved Maya ruins perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
There are also numerous attractions in the surrounding area, such as the massive Reserva de la Biosfera Sian Ka’an, the secluded fishing village Punta Allen and the ruins of Cobá.
Planning tip: Tulum Pueblo (the town center) is where the really cheap eats and sleeps are found, but it’s a 20-minute bike ride or 12-minute taxi to the beach. Plan ahead to find well-priced beach accommodations if that’s where you’d prefer to stay.
Soak up the glamor of Cabo San Lucas marina or head out on a deep-sea fishing trip. Shutterstock
12. Los Cabos
Best place for glitz, glamor and parties
Sister cities Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo need no introduction. The former is notorious among party-hearty North American crowds, while the latter is more sedate with art galleries, celebrity-frequented luxury resorts, upscale boutiques and over-the-top decadent tequila tasting rooms.
Together, these perennially sunny spots on the southernmost tip of the Baja California Sur peninsula have become two of the top places to see in Mexico.
Under the blazing Cabo sun, golfers chase their dreams on emerald greens designed by legendary champion Jack Nicklaus, and surfers tackle world-class surf breaks.
Not many beaches are safe for swimming, but other outdoor pursuits like deep-sea fishing, spotting sea lions and whale watching (from mid-December to mid-April) keep water babies coming back.
13. Pico de Orizaba
Best place for a superlative trek
Pico de Orizaba is a symmetrical, snow-capped volcano on the border of Puebla and Veracruz states. Also called Citlaltépetl, it’s the highest peak in Mexico and the third-highest mountain in North America, with a summit elevation of around 5636m (18,491ft) above sea level.
Dormant but not extinct, the last recorded eruption was in 1846, and it is one of the most popular places to visit in Mexico for serious climbers – professionals prep there before taking on Mount Everest.
Treks start from the small village of Tlachichuca, and the ascent requires some technical skills – Pico de Orizaba is the ultimate trekking and climbing challenge in Mexico.
If sea-level thrills are more to your liking, there’s plenty on offer in the town of Orizaba, including a beautiful riverside walk, a couple of impressive museums and galleries and a unique “Iron Palace.”
The perfect introduction to Veracruz state’s most appealing town is to hop into the cable car up to the park atop 1240m (4068ft) Cerro del Borrego.
From this lofty, green perch, you can admire the domes and bell towers of the city’s many historic churches and the surrounding mountainous terrain, including the snowcapped summit of Pico de Orizaba.
An eastbound Mexican passenger train winds its way up the Copper Canyon. Bruce Raynor/Shutterstock
14. Copper Canyon Railway
Best for a train ride
The Ferrocarril Chihuahua Pacífico (Copper Canyon Railway) remains one of Latin America’s best rail trips. Also known as the Chepe Express (from the “Ch” of Chihuahua and “P” of Pacífico), trains climb from sea level at Los Mochis to the town of Creel via the sensational rocky landscapes of the rust-hued Copper Canyon (the “Grand Canyon of Mexico”).
Vistas from your window during the train journey include alpine forests, subtropical valleys, Tarahumara villages and glimpses of some of the world’s deepest canyons.
Overnight en route at cinematic lodges overlooking the canyon’s edge, or stay for days of exploring, hiking, horseback riding and even zip-lining in one of the best places to see in Mexico.
Woman selling deserts from food cart in Oaxaca. Justin Foulkes for Lonely Planet
15. Oaxaca City
Best place for mezcal and cultural celebrations
Once the capital of the Zapotec Civilization, the state of Oaxaca is now better known as Mexico’s primary mezcal-producing region.
Fine mezcals distilled around the state make their way to low-lit, atmospheric establishments in Oaxaca City like La Popular, El Destilado and La Mezcalerita, and savvy locals guide thirsty patrons on popular tours to experience the city one smoky sip at a time (check out Mezcouting and Oaxacking).
The frequent colorful fiestas in Oaxaca City also win smiles from cultural travelers. The city’s population swells at the start of November during Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) festivities, when Mexican families honor and celebrate their lost loves with round-the-clock vigils, joyful offerings, and parades.
One of the most unique things to see in Oaxaca City is the merrymaking during Noche de Rábanos (Night of the Radishes) on December 23.
During this competition dating back to 1897, the young and old carve radishes into scenes that are displayed in Zócalo to much fanfare.
