best islands to visit for birthday

The 16 Best Island Vacations in the World, According to Our Travel Specialists

By Caitlin Morton

It doesn’t matter if you’re planning ahead for a classic summer getaway or want to swap hemispheres to escape your winter blues : The best Island vacations in the world await. Those OOO messages pretty much write themselves when you arrive at your slice of paradise, surrounded by water on all sides. 

But how exactly do you start planning your tropical trip? We tapped our network of travel specialists to put together this list of the best island vacations to take this year, ranging from classics in the Caribbean and Mediterranean to relatively undiscovered gems in Scandinavia and French Polynesia. Given the list’s geographical and cultural diversity, you’re sure to find something to fit your specific vacation needs.

Read on for 16 of the best island vacations in the world, chosen by people who plan trips for a living.

Answers have been edited for length and clarity. All listings featured on  Condé Nast Traveler  are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Con Dao, Vietnam

Con Dao is often overlooked as a beach destination in  Vietnam , and I almost don’t want to share it so it stays that way! Located off the Southern Coast of Vietnam, Con Dao is a smaller island with very little commercial development. With this, the beaches are quiet and the few resort options allow for a special retreat. The beaches are long with soft sand and are great for light water sports like SUP and kayaking—but are just a short kayak away from a beautiful reef for snorkeling. The downtown area has a cute seaside atmosphere with little restaurants, and there are connections to history if you’re interested in exploring more.

Best things to do:  Watch the turtles hatch: On the neighboring island, you can head over at night and stay at the ranger station where you will be informed when they spot a mother turtle laying her eggs. If you’re there in August, it’s likely you’ll catch this magical experience. Stay through the morning when the turtle sanctuary supports the release of the hatchlings and watch them find their way to the big blue sea.

If you’re interested in history, I recommend a visit to the Con Dao Prison which was built during the French colonial era and used through the Vietnam-American War.

How to get there:  From Saigon, take a commercial flight to the island. The flight is about one hour long and Vietnam Airlines runs multiple flights a day.

— April Cole , COO of   Kaanect Travel

Lanai, Hawaii

For travelers looking to get off the beaten path, look no further than Hawaii’s smallest inhabited island—Lanai. Only nine miles off the coast of Maui , this quaint island was originally home to pineapple plantations but now offers the perfect mix of rugged adventure and ultra-luxe relaxation. Arrival to the island is an experience in and of itself, whether you take a scenic 30-minute flight from Honolulu or watch for dolphins on a 45-minute ferry from Maui.

On arrival, expect a swift transfer to your hotel, either the ocean-side paradise of the  Four Seasons Resort Lanai or the adults-only wellness retreat at the  Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort . From there, you can fill your days as you wish, from relaxing on quiet beaches to exploring the island by boat, 4-by-4 Jeeps, or even horseback—though we definitely recommend a quick jaunt through the “bustling” Lanai City, with only three paved roads and no traffic lights.

Best things to do:  Go horseback riding along wooded valleys and trails, keeping an eye out for axis deer, turkeys, and sheep. Take a tour of the island (with a packed picnic!), or snorkel in the protected marine reserve of Hulopoe Bay to see tropical fish, sea turtles, and reef sharks. Be sure to also visit Keahiakawelo, Lanai’s “Garden of the Gods,” to see the unique, lunar-like landscapes.

How to get there: Lanai Air offers 30-minute nonstop flights from Honolulu to the island, or you can take a 45-minute ferry over from Lahaina, Maui.

— Samantha Collum , Director of Operations and Senior Travel Advisor at   River Oaks Travel

Mauritius is a fantastic island destination for honeymooners, couples, friends, families with children, and even solo travelers —really anyone looking for beautiful, warm tropical weather and lots of adventurous things to see and experience. Because of the reef that surrounds most of the island, Mauritius offers calm waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling straight from the shore. The west coast offers the best beaches, the most magical sunsets, and the calmest water conditions. The diving in Mauritius is really enjoyable, with a number of reefs and wrecks to enjoy.

Best things to do:  A few of my favorite things to do in Mauritius, aside from scuba diving and sipping cocktails on the beach, would include swimming with dolphins and turtles, full-day catamaran cruises around the island, and snorkeling at reefs off the coast.

How to get there: There are direct commercial flights from South Africa—most days from Johannesburg and seasonally from Cape Town —making it an easy combination with a South Africa safari or Cape Town city experience. There are also direct flights from Nairobi, which makes it easy to combine after an East Africa safari. There are also direct flights from a number of European hubs such as France, London, Frankfurt, etc, as well as Dubai. Flights are directly into Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU), and then you will take a taxi/cab, shuttle, or private road transfer to your respective resort, roughly 1-2 hours from the airport.

— Ashley Gerrand , Africa Safari Expert at  Go2Africa

Mallorca, Spain

The Balearic Islands are one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, and Mallorca , which is the third largest island in Spain, is once again on the rise, receiving quality tourism. There are many reasons to visit Mallorca, such as the beauty of the natural environment and the culture that has been preserved there for centuries. Mallorca is as much for those who seek rest as for those who like adventure or history—a very complete island that brings together nature, incredible beaches and coves, city sightseeing, gastronomy, and cultural options.

Best things to do:  Mallorca is known for its wide variety of landscapes and coastlines with impressive cliffs. On your visit, you cannot miss the Serra de Tramuntana region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the northwest of the island, where there are some of the most beautiful Majorcan villages such as Valldemossa, Deià, Sóller, and Fornalutx. You can sail, paint a picture by the coast, visit a winery and taste its wines, and meet locals while staying in this area for a few days.

