Surfing has an undeniable allure. The ancient Polynesian practice combines both power and grace and forges an intimate connection between a surfer and the ocean. The pros, like John John Florence and , make wave riding look effortless. But even experienced surfers are regularly humbled by the ocean. First-timers often get pummeled just trying to paddle out.

I still recall my first surf experience as a kid on the Jersey Shore. I had borrowed a friend’s shortboard and couldn’t make it past the relentlessly pounding breakers. Exhausted from being clobbered by the incoming waves, I gave up and tried to ride the whitewater. I ended up with a bathing suit full of sand and water leaking from my nose for what seemed like days.

After a few more failed solo sessions, I booked a lesson and my frustration instantly turned into enjoyment thanks to some basic pointers. Even one hour under the tutelage of an instructor can be a gamechanger, especially if you’re a total novice. Intel such as where to paddle out at a break, how to read the incoming sets, and knowing which size board is right for you, can transform your surf experience. Most newbies consider standing up on the board a success. But here’s a little secret. Learning to read the ocean and being able to paddle into a wave on your own, without a push from an instructor, is the real beginner’s success.

Now in my 40s, I consider myself an intermediate surfer. But I still try to take a lesson at least once a year, particularly when I travel to a new destination. Surfing is a lifelong practice, and the ocean is an ever-changing arena. You can always be learning and improving. And you’re never too old to hop on a board. One surf instructor I know says he regularly teaches students in their 60s and 70s.

Whether it’s your first time paddling out or you’re looking to fine-tune your bottom turn, the following surf schools can help get you up and riding and take your skills to the next level.

Hammer Surf School, Jersey Shore

Pro surfer Sam Hammer has chased waves around the world from the tropical beaches of Costa Rica to the frozen shores of Iceland to star in Chris Burkhard’s hit film, Under An Arctic Sky. But he hasn’t forgotten his Jersey Shore roots. His namesake surf school hosts private 75-minute lessons throughout the summer in several Shore towns, including his hometown of Lavallette. And most locales, like Spring Lake and Bay Head, can be accessed by train from New York City via New Jersey Transit. Hammer personally teaches the Sunday sessions in Spring Lake and you can book him for private coaching. I grew up on the Jersey Shore and know first-hand that if you can surf in Jersey, you can surf just about anywhere. The waves tend to be weak, yet steep, so they’re harder to paddle into, and, once you’re in, tougher to navigate. Summer conditions tend to be more mellow, but still, if you earn your surfing chops on the Shore, you’ll feel like a pro on the slow, peeling waves in other destinations.

Beginner Tip: “Don’t overthink your movements on a surfboard,” says Hammer. “Like with any sport, you learn mechanics slowly and will instinctually move faster through repetition.”

Details: $99 for a 2.5-hour adult group surf class; $113 for a 75-minute, one-on-one private lesson;

Mario Surf School, Todos Santos, Mexico

Over the years, Los Cerritos beach has been discovered, but even with the crowds, it remains one of my favorite surf spots. Located just 10 minutes south of the hip town of Todos Santos and 45 minutes north of Cabo San Lucas, it’s incredibly accessible to reach and its mellow, smooth waves and a sandy bottom make it a friendly place for beginners. But those aren’t the only reasons Mario Becerril, a Baja native and former pro, chose to base his surf school there nearly 20 years ago. “It’s also one of the few beaches in Mexico that has gradual wave zones suitable for all levels,” he explains. This helps ease the congestion and is great for progression. Becerril’s school is known for its three-step, beginner-focused pop-up technique and also for offering more advanced learning options, such as multi-day clinics, and its surf excursions, which showcase the region’s best waves, like premier point break Punta Conejo.

Beginner Tip: “Don’t be afraid to surf on a bigger board when you are learning and work your way down to smaller boards progressively,” says Becerril, “and remember the best surfer out there is the one that has the most fun.”

Details: $67 for a 60-minute group lesson; $80 for a 60-minute private lesson; $180 for a three-day clinic; $350 for a private eight-hour surf excursion

Mary Osborne Surf Academy, Ventura, California

Champion longboarder Mary Osborne has over 25 years of teaching experience and excels at tailoring lessons to match her clients’ goals. Her Ventura-based camp offers lessons year-round, but she suggests clients book between late August through December to score magical weather and epic right-hand point breaks. The area has a variety of surf breaks, making it ideal for progression. She starts beginners at Mondos Beach. “I call it the Waikiki of California, because it is very easy, slow, safe, and great for learning,” she says. And she coaches experienced riders how to cross step toes to nose on a longboard. Most adults book her 90-minute private lessons, however she also offers two-hour group adult classes on Saturdays, lessons with après surf brunch, music, yoga, and massages, and she can customize beachfront rental homes, dining reservations, and activities for visiting clients who book multi-day lessons.

Beginner Tip: “A lot of times people will want to book a lesson everyday for a week, which sounds incredible,” says Osborne. “However, the reality is the body gets tired and you may need a break every other day.”

Details: 90-minute private lesson from $150;

Pro Surf School Hawaii, Waikiki, Oahu

In my opinion, Waikiki is one of the best spots to learn to surf. Legendary two-mile Honolulu beach has gentle, forgiving waves, plus it’s the birthplace of modern surfing, which makes it all the more special. Kai Sallas, the reigning International Surf Association longboard champion, was born and raised in Waikiki and operates his surf school from the stylish on the quieter, eastern edge of the bustling neighborhood. You don’t need to be a hotel guest to book a lesson (though if you’re visiting from out of town, it’s a relatively affordable, super convenient base, with the best brunch in town). Sallas and his team cater to both beginner and intermediate riders, educating on everything from surf etiquette and wave knowledge to performing more advanced maneuvers like cutbacks and snaps. He’s also a shaper and can suggest the perfect board for your riding abilities.

Beginner Tip: “Always keep your eyes on the ocean,” says Sallas. “Study it before you go out. Watch it as you paddle out and sit in the lineup. And keep examining the wave as you’re paddling into it.”

Details: From $99 for a two-hour beginner group lesson, $199 for a private one-on-one; .

Skudin Surf, Long Beach and Rockaway Beach, New York��

Over the last two decades, brothers Will and Cliff Skudin have helped put New York surfing on the map with their global big wave pursuits and their community-driven, namesake surf school. Throughout summer, they offer adult lessons at surf spots in Long Beach and Rockaway Beach. Both can be reached from New York City by train (the former via the Metropolitan Transit Authority and the latter on the subway). Summer is typically the best time for beginners, because the ocean is a bit warmer and the waves are more manageable. Dealing with Mother Nature’s whims is part of surfing, but riders who want to finesse their pop ups in a more controlled environment can book lessons year-round at America’s largest indoor wave pool in East Rutherford, New Jersey, a 10-minute drive from Manhattan. The brothers also run a nonprofit, , which helps make surfing accessible to the economically disadvantaged and people with disabilities.

Beginner Tip: “Always check the conditions before you go out to surf, so you’re set up for success,” says Will Skudin. “There’s nothing worse than gathering all your gear, being stoked to get out there, and showing up to flat or dangerous conditions.”

Details: $125 for a 75-minute private lesson at Long Beach or Rockaway Beach; $99 for an hour-long wave pool session;

Surf Happens, Santa Barbara, California

Surf Happens has helped groom pros like Lakey Peterson and brothers Parker and Conner Coffin. The school’s successful teaching formula—refined over 25 years—is rooted in founder Chris Keet’s experience as a competitive surfer and lifelong waterman.

“What sets our curriculum apart is its focus on levels of evolution, principles, and techniques that build upon one another. It resembles a martial art in its progression,” he says. “Regardless of skill level or ability, from beginning to elite, there are cheat codes to get to the next level within the phases we teach.”

Surf Happens’ methodology builds on fundamentals, like evaluating the ocean conditions for hazards, finding line-up markers, reading the winds, waves, tides, and currents, and understanding techniques like paddling and duck diving. The school’s home beach is Santa Claus Lane, which offers a sand bottom break with idyllic learning waves year round. But Keet and his team take students to various point, reef, and beach breaks in the area, from Campus and Leadbetter Point, to other secret spots. Adults have their choice of private or group lessons, coaching series, surfaris, and week-long custom packages that explore the best waves for your ability.

Beginner Tip: “Treat surfing like a life skill and be patient, humble, and hungry to learn,” says Keet. “Learn how the ocean works, be respectful of her power, and the people who you share it with, know your limits and never give up.”

Details: 90-minute private lesson from $150; three-day coaching series from $750; half-day surf safari from $250; week-long surf experience from $1,250;

Surf Simply, Nosara, Costa Rica

This week-long, all-inclusive surf coaching resort in Nosara is widely considered the top dog of surf schools and typically books up six to 12 months in advance, so plan ahead. The sleek, 10-room lodge is just 200 meters from Playa Guiones, a long, wide beach that delivers over 350 surfable days each year, with wave conditions for all abilities. Surf Simply’s earned a cult following for its unique, analytical style, which provides students a road map of skills and drills. “We don’t teach you how to surf, we teach you how to teach yourself how to surf, or surf better through a combination of video feedback, theory lessons, and in-water coaching,” says Robin Bass, the school’s logistics manager. This holistic approach includes classroom sessions on swell forecasting and board design, fine-tuning board agility and turtle rolling in the pool, plus mobility work and post-surf massages. Surf Simply’s team of nine coaches work with just 12 guests per week, ensuring personalized attention. And every guest is sent home with photos of their sessions and a video from the week.

Beginner Tip: “Contrary to what a lot of people believe, I don’t think you need great balance to surf,” says owner Harry Knight. “What you do need to be able to do is to relax your body in this unusual situation, so that your core stability muscles can do their job. The more you rush, the more tense you are likely to be and the harder it will be to find and keep your balance. Good surfing should be slow and smooth, not fast and jerky.”

Details: $8,716 solo and $15,646 per couple for one-week, all-inclusive;

Surf Sister, Tofino, Canada

With more than 20 miles of rugged shoreline, the tiny coastal town of Tofino on Vancouver Island is considered Canada’s surf capital. The area’s wild backdrop of snow-capped peaks and old-growth forest are well worth donning a wetsuit to brave the brisk waters (you’ll want a 4/3mm in summer and at least a 5/4mm, plus a hood and booties in winter). Surf Sisters set up shop here in the late 1990s with the mission to introduce more women to the sport. Mission accomplished. They now aim to make the sport accessible to all genders, races, and ages (their oldest client to date was 76).

Beginner lessons start with a briefing on ocean safety and surf etiquette, before moving into waist deep water where students can familiarize themselves with their longboards. A second lesson goes out past the breakers and gets into how to choose and catch a wave and how to begin to maneuver and turn once you’re up and riding. “Our goal is to create a good foundation of knowledge so students can continue practicing and learning on their own,” says Surf Sister staff member, Alyssa Teremy. Experienced riders looking to uplevel their skills can book private coaching with Shannon Brown, the head coach of the Canadian National Surfing Team, who can help with everything from surf psychology to improving stance and style. Conditions determine where you’ll surf, but Surf Sisters typically teaches at South and North Chesterman and Cox Bay. The school also operates a surf shack at on Cox Bay, which caters exclusively to guests.

Beginner Tip: “Take your time,” says Teremy. “Getting into your wetsuit is hard enough when you first begin, so pace yourself with all things surfing and your entire surfing career will be all the better for it.”

Details: 2.5-hour group lesson $99; private $199; $350 for a half-day of private coaching;

South Beach Surf School, Newport, Oregon

After running a surf school in Virginia Beach, Russell McClanan, a former competitive surfer and captain of the USA surf team, relocated to the Oregon Coast and was wowed by the lack of crowds and consistency of the surf. “I got tired of teaching in flat conditions,” he says. “In Newport, there’s knee- to waist-high waves nearly every day of summer. The air is 65 to 70 and the water hovers in the mid 50s. A five millimeter wetsuit keeps everyone warm.” His one-on-one lessons are geared to serious wannabe surfers who care more about learning to read the currents and understanding etiquette than popping up on day one. “Each surf break is like a different football team that wants to beat you up,” he says. “You need to study it and do your research and have a strategy before you paddle out.” Every session starts with 20 minutes of balance exercises and some stretches before entering the water. Once out past the breakers, he hones in on essential techniques, like how to use your legs to spin your board while sitting on it in the lineup. He also offers big wave training and tow-in lessons for seasoned riders looking to up their game.

Beginner Tip: “Practice the surf burpee on land so you get used to the mechanics of jumping to your feet,” says McClanan. “You might be able to surf the whitewash crawling to your knees, but you can’t ride a real wave if you can’t get to your feet.”

Pricing: $160 for a two-hour private lesson; $300 for two hours with video analysis;

Jen Murphy is a regular �����ԹϺ��� contributor and considers herself a lifelong student of the ocean. She tries to take a surf lesson at least once a year and regularly hires a coach or guide when visiting a new destination. She’s surfed around the world, from the remote shores of Easter Island to the rugged coast of Scotland.

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Hawaii’s tumbling waterfalls, craggy lava fields, and palm-shaded beaches are undeniably enchanting. But the islands’ true beauty lies beneath the surface of the sea. When I slip on fins, a mask, and snorkel and dive into the ocean, another world reveals itself: green turtles munching sea grass, neon-hued parrot fish and wrasse darting between colorful corals, and during certain months, a symphony of humpback whales.