Planning tip: Venture two hours outside of Oaxaca City to reach Hierve el Agua, a jaw-dropping petrified waterfall-like formation. You can take a bus, rent a car or hire a driver to take you to these mineral-rich infinity pools.
With technology seemingly present in every aspect of life, it can feel almost impossible to truly unplug and relax. But there are still some sacred spots where you can escape the world and all its stresses – you just need to know where to look.
These are our favorite cabins and lodges scattered across the USA that allow you to unclench, reconnect with the natural world and recharge yourself, rather than your devices.
Before we dive into our list of off-the-grid vacations in the United States, let’s clarify what qualifies as off-the-grid. The term, off the grid, traditionally refers to not being connected to an electrical grid, but can also include utilities like water, gas and sewer systems, to name a few. They offer endless opportunities to rest, reconnect and recharge in nature, without the internet, cellphone service and social media.
Window Rock is a natural formation in Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska. Feng Wei Photography/Getty Images
1. Kenai Fjords Wilderness Lodge, Alaska
Best for campers and hikers
Reaching this coastal lodge on Fox Island in Alaska requires a 12-mile boat ride from Seward. The eight-guest cabin property and its main lodge are located on an island just outside Kenai Fjords National Park and are situated in the woods between a pristine pebble beach and a quiet lagoon.
Relying on renewable energy as a power source (but backed up by propane generators), the cabins go without electrical outlets, TVs, radios or phones (don’t worry: emergency communication access is available in case of a serious issue). Guests can also hike, kayak and learn more about the area’s marine life from on-staff naturalists. The lodge is open from June to September.
2. Osprey Cabin, Lake Metigoshe State Park, North Dakota
Best for adventurers used to roughing it
This backcountry cabin within a state park in northern North Dakota is accessible by one of two ways: a two-mile hike or a 1.5-mile canoe ride and short portage. Once you get there, you can expect throwback rural simplicity, making it one of the best off-the-grid vacations that’s open year-round. The property sleeps up to four with bunk-style beds. It includes a wood-burning stove, supplied wood to fuel it and a lantern with propane cylinders.
Now, here comes the hard part: along with no electricity or cell service, a vault toilet is available onsite, but drinkable water has to be packed in. Breathe in that clean country air on more than eight miles of trails open to hikers and mountain bikers and go swimming or boating within small lakes.
Destress on a hike through Goblin Valley, Utah. Whit Richardson/Getty Images
3. Glamping Getaway Goblin Valley Yurts, Utah
Best for night sky views
Within southern Utah’s Goblin Valley State Park, you’ll find two heated and cooled yurts that blend in with the park’s rock formations and look like they arrived from outer space. Available to reserve year-round, the tan-colored yurts contain just a porch, living area and a single bed bunked on a double bed and a futon.
You’ll need to pack a flashlight and candles, as the yurts lack electricity. Yet this certified Dark Sky park will keep you busy. Wander among its Valley of Goblins or go canyoneering down into Goblin’s Lair.
4. Taos Goji Eco-Lodge, New Mexico
Best for aspiring writers
Nestled in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, miles outside of Taos, New Mexico, this eco-lodge will inspire you with its forest views and peaceful surroundings. These turn-of-the-century-built cabins hosted writers DH Lawrence and Aldous Huxley; the latter built an outhouse at the property that’s still intact.
Heat comes from wood-fired stoves; wi-fi can be spotty and cellular service can be little to none. Nonetheless, the property also introduces a bit of farm living by growing organic goji berries, fruits and vegetables, and raising free-range chickens, goats and alpacas.
Recall those summer camp memories at Timberlock. Courtesy of Timberlock in Indian Lake
5. Timberlock, New York
Best for summer camp nostalgia
This camp-style retreat in New York State’s Adirondacks region provides a nostalgic experience for those who fondly remember spending their summers away from home and time in the woods with new friends.
The family-owned retreat features rustic cabins ranging in size from small to extra large, all with views of Indian Lake’s shoreline. Note that none of the cabins have electricity: propane both provides light and warms up the water heaters, and a wood stove helps out with chilly nights. The cabins are open for a few weeks in the summer and a few weeks in the fall.
Complaints about no wi-fi or TV are few to none, as visitors keep busy kayaking, canoeing and enjoying other waterside activities along with biking or playing tennis.