How to get there: You can take a direct flight from Barcelona , Madrid, and other cities in Europe, or you can take a ferry from Barcelona or Valencia.

— Pablo Calvo , Spain Manager at   Tours For You

Steph Koyfman

Alex Erdekian

Laura Walsh

Jamie Spain

Koh Samui, Thailand

No Thailand trip is complete without a stay on one of the country’s islands, since they boast some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Koh Samui is particularly wonderful as it offers a nice blend of gorgeous beaches, an array of fantastic resorts, and easy exploration on your own.  Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui does everything right and is a reason to visit alone—it offers well-appointed rooms with beautiful views, beyond exceptional service, fun activities for all ages (try Muay Thai boxing with a former pro in Four Seasons’ own boxing ring with tropical views), a wonderful spa, and delicious food. 

Best things to do:  Spend a few hours (preferably at sunset) sailing around Koh Samui and nearby islands with Blue Voyage . Their exceptional yachts and staff will ensure you have a fabulous time while marveling at the scenery. Experience even more of the beauty of Thailand’s islands by stopping for a picnic on a secluded, private beach.

How to get there: Koh Samui is one of the easiest Thailand islands to reach as you can take a 1-hour flight from Bangkok or a 2-hour flight from Singapore.  If you are exploring Northern Thailand prior to visiting the islands, you can take a 1-hour 45-minute flight from Chiang Mai to Koh Samui.

— Tisha Neufville , Luxury Travel Advisor at   Neufville Travel

Vancouver Island, Canada

Vancouver Island is home to the charming small city of Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, known in particular for its British influence and flower gardens (including the famous Butchart Gardens about 30 minutes from the city). Many people don’t realize, however, that Victoria is at the southern tip of the island and that the island is nearly 300 miles long. There’s far more to Vancouver Island than Victoria. One of my favorite places on the island is Tofino , a small town on the far west coast about halfway up the island that’s a great destination for outdoor adventures with fantastic food and lodging.

Best things to do: Whale watching for orcas from Victoria, and for gray whales and humpbacks from Tofino. There’s also bear watching (black bears from Tofino and brown bears/grizzlies from the Campbell River area on the northeast part of the island).

How to get there: Take a flight from Vancouver or Seattle depending on the part of Vancouver Island you’re going to, or by ferry from Vancouver or Port Angeles Washington.

— Sheri Doyle , Owner of   Pacific Northwest Journeys

Zanzibar is a really special island off the coast of Tanzania, known as Spice Island (and where Freddie Mercury was born). It is rich in history and culture, and it offers beautiful white sandy beaches and warm tropical weather. There are parts of the island that are quite tidal, meaning that the ocean goes out far for a period of the day, making it a great time to explore the animal life left behind in the rock pools. If you want to avoid the tides, the north coast is the least affected and has the best beaches. There is also a really stunning resort off the coast of Zanzibar called Mnemba Island, which is home to  Mnemba Island Lodge , a very exclusive resort, and has some of the best diving nearby.

Best things to do:  Stone Town tours and rooftop dinners, swimming with turtles, sunset show cruises, exploring Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, and diving.

How to get there: There are direct flights from Nairobi and Tanzania, as well as some European countries and Dubai. Flights go directly into Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ), and then you will take a taxi, shuttle, or private road transfer to your respective resort, roughly 1-2 hours from the airport.

— Ashley Gerrand , Africa Safari Expert at   Go2Africa

Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India

Of the 572 islands in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands territory, only 38 are inhabited and 26 open to visitors—and for decades, the atoll’s remoteness and lack of infrastructure, but abundance of coral reefs, have attracted serious divers, adventurous backpackers, and intrepid A-listers like Johnny Depp and Kate Winslet.

Still, hundreds of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are completely unpopulated. Its remoteness was once its purpose: For decades, the British used the Andaman Islands (namely Port Blair) as an inescapable prison for freedom fighters up until independence. Today, visitors can find white sand beaches (including Radhanagar Beach on Havelock Island, regularly named one of Asia’s best), mangroves, and lush tropical rainforests.

Best things to do: Named after the jagged, black rocks strewn along the coastline, Kalapathar Beach offers an isolated destination for trekking amongst exposed root tangles of 100-year-old trees and aged driftwood carved into captivating designs by the aftereffects of a tsunami, creating a unique, moorish landscape dotted with shells. After the trek, the Kalapathar lagoon just before Butler Bay offers a beautiful secluded spot for swimming and great ocean views through a cave in the cliff face.

In the capital city of Port Blair, Cellular Jail is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and tourism mascot. A former British prison, Cellular Jail National was something like a holy place for the freedom fighters, who exchanged books, ideas, and debates despite walls and wardens. The Light and Sound Show in the evening is a must-see.

How to get there: Fly into the main airport at Port Blair, which is well-connected on a non-stop service stop from Delhi, Chennai, and Kolkata. (Note: If you were to fly out of Mumbai, the best course is to fly into Kolkata first and take a connecting flight to Port Blair.) From Port Blair Airport, it’s a 20-minute drive to the Ferry Terminal and a 90-minute ferry ride to Havelock Island.

— Sunita J. Hedau , Founder & Luxury Travel Advisor/Wellness Travel Expert at   Kora Journeys Powered by Frosch

So often I hear people talk about how  Caribbean islands are devoid of history. They most certainly are not—and thankfully, much of its complicated history is starting to be talked about and will hopefully pave the way for more concerted historical landmarks in the future. But while many islands have focused more on blue water and white sand than their historical pasts, Nevis provides the cultural richness some travelers are looking for, with its restaurants and colorful past as a once-bustling Caribbean hub. (If you’re reading this and don't already know Alexander Hamilton was born here, you’re likely in the minority.)