The captivation of seeing sea creatures up close explains why snorkeling is so popular. According to the Hawaii Ocean Safety Team, a nonprofit dedicated to making the state’s waters safer and cleaner, approximately 3 million people snorkel in Hawaiian waters each year. Most people won’t be surprised to learn how many people enjoy such an accessible, wonderful activity—but what’s shocking is how dangerous it can be and the consistent number of snorkeling fatalities. According to the Hawaii State Department of Health, drowning is the , far outpacing the national average. Around 45 tourists drowned in the ocean each year in Hawaii , and snorkeling was the number one contributor.

This year has proved especially deadly. In March, a 43-year-old visitor from California at unguarded Larsen’s Beach. And Oahu saw two snorkel-related tourist deaths the first week of February: a 64-year-old woman on the North Shore and a who was part of a kayak tour.

While these incidents were terrible, they also didn’t shock me. I live part time in Maui and regularly see panicked snorkelers. In February, I watched an older gentleman crawl out of the water onto the beach as he was pounded by shore break in his snorkel gear. Later that month, I witnessed a young woman struggle to remove her mask after it had filled with water. Despite the dangers, many snorkelers appear to lack safety training or an understanding of their gear—I regularly observe people wearing fins backwards and snorkels upside down.

Underestimating the Skills Required to Snorkel

Some visitors mistakenly think a snorkel is a flotation device, said Andy McComb, founder of Redline Rafting, a tour operator in Maui that runs snorkel excursions. He said his team is asked almost daily: “Do I need to know how to swim in order to snorkel?” Swimming is challenging enough for some people. Add a claustrophobic mask, a straw-like snorkel, fins that can weigh you down, plus waves and strong currents, can lead to a casual activity quickly turning into a high-intensity workout.

“When people come to Hawaii, they see beauty, not danger,” said Jason Bitzer, a former Honolulu Ocean Safety member who spent six years lifeguarding at . “Visitors think snorkelling is a controlled activity, like zip-lining. The ocean is in control.”

Even in the calm, flat waters of Hanauma Bay, water can enter through the top of the snorkel. “People panic and instead of pulling the snorkel out of their mouth to spit out the water, they start to suck it in and choke,” said Shayne Enright, a spokesperson for Honolulu Ocean Safety. “That’s how a drowning can start even in harmless looking ocean conditions.”

A common misconception is that snorkeling is effortless and relaxing. It can be for some people. But for those new to the activity, it can be overwhelming and exhausting, too. “You need to have coordination, some fitness, and an awareness of your surroundings, even if you’re in three feet of flat water,” said Enright. “Just like riding a bike, it takes practice to get comfortable.”

Why Do Experienced Snorkelers Drown?

It’s easy to blame inexperience on the unusually high number of deaths, but many fatalities have involved experienced swimmers and snorkelers, like Ray Johnson. In February 2022, Johnson, then 64, took his fifth vacation to Hawaii with his wife Patti and four friends. The Michigan couple had snorkeled the waters of Hawaii many times before, Patti told me. “Ray was an incredible snorkeler; it’s what he loved to do,” she said. “We planned vacations around snorkeling. He’d snorkel the lakes in Michigan and always kept his fins and snorkel in the car.”

On February 25, two days after their arrival, Ray and some friends went snorkeling off Wailea Beach in Maui, which fronted their resort, the Fairmont Kea Lani. Patti had taken a walk along the paved path that overlooks the beach. “I looked out and waved and then realized it looked like people were helping him,” she recalled. “I assumed he stepped on a lava rock.” She rushed down to the beach, but by then she said he was on his back and being pulled out of the water.

Someone called 911, but medical professionals weren’t able to resuscitate him. The autopsy report deemed Ray’s death an accidental drowning, which Patti said she doesn’t believe. The friends who had been snorkeling with Ray told her at one point, he said, “you gotta help me, I’m having trouble breathing.” That’s when they decided to head to shore, she said. “I don’t think you’re having a conversation if you’re drowning,” she rationalized.

The Johnson family believes the real cause of Ray’s death was a lesser-known medical condition called rapid onset pulmonary edema, or ROPE, which causes fluid build up in the lungs. In 2024, Patti filed a lawsuit against the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority, Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau, and the Fairmont Kea Lani, where Ray rented the gear, alleging that Hawaii travel entities failed to educate the public on this “important public health concern,” according to the complaint filed in the Circuit Court of the First Circuit in the State of Hawaii. Patti’s Oahu-based lawyer, Jay Stuemke, told me the case is still in the discovery phase, and trial is currently set for November. The Hawaiian Tourism Authority, Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau and Fairmont Kea Lani declined to comment on the lawsuit.

What Is ROPE and How Does it Affect Snorkelers?

Years of data from the Hawaii Department of Health revealed that many snorkel-related fatalities occurred in mild ocean conditions and were not accompanied by signs of distress. In October 2017, the state established a Snorkel Safety Sub-Committee to investigate the unusual circumstances. A two-year conducted by the sub-committee and funded by the Hawaii Tourism Authority tested 50 different snorkels, reviewed medical examiner reports and case studies, and conducted a survey of 131 snorkelers at Hanauma Bay.

The study was the first to link ROPE to snorkeling. released in 2021 concluded that rapid onset pulmonary edema in snorkelers may be as common, or more so, than the accidental inhalation of water, which typically causes someone to react in distress. When snorkeling, we breathe against more resistance than we typically would, explained Dr. MeiLan Han, Chief of the Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care at the University of Michigan Health. “When the body tries to inhale but is unable to do so or it’s hard to do so, it creates increased negative pressure within lungs,” she said. “This encourages fluid to cross over from the blood into the lungs.” When this occurs, the person can lose too much oxygen and become unconscious. “ROPE associated with snorkeling certainly can be fatal,” said Dr. Han, who noted that there is very little literature on this topic.

The snorkel safety study suggested that preexisting medical conditions, increased exertion, exposure to high altitudes, and the degree of the snorkel’s resistance to inhalation may increase risk of ROPE while snorkeling. It also suspected that prolonged air travel might be a factor given the majority of travelers have flown at least five hours to reach Hawaii. However, data was not conclusive and the sub-committee recommended further research of this hypothesis. The study also recommended developing a statewide public education program to address snorkeling safety.

According to a spokesperson for the Hawaiʻi Visitors and Convention Bureau, only general ocean safety posters are in the island airports. And have been created to warn against everything from dangerous shorebreaks to jellyfish, but very few are specific to snorkel safety. Because Hanauma Bay State Park is a snorkel haven, visitors are required to watch a seven-minute that warns: “Snorkeling is a strenuous activity that requires good physical conditions and skillful practice. It is critical to your safety that you have strong swimming abilities before entering the ocean.”

The state’s has a dedicated with that include a footnote about how causes of snorkel-related drownings, including air travel, are currently under investigation. Patti Johnson said she and her husband had never seen this brochure, nor had they been warned of any of these potential risks while snorkeling in Hawaii, particularly the concern around flying. She said she has since heard of snorkelers being warned to wait a few days after air travel in Cancun, Curacao, and Thailand. Patti now distributes business cards with warnings about air travel and snorkel-related ROPE to friends and sporting goods stores. “My main goal in life is to educate people and hopefully to get Hawaii to start educating people,” she said.

Should You Be Wary of Full-Face Masks?

Generally speaking, you want a simpler snorkel design that is easy to breathe from, said Dr. Han. “You don’t want to be pulling against a lot of resistance,” she said. Of the 50 masks and snorkels tested in the snorkel safety study, only four were , which allow the user to breathe through their nose and mouth and typically feature a tube at the forehead.

The study concluded that full-face snorkelling masks had no inherent advantage or disadvantage in terms of resistance, however they did have drawbacks. Users cannot spit out the mouthpieces, nor are they able to dive beneath the surface safely. They can’t be removed easily in an emergency. Water can’t be cleared from the tube, often located at the top of the mask, by blowing sharply. And the study found valve malfunction could lead to serious breathing impairments. I personally have found full-face masks, even those with quick-release mechanisms, very hard to take off and feel that you should always choose the safer, rather than the more comfortable, gear option.

Colin Yamamoto, a sub-committee member and former battalion chief of ocean safety for the Maui Department of Fire and Public Safety, said he conducted his own research on full-face masks versus traditional face masks and found the former to be far riskier. “I’m not a scientist,” he said. “But my theory is that you are breathing in higher levels of carbon dioxide with the full-face mask. That coupled with low oxygen levels is problematic if you are older or have pre-existing medical conditions.” A small, 10-person conducted by Duke University in 2021 was inconclusive about whether full-face masks were responsible for more snorkel drownings, but it did raise safety concerns around the lack of regulation and control of these masks.

The includes a section about the pros and cons of using a full-face mask, and links to a from Dr. Monty Downs, President of the Kauai Lifeguard Association in which he opined: “Don’t use full-face snorkel masks unless you are an expert who’s had a lot of training and experience with them.” Many in Hawaii have independently banned the use of full-face mask snorkels and tourism boards, such as the one for , now warn visitors of the risks of full-face mask snorkels.

Snorkel Safety 101

The following is a list of tips I curated from recommendations listed on the Hawaii Department of Health ocean safety page, Honolulu Ocean Safety members, and snorkel tour operators.

• Check ocean conditions and only snorkel at guarded beaches. “The chance of a rescue and resuscitation is much higher at a guarded beach,” said Enright, of Honolulu Safety.
• Never go alone. Always have a buddy. Inexperienced snorkelers should consider booking with a tour operator.
• Rest a day or two after flying. “I never suggest anyone go straight from the plane to doing any activity, whether snorkeling or surfing,” said Enright. “Many visitors come here dehydrated and need to acclimate to the different climate. Give your body time to regulate.”
• Test your gear on dry land or even in a pool before jumping into the ocean. Your fins and mask should have a snug, yet comfortable, fit. Practice breathing through the snorkel. Know how to clear water from your snorkel and what to do if your mask leaks or fogs. Make sure you can scissor kick with your fins while swimming. A doggie paddle or frog kick won’t cut it.
• Don’t wear your fins on the beach or boat. Walk into the water first, get past the shore break, then put them on. Similarly, take them off before you exit the water.
• Go slow, breathe slowly, and keep your heart rate low. Don’t overexert yourself.

Jen Murphy is a regular contributor to �����ԹϺ��� and a snorkel fanatic. She lives part time in Maui where she snorkels any chance she gets. In her 20s, she worked a short stint as a snorkel assistant aboard a catamaran, where she regularly fielded questions, such as, “do I really need to get my face wet to snorkel?”��

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I could spend a lifetime exploring Mexico and probably still not scratch the surface of all the country has to offer. It’s long been one of my favorite getaways when I need a quick surf and sun fix or a dose of culture. A few years ago, my friend Val and I plotted a road trip around Baja California Sur. We flew into San José del Cabo and drove a big loop stopping to surf in Todos Santos, swim with whale sharks in La Paz, and hike to waterfalls and ATV around Santiago. When friends and family learned of our plans they immediately raised concerns: Two single women driving around Baja alone? Is it safe to travel to Mexico?

Not once did we feel unsafe. We made a point not to drive at night. We stayed at hotels staffed with security and located in main tourists hubs rather than remote Airbnbs. The most alarming incident of the week was a run in with a rowdy seal pup that wouldn’t stop tugging on my flipper while we were snorkeling.

If you are a news junky, I understand why travel to Mexico might raise flags. Drinking the water is no longer the biggest worry. Headlines of kidnappings, shootings, and gang violence are common. Last summer, I was chilled to learn two Australians and their American friend were while on a surf trip in Ensenada. But incidents like the one in Ensenada are rare.

One hotel owner in Cabo, who asked to remain anonymous, pointed out that the drug cartels realize that the tourist towns fuel local economies and tend to leave them be.

“Mexico is not that much different from many other places in the world,” says Jack Ezon, founder of New York City-based travel agency . “I cannot believe how many people from New York, Chicago, or Los Angeles ask if Mexico is safe, as bullets fly on corners from those cities every day.”

The country is also massive—three times the size of Texas—and can’t or shouldn’t be generalized. When you look at the (Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions; Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution; Level 3: Reconsider Travel; Level 4: Do Not Travel), read the fine print of which areas have risks and restrictions. And here is a from Journey Mexico to help you plan your visit to certain areas.

Spring Break and other holiday periods typically see a rise of American tourists. If you’re considering a south of the border holiday, these are seven of the most popular getaways. We’ve dug into what’s to love about each, where to stay, and safety precautions to ease your mind.

How Safe Is It to Visit These Top Mexico Tourist Destinations?

Puerto Vallarta

Why It’s a Popular Destination: Tucked between the rugged Sierra Madre Mountains and beautiful Banderas Bay on Mexico’s Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta is a perennial favorite getaway for American travelers thanks to its year-round warm weather and easy access from major U.S. cities. Look past the manicured gated communities and luxury all-inclusive resorts and you’ll discover the destination has a wild side. Humpbacks migrate here from December through March, and from July through December Puerto Vallarta’s beaches turn into hatching grounds for sea turtles. �����ԹϺ���rs can explore the mountains by ATV, bike, or horseback.

Safety Precautions: Puerto Vallarta is located in the state of Jalisco, which the U.S. government deems a security due to crime and kidnapping and cautions Americans to reconsider travel. Major tourist hotspots, like Puerto Vallarta, however, are subject to more petty crimes such as theft and vacation-home break ins. The Puerto Vallarta Citizen Security Police Station ramps up efforts during peak tourist seasons, dispatching daytime patrols across the city’s main avenues and near ATMS and banks.