6. Pioneer Cabins, Kumbrabow State Forest, West Virginia
Best for pet-friendly lodging
Situated on top of Rich Mountain, along the edge of the Allegheny Highlands, this West Virginia state park provides the opportunity to stay in one of six West Virginian pioneer cabins. These rustic gems will transport guests far back from our digital age – as in no electricity and running water – yet all feature modern-day comforts and are pet-friendly, with gas lights and gas refrigerators, a kitchen, linens, a wood fireplace and a grill. There’s also a central bathhouse and outdoor toilets. The cabins are available from April through the first week of December.
Appalachian Mountain Club’s cabins are the perfect place to hibernate for winter. Courtesy of Appalachian Mountain Club/Dennis Welsh
7. Appalachian Mountain Club Maine Wilderness Lodges, Maine
Best for relaxation and creature comforts
This property in Maine’s 100-Mile Wilderness is a collection of lodges along with a trail system that truly provides an off-the-beaten-path feeling. Originally a private camp in the mid-19th century, the pond-side Gorman Chairback Lodge & Cabins have four deluxe cabins with private bathrooms and eight shoreline cabins with woodstoves and gas lamps, plus a bunkhouse.
The Little Lyford Lodge & Cabins’ nine private cabins offer a combo of doubles and bunk beds plus a porch, a wood stove and gas lamps; for an additional fee, dogs can camp out here, too. Medawisla Lodge & Cabins (“medawisla” means “loon” in Abenaki) has five private hilltop cabins and four waterfront cabins with electric LED lighting and a wood stove. Each of these accommodations is open from January to March and June through October.
8. Len Foote Hike Inn, Georgia
Best for hiking the Appalachian Trail
You reach this backcountry inn in Georgia via a hike to Amicalola Falls State Park. Before you go, know that cellphones, radios and most other electronic devices aren’t allowed. (The park’s visitor center can be used for emergency communication.) Its four main buildings hold 20 bedrooms with fans or heaters, bunkbeds, furnished linens and ample lighting.
Within the dining hall, guests are served family-style breakfasts and dinners. After hiking, go for a soak in the bathhouse or hang out and chat with others in the Sunrise Room. The inn is also a gateway to the Appalachian Trail and the moderate 9.8-mile loop Len Foote Hike Inn Trail.
9. Moloka’i, Hawaii
Best for a remote tropical getaway
Our list of off-the-grid vacations in the United States would be incomplete without the Aloha State, Hawaii. This state has several islands and opportunities to unplug from the outside world, but Moloka‘i truly stands out in this way. The pace of this island is much slower; there are no traffic lights, and nightlife is virtually nonexistent. However, there are many opportunities to explore and relax in nature, including hiking to see waterfalls, beaches, coves, rainforests, or mountain biking.
Stay at the Pu‘u O Hōkū Ranch, a family-owned organic ranch, farm and rustic retreat center on the remote east end of Moloka‘i. The lodge is ideal for larger groups, while the smaller cottages are perfect for families or couples.
10. Camp Orenda, Johnsburg, NY
Best for backcountry camping
Find tranquility in the Adirondacks at Camp Orenda and enjoy an authentic backcountry camping experience. Located in the beautiful Adirondack State Park in New York, Camp Orenda offers several canvas cabin options. All cabins are furnished and include bedding, towels, lighting, fans, outlets and wood-burning inspired electric heating stove. Camp Orenda has limited cell phone service and wi-fi is available, but it is very slow.
Staying inside a state park means there are plenty of activities to enjoy with friends, partners or family. In this area, you can go hiking, canoeing, kayaking, whitewater rafting and mountain biking.
11. Red Mountain Alpine Lodge, Ouray, Colorado
Best for a large group
The Red Mountain Alpine Lodge is a remote, off-grid getaway located in Colorado. You’ll have a front-row seat to the pristine backcountry of the San Juan Mountains, Colorado’s most diverse mountain range. At this lodge, you’ll have complete access to Red Mountain Pass, known for its lofty elevation and unmistakable red-orange color. In this area, you can go hiking, skiing, snowboarding and private backcountry skiing, or you can simply relax at the lodge and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
The timber-frame backcountry lodge can accommodate up to 18 people. It has several showers and sinks, a large living room and dining area, a licensed tavern on site, radiant in-floor heat and wi-fi. While there is reliable wi-fi at the lodge, there is no cellular service coverage, making this one of the best off-grid vacations if you’re looking to unplug with a big group in a cozy, rustic setting.