It’s the Goldilocks of the Caribbean: easy to get to (see below), but still enough of a trip to keep the nonstop-flight-only masses away. It has beautiful beaches, while offering a safe environment to eat in off-property restaurants and explore the island outside of the resort. It feels off the beaten path, yet is home to true luxury resorts and charming hotels. (While Nisbet Plantation closed permanently during the pandemic, the  Golden Rock Inn is another boutique gem, and the luxurious  Four Seasons Resort Nevis offers activities for everyone.) 

Best things to do: Take a historical tour by taxi around the island—there are several taxi driver-guides that do this, and they will become your best friends over the course of the morning! (Your hotel concierge can help set this up.) Explore the jungle (and Nevis’s voluminous monkey population) in an ATV tour, or charter a sailboat for the day to explore the wildlife by water and experience some of the Caribbean’s famous winds. 

How to get there: Nonstop flights fly in season from most East Coast hubs to St. Kitts. After that, a short taxi ride will take you to the water taxi, which typically arrives on Nevis in less than 10 minutes. 

— Louisa Gehring , Luxury Travel Expert

Tikehau, French Polynesia

Tikehau is a hidden gem within French Polynesia . Its remoteness means you’ll be close to nature and raw, undisturbed beaches—think crystal clear waters with an abundance of fish and coral reefs, which you can enjoy from an overwater bungalow. Pristine, beautiful pink sand beaches make it ideal for enjoying the sun or watching the perfect sunsets. Book a stay at  Le Tikehau by Pearl Resorts (highly recommended), where the pastry chef has mastered French cuisine, from perfect croissants to preparing fish you caught earlier that day.

Best things to do:   Snorkeling and diving are the focus here, given the vast number of fish, untouched corals, and vibrant clams, along with the chance to swim amongst the sharks. Another popular activity is kayaking around the atoll into small bays to explore.

How to get there:  From the U.S., fly to Papeete on the island of Tahiti; from there, use the inter-island flights through Air Tahiti. This may require an overnight stay before catching a flight to Tikehau, followed by a short boat ride to your resort of choice . 

— Erika Commisso , Travel Advisor at   Journey with Erika

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

People visit the Galápagos Islands mostly for the incredible wildlife viewing, including endemic species such as the blue-footed boobie, Galápagos penguin, marine iguanas, flamingos, sea lions, and many more. The Galápagos marine reserve is one of the largest and most bio-diverse in the world, making for exceptional diving and snorkeling. This unique archipelago was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978 and consists of 18 islands and more than 100 small islets, located approximately 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador in the Pacific Ocean.

Best things to do: There is so much to explore in the Galápagos Islands, especially for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers . The best way to see the Galápagos is via sea, visiting all of the diverse islands in the archipelago. Hiking Isla Bartolome will feel like you landed on Mars. This volcanic moonscape is home to Galápagos hawks, blue-footed boobies, and lava lizards. You can also snorkel among sea lions, flightless cormorants, sea turtles, and—our favorite—the Galápagos penguins. 

Visit Floreana’s Post Office Bay to participate in a tradition dating back to the 1800s where sailors would leave mail to be retrieved and delivered by another sailor passing through. Today you can do the same by leaving your own postcard and retrieving another postcard for delivery back home. Another exciting adventure is visiting the Highlands of Santa Cruz, where you will experience the high-altitude microclimates where the giant tortoise lives before preparing for their long migration to the shorelines.

How to get there: There are no direct flights into the Galápagos from U.S. or Europe. You’ll need to fly from mainland Ecuador—either Quito (UIO) or Guayaquil (GYE)—to the islands. Most people fly into San Cristóbal Airport (SCY) or Seymour Airport (GPS), which serves the island of Baltra and connects to Santa Cruz via water taxi. 

— Dawn Oliver , Founder/Travel Advisor at Well Xplored, An Affiliate of Embark Beyond

Vega Island, Norway

Vega Island is located a few miles south of the Arctic Circle, just off the coast of Helgeland in Norway . You should visit because of its amazing natural beauty, wildlife, wide variety of cool activities, and unique cultural heritage. Vega is part of an unbelievably large archipelago with thousands of small islands, and it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2004.

Best things to do: Sea-kayaking, fishing, hiking, and visiting the unique island community that produces pillows and duvets from the down given by wild eider ducks.

How to get there: First you fly from Oslo to Brønnøysund Airport at Helgeland. From there, you drive to Horn and take a car ferry to Vega.

— Jan Sortland , Owner & General Manager of   Norwegian Adventures

Big Island, Hawaii

The island of Hawaii, also known as the Big Island , offers a staggering amount of diversity in one destination, making it perfect for travelers that want to have a wide range of experiences. Relax on the white sands of Hapuna Bay or marvel at the jet-black hue of Punalu’u Beach . Feel the heat off the Kilauea Volcano or bundle up to summit snow-capped Mauna Kea. Go off the grid and hike the lush valleys of the Hilo coast or head to the well-known coffee plantations outside of Kona. No matter your interest, there’s an activity to suit your style on the Big Island.

Best things to do: Go snorkeling (or diving) at night with the manta rays, swim in waterfalls in North Kohala, or stargaze at the top of Mauna Kea—one of the best places for stargazing in the world. Also visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to see the lava tubes, volcanic formations, and steam vents.

How to get there: Flights from the continental U.S. can go directly into Kona, or take a 45-minute flight over from Honolulu. 