Where to Stay: Spread across 85 acres of jungle and beach, includes dozens of activities within the price of a stay, such as kayak tours to Los Arcos and tequila tastings. (Rooms start at $430, all-inclusive)

San Miguel de Allende

Why It’s a Popular Destination: The first time I visited this UNESCO World Heritage City in the state of Guanajuato I was charmed, as most travelers are, by its impressive Spanish colonial architecture, pink neo-Gothic cathedral, mariachi bands, art galleries, and vibrant food scene. I devoted an entire day to wandering its cobbled stone streets and alleyways, and was rewarded with serendipitous finds like the insanely addictive churros at Chocolates y Churros San Agustín.

Just beyond the city, you can horseback ride through scenic countryside, sip wines at Cava Garambullo — one of 30-some wineries along the Ruta del Vino��— and soak in .

Safety Precautions: The State Department lists Guanajuato as and recommends Americans reconsider travel due to crime. However, most of the gang violence in the area occurs in the south and central areas of the state and the guidance is to avoid the area south of and including Federal Highway 45D, Celaya, Salamanca, and Irapuato. San Miguel de Allende experienced some last year, but none of the incidents were directed at tourists. Amanda Keidan, the American expat owner of Casa Delphine, cautions that you need to be aware while walking at night, as petty crimes can occur, but the biggest risk for visitors is eating street meat.

Where to Stay: Tucked down a cobbled stone street, Keidan’s five-suite feels like a stylish homestay. She arranges immersive experiences such as cooking classes and tarot card dinners. (Rooms start at $285)

Riviera Maya

Why It’s a Popular Destination: This 100-mile slice of Caribbean coast on Mexico’s northeastern Yucatán Peninsula is home to some of the prettiest white sand beaches I’ve ever stuck my toes in. Colorful coral reefs glow electric in the crystal clear waters—the visibility is so good it’s possible to dive here year round.

Spectacular archeological sites, such as Chichen Itza and Ek’ Balam, lie inland in Indiana Jones-worthy jungles. And you can swim in many of the area’s dazzling blue cenotes—natural sinkholes of freshwater carved into limestone rocks. The area’s two main tourist towns, Playa del Carmen and Tulum, have some seriously great restaurants. The former is known for its all-inclusive resorts and laid back vibes. The latter has become a destination for yogis and the Burning Man crowd.

Safety Precautions: When I last visited Riviera Maya in 2022, the region had experienced a in which tourists were killed or injured. The police and government have cracked down on the violence, but tourist zones still occasionally see shootings. Last February, an American tourist in Tulum was killed in the between rival drug dealers. Alcohol and drugs fuel the parties and music festivals in Tulum and crimes are almost always related to drug consumption or sales, says Alexis Schärer, a hotelier in Playa del Carmen. In other words, stay away from drugs and you’re likely to stay clear of trouble. The U.S. State Department ranks the areas in the state of Quintana Roo a and advises travelers to exercise increased situational awareness after dark in downtown areas of Tulum and Playa del Carmen, remain in well-lit pedestrian streets and tourist zones, and use authorized taxis instead of ride share apps.

Where to Stay: Just two blocks from Calle 38, a public beach in Playa del Carmen, adult-only is a nine-room oasis in a sea of mega resorts. Each of the nine rooms is decorated with vintage flea-market finds and I loved all of the complimentary amenities, including cruiser bikes, beach bags, and cold beers that can be enjoyed in the garden or rooftop terrace. (Rooms start at $173)

Mexico City

Why It’s a Popular Destination: One of the planet’s greatest cities, this sprawling megalopolis is a wild mishmash of historic and modern neighborhoods, public parks and verdant boulevards, and grand museums and intimate galleries. It’s also, in my opinion, the world’s most exciting food city, home to incredible markets, like Mercado de Coyoacán, cheap and tasty hole-in-the-wall taco and tostada joints, and pilgrimage-worthy gastronomic temples such as Pujol and Contramar.

Safety Precautions: The U.S. State Department ranks Mexico City , warning travelers to exercise increased caution due to both violent and non-violent crime. As with any large city, petty crime, like pickpocketing, occurs frequently, so be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded markets and on public transportation. Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection has ranked Mexico City among the for several years in a row and noted that sticking to neighborhoods closer to the city center and in the north, such as Centro Historico, Roma Sur, and Noche Buena, tend to be safer for visitors. The team at Journey Mexico recommends being extra vigilant in the neighborhoods of Tepito and Guerrero at night. Rafael Micha, managing partner in boutique Mexican hotel brand Grupo Habita, advises to avoid wearing flashy jewelry or watches and waving around expensive cameras.

Where to Stay: Located in the city’s historic center, is a 17th-century manor turned boutique hotel with a rare rooftop pool. (Rooms start at $230)

Cancun

Why It’s a Popular Destination: I’ll admit, my first passport stamp from Mexico was en route to a cliche high school spring break that included the water slide experience at Señor Frogs. This classic spring break destination lives up to the hype for its wild nightlife, but it also boasts some of the Caribbean’s finest beaches as well as unique attractions like the , which can be experienced by scuba divers or snorkelers. Cancun is also a convenient base for exploring Mayan archeological sites, like the step-pyramid Temple of Kukulcan, and the underground world of , a mind blowing cave system.

Safety Precautions: Cancun is considered the gateway to Riviera Maya. Located in the state of Quintana Roo, it is deemed by the U.S. State Department and has the following safety precautions: be alert after dark in downtown areas and remain in well-lit pedestrian streets and tourist zones. Transportation is the biggest cause for concern. Taxi drivers are notorious for being aggressive and overcharging tourists, but using a ride share also comes with risks. Last December, just south of Cancun for threatening a tourist for using a ride share app. Try to have your hotel arrange transportation in advance to avoid harassment and scams.

Where to Stay: If you want a grown-up experience away from the party scene, splurge on . The secluded, 274-room oceanfront resort has two dreamy beaches, three massive infinity pools, and six restaurants. (Rooms start at $600)

Oaxaca City

Why It’s a Popular Destination: Culture abounds in every corner of Oaxaca, a city where pre-Columbian culture and Spanish colonial and contemporary Mexican influences coexist. The city’s UNESCO-listed historic center is surrounded by spectacular mountains and important Zapotec archeological sites, such as Monte Albán. And some will argue that its food scene, which includes a thrilling mix of tortilla artisans, mole masters, and small-batch mezcal distillers, rivals CDMX.

Safety Precautions: The U.S. government ranks Oaxaca a travel risk and has no restrictions on visiting Oaxaca City. Like most major cities, travelers are warned to be aware of pickpocketing and other petty crimes. The most recent reported occurred in 2023 in the surf town of Puerto Escondido, located over three hour’s drive south. Micha, of Grupo Habita hotels, says it’s not polite to negotiate prices down at markets and to keep in mind that small vendors only take cash.

Where to Stay:�� Set in the heart of the historic center, has spacious, high-ceiling rooms adorned with textiles and art from local artisans and a seriously delicious in-house restaurant that sources almost exclusively from Oaxaca markets and its own gardens. (Rooms start at $472)

Baja California Sur

Why It’s a Popular Destination: I have been making two to three trips a year to this region for more than a decade and still can’t get enough of its surf-swept beaches, desert oases, exceptional dining options, ranging from humble ceviche stands to multi-course meals prepared by star chefs, and out-of-this-world marine experiences. Between November and April you can watch Humpbacks breach straight from shore and swim with whale sharks. Hundreds of Olive Ridley turtles hatch during the summer. And the sea lions are always out near Land’s End and Pelican Rock. Of all my travels throughout Mexico, I’ve never met more hospitable locals.

Safety Precautions: Don’t confuse Baja California, which includes the border town of Tijuana and has a Level 3 risk, with Baja California Sur, which is a and has no travel restrictions. Matt Lindsay, founder of LUXSurf Travel, a San José del Cabo–based surf guiding company, cautions that local police are known for pulling over tourists for small infractions, like using a cell phone, and threatening them with big fines. “They may threaten to take you to the station, but you stay calm and say, ‘I’d like to pay the ticket now,’ and hand them $30 to $50,” he says. “Be insistent.” He also warns if you’re out partying and decide to skip the bathroom line and whizz in an alleyway, the cops won’t hesitate to throw you in jail.

Where to Stay: has an unbeatable location on Monuments Beach, with views of the famous Arch across the bay, plus a restaurant from star Mexican chef Enrique Olvera. (Rooms start at $685)��

Know Before You Go: Five Tips to Staying Safe as a Tourist in Mexico

• No matter where I’m traveling, I download and use safety apps such as , which sends first responders your exact location, and , which gives safety scores to neighborhoods.
• Zach Rabinor, founder of Journey Mexico, recommends only withdrawing money from bank ATMs. “Keep your eyes out for anyone that may be watching or targeting you while you make a transaction,” he says.
• Only use official taxis that are ordered through your hotel, restaurant, or other trusted source, says Rabinor. Typically they should have taxi-meters and negotiating a price before getting in is alternately customary, he notes. Ride share apps are unreliable and face some restrictions in airports and other places.
• Don’t buy drugs. “Marijuana is still illegal in Mexico,” says Rabinor. “This seems like a no-brainer, but many people still don’t follow and getting involved with drug dealers, at any level, in any capacity is never a good idea.”
• Don’t drive at night. “Risks include animals in the road, poorly lit and signed roads, and more,” says Rabinor.

Jen Murphy is a frequent �����ԹϺ��� contributor. She’s visited Mexico nearly 50 times, more often than not, solo. Her biggest concerns have been rogue donkeys on the roads around Baja California Sur and getting a bad sunburn. She’s also recently written about her favorite beaches in Costa Rica, why more hikers are getting rescued in Hawaii, and the coolest cave Airbnb you’ll ever stay at.����

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Costa Rica’s wildlife-rich rainforests and soaring volcanoes can sometimes distract from the fact that this country has some of the prettiest beaches on the planet. The coastline is just as diverse as its flora and fauna; you’ll find it all here, from volcanic black sand to sugary white shores. With 800 miles of coastline and more than 300 beaches along the Pacific and the Caribbean, you could easily spend a lifetime exploring every patch of sand.

I’ve visited Costa Rica more than 20 times. When I first started traveling there—more than two decades ago—I gravitated to surf towns on the Pacific Coast, like Tamarindo, Santa Teresa, Malpais, and Nosara. Even though these spots are now on every tourist’s radar, they are still some of my favorite beaches for surfing. That’s because you’ll find every type of wave—from powerful barrels to endless peeling lefts and rights. And it’s easy to fly into Liberia Guanacaste Airport (LIR), rent a car, and string together a surf safari. Each town has surf schools and rental shops, and I always recommend hiring a guide so you can escape the crowds and go to some secret local breaks.

Some of my most memorable wildlife encounters have also occurred on this coast. From the main beach of , I’ve spotted competition pods of male humpbacks putting on a show of breaches and tail slaps. At Playa Ostional, I’ve witnessed thousands of turtles crawling ashore to nest, like a marine version of the great migration. And the snorkeling can be second to none, especially in the crystal clear waters throughout the Caribbean Coast.

With so much to explore, this list covers just a handful of my favorite spots. I’ve included a mix of less-trodden gems that take some effort to reach and impossible-to-ignore destinations that are no longer secrets. Trust me, each one embodies Costa Rica’s pure vida spirit.

1. Playa Espadilla, Costa Rica

Location

Nestled along the Central Pacific Coast bordering Manuel Antonio Park. The main town, Quepos, is a 15-minute drive away.

Why We Love It

This wide, mile-long stretch of sand actually comprises two beaches. The northern half is public, while the southern half is accessible through Manuel Antonio National Park. There’s something magical about hiking through lush rainforest, filled with sloths, squirrel monkeys, and iguana, and emerging onto golden shores fronting the Pacific. From July to October, you might even spot humpback whales breaching. The forest-crowned cliffs of Cathedral Point mark the southern end of the beach. I like to hunker down on the quieter, southern section and walk down to buy a coconut or order tacos from the vendors who set up on busier Playa Espadilla Norte. Because it’s west facing, the entire beach delivers some of the prettiest sunsets I’ve ever seen.

Know Before You Go

To access the beach from the south, you must online for $18. May through November typically has short but daily rainfall. This is also when the surf’s up, so bring your board or rent one from the beachfront .

2. Playa Uvita

Location

One hour south of Manuel Antonio Park in the town of Uvita, which is considered the gateway to the Osa Peninsula. The beach is located within Ballena National Marine Park.

Why We Love It

Ballena National Marine Park spans nearly 250 acres of pristine beach and rainforest. Of its four beaches, Playa Uvita, located at the main entrance of the park, stands out for its iconic whale-tail shaped sandbar, which can only be accessed during low tide. When the water is at its lowest, the walk is about a 1.25-miles to the tip of the “tail.” A reef protects this unique formation from strong currents and waves, making it a fantastic spot for tide-pooling and snorkeling. And from mid-July to October, humpback whales put on a show that can be observed from shore or up-close on boat tours that launch from this beach.

Know Before You Go

Because the beach is located within the park, an entrance fee costs $8. offers fantastic whale and dolphin boat tours (from $90) as well as kayak excursions along the whale’s tail formation and into a small mangrove forest (from $85). Between May and September, Playa Uvita gets consistent waves that are perfect for beginners. Take a lesson or sign up for a camp with (group lessons from $65).