12. Ventana Campground, Big Sur, California
Best for camping – or glamping – among the redwoods
While the Golden State has beautiful beaches, national parks like Yellowstone National Park and excellent nightlife, parts of it are very remote. Ventana Campground, located in Big Sur, is a 40-acre redwood canyon and a tent-only campground, meaning no RVs, motor homes, travel trailers or camper vans are allowed. Each campsite includes a fire ring, water faucets, a picnic table and two modern bath houses. No generators or additional hookups are allowed at Ventana.
You’ll have easy access to the Big Sur community while relaxing and spending time in nature. Hike among the redwoods, visit a state park, and spot a California condor.
For those who don’t want to rough it, Ventana also has a glamping experience with more premium and luxurious facilities and amenities.
The attractions of Jamaica are easy to sell to travelers. Crystal blue waters, soft sand and a little reggae to go with your rum cocktail as the sun dips on another perfect Caribbean day.
However, venture beyond the beaches and lush banana groves and you’ll discover a side of the country that most visitors don’t see – a hiker’s paradise where incredible trails zigzag through jungles and scramble over mountain ridges, and where rushing waterfalls seem to erupt out of nowhere.
If you’re hitting the trails in the interior, it pays to hire a local guide. Trails (tracks in Jamaica) are often unmarked and overgrown, and advice from locals that your destination is “just a little way” may in fact mean several hours of walking. Here’s a guide to our favorite trails in Jamaica.
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1. Oatley Mountain Trail
Best day hike
2.4km (1.4 miles) round trip, 90 minutes, easy
Run by the Jamaica Conservation & Development Trust, the Holywell Recreation Area in the Blue Mountains above Kingston is the entry point for the beautiful Hardwar Gap.
Here you’ll find 120 hectares of lush Jamaican woodland, with dozens of fern species, epiphytes, flowers and wild strawberries and raspberries.
The mist-shrouded, uppermost slopes are densely covered with rare primary montane forest, dominated by pine trees, and the birdwatching is fabulous.
Well-maintained, easy hiking trails lead off in all directions through the ferny dells, cloud forest and elfin woodland. The 2.4km Oatley Mountain Trail is the best walk, and it leads to a river that’s good for bathing.
Guides aren’t necessary for this hike but they can be great sources of information about the region’s flora and birds – arrange one at the staffed ranger station, just beyond the entrance. After the hike, refresh yourself at Cafe Blue near Irish Town, a short drive downhill from Holywell.
The Blue Mountains offer up some of Jamaica’s most dramatic scenery. David Neil Madden/Getty Images
2. Blue Mountain Peak
Best hike in Jamaica
12km (7.4 miles) round trip, 5 hours, moderate
More than two dozen walking trails cross Jamaica’s Blue Mountains, but the hike to the summit of 2256m (7402ft) Blue Mountain Peak to watch the sun rise over the island’s capital, Kingston, is undoubtedly the best in the country.
Visit Casa di Giulietta (Juliet’s House) to see the famous balcony and learn about Verona’s Shakespearean legacy.
The hike starts from the village of Penlyne Castle, and many people spend the night here and set off in the dark before dawn to reach the peak in time for sunrise. One of the most popular accommodations, Whitfield Hall was damaged by fire in July 2022, but is already rebuilding and welcoming guests once again (at a limited capacity).
The first part of the trail – a series of steep switchbacks known as Jacob’s Ladder – is the toughest section, leading to a ranger station where you pay the US$5 park entry fee.
As you climb, the vegetation becomes less tropical, until you’re hiking amid stunted trees draped with old man’s beard (lichen) and giant ferns.
In the predawn cold at the summit, the first rays of the sun wash over the densely forested mountain peaks and out to sea – on a clear day you can see as far as Cuba.
3. Cockpit Country
Best backcountry hike
20km (12.4 miles) round trip, 4–5 hours, moderate
Cockpit Country is Jamaica’s most rugged quarter, with jungle-clad hills intersected by deep and sheer valleys, producing a landscape that once gave shelter to people escaping slavery. Today, the area is rich in hiking opportunities.
The most popular hike is the walk along the abandoned B10 road from Kinloss (easily reached from Montego Bay) to Spring Garden, passing through Barbecue Bottom. Along the way, you’ll gain a real appreciation for Cockpit Country’s beautiful, honeycombed limestone cliffs and verdant valleys.