Lord Howe Island, Australia

This tiny World Heritage-listed island (just over 5 miles long and less than 1 mile at its widest part) packs a real punch, offering a spectacular diversity of landscapes and activities: two towering mountains to hike and dozens of beaches to explore (from the tranquil sheltered lagoon to the uncrowded waves of Blinky’s surf beach), lush rainforests home to spectacular birdlife, and turquoise waters teeming with vibrant marine life and colorful coral reefs. Lord Howe Island ’s natural treasures and adventures are complemented by a collection of luxury stays and a laidback Australian coastal lifestyle that invites indulgence and relaxation—but only for an in-the-know privileged few. The island has a cap of just 400 visitors (and a permanent population of less than that) at any one time. Paradise found!

Best things to do: While the temptation may be to simply slip into the private plunge pool on the balcony of your  luxury lodge accommodation or lose yourself in the pages of a good book in the shade of the kentia palms at your private island house, visitors to Lord Howe Island are spoiled for choice with activities that explore the island’s many natural treasures: snorkeling or scuba diving, hiking or biking (the island’s main mode of transport), swimming or surfing, SUP-ing, kayaking, golfing, stargazing, birdwatching, or fishing—just to kick off the list. Visitors should not miss the opportunity to hand-feed the fish at Ned’s Beach, scout for turtles at Settlement Beach, picnic on a secluded beach, or mingle with the locals at a “fish fry.”

How to get there: Located approximately 435 miles northwest of  Sydney , daily direct scheduled flights from Sydney are the easiest way to access the island (less than a 2-hour flight time). Private charter flights can also be arranged. 

— Stuart Rigg , Owner/Director of   Southern Crossings

Thanks to easy air access, St. Lucia has long been known as the lush, adventurous capital of the Caribbean. But Dominica provides the same connection with nature, with a slightly more undiscovered slant . The “Nature Island” isn’t for people who want to walk for miles on white, sandy beaches—as a volcanic island, many of the beaches have a darker hue. The tradeoff of islands with powdery beaches for miles is that often there is a risk of being bored on the beach—not here!

Best things to do: Incorporate a series of hikes into your trip—there are many trails from easy to strenuous with incredible views, often with the gift of a waterfall. Dominica is also a great place for snorkeling and scuba diving. If you’re not certified, you can take your classwork prior to your vacation and complete your certifications on the island. Champagne Reef is a favorite—it gets its name from the bubbling waters that come up from the underwater thermal springs.

How to get there: For years (COVID didn’t help) it was quite difficult to get to Dominica in one day from the U.S., but starting in early April, there will be a direct American Airlines flight from Miami daily, which opens up this island to a host of new adventurers.

Crete, Greece

Crete has the best of everything: pink sand beaches, ancient history, natural beauty, and charming harbor towns. It is the largest and most southern island of Greece, so the weather and water are warmer before and after the summer season. Crete has maintained its own identity. It has a different cuisine, dialect, and traditions. It is one of my favorite places in the world.  

Best things to do: The charming harbor town of Rethymnon is a medieval walled city full of interesting handicraft shops and traditional restaurants. AVLI is a boutique property consisting of several apartments that have been converted into a hotel. There is also a natural food store in the hotel that offers several types of olive oil and honey raki. The restaurant is a courtyard with 10 tables offering the freshest ingredients and cooking classes by the owner of AVLI, Katina.

You can drive to Crete’s other must-visit sites in under two hours. Visit the uninhabited island of Spinalonga, the pink sand beach of Elafonisi, the Cove of Balos, and the Samaria Gorge—one of the deepest and longest canyons in Europe.

How to get there: Take a direct flight to Crete from Athens, or take the year-round ferry from Piraeus or the seasonal, summer ferry from Santorini.

— Ronnie Liadis , Travel Specialist at Liadis Travel

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10 Destinations Perfect for Celebrating Milestone Birthdays

Surprise parties get old after a while, but you know what doesn’t? A trip to a brand-new (to you) destination. Whether you’re a newly minted 21 or celebrating the big 5-0, we’ve got options—both domestic and international—for ringing in your milestone birthday just right. Here, 10 birthday trip ideas that’ll get you excited for the next decade, from the rugged wilderness of Alaska’s Denali National Park to the white-hot clubs of Argentina’s Buenos Aires.

A Brooklyn-based writer and editor, Chelsea's work has appeared in Matador Network, The Huffington Post, the TripAdvisor blog, and more. When not planning her next trip, you'll usually find her drinking way too much iced coffee (always iced—she’s from New England) or bingeing a Netflix original series.

See recent posts by Chelsea Stuart

Images Courtesy of Native Hostel/Charles Reagan

Keep it local: Austin, TX

Vegas is cool, but if you want to ring in a twenty-first birthday you’re more likely to remember, head to ATX instead. In Austin, you can throw back a stiff drink just as easily as in Sin City, but you’ll also find top-notch breakfast tacos, hole-in-the-wall music venues, and sceney boutique hotels. As we’re sure you’ve picked up on, we love a good luxury stay, but having been less-than-financially-stable twenty-somethings ourselves, we can also appreciate a chic budget sleep when we see one. Grab your squad and head for Native Hostel , a bohemian-hip stay that’s far more sophisticated than the term “hostel” implies. In communal spaces, it’s all plush velvet couches, black marble, and polished concrete, while dorm-style rooms offer custom-built bunk beds—with velvet privacy curtains—for up to six people. When it comes time to whip out your ID for a drink or two, head to  Jackalope on Dirty Sixth. The infamous dive bar—on Austin’s even more infamous street—doles out cheap Lone Stars, crafty cocktails, and all matters of burger (bacon, brie, mushroom, you name it).