3. Playa Conchal

Location

About a 30-minute drive north of the popular beach town Tamarindo, on the northern end of Guanacaste province within Reserva Conchal Community Resort.

Why We Love It

A walk along Playa Conchal doubles as a foot massage as its shores are made up of millions of smooth, pulverized seashells that glimmer in the lapping waves. Set between two rocky points in a private cove, this beach feels like a little oasis with calm, turquoise water ideal for swimming and paddleboarding. Vendors along the beach rent water sports equipment, including snorkels and fins; the rocks near the northern end are the best spot to see colorful fish. One of the most magical ways to enjoy the beauty of the beach is on a sunset horseback tour with ($50 for one hour).

Know Before You Go

If you splurge on a room at the (from $828 per night) or the all-inclusive (from $807 per night), you only need to walk out your door to access the beach. Non-guests can park in the neighboring town of Brasalito and walk about 20-minutes south along Playa Brasalito to reach Playa Conchal (bring flip flops as the sand can heat up mid-day). Plan to stop at no-frills Soda Brasilito for traditional tico fare, pre- or post visit.

4. Playa Chiquita��

Location

On the Caribbean Coast in the province of Limón, less than four miles from the surf town of Puerto Viejo.

Why We Love It

Tucked away from the bustling beaches of Puerto Viejo, this serene swath of pearly, forest-fringed sand fronts a series of tranquil coves that beckon swimmers and snorkelers with crystal clear, bathtub warm waters. A small reef just offshore is home to electric hued anemone, bright blue parrotfish, and schools of zebrafish. When I visited last year, I’d walk the beach at low-tide each day and almost always spotted horses grazing beneath palm trees and howler monkeys playing in the canopies on the far ends of the beach.

Know Before You Go

The Caribbean Coast doesn’t experience Costa Rica’s typical weather patterns. From May through November, when much of the country is wet and green, this area is dry and sunny. A handful of unmarked trails lead from the street to dirt paths that access various points of the beach. has a direct path and its shady beach club is open to the public and serves delicious dishes, like spicy ceviche and rondon seafood soup (from $365 per night).

5. Playa Guiones

Location

The main beach in Nosara, a surf-and-yoga hub on the Nicoya Peninsula.

Why We Love It

This is one of my favorite surfing beaches on the planet, particularly for longboarding. Playa Guiones is blessed with swell nearly all year. Mornings and later afternoons usually deliver glassy wave perfection. And when the waves aren’t breaking, I love running the 4.3-mile crescent-shaped stretch of firm-packed sand. When I first started taking surf trips here in the early aughts, it still felt a bit undiscovered. Since the pandemic, the laidback beach town has become a favorite base for remote workers. You’ll definitely be sharing waves, but the pura vida ethos keeps the vibe mellow, and the line-up offers a variety of peaks, so you can spread out in the water and find the perfect spot to suit your abilities. The sandy bottom, varying conditions from beginner-friendly whitewater to long, peeling lefts and rights, and dozens of local surf schools, make it an ideal place to improve your surfing.

Know Before You Go

December through mid-April brings smaller, beginner-friendly waves; the swell picks up May through November. I’ve always felt safe in Nosara, but petty theft has been a concern of late. On my last trip, someone snatched my flip flops off the beach, so be aware of your belongings. Family-friendly is a five-minute walk to Playa Guiones and has its own surf club (from $168 per night).

6. Playa Avellanas

Location

In Guanacaste Province on the Pacific Coast, about 12 miles, or a 30-minute drive south of the buzzy beach town of Tamarindo.

Why We Love It

Less trodden than Playa Tamarindo to the north, Playa Avellenas is considered a surfing paradise with a largely undeveloped sandy beach and waves that can reach up to 18 feet. Experienced surfers test their mettle on La Purruja, a lefthand reef break in front of the main parking lot, and Little Hawaii, a barreling reef break on the very north side of the beach. Intermediate surfers should paddle out to El Estero, a more forgiving sand and reef break in front of a river mouth that produces A-frame waves that break left and right. True beginners can hone their pop-up at El Parqueo, a mellow beach break.

Know Before You Go

If you’re going to surf, December to April features smaller waves; the larger swells roll through between May and November. Even if you’re an experienced surfer, it’s helpful to hire a guide who knows the local currents and tides. offers one-on-one guiding as well as lessons (from $60). Lola’s, a beachfront cafe, has been fueling surfers since 1998. Stop by for a pre-surf smoothie or post-surf Imperial lager. Beach loungers and umbrellas can be reserved (from $17 for the day) with full food and beverage service.

7. Playa Ostional��

Location

Within Ostional Wildlife Refuge, a 20-minute drive north of Nosara on the Nicoya Peninsula.

Why We Love It

This 4.3-mile black sand beach is all the more impressive due to the monthly phenomenon known as arribada (Spanish for arrival by sea), when thousands of olive ridley turtles come ashore to lay eggs. One of the world’s most important nesting grounds, as many as 90,000-plus turtles have been counted arriving in a single day. It’s also possible to see nesting leatherback and Pacific green turtles at this beach.

Know Before You Go

The refuge is open to visitors all year, but August through October is the high season for nesting. Arribadas take place around four to 10 times during this period and last three to 10 days each. Visitors must pay an entry fee, around $10, and a local guide is required to tour the refuge. Asociacion de Guias Locales de Ostional (AGLO) runs tours multiple times a day during arribadas and posts announcements about tour dates and times on the .

Jen Murphy grew up on the Jersey Shore and considers herself a beach connoisseur. Some of her favorite patches of sand are in Costa Rica. She recently wrote the Beginners Guide to �����ԹϺ��� Travel in Costa Rica and the 15 Most Beautiful Beaches in the World for �����ԹϺ���.

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Hawaii is blessed with some of the most cinematic hiking trails on the planet. I live part-time on Maui and still find myself spellbound by vistas of plunging waterfalls cleaving to jungle blanketed mountainsides and rugged coastal cliffs spilling down to the sapphire sea. I also know how the technicolor scenery, combined with the heady, plumeria-scented air and the islands’ laidback aloha vibes can lull hikers into a false sense of security. What could possibly go wrong on a hike in this incredibly beautiful paradise free of threats like bears, snakes, or poison ivy?

I consider myself a seasoned hiker. My other home is in Boulder, Colorado, and over the years, I’ve bagged a handful of the state’s iconic fourteeners (14,000-foot peaks). The monotone, high-alpine terrain always feels daunting and motivates me to prepare meticulously ahead of a hike.

I’ve come to learn, Hawaii’s trails demand the same respect and precautions. Would I ever tackle Mount Sanitas, my go-to local Boulder hike, in a flimsy pair of Havainas? Never. But I was foolish enough to leave my trail shoes in the car and embark on Maui’s , a 5.5-mile route on ancient lava flows, in flip-flops, because everyone wears flip flops in Hawaii, I rationalized. The straps snapped just after mile four and I was forced to slog back to the parking lot barefoot along jagged, sun-scorched black rock. I’ve never made that mistake again.

�����ԹϺ��� editor Mary Turner has hiked all over the West but was humbled by some of the treks on Kauai. “A friend called one trail spicy, but I wasn’t worried,” she recalls. “But it was hot and humid and sticky and the vegetation was so thick you could have easily walked right through it and off the side of a cliff. And at the end of the trail, you had to scale a rock face with a very frayed rope. The guy in front of us said it wasn’t safe and turned around. We did the same, and I thought, geez, hiking in Hawaii is for real.”

You might be an experienced hiker on mainland America, but Hawaii’s humidity, knife-edge ridges, dense jungle, and muddy rainforests present unique perils, says Ethan Pearson-Pomerantz, president of . It only takes a wrong step or two to become disoriented and lost, injured, or worse, dead.

Hawaii doesn’t have a state-level search and rescue (SAR) coordinator. Wilderness SAR is handled at a county level, falls under the responsibility of the fire department, and they are only mandated to search for 72 hours when someone is reported missing. O’ahu, Kauai, and Maui all have volunteer SAR teams as well. The lack of an overarching umbrella organization makes it difficult to accurately track the exact number of rescues per year, but government officials have estimated that about 1,000 hikers are rescued across the state annually.

Cautionary Tales

Ocean rescues are more prevalent in Hawaii, but hiking mishaps have generated a glut of coverage in both and over the years.

Last month, a 49-year-old man while hiking up a 60-foot waterfall on Maui, and one day later a California couple in their sixties�� after sustaining multiple injuries attempting to hike Oahu’s off-limits Sacred Falls Trail. The month prior, an unidentified hiker rang in 2025 while . He needed to be airlifted by a rescue team around sunrise.

In December 2024, 32-year-old Alaskan visitor Lauren Cameron on Kauai’s North Shore while hiking the , which has called one of the most dangerous hikes in America. Officials believe she was swept out to sea. A 30-year-old California man needed to be airlifted to safety last September after suffering from injuries in a . On Hawaii Island, two hikers got lost without food and water during a last January on Mauna Loa—the largest active volcano in the world. They had to stay overnight in a shelter and were extracted by a rescue helicopter the following day. The hikers were fined for not having a permit and ignoring the summit closure posted by Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. These accounts are just from 2024.

Despite the steady stream of headlines about dead hikers, fatal falls, and accidents on Hawaii’s trails, visitors are still ignoring rules and safety precautions.

One of the most of late hit national news in January 2023, when Ian Snyder, a 34-year-old travel blogger and hiking enthusiast from California, was stranded for three days at the base of a waterfall after surviving a 1,000-foot fall while illegally hiking . Snyder, who suffered a broken arm and other injuries, admitted to reporters that he wasn’t as prepared as he should have been for the hike and shouldn’t have gone it alone. He also shared that he followed an online map which took him to a closed trail. A few weeks after his recovery, he at the request of the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources, as a cautionary tale to other visitors.

Hawaii’s Terrain and Climate Pose Distinct Challenges

On the mainland, a 22-mile out-and-back hike with 1,600 feet of elevation gain, typically wouldn’t daunt me. But the Kalalau Trail, a bucket-list trek with zero cell service that hugs Kauai’s storied Na Pali coastline, isn’t just another hike. CNN has called it one of the , with hazards including falling rocks, flash floods, shore breaks, and cliffs on the trail. I’ve attempted it five times without success and have no regrets about turning around due to raging water crossings, treacherously slippery conditions, and in another case, simply fatigue. Others haven’t been as lucky. In 2022, 46 people needed to be rescued from the harrowing route and in 2014, 121 people needed rescue over the course of a few days.

“People drastically underestimate and underprepare for the challenges of a trail like Kalalau,” says Sarah Laouxz, of . “They see the pretty photos and want to be there, but they don’t take into account the physicality of getting there and back.”

They also underestimate easier trails. Take the , an iconic 1.6-mile roundtrip hike located minutes from Waikiki in O’ahu. Pearson-Pomerantz estimates the Honolulu Fire Department makes more rescues a year on that trail simply because hikers aren’t prepared. “Hiking Diamond Head is a classic thing for tourists to do,” he says. “You get spam musubi, hike Diamond Head, get a shave ice, and that’s your day. Maybe because of its proximity to the city, people attempt it in high heels, without water or sun protection.” The trail is steep and uneven and climbs 560 feet. People often become dehydrated or roll an ankle, he says. When vacation brain sets in, visitors start looking through their camera lens instead of at the path in front of them. At least once a month his team has volunteer “trail angels” patrol the route with water, snacks, and sunblock. “Heat is the biggest threat to hikers and a bad sunburn is probably our most common injury,” he says.

Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park chief ranger Jack Corrao says its search and rescue incidents consistently increase when there are active volcano eruptions. In 2023, the park had in the summit of Kilauea volcano and 13 search and rescues. Five of those were lost hikers near the eruption viewing site at Keanakakoi off old Crater Rim Drive. “The park is open 24 hours a day, and the best eruption viewing is usually after dark,” he says. “When people become separated after dark, the odds of them getting lost increase. We urge visitors to plan ahead, bring head lamps or flashlights, to stay on trail and out of closed areas.”

Dense vegetation can also throw hikers off track. “The trees and the trails have a way of enveloping hikers and blocking the horizon, so that seeing the ocean or other points of reference become impossible, disorienting people,” says Amanda Hess, the director of public education at O’ahu Search and Rescue. Thick foliage can also conceal potential dangers. Chalsie Honu Quel, a volunteer with Kauai Search and Rescue, notes that the terrain of Waimea Canyon has been vastly altered since Hurricane Iniki toppled many native trees in 1992. “Now the trails are overgrown with invasive species that make it easy to slip into a gulch or ravine.”

Chris Berquist, founder of Maui-based Search Tech Advisory Team, cautions that thick ginger patches hang off ledges, acting like false edges on many trails. “People step on them and it’s like a trap door,” he says. “The bottom gives out, they start to slip, and often their footing is irrecoverable.”

Social media posts of people cliff jumping into the ocean or diving off waterfalls have created the illusion that the islands are a controlled amusement park. Injuries frequently occur when people leap with no knowledge of the water depth or without considering how they’ll get back to land. “A lot of hikes lead to what look like beautiful jumping places, such as Queen’s Bath, an ocean pool in Kauai,” says Berquist. “But due to the steepness of the cliffs or looseness of rocks, a lot of adventurers can’t scramble back up.”