It’s a long hike, but with gentle inclines, so the route is accessible to any moderately fit hiker. There are beautiful views and shorter hikes along the route are also possible.
It’s essential to take a trusted guide; organize one through the Southern Trelawny Environmental Agency, (STEA) based in Rock Spring. The agency works with reputable local guides, simultaneously empowering local communities and giving visitors access to this little-explored corner of Jamaica.
Named after the Bob Marley statue, the One Love Trail takes you to the popular falls at Ocho Rios. Getty Images
4. One Love Trail
Best family hike
4.7km (3.1 miles) round trip, 3 hours, easy
This hike, which is suitable for all ages and abilities, starts in an inauspicious spot – the Island Village shopping center near the cruise ship pier in Ocho Rios.
The track takes its name from the large statue of Bob Marley at its entrance, and the mostly level path follows the coastline, with several opportunities to dip down to the waves and paddle in a cove before you reach the point where a small waterfall tumbles into the sea.
This is the sign to turn inland and cross the main road to follow a forested path up to massively popular Dunns River Falls, which you can climb, passing through the cascading water.
This walk can get busy, so we recommend enjoying it on a day when there are no cruise ships docked at Ocho Rios. Head out in the morning before the tourist buses arrive from Montego Bay so you can enjoy having Dunn’s River Falls almost to yourself.
5. Troy–Windsor Trail
Best challenging hike
16km (9.9 miles), 6–10 hours, difficult
For the serious hiker, the old Troy-Windsor Trail is one of the most rewarding hikes in the Caribbean.
Heavy tree cover and steep-sided hills block any expansive views, but the jagged, jungly limestone scenery is never less than enthralling, especially if you hike accompanied by a guide who can recount the history of the region’s slavery days and guerrilla warfare by Maroons (escaped enslaved people).
Look out for the stone walls of the old road, which can be seen along much of the route. The trail is easier to walk from south to north, starting from Troy, but a guide is essential. Do not under any circumstances attempt this hike without one.
Either go with Martell ‘Malibu’ Taylor or Miss Claudine – both live in Sherwood Content – or hire a guide with a machete from the Jamaican Caves Organisation. Take lots of water (a minimum of six liters per person) and food, a flashlight, and plenty of insect repellent – the mosquitoes here are brutal.
The pummeling power of Mayfield Falls more than justifies the hike out here. Michael Kucsmas/Shutterstock
6. Mayfield Falls River Hike
Best waterfall hike
2km (1.3 miles), 1 hour, easy
Plenty of hikes in Jamaica will have you jumping over streams in places, but the point of the walk to Mayfield Falls is to literally follow a river by wading through it until you reach your destination.
Picture this: you climb into the cool river beneath giant thickets of bamboo and scramble upstream for around 45 minutes, then swim through an underwater tunnel, jump into deep pools and sit bubbling in the froth of a natural Jacuzzi, letting the “washing machine” falls pound your shoulders. There’s no better way to cool off after a walk.
The hike is easily accessible by road from Negril, and the area around the falls has been sensitively developed, with a changing area, water-shoe rental and a restaurant.
Tips for hiking in Jamacia
It’s best to hike from January to April, when the weather is drier and less prone to storms. Wherever your walk carries you, be sure to stay on established trails.
The mountainous terrain in Jamaica is too treacherous to go wandering off the track, with thick vegetation hiding sinkholes and crevasses. Natural habitats are quickly eroded too, and animals and plants are disturbed by walkers who stray from the path.
If a trail is difficult to follow, turn back. Mountain rescues take time in Jamaica and you could be lost for days. If you’re heading into the backcountry, don’t forget to pack the following items:
An old joke goes that Pittsburgh is the “Galapagos of Pennsylvania.” The city doesn’t neighbor any other metro areas. Most travelers arrive by plane, or at the end of a very long drive. Even the Pittsburgh dialect is like no other language on Earth. (“Yinz,” anyone?)
When it comes to a long weekend in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, there’s actually a lot to see in Western Pennsylvania, from charming rural communities to expansive natural spaces. The counties that neighbor Pittsburgh are rich in rivers, forests and small towns, which are easy to miss while barreling down the Pennsylvania Turnpike.