Go abroad: Buenos Aires, Argentina

Ibiza, Cancun, and Berlin may top the list of the world’s most well-known party destinations, but for a twenty-first birthday bash that balances clubs and culture, you’re better off in Buenos Aires. The sultry Argentine capital has a little bit of everything: stately European architecture, legendary Latin nightlife, and — not to be outshined — the best parrillas (steakhouses) you’ll ever step foot in. A real night out in Buenos Aires doesn’t commence until roughly 2am, so you’ll have plenty of time to fit in a multi-course meal at La Cabrera , a cult steakhouse from Argentine chef Gastón Riveira’s. Here, plates overflow not only with bone-in wagyu, chorizo, pancetta, and 22 other prime cuts of meat, but also as many sides as your table can physically fit. Post-dinner—and, if you’re smart, nap—it’s time to head off to your boliche (club) of choice. We’re partial to  Palacio Alsina : a three-story converted palace awash in LED lights and screens that pulsate along to electronic beats as an eager crowd of 1,500 dances the night away.

RELATED:   30 Things to Do in Buenos Aires

Images Courtesy of Holiday House/Zeke Ruelas

Keep it local: Palm Springs, CA

Your twenties may be in the rearview, but we’d argue that’s what’s most worth celebrating come your big 3-0. If you’ve tucked enough party-centric trips under your belt in the last decade, it’s time to head out west for the rejuvenating hot springs, midcentury-modern houses, and Jack Nicklaus links that so define the desert city of Palm Springs. A Coachella Valley getaway done right means checking into a stylish resort—like  Holiday House —and logging out of your work email for a weekend of wellness. The 28-room boutique embraces a whimsical mix-and-match theme with Smeg refrigerators, rattan bar carts, in-your-face wallpaper, and artwork by greats like David Hockney and Roy Lichtenstein, and these are some of the tamer design elements. Though a vacation here calls for a hearty dose of R&R, you can’t miss out on a trip to nearby Joshua Tree National Park , either. Explore the surreal, sun-bleached wilderness via trails that cross both the Mojave and Colorado deserts before heading back to your hotel for a dip in the palm tree-bound pool.

Go abroad: Toronto, ON

The vibrant, multicultural metropolis of Toronto knows how to host a birthday bash. With some of the world’s most drooled-over restaurants, design-centric boutique hotels, and a glitzy skyline that rivals NYC’s, the dynamic city offers nothing if not options. First thing’s first: Check in at  The Drake Hotel , in Toronto’s West Queen West neighborhood. The hip, culture-driven hotel is kitted out with eye-popping artwork, charcoal hardwood flooring, custom millwork, and retro touches. Grab a bite at one of The Drake’s onsite eateries, but also be sure to clear a spot on your itinerary for  The Distillery District , a stretch of Victorian-era industrial buildings which have been converted into 80+ galleries, restaurants, and shops. There, you’ll find everything from Canadian brewpubs and Izakaya-style noodle bars to vintage purveyors and Italian menswear shops, so you can grab a drink and buy yourself the birthday present you actually want.

RELATED:   30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

Keep it local: Nantucket, MA

If your idea of an island getaway features a crisp Atlantic breeze as opposed to a sun-soaked Caribbean beach, your 40th is best spent in Nantucket. The romantic New England retreat is awash in cobblestone lanes, cedar-shingled homes, and historical lighthouses. Grab your beau and bed down at the romantic  Union Street Inn . Here, 12 guest rooms are done up in soft pastel palettes, plush Frette and Matouk linens, and traditional Nantucket touches (think: nautical stripes, sea- and sand-inspired artwork, and homey wood-burning fireplaces). Deciding on where to eat is never an easy affair, but one of the island’s best meals awaits at The Club Car . The California-inspired restaurant and piano bar may be a Nantucket mainstay, but it reopened to much fanfare just last year. Now, a light-filled dining room dripping with greenery and baby blue banquette seating serves up farm-centric dishes of shared veggie plates, sustainable meats, and local seafoods, including baked medjool dates, pickled eggplant stracciatella with local honey, whole black bass, and za'atar roasted half chickens. Bring your friends and plan for lots of leftovers—perfect a next-day beach picnic.

Go abroad: Bordeaux, France

If your oenophilic interests have already taken you to Napa, Sonoma, and Oregon’s Willamette Valley, it’s time to pack your bags for Bordeaux—France’s premier wine region. Head for the village of Bommes, in southern Gironde, where you’ll find  Lalique Hôtel & Restaurant , a brand new (it debuted in June 2018) prestige property set within Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey, a 400-year-old vineyard estate. The influence of Lalique—one of France’s most iconic lifestyle brands—as well as the land’s beloved vineyards present themselves clearly in the hotel’s every design. Bed frames, tables, mirrors and more are accented with the brand’s signature crystal, while towels and bathroom faucets are embroidered and etched with grapes. At the onsite restaurant—which overlooks the vineyards and is adorned with even more crystal inlay—an experimental seven-course menu comes courtesy of chef Jérôme Schilling, previously of the two-Michelin-starred restaurant at sister property Villa René Lalique . While plates of Dungeness crab with avocado cream and braised duck breast with semolina cake are reason enough to hole up in the restaurant night after night, guests of the hotel spend ample time touring and tasting the estate’s Premier Grands Crus and exploring other nearby vineyards also producing Sauternes, a sweet French wine.