Weather Can Change on a Dime

Island weather is rarely uniform and frequently changes throughout the day. If it’s rainy on Maui’s north shore, it’s almost guaranteed to be dry and sunny on the south shore. And a calm, clear morning can turn into a windy, sprinkly afternoon. The resorts tend to be in areas that see 350 days of sun a year, says Chris Stankis, the public information officer for the . Yet, many hikes are in areas that see a fair quantity of rain on an almost daily basis,” he says. “And as you go further inland and upslope, the chance you might encounter rain, muddy, slippery terrain, and flash flooding increases.”

It may seem like summer at your hotel, but you should still pack layers, especially if you’re planning to hike the 13,000-plus foot summit of Mauna Loa in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park or the 10,000-plus foot summit Haleakala National Park on Maui, where conditions can bring weather ranging from hail to snow. Nick Clemons, chief of interpretation, education, and volunteers at Haleakala National Park, says the park averages two rescues a week and they often involve medical issues arising from altitude, dehydration, over-exertion, and hypo and hyperthermia.

Flash floods pose one of the biggest dangers to hikers. “They’re our avalanche,” says Berquist. “Once you’re in one, there’s little chance of escaping. There’s a lot of debris. I’ve seen victims stripped naked. The water gets violent.” Heavy rains and flooding bring precarious conditions to the islands’ beloved waterfalls. Berquist notes that many falls border the coast or drain into a slot canyon. If you’re standing near a slippery edge and a gush of water comes rushing at you, you’re likely going to be shot into the ocean or canyon, he warns.

Many of Hawaii’s Most Popular Trails Are Actually Illegal to Hike

The SAR volunteers I spoke with agreed, the majority of rescues take place on illegal-to-hike trails. Many of the most Instagrammed hiking areas, such as Narnia, a collection of waterfalls within the Hilo Forest Reserve on the Big Island, are . But the pull of social media often blinds visitors to closure and trespassing signs. “‘Do it for the gram,’ is a real thing,” says Berquist. “I think Instagram kills more people than coconuts in Hawaii. A lot of times when a tourist falls off a cliff or slips we find them with their phone next to them, the camera app still open.”

It doesn’t help that many guidebooks, travel blogs, and social media posts provide detailed instructions on how to access these illegal trails. And, as was the case with Snyder, hikers often follow GPS tools that direct them to non-sanctioned trails, which aren’t inspected or repaired and most likely, won’t have signs warning hikers of dangerous conditions.

In 2006, two women fell some 300 feet to their deaths while trekking to Opaekaa Falls in Kauai. They had followed an unmarked trail featured in some Hawaii guidebooks. In most states, if you injure yourself on public lands, the onus is on you. But in Hawaii, the state can be held liable for injuries occurring on public lands if it fails to maintain a reasonable level of safety. In this case, the state was ordered to pay $15.4 million to the victims’ families. The trail remains closed.

In 1999, eight people were killed and nearly three dozen were injured from a rockslide at Sacred Falls State Park on O’ahu, where the recent rescue took place. There were signs, but a judge ruled they did not warn with the intensity of urgency of the falling rock hazard the state paid $8.6 million to the families of the deceased hikers. The park has remained closed since the incident, but that seeking the ultimate social media post. In 2022, someone hung an illegal swing at the base of the falls, which has since been removed.

Off-limits signs have been in place at the Stairway to Heaven, an infamous hike on O’ahu also known as the Haiku Stairs, since 1987. Yet posting a photo from the hike’s Edenic summit, which is reached by climbing 3,922 slick steel steps, has become a social media badge of honor. Fines of up to $1,000 and the threat of arrest haven’t discouraged hikers. Between 2010 and 2022, 118 people had to be rescued, according to the Honolulu Fire Department. The city is now in the process of to prevent illegal use once and for all.

In an effort to further dissuade reckless hikers, state legislators in Hawaii are currently that would authorize the state to seek reimbursement from hikers who need rescue after venturing onto closed trails. Considering a helicopter rescue costs between $1,000 to $2,500, I’d say it’s a good incentive to follow the rules.

8 Ways to Stay Safe When Hiking in Hawaii

I asked members of the islands’ search and rescue teams to share their tips for staying safe on the trails. Here’s their advice:

• No matter the length of the hike, pack plenty of water, food, sunscreen, a flashlight, and a cellphone battery.
• Do not hike in flip flops. Wear proper footwear and sun-protective attire.
• Don’t hike alone.
• Create a hiking plan that includes your intended route and estimated return time. Leave one copy with a friend, family member, or neighbor, and another in your car.
• Do not hike closed or unmarked trails. Check the latest trail conditions and closures via a trusted source like , the State of Hawai‘i Trail and Access Program.
• Check the weather with multiple sources like the Weather Channel, AccuWeather, and Weather Underground.
• Get an early start. Hess recommends getting on the trail no later than 9 A.M.
• Don’t do it for the ‘gram. When you’re looking through your phone rather than paying attention to your footing, you can easily end up in harms way.

What to Do If You Become Lost

Berquist played an instrumental role in finding , a hiker who got lost for 17 days in Maui’s Makawao Forest Reserve in 2019. He joined the search as a volunteer and within days was heading up the efforts. After she was found, Eller’s father helped Berquist fund the Search Tech Advisory Team, his 100-plus volunteer organization that works throughout the islands using the latest technology, like drone satellite photography. Here are his tips for getting found:

1. Don’t panic. Pause and take some deep breaths. O’ahu Search and Rescue created a demonstrating how to do the 4-7-8 breathing method to calm yourself.
2. Keep moving. “Everyone says stay where you are if you are lost, but I only recommend people do that when they know they are 15 or fewer steps off the trail,” he says. “People that participate in their own rescue are more likely to be found.” If you are medically injured, it may be pertinent to stay in place, but try to make yourself noticeable and make noise.
3. Make yourself visible. If you think you are more than 15 steps off trail, move to an openly visible area, like a high elevation clearing or stream-bed that can be seen from the sky. Make a massive ‘SOS’ or light a fire to create smoke.
4. Shelter in smart places. Don’t hunker down and hide from the elements in a place people won’t see you. If you do seek shelter, display your backpack out front and make an arrow pointing to where you are, he says.

“Hawaii tries too hard to feel nice with its messaging to visitors,” says Berquist. “We’re not all mai tais and leis. The message needs to feel sharp: the lava rock and coral will slice you, the selfies and cliff jumps will kill you.” So, in other words, don’t underestimate the power of nature. Be careful and prepared, don’t hike where you’re not supposed to, know what you’re getting into, and skip the selfies.

Jen Murphy is a regular contributor to �����ԹϺ��� and usually covers travel-advice topics. She has made the regretful mistake of hiking in flip-flops on lava rock in Hawaii and always packs for all seasons any time she hikes in Haleakala National Park on Maui. She has recently written about how to travel solo, how to make the most of your first-ever Costa Rica trip, and how to get a vacation refund when the weather sucks.��

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If a cave dwelling conjures images of primitive camping, you haven’t seen the Cave at . This 1,500-square-foot rock formation turned modern vacation home 50 miles southeast of Columbus, Ohio, books out one year in advance. Bold design touches like crystal chandeliers, purple kitchen tiles, a pool table, and floor-to-ceiling walnut bookcases stocked with 500-plus tomes have made it a social media sensation. , a YouTuber who showcases the coolest Airbnbs in the United States, has called it the most unique home he’s ever been to.

But the highly is just one part of its allure. The other? Its location in Hocking Hills. The Buckeye State may not be nationally known for its natural wonders, but this unsung region in southeast Ohio will surprise you with its massive caves, deep gorges, tumbling waterfalls, and hemlock-shaded forest trails. Word is quietly getting out about the area’s adventure potential, but when you book the Cave, you never have to worry about crowds. Set on 35 acres, the property has its own network of trails that lead to a creek, waterfalls, and other unique rock formations. Most guests book for the novelty of sleeping in a cave, but return for the private park vibe. Here’s what to know about this super cool vacation stay.

The Backstory: How Dunlap Hollow Cave Came to Be

Ohio native Bryant Gingerich never imagined he’d be able to make a living from a trio of Airbnbs. Uninspired working as a mechanical engineer, the outdoor enthusiast initially thought a rental property in Hocking Hills, his go-to adventure escape from his home in Columbus, could be a side hustle while he figured out a job transition. “I grew up working in construction and building cabins sounded fun to me,” he says.

In 2019, he started casually browsing , a real estate site that specializes in rural properties. Within a week, he came across a 35-acre plot priced at $415,000 in Rockbridge, an unincorporated community minutes from some of Hocking Hills’ state parks and preserves. “It was everything I dreamed of buying,” he says. With financial help from family and a loan, he and his wife Amy bought the property and named it Dunlap Hollow, as it sits on Dunlap Road and is largely within a ravine, or in Appalachian terms, a hollow.

The mortgage was more than half of his paycheck, so he immediately set to work transforming the property’s dilapidated 1920s hunting cabin into a charming, one-bedroom rental cottage. In October 2019, after four months of work and an $120,000 investment, he listed it on Airbnb. “It became profitable immediately,” he says. “Within the first month or so we were at 85 percent occupancy.” Encouraged, he quit his day job and spent seven months and $320,000 building a three-bedroom, two-bathroom A-frame cabin on the property, which he listed in March 2021.

While wandering the far side of the forested grounds during construction, he stumbled across a huge recess cave hidden behind trees and got the idea to turn it into a third rental.

“Hocking Hills has no shortage of cabin rentals,” he says. “I knew a cave home would be something special.” Gingerich drew on his engineering background and constructed it like a slab home, installing solar panels and radiant floor heating. He added floor-to-ceiling windows across the entrance to flood sunlight into even the far reaches of the cave, and four humidifiers that remove 40 gallons of water from the air per day. He sunk $400,000 into the eight-month project, and couldn’t have fathomed its return on his investment. In two years, it’s had one vacant night and during the peak summer months, costs $1,200 per night. All three rentals collectively earned $700,000 last year, which after costs, brought him $350,000 in net profits.

Secrets to Rental-Home Success

Gingerich now offers hourly consultations to aspiring rental home owners starting at $450 an hour and also sells his A-frame plans (from $1,950). Here’s some of his complimentary wisdom if you’re looking to craft a space to support outdoorsy guests who want to get outside.

• Do something creative that isn’t mainstream. “There were a lot of traditional cabins in Hocking Hills,” Gingerich says. “I think what made our business successful was that the area didn’t have a lot of A-frames and certainly not a cave and we were in an area people wanted to be.”
• Start by listing on high-visibility platforms. “Airbnb is like free marketing,” he says. Hosts typically pay a three percent��fee, and guests also pay Airbnb a . Gingerich now also offers direct bookings, which save guests around 15 percent in fees, he says.
• Tap into local influencers. Gingerich hosted a Columbus influencer in the A-frame in exchange for promotion and says it grew Dunlap Hollow’s Instagram following from 3,000 to 30,000 within a month.
• Invest in social media. After completing the Cave, Gingerich hired a content firm that charges $2,500 a month in exchange for their social media expertise and video production that is used in three social posts per week—mostly on reels—on Dunlap Hill’s Instagram account.
• Add a personal touch. Gingerich and his wife pay a cleaning team around $115,000 annually to keep all three properties spic and span. But they devote around a dozen hours per week to the bookings and communications with guests. They’ve created property trail maps and leave recommendations for area activities in every rental and have stocked the pantries with locally sourced goods ranging from bath salts to coffee.

What Guests Love About This Airbnb

Alison Payden of Columbus discovered Dunlap Hollow through social media and was struck by the contrast of the natural rock formation and the contemporary decor. “It feels like you’re staying in a medieval castle,” she says. “The interiors are like a work of art filled with beautiful tile work, arched doorways, royal color schemes, and locally sourced antiques.” She and her husband rented the property when summer was in full bloom and in the dead of winter. “No matter the season there is so much beauty to soak in everywhere you look,” she says. “It is so quiet and secluded, you wouldn’t even know there are two other homes on the property.

While the Cave is undeniably the star of Dunlap Hollow, the property’s cottage and A-frame are also in high demand, largely because of its private wilderness setting.

Gingerich estimates that half of Dunlap Hollow’s guests are from Columbus and are looking for an easy urban-to-nature detox. Kim Poling of Columbus booked the cottage for her 25th wedding anniversary in September 2023 and she and her husband have returned four times since. “There is a sign in the cabin that says ‘And into the woods I go, to lose my mind and find my soul,’ and that sums up my experience,” she says. “It’s around an hour from our home, which is a perfect escape from reality. It is so serene. We bring food because once we check in, we don’t leave.” The couple has navigated the property’s trails, but mainly they relax, soaking in the outdoor hot tub or sitting by the indoor or outdoor fire. “My husband doesn’t like to spend money but he said the cottage is worth every hard earned penny,” she says.

Repeat past guest Matt Martin of Columbus also rarely leaves the grounds. The property has a 1.2-mile trail network and the 0.8-mile, out-and-back Overlook Trail has trailheads at all three units and leads guests to a scenic overlook with views of the valley below. Over the last decade, the growth of the Central Ohio region combined with the pandemic boom in outdoor activity, has caused a surge in area tourism, says Martin. In the peak months of summer and fall, trails can often feel crowded. “Dunlap Hollow feels like a state park but you’re on private land,” he says. “To have these caves and trails all to yourself is something you just don’t get from other cabin rentals in the region.”

Martin says the wilderness setting would be a perfect camp site. “I’ve thought about bringing a tent but the rentals are too nice to resist,” he says.

Local Intel: What to Know About Hocking Hills

Hocking Hills’ main gateway towns, Lancaster and Logan, are 25 and 20 minutes away, respectively. Logan has a Kroger and Walmart Supercenter for guests looking to stock up on supplies and stay put.