Hikers and anglers love to lose themselves in these valleys, and history buffs find plenty to love at local museums. The best time to visit Pittsburgh and neighboring communities is during the warmth of summer and during the dry fall months. There are many ways to get around Pittsburgh, but you’ll often need a car. These attractions are all located within a two-hour drive of Downtown Pittsburgh, and visiting can easily be a spur-of-the-moment decision or planned out days in advance.
Camping, hiking and white-water rafting are among the summer pleasures at Ohiopyle State Park. Shutterstock
1. Get soaked in Ohiopyle State Park
Travel time: 75 minutes each way
Situated around the frothing Youghiogheny River, Ohiopyle is the region’s go-to summer playground. It would be easy to spend a solid week camping, hiking and white-water rafting through this 20,500-acre expanse. If you’re visiting for just a day, numerous shorter paths run through Ohiopyle; you’ll also find the trailhead for the 70-mile Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail. The park has several campgrounds with a variety of accommodations, from tent sites and pavilions to cottages and yurts. Visit the Pennsylvania State Parks website to reserve a spot.
For river-runners, “the Yough” has three sections, the Upper, Middle and Lower, which vary in difficulty from Class I to Class V rapids. If you’re a novice (or didn’t pack the kayak), you can book an excursion with any of several licensed operators, such as Laurel Highlands River Tours and White Water Adventurers.
How to get there from Pittsburgh: The drive takes about 75 minutes from Pittsburgh along I-76 East. Take Exit 91 for PA-381 S.
2. Explore the depths of the Laurel Caverns
Travel time: 90 minutes each way
The tunnels that make up the Laurel Caverns burrow underground for four miles, and these interconnected chambers have fascinated the public since the late 18th century. Unlike many subterranean sites, this cave system will appeal to many types of visitors, and families and amateur geologists will enjoy a guided tour on level floors through well-lit passages. If you’re not feeling social – or are short on time – take a self-guided tour over 100 steps and 800ft of tunnels. Feeling intrepid? The “Adventure Caving” option is a full-on spelunking session designed for all skill levels.
How to get there from Pittsburgh: The drive takes about 90 minutes. Take 51S about 53 miles to Uniontown, then Skyline Dr the remaining 6 miles.
A delight for cyclists, the Great Allegheny Passage follows onetime railway lines for some 150 miles. Dave Jonasen/Shutterstock
3. Pedal down the Great Allegheny Passage
Travel time: varies depending on your starting point
For cyclists, the Great Allegheny Passage is the pinnacle of bike paths, running 150 miles from Pittsburgh to Cumberland, Maryland. The car-free route is composed mostly of crushed limestone and follows former (and some current!) railroad rights of way through scenic river valleys and old mill towns. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can continue on the C&O Canal Towpath, which takes cyclists from Cumberland all the way to Washington, DC.
There’s no need to traverse the entire GAP, though. Any given segment is worth a walk, jog or ski, with each mile bringing its share of gorgeous woodland – plus a good chance of crossing one of 19 historic bridges.
How to get there from Pittsburgh: This trail technically starts in Pittsburgh with the Southside Riverfront Park and Trail; the GAP then intersects with dozens of trailheads throughout Southwestern Pennsylvania.
4. Discover a lost community at Old Economy Village
Travel time: 30 minutes each way
Butler County, just 30 minutes north of Pittsburgh, offers distinctive German character and attractions. For about 100 years, the German-settled Harmony Society maintained a utopian community in rural Pennsylvania. Its legacy is Old Economy Village, a settlement of 17 brick buildings that still stand near the banks of the Ohio River. True to its industrious name, the village’s residents once produced textiles, lumber and spirits.
Visitors can see how this Christian sect lived from 1824 to 1906, thanks to immaculately preserved homes and workshops. Tour the Harmony Museum for more insight.
How to get there from Pittsburgh: The drive takes about 30 minutes. From downtown Pittsburgh, take Route 65 N (also known as Ohio River Blvd) 20 miles to the town of Ambridge.
Fallingwater is magnificent in all seasons. Taras Vovchuk/Shutterstock
5. Admire the scenery at Fallingwater
Travel time: 70 minutes each way
Of the 532 buildings Frank Lloyd Wright designed, Fallingwater might be the most celebrated. This Modernist masterpiece combines angular concrete walls, sandstone masonry and lush forest, as the eponymous waterfall cascades beneath its cantilevered terraces. The property hosts a range of guided tours, which relate the history and groundbreaking design of the house (built as a retreat for the Kaufmann family, well-known department-store magnates in Pittsburgh). This remote architectural marvel is well with the trip.