RELATED:   8 Gorgeous Wine Regions to Visit in France That Aren’t Bordeaux

Keep it local: Sedona, AZ

Keep pending midlife crises at bay with a trip to one of the United States’ most spiritual wellness meccas: Sedona. The desert town—bestowed with steep canyons, scenic forests, and backcountry trails—may be an outdoorsman’s dream, but it’s also known for its wealth of destination spas. Carved into 70 red rock acres in Arizona’s secluded Boynton Canyon,  Enchantment Resort is Southwestern tranquility personified. Casita guest rooms and suites are plush but rustic, with wood beamed ceilings, beehive fireplaces, wool Pendleton blankets, and sun-drenched skylights. Settle into your cozy guest room, but when you’re ready for spa treatments, it’s off to the hotel’s sister property, the Mii Amo Spa , where Native American traditions inspire one-of-a-kind therapies and mindfulness exercises. Here, 60-, 90-, and 120-minute treatments include traditional deep tissue massages and exfoliating body wraps, as well as more exclusive practices like new moon manifestation (where you write down your intentions for the coming months) and aura readings, which help foster deeper personal connections with yourself and your loved ones.

Go abroad: Bruges, Belgium

If you’ve already checked European hot spots like Paris, London, and Barcelona off your list, it’s time to head for the canal- and cobblestone-lined streets of Bruges for a birthday you won’t soon forget. The well-preserved medieval town is chock full of 13th- and 14th-century buildings, including soaring church spires, landmark belfies, and Flemish art museums. To get a true taste of town, head to The Markt , Bruges’ circa-958 main square that attracts millions each year to see the Belfry Tower and Cloth Hall; shop fresh produce at the weekly market; and dine in converted guild house restaurants. Keeping with Bruges’ quaint character, a B&B stay is in order. We love the Bonifacius Guesthouse —a canal-side 16th-century home that overlooks the Church of Our Lady, The Gruuthuse Palace, and the fairytale Bonifacius bridge. Here, guests are treated to luxury hotel amenities, with antique objects d’art, jacuzzi tubs, log fireplaces, and Hermès bath products just a few of each guest rooms’ features. Another perk? There’s a Michelin-starred restaurant, Den Gouden Harynck , right next door.

RELATED:   9 Fairytale Towns in Europe We Love

Keep it local: Anchorage, AK

If you’ve yet to set eyes on Alaska’s rugged wilderness, then now’s the time. While the US’s lower 48 offers all matter of natural beauty, there’s just something about the northern territory’s glaciers, hot springs, volcanoes, and tidal islands that other states can’t touch. While a trip here can seem like a lot to plan, if you leave your itinerary to a cruise line, it couldn’t be easier. Holland America crowds tend to veer more toward retirees, so you won’t have to worry about party-hardy millennials when you’re blowing out the candles on your 60th birthday cake. The brand’s 11-deck Nieuw Amsterdam ship offers 12 different itineraries that range in length from 7 to 16 days and take travelers everywhere from cities like Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau to iconic World Heritage Sites like the Inside Passage, Glacier Bay, and Denali National Park. When you’re not exploring a port of call, the ship keeps things cushy and entertaining with sophisticated dining, live music, and spacious staterooms.

Go abroad: Tuscany, Italy  

Anyone with an Italian grandmother will tell you that their Nonna is hands down the best cook in the world. Whether you’ve got grandkids or not, it’s your turn to pick up the tricks of the trade on a trip to Tuscany. At  Tuscookany villa Torre del Tartufo , in the rolling, truffle-dotted hills of Arezzo, guests can settle into a private suite in a circa-1700 villa for a week of hands-on cooking lessons. Instructed by Torre del Tartufo’s resident chef, guests learn the basic techniques behind preparing a four-course Italian meal, including how to roll your own pasta, whip up an Italian meringue, and prepare antipastos like bruschetta and crostini. When you’re not in class, you can tag along on olive-oil or cheese tastings, excursions to nearby wineries, or take a day trip to Florence or Siena, both just an hour away. Of course, guests will have plenty to do on site as the villa also offers a solar heated swimming pool, sauna, wine-barrel-turned-hot-tub, and multiple eateries.

RELATED: The 25 Best Hotels in Italy

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Home » Travel Guides » The Caribbean » 25 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit

25 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit

From the alabaster-white beaches of Bermuda in the north to the cactus-topped desert inland of the ABC Islands in the south, the windswept coves and surfing reefs of Dominica in the east to the jungle-dressed tips of Cuba and the Antilles in the west, the Caribbean has long been a treasure trove of things to do and see.

Combining adventure with relaxation, hundreds of years of colonial history with enthralling Arawak culture, West Indian spices with European gastronomic flair, honeymooners with hill walkers, budget backpacker haunts with some of the most exclusive hotels on the planet, it’s got something for every type of traveler.

It’s got everything from Cuban cigarillos to magma-spouting mountains, not to mention countless airbrushed beaches of pristine sand and shimmering turquoise sea. See you in the rum bars!

Let’s have a look at our list of the best Caribbean islands to visit:

Start on the Jamaican north shore, where powdery white sands run their way along the coast from the ivory stretches of iconic Seven Mile Beach, past the sheer-cut Negril Cliffs, through the luxury uber-resorts of Montego Bay, around the gushing Dunn’s River Falls, and out to where famous James Bond Beach gives way to the jungles of Ocho Rios in plumes of swaying coconut palms, juniper bushes, mangrove and tamarind.

Further in the east and the mighty Blue Mountains rise in verdant swathes of jungle, Jamaican boas swinging from the vines and the scents of coffee beans wafting along the undergrowth.

Then, on the inland hills, visitors can seek out the birthplace of legendary Bob Marley at Nine Mile, or simply opt to flit between the rum bars of Kingston listening to the master and his steel-drum, Rasta off-beats.