If you want to venture out, some of Gingerich’s favorite eateries include in Lancaster and , a restaurant attached to a brewery, wine tasting room, and distillery in Logan.

Cool Outdoor Things to Do at Dunlap Hollow and Nearby

You could easily spend a weekend traversing the trails of Dunlap Hollow, but it’s well worth mustering the motivation to explore beyond the property. And you don’t have to go far. Within a ten-mile radius you’ll find hemlock-shaded gorges, plunging waterfalls, dramatic cliffs and caves, trout-stocked lakes, and trail-laced state forests, parks, and nature preserves, all of which are free. Here are some not-to-be missed experiences.

See the Geological Wonders Within Hocking Hills State Park

A 25-plus mile trail network leads to incredible rock formations and cascading falls that transform into frozen wonders each winter. The six-mile, one-way is named for Ohio native “Grandma” Emma Rowena Gatewood, the first woman to solo hike the Appalachian Trail, and overlaps with the 1,400-some mile that encircles the state.

It takes in some of the park’s most popular features including Old Man’s Cave, a rock shelter that’s part of an impressive, waterfall-lined gorge cut through 150-foot thick blackhand sandstone, 50-foot Cedar Falls, and Ash Cave, the largest recess cave east of the Mississippi. The latter has a runoff waterfall that spills 90 feet from one corner of its horseshoe-shaped, 700-foot rim and can also be reached along a half-mile, wheelchair-accessible trail.

Get Off the Ground

Nearly 100 acres of forest land one mile east of Conkles Hollow within Hocking Hills State Forest have been set aside for rock climbing and rappelling. offers a range of experiences, from intro to rock climbing sessions to 120-foot waterfall rappels (both $180 for up to two people).

Outfitter operates from private land located just past Clear Cleek Metro Park Nature Preserve. The owners have routed 35 to 70-plus foot sandstone cliffs with Petzl anchors and climbing clinics (from $94) can be combined with rappelling and ziplining (from $175).

For an adrenaline rush, try the SuperZip created by ($35). This quarter-mile long zipline has users launch head-first from an 85-foot tower. You’ll feel like a superhero soaring up to 50 miles per hour through the forest and over the Hocking River.

Make the Most of Lake Life

Anglers have their pick of lakes to cast from as long as they have a valid ($25 for residents per year, $50.96 for non–residents). Rose Lake, located via a half-mile trail within Hocking Hills State Park, is stocked with trout each spring. The waters of Lake Logan State Park and Lake Hope State Park teem with bass, bluegill, catfish, northern pike, saugeye, and crappie. In winter months, hardy fishermen hunker down to ice fish at all three locations and 400-acre Lake Logan is where locals head to ice skate. In summer, the rents kayaks, paddleboards, and pedalboats (from $14 an hour) and local outfitter runs evening kayak excursions in search of the lake’s elusive giant beaver ($100 for three hours).

Enjoy a Different Take on Nightlife

Hocking Hills has some of the darkest skies in the Midwest. is open year-round to DIY astrotourists who own telescopes. On Friday and Saturday nights between March and November resident astronomer and star wonk Brad Hoehne hosts entertaining celestial programs using the park’s high-powered telescope. Programs are free to the public, but complimentary parking passes must be reserved in advance by calling ahead. The 21-acre garden at family-run has more than 60 species of butterflies and 1,094 different moth species. The moth zone hosts Saturday night education programs from June through August, and visitors can witness hundreds of moths and caterpillars glow in the dark ($6).

Jen Murphy is a frequent �����ԹϺ��� contributor. She has slept in a cave hotel in Matera, Italy and the cave at Dunlap Hills has inspired her to take her first trip to Ohio. She has recently written about brand-new, gorgeous hotels that’ll satisfy your adventurous side, as well as how to make the most of solo travel, and how to avoid fighting with your partner when you pack for road trips.��

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Don’t get me wrong, I love a good campsite. But sometimes after a big day of adventure, I crave the comfort and ease of a great hotel with a friendly staff, farm-to-table meals, gear rentals, and maybe even a sauna and cold plunge. Both in the U.S. and abroad, a plethora of brands are catering to guests who love the outdoors, such as glamping masters Under Canvas and community-centric LOGE camps.

But we all have limited vacation time and need to pick our getaway stays thoughtfully. As someone who’s on the road half the year, I can assure you that these are worth traveling for.

The newest outposts that excite me most are popping up in perfect locations, from the doorsteps of popular national parks�� to some urban gems bringing nature indoors with innovative biophilic design. Here’s my hotel hot list for 2025.

Snow Peak Campfield Long Beach

Long Beach, Washington

I’ve long been a fan of the Japanese gear company , not only for its design-minded outdoor equipment, but also the creative ways it brings its brand to life. For example, the company flagship in Portland, Oregon, features an excellent, wood-fire-focused Japanese restaurant, Tabiki.

Across Japan you can stay overnight at 13 Snow Peak campgrounds, but last summer the company debuted its on Washington’s rugged Long Beach Peninsula, 110 miles west of Portland near the mouth of the Columbia River. The 25-acre site—no surprise—feels like an outdoor concept store, showcasing Snow Peak products like folding chairs and fire pits. Book one of 48 campsites and bring your own gear (or rent theirs), or glamp it up in spacious tent suites or minimalist wooden Jyubako cabins (the latter for up to two adults and two kids) designed by Japanese starchitect Kengo Kuma.

The area is full of adventure options, like kayaking Willapa Bay and hiking in Cape Disappointment State Park. My plan is to visit this winter specifically to enjoy long soaking sessions in the camp’s onsen-inspired .

Price:��Campsites from $77, tent suites from $119, and Jyubako cabins from $219

Populus

Denver

may be downtown, but the property’s biophilic design is meant to make guests feel as if they’ve entered a large grove of aspens (Populus tremuloides), with 365 eye-shaped windows that allow light to filter in. The nature immersion continues at every step: the front desk is crafted from fallen cottonwood trees, the soundtrack of birdsong recorded in nearby Estes Park plays in the elevators, and the lobby bar is adorned with hanging reishi mushroom skins.

The hotel opened in October as the nation’s first carbon-positive hotel. It boasts 100 percent renewable-energy, eco-friendly materials, like low-carbon concrete and leather made from reishi mushrooms, and a biodigester that composts all of its food waste, which is then returned to local farmers. Moreover, the property plants a spruce tree in Colorado for every night booked.

Its sustainable initiatives convinced me to stay, and the friendly service, stellar farm-focused food, outpost of Little Owl Coffee, and welcoming coworking space and gym have given me many reasons to return. The Populus also overlooks Civic Center Park, where the �����ԹϺ��� Festival and Summit will take place from May 30 to June 1, and ticket holders get special deals on rooms booked here through .

Price:��From $299

Under Canvas Yosemite

Near Groveland, California

Scoring camping reservations in Yosemite can feel like winning the lottery. Don’t want to gamble? Treat yourself to a cushy stay at the new , slated to debut May 15 with 71 tents just ten minutes from the park’s west entrance on Route 120.

The upscale glamping brand is known for hotel-worthy touches like West Elm furnishings in its spacious safari tents and daily programming that might include yoga classes or nightly s’mores sessions. This 85-acre site is no exception.

You don’t even have to deal with the stress of taking your car into the park itself—this Under Canvas location is across from a Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System (YARTS) stop with regular park service to three major destinations.

Return at day’s end to a menu of California cuisine served beneath soaring black oaks and live music by the campfire. Families will love the El Capitan Suite— two connecting tents, each with ensuite bathrooms; it can sleep up to six people.

Price: From $319

Firefall Ranch at Yosemite

Near Groveland, California

The Yosemite area has never had more choice for boutique accommodations, and this is another property on Route 120 I’m eager to recommend. The 300-acre opened last summer and is made for the active crowd. You can look forward to a spacious saltwater pool (complete with shave-ice service), forest disc golf, bouldering, and beach volleyball.

Pick up picnic supplies at the on-site general store or dine at the casual tavern or more ambitious restaurant, YOVA, which features dishes like salmon and caviar and boar chops, complimented by an impressive wine list.

For families, roomy accommodations include 55 standalone one- and two-bedroom cottages or three-bedroom villas with private decks and indoor-outdoor gas fireplaces.

Fun fact: this property was a stop on the original stagecoach route to Yosemite in the 1870s.

Price: From $650

Yellowstone Peaks Hotel

Island Park, Idaho

Wyoming and Montana are most often associated with America’s first national park. But 1 percent of Yellowstone’s 2.2 million acres lies within Idaho (an underrated state for adventure, in my humble opinion). The park’s west entrance is just 30 minutes away from the small town of Island Park, which�� recently welcomed the family-owned .

The property’s 19 Scandi-inspired accommodations are the epitome of cabin porn. Each A-frame cabin can accommodate up to six guests and has its own cedar-wood-fired soaking tub. There’s also a communal area with saunas and cold plunges.

While proximity to the park may lure you here, its location across the street from the fly-fishing mecca that is Henry’s Fork River will appeal to anglers. Nearby but off-the-radar attractions include the Caribbean-esque Wade Lake and the 114-foot-tall cascades of Mesa Falls.

Price: From $440 per night, two-night minimum

Cascada

Portland, Oregon

Portland is home to plenty of nature fixes, but the newest is the underground thermal-springs experience at the recently opened, 100-room (pronounced cascade) hotel in the Alberta Arts District. The Conservatory, the heart of the thermal-springs area, was designed by landscape experts, including members of the Portland Botanical Garden, and features a with a 25-foot-tall living wall and rare flora planted throughout the space.

Soak and socialize in the mineral-infused vitality pool, or complete a sauna, steam, and ice-bath hydrotherapy circuit in the silent sanctuary space. If you’re passing through the city en route to a wilderness adventure, you can still enjoy a soak, but you’ll need a reservation ($100 for two and a half hours). You can feel good about knowing that Cascada is committed to using ethically sourced spa products.��Rounding things out are an excellent restaurant, Terra Mae, that fuses the flavors of Portugal and Japan (think: tonkatsu and linguica croquettes), as well as zero-waste kitchen practices.

Guest rooms feature kitchenettes, balconies, and floor-to-ceiling windows.

Price: From $299

Edgecamp Pamlico Station

Outer Banks, North Carolina

One of my goals this year is to improve my kiteboarding skills, and I can’t imagine a better place to get back on the water than the Outer Banks. With steady winds, an abundance of sandy beaches, and calm, shallow sounds, it lives up to its nickname as the kiteboarding capital of the East Coast.

Professional kiteboarder Rita Arnaus takes off in Pamlico Sound. (Video: Courtesy Edgecamp Pamlico Station)

Thanks to the recent debut of , a 14-suite boutique hotel at Edgecamp Sporting Club on windswept Hatteras Island, travelers finally have a stylish base that offers everything from an on-site kiteboarding school with equipment rentals and lessons to a wellness deck boasting a sauna, cold plunge, and hot tub.

I love that the suites feel like residences, each with a full kitchen, washer and dryer, living room, wood-burning fireplace, and work desk. And after a day of kiting, you’ll appreciate having in-room amenities like a Therabody massage gun and foam roller at your disposal.

Price: From $189

Trailborn Grand Canyon

Williams, Arizona

I’m embarrassed to admit that, for as much traveling as I do, I still haven’t visited the Grand Canyon. I really have no excuse now that , a new outdoorsy-focused hotel brand, is opening its fourth location in the town of Williams. The 96-room hotel is just down the road from the Grand Canyon Railway, the train that deposits visitors at the South Rim entrance of the national park.

Trailborn has partnered with hiking outfitter to run guided excursions in the park, like a private day hike along the challenging, eight-mile round-trip�� ($600) or a group excursion that takes in the South Rim’s greatest hits, like the ($340).

On property, a saloon-style Camp Hall hosts free concerts, movies, and bingo nights, and for $35 families can have their room transformed into a camping-inspired slumber party. This spring the property will open Miss Kitty’s steakhouse and bar.

Price: From $175

The Wildbirch Hotel

Anchorage, Alaska

For years I viewed Anchorage as nothing more than a gateway to epic wilderness adventures. When a cancelled flight stranded me in the city for 24 hours, I discovered that, actually, Anchorage was a destination in its own right, home to seriously great restaurants, a cool urban-arts scene, and a 500-plus-mile trail network that connects some 200 green spaces.

In�� April, the city will get its first true boutique hotel when the opens in the Mushing District. The 252-room property will showcase works by local craftspeople, such as carved topographic maps that double as headboards, and an art collection curated by the nearby Anchorage Museum. An on-site brewery, outdoor decks with fire pits, and sweeping views of Mount Susitna and Knik Arm are sure to attract just as many locals as visitors.

With the world-class salmon fishing of Ship Creek steps away and guest rooms that overlook the ceremonial starting line of the Iditarod sled-dog race, held each March, you can’t ask for a better address.

Price: From $199

LOGE

St. George, Utah

During the height of the pandemic, I rooted for a few fledgling brands. , which is pronounced “lodge” and stands for Live �����ԹϺ���, Go Explore, is one of them. The original LOGE Camp launched in 2017 in coastal Westport, Washington, and I loved its adult-summer-camp vibes and affordability.

There are camp or RV sites, or choose from a variety of room configurations. All the gear and amenities you could wish for are available to rent, from Traeger grills to Wave Bandit and Lib Tech surfboards. The brand launched similar concepts in mountain towns in the Pacific Northwest, and I’m stoked to see it expanding into the Southwest in 2025. I’ve marked my calendar for early February, when LOGE St. George starts taking bookings for its April opening.