How to get there from Pittsburgh: A car is the best way to reach Fallingwater. From Pittsburgh, it’s a 70-minute drive east on the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76). Take Exit 91 for PA-381 S.
6. Hop a ride at the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum
Travel time: 30 minutes each way
Pittsburgh was once famous for its trolley system, and the quaint old streetcars even inspired the “Trolley” character from Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood (which was produced in Pittsburgh, Fred Rogers’ hometown). Port Authority buses have long replaced rails and cables, but you can get a taste of what once was at the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, a sprawling interactive exhibit on the edge of Chartiers Township.
The museum was founded in 1954, and its collection of cars has since expanded from three to 52, encompassing trolley designs from around the world. Guided tours recount the history of mass transit; visitors can also explore on their own and step aboard the vintage cars. Many of the trolleys are still operational and take spins around the property.
While you’re out there, stop into Washington, a sizable college town with a vibrant dining scene.
How to get there from Pittsburgh: The drive along 79 S takes about 30 minutes until you reach Exit 40.
At Seven Springs, skiers can explore 33 different runs. CMS Photography/Shutterstock
7. Conquer the slopes at Seven Springs Resort
Travel time: 1 hour each way
The highest elevation at Seven Springs might be a humble 2994ft. Yet the largest ski resort in Western Pennsylvania resort puts these slopes to good use, with skiers and snowboarders able to pick from 33 trails across 285 acres. No fewer than 10 lifts carry visitors to the summits, with a third of the runs designated black diamond.
Seven Springs has drawn skiers to the Laurel Highlands since it opened in 1937. And the on-site golf course, alpine slides and climbing walls have turned the complex into a four-season destination. Replenish calories at any of 14 restaurants, including the beloved Foggy Goggle pub.
If you’re looking for something slightly more intimate, check out Seven Springs’ sister resort Hidden Valley, located just 20 minutes away.
How to get there from Pittsburgh: The drive takes about 1 hour. Follow 1-76E to Donegal Township and take Exit 9. Take County Line Rd the remaining 10 miles.
8. Trailblaze through Western Pennsylvania’s state parks
Travel time: 45 to 55 minutes each way, depending on the park
For nature lovers looking for a scenic escape, Racoon Creek State Park, Moraine State Park and McConnells Mill State Park offer ample hiking and water sports like kayaking, each within a short drive from Pittsburgh.
Raccoon Creek State Park spans 7,500 acres and has 44 miles of trails winding through rolling hills, woodlands and valleys. Its lake is ideal for visitors who love to kayak, swim and fish.
Just a short drive north, Moraine State Park has another 42 miles of scenic trails that take visitors through lush forests and along the shores of Lake Arthur. This 3225-acre lake is a hub for water activities, including sailing, paddleboarding and fishing.
For a more rugged adventure, nearby McConnells Mill State Park features deep gorges, dramatic landscapes and the scenic Slippery Rock Creek, which once powered the McConnells grist mill. Today, the mill offers demonstrations on how grain is ground using water-powered turbines.
Each park provides a balance of tranquility and recreation without venturing too far from the city.
How to get there from Pittsburgh: The drive to Racoon Creek State Park is 45 minutes west on US22 W, while Moraine State Park is 45 minutes north on I79. For McConnells Mill, it’ll take another 10 minutes via exit 99 for US422 W. Continue toward Butler/New Castle for approximately 7 miles to the park exit.
9. Brave the Kinzua Bridge Skywalk
Travel time: Two hours each way
For an unforgettable experience high above the trees, albeit one of the longer day trips, head to the Kinzua Bridge Skywalk in the vast Allegheny National Forest.
Once the world’s longest and tallest railroad bridge, the Kinzua Bridge was partially destroyed by a tornado in 2003. Today, the remaining structure has been transformed into the Kinzua Bridge Skywalk, giving visitors a chance to walk 624 feet out over the forest. The skywalk features a glass observation deck at the end, providing breathtaking views of the Kinzua Gorge.
In addition to the skywalk, Allegheny National Forest, which spans over half a million acres, has over 600 miles of hiking trails.