Mo’Bay, meanwhile, pulses with nightlife and the smells of jerk chicken, while honeymooners kick back on beachside decks and sip Red Stripe to the sunset.

Also see : Best things to do in Jamaica

2. Turks and Caicos

If it’s beaches you’re after (and let’s face it, what traveler to the Caribbean isn’t?), then Turks and Caicos is perhaps the perfect spot.

A peppering of over 300 tiny islets in the midst of the Lucayan Archipelago, many of the TCI (as it’s known for short) are little more than just sand banks or rugged pillars of rock that rise above the waters of Caribbean Sea.

The salt-washed jetties of Cockburn Town might be the capital, but it’s laid-back Providenciales that draws all the crowds.

And why not? This U-shaped speck of land comes fringed by alabaster-white Grace Bay, punctuated with luxurious five-star resorts, imbued with old pirate carvings from the 19th century, and ringed by coral gardens just waiting for the intrepid SCUBA diver.

Oh, and it’s the home of the island’s deep-fried conch clams too! Further afield and the TIC offers up uber-romantic honeymoon suites on their own private island, beaches like Malcolm Beach, and the glowing turquoise currents of Chalk Sound to boot!

Also see : Best things to do in Turks and Caicos

3. St. Lucia

St. Lucia is like the child that refused to conform.

Instead of settling down to be overgrown by mangrove and palms, it rose and rose, peaking with the mighty duo of the Pitons, or rising to a whopping 950 meters with the jungle-dressed Mount Gimie at its heart.

Then there are the bubbling volcanic springs and mud pools, forever carving and changing the interior of the island around Soufriere.

And talking of little Soufriere on the south coast, it’s here that travelers will discover the gorgeous cove of Anse Chastanet, hidden between cliffs and promontories and clusters of coastal waterfalls.

The north of the island continues to offer up beauties too, like the golden powder of Reduit Beach and the strong bulwarks of Pidgeon Island National Park – home to fortresses raised by the British during the Seven Years’ War.

Also see : Best things to do in St. Lucia

A tumultuous past and political penchant for communism has meant Cuba has remained something of an off-the-beaten-track option for travelers in the Caribbean until only recently.

The latest news is a loosening of travel and import restrictions from America, both expected to bring hordes of new tourists to the so-called Pearl of the Antilles.

There’s certainly no shortage of pulls.

For one, the capital at Havana oozes a vintage charm.

Cadillacs bump up and down the streets and peeling stuccoed frontispieces circa 1925 give way to the off-beats of samba, rumba and songo aplenty; cigar smoke puffs out of the speakeasies and the sun-splashed Malécon is strutted by all sorts! Leaving the Che monuments and Spanish streets behind, the greater island offers up picture-perfect beaches at Varadero, ecotourism amidst karst mountains in Pinar del Río, breathtaking vistas in the Viñales Valley – the list goes on!

Also see : Best things to do in Cuba

5. Antigua and Barbuda

Separated by a short gap of sky-blue Caribbean Sea in the midst of the Leeward Islands, the duo that makes up Antigua and Barbuda represent one of the region’s most well-rounded tourist draws.

In St. John’s parish, the small and tight-knit capital of the archipelago, there are cricket grounds and bobbing cruise ships on the horizon, while the slap and click of casino chips is never too far away.

For the best intro to the rest of Antigua (the larger of the two islands), most travelers will scale up to Shirley Heights Lookout, where the pearly-white of beaches, the deep green of the palm forests and the occasional bloom of bougainvillea spread out to reveal Falmouth and English Harbour – two of the earliest colonial towns here.

Stone churches atop cliffs belie the English influence, while old sugar plantations await inland.

And then there’s Barbuda: a mecca for sailors and swimmers in search of real seclusion.

Also see : Best things to do in Antigua and Barbuda

6. US Virgin Islands

The USVI aren’t your usual Caribbean paradise.

That’s not to say they don’t have all the ubiquitous shimmering sands and aquamarine-hued waters.

It’s to say they have other things up their sleeve too! A mecca for yachters, the trio of Saint Croix, Saint John and Saint Thomas, together with countless smaller specks of rocky land like Water Island, Thatch Cay and Hassel Island, offer up a pick and mix of little coves and cliff-backed inlets to explore by boat.

Then there’s Salt River Bay, a verdant bloom of mangrove forests that spills into the cobalt blue and pretty underwater corals of Buck Island Reef.

Rum distilleries come ten to the penny too, while pretty remnants of Danish rule still stand above the palm trees and the ferns. Yep, this one’s a real top choice!

Also see : Best things to do in the US Virgin Islands

Cacti-topped Aruba shares much with its Latin American neighbors.

After all, this gem-shaped island on the far southern reaches of the region is closer to the mainland than it is to many of the other salt-washed islands of the Caribbean.

Let’s start with the weather, which remains unusually steady and warm, unperturbed by the hurricanes and cyclones that wash through the Atlantic belt.

The 300 days of sun and soothing shore waters ensure a steady stream of snowbirds from the US, who can be seen reclining on the sands of Baby Beach in the south, the windblown rocks of Hadikurari, shaded Arashi, or the reef-ringed likes of Boca Catalina right throughout the year.

Then there’s Aruba’s dusty, desert-like interior, peaked over by the lookouts of Haystack Mountain, and the island’s curious Papiamento lingo, fusing Spanish and Dutch, Creole and Portuguese.