The hotel will be a sweet base camp less than two miles southwest from the heart of the city. Perks include a hot tub, pool, and mountain-bike rentals, and the trails of nearby Zion National Park and Snow Canyon State Park are a short drive away.

Later this year, LOGE will open a handful of East Coast properties. Host towns include Asheville, North Carolina; the Catskills of New York; Mount Snow, Vermont; and Southport, Maine.

Price: From $137

Foreign Properties I Have My Eye On

The Caribbean and Mexico

Salterra Resort and Spa

On February 15, American Airlines will introduce direct flights twice a week from Miami to South Caicos in the Turks and Caicos. Around the same time, this up-and-coming island will welcome , a sustainably minded hotel that will offer adventures like kiteboarding, bonefishing, kayaking, and diving. But it doesn’t come cheap.

Price: From $1,300

Hotel Humano

I’ve been plotting a surf mission to Puerto Escondido and am hoping to base myself at the new , located steps from famous Zicatela Beach (a.k.a. the Mexican Pipeline).

Price: From $190

Amet

On a recent trip to Cabo San Lucas, a guide clued me in to , an intimate new nature retreat in the town of Santiago on Baja’s Central Cape. You can choose between suites or glamping tents, and excursions range from hikes to nearby hot springs to ATV drives to waterfalls.

Price: From $315

Argentina

Glamping Los Palmares

El Impenetrable National Park in northern Argentina is a wilderness mecca, home to giant anteaters and jaguars, as well as a swath of Gran Chaco, one of the world’s fastest disappearing forests.�� recently opened on the park’s northern border with just four tents overlooking the Bermejo River.

Price: From $359, all-inclusive

Finland

Kotona Manor

If you’ve jumped on the cool-cation travel trend, you should have Finland on your travel list and in particular. The family-owned, 11-suite waterfront property will�� debut in the Lakeland region this summer. Seasonal activities range from bear watching to snowmobiling and sailing.

Price: From $1,530

Madagascar

Voaara

One of my favorite far-flung places is Madagascar, and not just for the mind-boggling amount of biodiversity but also for the amazing, crowd-free adventures, like kiteboarding, freediving, snorkeling, and hiking. I visited last December and got a sneak peek at the newly opened , a barefoot luxe hotel on idyllic Isle St. Marie, just off the country’s northeast coast. Guests can snorkel the vibrant house reefs, whale-watch with the resident marine biologist from June to September, and learn to wing foil with pro surfer Willow Hardy.

Price: $1,230

Jen Murphy is an �����ԹϺ��� magazine correspondent and frequent contributor to �����ԹϺ��� Online. (Most recently, she wrote a guide to maximizing winter fun in Colorado’s mountain towns and reviewed the best compression socks for long-haul flights.) Murphy has been lucky enough to stay in some of the world’s best hotels, both rustic and luxe, and believes that warm service truly makes a stay.

The post 16 New Outdoor-�����ԹϺ��� Hotels We Can’t Wait to Visit appeared first on �����ԹϺ��� Online.

Nothing ruins a ski vacation faster than no snow, and scoring a powder day can feel like winning the lottery in these climate-challenged times. While the global forecaster AccuWeather makes projections up to 90 days out, specific, precise daily reports cannot be made more than ten days in advance, according to a published in the��Journal of the Atmospheric Sciences. Given the chaotic nature of the atmosphere, two weeks out is probably the farthest accurate estimate we can hope for in the future.

So where does that leave travelers who want to plan ahead? Is there more we can do than just book a ski vacation to a popular winter destination��and hope for the best? Yes! Diehard skiers and snowboarders and skiers—and I count myself in that group—have discovered some tricks to line up trips with epic conditions.

The Surprising Accuracy of The Powder Buoy

In the early aughts, Mike Ruzek, a financial planner and avid skier based in Park City, Utah, had a client clue him in to thousands of miles west in the Pacific Ocean that surfers��were using as an alternative to wave-forecast sites like , to estimate how big��swell would get by the time it hit the Hawaiian Islands. The client, who split his time between Maui and Park City, believed the buoy’s movements correlated to storm cycles in Utah’s Wasatch Range.

Curious, Ruzek did some research and discovered that when the buoy went from floating on swells of around 5 to 15 feet—the point which followers described it as “popping”—a storm would usually hit the Wasatch 12 to 14 days later.

Ruzek doesn’t have a background in meteorology, but he did know that low-pressure systems tend to produce the most snow in winter. “When a low-pressure system rolls in [across the Pacific], it forces the water upward, making the buoy pop,” he posited. “About two weeks after a spike in the buoy’s wave height, Utah gets a dump of snow.”

Initially, Ruzek started testing the buoy to schedule “sick” ski days from work, and he found it was surprisingly accurate. In 2013, he set up a Facebook page called ��to share the forecasts, and an followed that now boasts 45,000-plus followers.

A NOAA spokesperson said the organization is unaware of a specific buoy measurement correlating with this weather phenomenon so far from the buoy’s location. But Ruzek is not wrong. I spoke with Steven Businger, a University of Hawaii professor of meteorology, who confirmed that the slow motion of huge planetary waves in the jet stream often results in fairly long, persistent weather patterns that can effectively be determined for a location over ten days or more.

Last year the buoy was 80 percent spot-on when it came to pow predictions in Utah, said��Ruzek, and he’s heard from skiers who use its reports to predict snow 12 to 14 days out in Colorado and Wyoming. “One mountain town in Colorado��has a coffee shop that writes our reports on a chalkboard,” he said proudly. Though he could charge for the readings, Ruzek loves the authenticity of keeping it free. “There’s enough monetization in the ski world,” he said.

Trusted Intel from Powderchasers

Steve Conney also shares free winter-weather intel��as a side hustle called . The New York native started forecasting snowfall at U.S. ski resorts��for a small email list of friends more than two decades ago, when there was no internet offering such a service. “I had phone numbers for the snowplow drivers and the people who worked at Eisenhower Tunnel in Colorado,” he told��me. “I’d call the employees at Baked in Telluride, because I knew they were up at 5 A.M. and could report on the snow.”

Today��Powderchasers has over 107,000 followers on Instagram, and its detailed forecasts are still free, thanks to sponsors like Ikon Pass. The posts are fun and full of stoke: “EPIC ALERT: Snow Returns for South America. 3+ Feet Predicted” read the August 2 headline. “Final parade of moisture is overspreading the west. The firehouse is wide open over Oregon and moves east into Idaho and northern Wyoming where it is snowing,” read a December 16 post, while its��recently offered intel on projected conditions through the end of the month, suggestions on where to head based on its forecasts, feedback from Powderchasers staff about places they were already skiing, and estimated snow accumulation for various regions of the U.S. and Canada.

Conney now has a small weather-obsessed team to help him. “We read the same models as everyone else, but we understand what skiers and snowboarders want,” he said. “The deepest snow is not always your best chase. We look at winds, potential closures, snow density, and other factors.”

If you’d prefer more in-depth, personalized forecasts and custom trip planning, the company has what are called concierge packages that range from $149 for one trip to $699 for forecasts for eight trips. “This is for the fanatics who can only get out on the slopes once or twice a year for that big ski trip,” he said.

Jen Murphy splits her time between Colorado and Maui and now relies on The Powder Buoy to track swell and snow. She��recently wrote about her love of solo travel, and about how compression socks are the one piece of clothing travelers need for a long flight.��

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My partner and I always fight while packing the car for a road trip, especially around the holidays. It brings out the worst in us. Our stress and anxiety turn into arguments about how to organize the trunk, and—not kidding—whether he really needs to bring his espresso machine. Help! How can we avoid another packing meltdown this month? —Road Weary

As a minimalist packer, it drives me bonkers when people stuff their car to the ceiling with nonessentials. My mom is a notorious overpacker and lives in constant fear of not having enough snacks when she travels. Because I loathe driving, I’ve just accepted that on even the shortest road trip with her, my knees will be crunched against the dashboard to accommodate gallons of water and a cooler of food jammed behind my seat. (If we ever got caught in a storm, we’d survive comfortably for a few days.)

My best friend, Katherine, usually argues with her husband, Carmino, about packing for their annual December road trip from Brooklyn to South Bend, Indiana, to visit his grandmother. Fights ensue because they think they have more room in their Jeep Gladiator than they actually do. “Yet every year we still pack it to the brim,” she says.

Carmino is a wanna-be chef, so he insists on traveling with his own kitchen supplies, including a 25-by-25-inch wooden cutting board and numerous pasta-making machines and tools. Additionally, they head out with a Yeti cooler packed with artisanal New York City treats and return with his grandmother’s homemade Polish sausage and pierogies to share with family on the East Coast. “I’m talking like 90 pierogis,” Katherine says.

In fairness, Katherine packs her own pillows, and sometimes blankets, for their hotel stays en route to Indiana, which drives him crazy. Getting rest during family holidays is essential, she rationalizes. “At least I use them all week long, versus one day,” she says.

Why Does Packing for a Holiday Road Trip Feel Particularly Tense?

One of the biggest fights �����ԹϺ��� editor Mary Turner ever had with her father was over a casserole dish that she placed in the trunk of the car when he wasn’t looking as they were about to drive to a relative’s house for Thanksgiving. “He discovered it right before he closed the trunk, and all hell broke loose,” she says. “He is super anal��about what goes where in the car, and I apparently hadn’t followed those rules.”

Vacations, travel, and packing are cognitively stressful, says Sarah Pressman, a professor of psychological science at the University of California at Irvine. “We have to juggle a lot of mental tasks and questions,” she says. For example: What needs to be packed? Will it fit? What am I forgetting? Will I really need this? Excessive cognitive load, she says “can be tiring, distracting, and potentially diminish our patience.”

Holiday travel especially is a pressure cooker of stress, says Los Angeles–based therapist Laurel Robert-Meese. “You’re often trying to get everyone else’s needs met,” she says. “When you’re rushing out of the house to get to your parents’ or in-laws’, and know you might be out of your routine for a few days, stress is heightened.”

A huge trigger of travel stress is unrealistically high expectations, says Pressman. “We want everything to be absolutely perfect during the holidays or on a major vacation,” she says. “When our expectations aren’t met—for example, in a chaotic packing situation—it’s easy to be disappointed and lash out at whoever is around us.”

To diffuse the situation, ask yourself what’s more important: that the car is packed a certain way or that you get to your destination safely and relatively on time, says Robert-Meese. “And do you want to be right, or do you want to stay married?” When someone throws a tantrum about a backpack being on top of the suitcase, or between suitcases, that typically represents something bigger, she says. “If someone is anxious about something—like seeing their parents—that may manifest in criticizing something trivial, like where the suitcase was placed.”

Does Car Size Matter?

My friend Carly and her husband, Ross, live in Boulder, Colorado, and love road-tripping with their two girls, but they hate the Tetris of configuring everything just right into their vehicle. In 2017, they purchased a bare-bones but roomy Sprinter cargo van that they refer to as their mobile garage. But they quickly learned that when you have a bigger vehicle, you want to pack your entire house, including the espresso machine, a giant cooler that contains the contents of their fridge, a case of wine, plus all of their family’s adventure gear. “Pretending we have a Subaru instead of a Sprinter might help with quantity control,” she admits.

Tiny cars in Europe are a personal affront to many Americans used to SUVs. Yet when my friends and I go on ski trips to the Continent, my frugal friend Michael, who lives in New York City, inevitably always rents the smallest car. We manage to make it work after what Michael’s wife, Meredith, calls “the great packing saga.”

Meredith is a pro when it comes to packing any size car. “The biggest or most angular or geometric pieces—like skis—go in first,” she says. “Anything that fits neatly in the corners of the trunk. Then it’s Jenga with smaller bags or soft bags. And finally, you plug every crack and crevice with small bags, extra coats or sweatshirts, or sneakers.” Her personal bag, usually teeming with snacks and extra clothes, stays up front within easy reach.

Who Should Get the Final Say?

Delegating one person to pack the car—and being responsible for knowing where everything is—can reduce stress, says Pressman. “Sometimes one person has a special skill of optimizing the available space. So let them be the one to make those decisions instead of randomly throwing things in or fighting over what goes where,” she says.

If one of your travel partners is super organized and wants to decide what goes where in the car, let them, says Pressman. Decide what your priority is. “Pick your battles to maximize happiness, and figure out who should be in charge based on personal strengths and preferences,” she says.

Michelle and Andy Gilbert of Point Pleasant, New Jersey, are a perfect example. Michelle says she always forgets to pack all kinds of stuff: “We’ve had to stop for bras, toothbrushes, hair products, underwear…. You name it, I’ve forgotten it.” Her husband, on the other hand, is a meticulous packer; he makes a checklist on his phone and ticks things off as he packs.

“We are very different people,” she says. “He laughs at me but never gives me a hard time. It’s an unspoken rule that he’s in charge of any important documents, as well as packing the trunk or back of the car, especially if we have a lot to bring. I’m in charge of the front area of the car snacks, blankets, the fun stuff.”

If you anticipate going head-to-head about one specific travel issue, set some rules beforehand. For example, maybe the driver gets to decide what feels safest for their comfort in terms of car organization, but the passengers can take control over what goes in the back seat. What’s most important is establishing clear lines of communication and talking through individual priorities before packing and loading begins, says Pressman. Consider compromises, and work together to create a plan that will make everyone happy.