How to get there from Pittsburgh: The drive along I79 N to US6 W takes about 2 hours, but bus tours take guests on roundtrip drives from Pittsburgh to the Allegheny National Forest.
10. Roam the riverside retreat of Wheeling
Travel time: One hour each way
Located an hour southwest of Pittsburgh, Wheeling, West Virginia, is a charming town on the banks of the Ohio River.
Wheeling’s historic downtown is home to the Wheeling Suspension Bridge, a National Historic Landmark that was the longest suspension bridge in the world when constructed in 1849, at 1010 feet. For history buffs, the West Virginia Independence Hall provides a look at how the state was formed during the Civil War. At the nearby 1700-acre Oglebay Resort, visitors can stroll the resort’s manicured gardens and hiking trails.
How to get there from Pittsburgh: The drive along I79 S to 170 W takes about an hour.
11. Soak up the sun at Lake Erie’s beaches
Travel time: Two hours each way
One of the best things to do with kids is to travel to the Lake Erie region, which offers sandy shores and charming lakeside towns. While Presque Isle State Park in Pennsylvania is the most famous beach destination for Pittsburghers, there are several other spots along Lake Erie worth exploring.
Head across the border to Ohio and visit Conneaut Township Park, renowned for its quiet beaches, scenic boardwalk and orange-hued sunsets. Or, venture to Geneva-on-the-Lake to enjoy a classic resort town with a mix of beach activities, arcades and wineries. In Ashtabula, Walnut Beach Park is a great spot for families with a spacious beach, playgrounds and a fishing pier. After a swim, explore the historic Ashtabula Harbor, known for its lighthouses and charming cafes.
How to get there from Pittsburgh: The drive to the shores of Lake Erie and each beach takes about two hours along I79 N. Train travel is available, but it can double the travel time.
12. Go for a touchdown at the Pro Football Hall of Fame
Travel time: 1 hour and 30 minutes each way
Sports fans have plenty to enjoy in Pittsburgh, but when looking for a day trip, head to Canton, Ohio, home of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Just 90 minutes from Pittsburgh, this institution celebrates the achievements of the National Football League and honors the legends who shaped the sport. The Hall of Fame features immersive exhibits, including the Hall of Fame Gallery, where busts of the greatest players, coaches and contributors are enshrined. Visitors can explore interactive displays, watch historic game footage and admire memorabilia such as Super Bowl rings and iconic jerseys.
How to get there from Pittsburgh: This 90-minute drive follows I76 W toward Ohio. Greyhound, located in downtown, can also get you there in about 2 hours.
13. See remnants of American history at Fort McIntosh
Travel time: 40 minutes each way
Built in 1778 during the American Revolutionary War, Fort McIntosh in Beaver County was the first fort constructed by the Continental Army in the northwest territory. Once serving as the headquarters for the First American Regiment, the earliest version of the US Army, the fort’s remains sit along the banks of the Ohio River and feature informative historical markers detailing the fort’s significance. While much of the original fort has been lost to time, the site is an ideal day trip for anyone interested in early American history.
How to get there from Pittsburgh: Drive about 40 minutes on PA65 N to the town of Beaver and the fort. Buses are available from Liberty Street and will take 2 hours.
14. Admire Kentuck Knob’s architecture
Travel time: 1 hour and 10 minutes each way
You’ll find more architectural marvels at Kentuck Knob, another stunning home designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Located in the Laurel Highlands and showcasing the architect’s organic signature style, Kentuck Knob blends seamlessly into the natural landscape with its sandstone walls, copper roof and cantilevered design that appears to float above the ground. Visitors can take a guided tour of the home, built in 1956, as well as its sculpture garden.
How to get there from Pittsburgh: Drive for about 70 minutes on PA381 S.
15. Search for black gold in Oil Creek State Park
Travel time: 1 hour and 45 minutes each way
As the site of the world’s first commercial oil well in the mid-1800s, visitors at Oil Creek State Park can learn about Pennsylvania’s rich oil heritage through interpretive signs and exhibits. The park features miles of hiking trails winding through forests and along Oil Creek, with waterfalls, wildlife and a 36-mile bike trail.
How to get there from Pittsburgh: Drive north on I79 for about 80 minutes and take exit 147B to merge onto US-322 W toward Meadville. You’ll then follow PA-27 E for about 20 to 25 minutes to reach the park. Buses can get you there too, in about three hours.