Kelli Miller, author of , suggests using a sliding scale between one and ten to determine who is more emotionally invested. “If you’re a seven when it comes to organization and your partner is a two, you take the lead,” she says. Miller agrees that clear, constant communication is key.

How to Make Packing the Car Less Stressful

Plan Ahead

When we procrastinate, and then feel like we don’t have time to do what we need, that activates our stress response, says Pressman. “This heightens negative emotions and makes us more irritable and reactive,” she says.

Carly says her family’s packing history confirms this. If it’s done at the last minute on the day of a trip, it always results in tears, the silent treatment, and, inevitably, leaving an hour later than intended.

Miller recommends starting to pack at least three days ahead, to give yourself time to shop for necessities, decide who is responsible for what, and determine what nonnegotiable items have to make it into the car.

Assign Roles

When people have specific responsibilities, things feel more controlled and communication is high, says Pressman. “My husband and I typically make a shared Google Docs packing list of what we need and who is packing what,” she says. “This reduces surprises and conflicts over forgotten items. I often find myself asking him the day before, ‘What am I forgetting?’ And nine times out of ten he’ll remember something I forgot.”

But Make It a Team Effort

Carly tries to make packing a family affair. “I recently discovered that I can give my eight- and ten-year-old daughters a packing list and put them in charge of their own bags,” she says. “This relieves some stress, as I’ve outlined what they need, and they are expected to execute. If they forget something, it’s on them.”

Everyone also helps haul bags and gear from the house to the van, and then her husband loads it.

Take a Breath and Laugh

If you’re fighting about how to pack the car, don’t feel like you have to push through while panicking, says Pressman. “Negative emotions focus our attention and make it harder to find creative solutions to problems,” she says. “Take a breath, take a five-minute break, and talk about the good things that will happen on your trip. Even a quick knock-knock joke can do wonders to diffuse the tension and help you get back to the grind in a more helpful mood.”

One of her favorite jokes: Why did the tire get invited to all the road trips? Because it always knew how to roll with it!

Jen Murphy is the travel-advice columnist for �����ԹϺ��� Online. She grew up in New Jersey, the only state where it’s still illegal to pump your own gas. She’ll cope with a messily packed car as long as she doesn’t have to fill the tank.��

The post Use This Smart Advice to Avoid Fights When Packing a Car for a Road Trip appeared first on �����ԹϺ��� Online.

In traveling, I’ve always chosen to go it alone rather than not go at all. Over the years, friends have called me fearless. Don’t you get scared? they ask. Very rarely. Lonely? Honestly, never, even before the days of social media. And isn’t it more expensive to travel by yourself than with others? Traditionally, yes. Solo travelers often got slapped with single-supplement, or premium, hotel and tour fees, but since the pandemic, companies have started courting solo travelers. Priceline even held its first-ever .

, safety, loneliness, and expense are the three biggest reasons people hate to travel solo. But I’ve been adventuring on my own for more than two decades, and I find it freeing. I can travel at my own pace and on my own budget. I can easily score a table for one—even at top restaurants that often require bookings weeks in advance. And I connect more with locals.

More people are catching on to the appeal of solo travel, however, especially Gen Zers and Millennials. Google searches for solo travel have increased 223 percent over the past decade, and according to a , 50 percent of Americans planned to travel alone in 2024. And while women have led the indie trip trend in recent years, men are joining the ranks. A from the travel booking site Omio found that 30 percent of men, compared to 23 percent of women, have solo journeys planned for 2025.

If you’ve hesitated to give solo travel a go, let me alleviate your concerns and suggest some of my favorite places for awesome adventuring on your own.

Always Consider Safety First

Certain destinations lend themselves to solo travel more than others. Certainly, safety is top of mind.

I scan the U.S. State Department’s and avoid countries of conflict. I also browse the (GPI), an annual ranking of nations based on factors like the absence of violence or fear of violence, a nation’s level of harmony or discord, and its degree of militarization. Coming into 2025, Iceland, Ireland, and Austria are the safest three countries in the world, according to the overall GPI score.

, which also researches and ranks the safest places to visit each year, is another great resource. Rankings are based on an average of “all measures from [BHTP’s] State of Travel Insurance research,” and factor in other indices including the Global Peace Index and information from sources like , a destination database that scores living conditions. Berkshire Hathaway puts Iceland, Australia, and Canada as top three for safety, with Ireland close behind.

In addition to its list, Berkshire Hathaway provides write-ups that touch on smart considerations to take into account in each of the high-ranking nations, from dangerous wildlife like box jellyfish in Australia to driving on the left-hand side of the road in Ireland to expensive emergency-evacuation costs in remote destinations of northern Norway.

My 6 Favorite Solo-Travel Destinations

Some of my picks are at the top of the Berkshire Hathaway and Global Peace Index lists, but I cast a wider lens to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations. In particular, such places have satisfied my craving for big doses of nature and adventure.

Portugal

The GPI ranked Portugal the seventh-safest country in the world in 2024. It’s also a bargain compared to most Western European countries (a draft of craft beer cost me $3 in Lisbon compared to $8 in Paris), and the effortlessly connects the northern and southern regions.

I’ve visited this country solo four times and have always found the locals extremely hospitable. On my first trip, I checked out the beach town of Sagres in the southern region of Algarve and met two couples from Lisbon who offered to drive me back to the city. One of the women took off work the next day to be my tour guide, and that evening she and her husband threw a dinner party for me at their home.

I love making solo surf trips up and down Portugal’s coast. Hotels like (from $200) in Santa Cruz and (from $73), just north in the town of Peniche, have a clubhouse vibe and offer activities and events—like rooftop music sessions—that make it easy to meet new friends. Both places can arrange board rentals, lessons, and English-speaking guides.

If you, too, fall hard for the country, Portugal’s recently introduced makes it easy to pursue residency while working remotely.

Costa Rica

Pura vida vibes have always made me feel welcome in Costa Rica. The State Department’s Level 2 advisory recommends that trip-goers use increased caution here, due to petty crime risks and natural hazards like earthquakes (which are common-ish here, with events of magnitude 7 about every decade). For 2025, Berkshire Hathaway Costa Rica the sixth-safest place in the world for female, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ travelers.

Surf towns such as Nosara and Santa Teresa along the Pacific Coast attract a lot of Americans and have small expat communities. , a hotel brand catering to digital nomads with coworking spaces as well as rooms, has eight outposts in Costa Rica, including in Nosara, Santa Teresa, and Monteverde (shared dorms from $24). These properties host music events and arrange local experiences for guests.

On the Caribbean Coast, I’m a big fan of the boutique hotel (from $365), which is part of the sustainability-focused Cayuga Collection. The hotel works with local guides and outfitters to arrange snorkeling excursions and hiking day trips in Cahuita National Park, including for solo guests. The place also offers free bike use, which I love for exploring the nearby town on my own.

Canada��

Canadians have a reputation for being incredibly friendly, and that as well as proximity to the U.S. and our shared language are bonuses. highlighted the country’s low crime rate and noted that wildlife like bears and moose posed some of the biggest dangers to visitors.

Vancouver and Montreal, great jumping-off points for the wilderness, ranked two and three, respectively, on a that see the most solo-travel searches on the travel site Kayak and the most solo-dining reservations on OpenTable.

Canada has 37 national parks and 11 national park reserves, as well as two beautiful coasts. I’ve made friends while soaking in the swimming-pool-sized hot tub at (from $250) in Alberta’s Banff National Park. I’ve also plotted solo snowboard trips to , British Columbia, to coincide with the Natural Selection Tour freestyle competition, knowing I’d meet like-minded travelers.

If you’re wary of wandering the wilderness alone, sign up for a guided trek with a local outfitter. I like the .

Another low-stress option is crisscrossing the country via rail. The Rocky Mountaineer’s from Vancouver to Banff takes just two days and is staffed with storytellers who can shed light on indigenous sites and wildlife. It offers single-berth accommodations from $1,752.

Australia

Australia has long been a magnet for backpackers. I spent nearly a year in my twenties backpacking mostly solo around the country’s east coast, and the biggest dangers were crocodiles, snakes, and jellyfish. Despite its resident poisonous critters, Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection scored Australia�� the second-safest place in the world to travel for 2025.

Affordable and clean hostels, like (from $140) in Queensland’s Daintree Rainforest, abound and are filled with other solo travelers. is a beach-club-vibe hostel brand with Queensland locations in Noosa, Cairns, and Airlie Beach (from $32 for a spot in a mixed dorm).

Australia is a fantastic destination for hiking. is a collection of 13 treks that you can do yourself or with a guide. I spent four days traversing the wildlife-filled in Tasmania, opting for a guide via the local outfitter the because I wanted to learn more about the flora, fauna, and culture on the island (from $1,900, all-inclusive). The first two nights we stayed in secluded, simple bush camps near the beach ($7), and the final night we were pampered in the recently renovated historic-home-turned-hotel, Bernacchi House.

If you’re sticking to the mainland, the in the state of Victoria is a very doable 27 miles over four days along the Great Ocean Road, with campsites en route. The walk is suitable for hikers of any experience and takes in the shipwreck-dotted coastline, wild beaches, and Great Otway and Port Campbell National Parks.

Austria

Austria is a fantastic option for solo alpine adventures. The country is ranked third on the Global Peace Index and fifth worldwide in terms of safety by the . Most locals speak English, and a great public transportation network makes it easy to travel car-free. If you’re deciding between alpine destinations, consider that the cost of living in Switzerland is higher than in Austria, and that affects tourism; in general, expect lodging and meals in Austria to cost half of what you’d pay in Switzerland.

The runs a network of more than 170 huts, where it’s easy to engage with other hikers. Most mountain resorts, such as or or have guided hiking, biking, and paddling tours that allow you to mingle with others. And many villages offer special . I met some friends on a solo trip to the , held each September.

Bhutan

Solo travel, for me, has been the perfect way to do some soul searching when I’m making big decisions or going through a transition. And one of the most soulful places I’ve ever visited is the Kingdom of Bhutan. It is a place of beauty and spirituality, and travelers here are required to have a guide, which is an exceptional way to become familiar with the culture.

Six years ago, I went on assignment on a solo ten-day guided trip of this Southeast Asia nation and learned so much, including the proper way to throw a dart (this is a traditional sport in Bhutan) and about dating habits here (yes, there’s Tinder in Bhutan). I still keep in touch with my guide, who was a woman, on WhatsApp.

Bhutan is ranked 21 on the Global Peace Index, and it’s a mecca for hiking and mountain biking—the king is an avid mountain biker, and my guide and I spotted him one day on the trail. While getting there from the U.S. isn’t cheap, nor are costs within the country, visits are slightly more affordable since the kingdom halved its daily tourist fee from $200 to $100 last year.

Phil Bowen of should be your go-to logistician to find a guide, driver, and accommodations, which can range from homestays to splurge-worthy hotels. (from $550, half-board, meaning room, breakfast, and one other meal) is one of the most memorable places I’ve stayed in throughout my global travels.

5 Tips for Solo Travelers, From a Pro

Here are some tips and tricks for making the most of a solo trip.��

Share Your Plans

I always email my mom my rough itinerary. It includes the contact information for any hotels I’ve already booked or the names of campsites where I plan to stay. I also regularly check in with her or a good friend via What’s App or email to let them know I’ve reached a destination safely and when I’m moving on to my next stop.

Eat at the Restaurant’s Bar

I absolutely love dining alone at the bar. It’s usually easy to score a single seat, and before long I’m chatting with some fascinating local characters. Bartenders are often fantastic sources of local intel and can direct you to good restaurants and the best hiking and mountain-biking trails. Finally, happy-hour specials are a great way to save a few bucks.

Watch and Post on Message Boards

If you’re craving companionship, you might post on social-media channels like Facebook and Instagram—you never know who in your circles, or your friends’ circles, is headed to the same place as you—or use the Friends setting on apps like Bumble. Many hotels and hostels, and often the local grocery store, still have bulletin boards with postings for local activities, like free yoga sessions or group hikes.

Pack Meds

Being alone isn’t so great when you fall ill in a far-flung place. In many countries it’s manageable: you can walk into a pharmacy, explain your symptoms, and get what you need. But I recently suffered through a debilitating urinary-tract infection in Morocco, and now I never travel without the broad-spectrum antibiotic I needed. I convinced my doctor to prescribe one in case I get that sick on the road again.

Don’t Second-Guess Yourself

Trust your gut. If something feels unsafe, it probably is. The very few times I’ve gotten food poisoning have been when actions went against my instinct. Don’t be afraid to be impolite. Once, in Varanasi, India, an elderly woman offered me a glass of sketchy looking lassi. I felt rude saying no, and all it took was one sip to give me Delhi Belly. I knew better.

You should also follow your intuition. When I meet strangers and feel genuine good vibes, I will accept an invitation to share a ride or join for a meal in someone’s home. These chance encounters have rewarded me with some wonderful friends and experiences over the years.

Jen Murphy is ���ܳٲ������’s online travel-advice columnist. She has had some of her most memorable adventures while traveling solo, from dancing with a local tribe in the Omo Valley of Ethiopia to joining members of the Indian army on a run in Delhi. Her journal and a good book have always served as great companions. She has also recently written an ultimate guide to winter fun in a choice selection of mountain towns in Colorado, a guide for anyone new to adventure travel in Costa Rica, and the funniest things travelers ask their adventure guides. There are doozies.

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