Also see : Best things to do in Aruba

8. Dominican Republic

From the swaying palms and rugged cliffs of Los Haitises in the east to the old mineshafts and dusty trailheads of the Sierra de Bahoruco in the west, the surfing hotspots of Cabarete and Puerto Plata in the north to the urban sprawl of Santa Domingo and its concomitant colonial treasures in the south, the Dominican Republic has plenty of tricks up its sleeve! For most, the piece de resistance is Punta Cana, where strips of white sand run along the windward coast like glistening ribbons in the moonlight, punctuated only by the occasional luxury resort, its infinity pools butting up right to rollers of the Atlantic.

Others will aim for the beautiful coast of Cibao, and hop between fishing towns and salt-washed cays.

Others still will go intrepid and seek out the ridges and hikes of the Enriquillo Valley, and indelibly green Armando Bermúdez. The choice is yours!

Also see : Best things to do in the Dominican Republic

Grenada is the Spice Isle: a land of nutmeg and vanilla pods and fragrant wafts of cinnamon that twist and turn in the sultry Carib air, rolling down in breezes with the trade winds to the pretty bays of Grand Anse and the shiny white sands of Morne Rouge Beach.

Volcanic in origin, the island spikes and dips with the cones of Mount Saint Catherine and the grass-rimmed crater lakes of Grand Etang alike.

Waterfalls gush and carve the landscapes too, running swiftly over the rocks at Royal Mount Carmel and flowing in moss-clad steps at the Seven Sisters, accessible only by winding hiking trails through the mountains.

Oh, and let’s not forget the human side of things: the lively local fish fries of Gouyave; the River Antoine brewing house – home to some of the oldest rum labels in the world.

Also see : Best things to do in Grenada

10. The Bahamas

Spread out over a whopping 470,000 square kilometers of ocean between where the beaches of northern Cuba give way to the Lucayan isles, The Bahamas connect the Caribbean with the coastal reaches of the United States – and more specifically, the Sunshine State of Florida.

Since the late 18th century, these glistening cays and sand bars have been joined with the Commonwealth.

The British made a colony here after ousting bands of buccaneers and pirates from the shores, leaving the elegant neoclassic looks of the Bahamian Parliament and the juggernaut walls of Fort Charlotte in their wake.

More recently, the rich and famous came, settling their yachts between the coves of New Providence and the beachfront villas of Paradise Island, or slapping poker chips on the Atlantis casino floor.

Don’t worry though, The Bahamas are for everyone: ecotourists flock to the reefs of Grand Bahama, beach-hunters for the secluded inlets of Long Island, sports fishers and divers straight to the coral gardens of Bimini.

Also see : Best things to do in The Bahamas

11. St. Martin

Cut in two halves by an international border, the pretty island of St. Martin (that’s Sint Maarten or Saint-Martin depending whether you’re from the north or the south) remains uber-popular with cruise shippers and sun seekers, not to mention the crowds of gamblers and shoppers that hit its shores each year in search of the Vegas-style games rooms and duty free shopping in Cole Bay, Phillipsburg and the rest of the Dutch side.

Meanwhile, sands shimmer and shine against an electric-blue sea at Orient Bay in the north, cocktail joints spill into the tide at Mullet Bay, and the footsteps of pirates still mark the untrodden and secluded smuggler’s coves of Pinel Island in the east.

Marigot’s markets are popular too, while the fusion of Dutch and French cultures makes for a truly interesting mix.

Also see : Best things to do in St Martin

12. Puerto Rico

Defended by the age-stained bulwarks of colonial forts and crenulated, cannon-holding palisades, washed over by some of the wildest surf spots in the Caribbean (think the legendary likes of Tres Palmas, Rincon and the Middels), trodden by the likes of Christopher Columbus and the marauding pirates of the great seas, and shaped by American and Spanish history alike, Puerto Rico is unquestionably one of the jewels of the region.

The UNESCO-attested capital at San Juan is a real treat, awash with Baroque churches, the mighty El Castillo fort and the shimmering beaches of Condado.

It has a party side too, with oodles of Senor Frogs and spring breaker bars bursting from the cobbled streets after dark.

Go east to find the beautiful Luquillo beaches and the frog-spotted forests of El Yunque, or south to see off-the-beaten-track Ponce, complete with curious multi-coloured cathedrals and some of the emptiest sands on the island.

Also see : Best places to visit in Puerto Rico

13. Barbados

In Barbados, the waves lap like rhythmic samba beats against the soft, soft sands of Alleynes Bay or Brandons Beach; the palm trees sway in the Atlantic trade winds of the rugged east coast, the wild surf swells spattering the boulders of Bathsheba and Cattlewash with salt and whitecap water.

In Barbados the yachts bob in the harbours of UNESCO-attested Bridgetown, and potent rum is sipped between the distilling tanks of Mount Gay.

In Barbados, the flying fish become frying fish with a scotch bonnet top in the earthy holes-in-the-wall, and luxurious all-inclusive resorts loom on the clifftops, their infinity pools just edging over the shore.

In Barbados, there are millionaires and backpackers alike, some kicking-back with pina coladas on sunning terraces, others hiking the jungle trails, SCUBA diving the reefs and enjoying the local rum shacks on the streets. Barbados is, simply, awesome!

Also see : Best things to do in Barbados

14. Guadeloupe

Nestled in the middle of the Lesser Antilles, Guadeloupe is the tropical Caribbean chart-topper that no one’s ever heard of.

Shaped like a butterfly, the destination spreads its wings over two large main islands: Basse Terre and Grande Terre.

These are joined at the hip with a series of manmade bridges, and each offer up a different medley of treats.

On Grande Terre is where travelers will find the heady nightlife and stylish fashion outlets of Gosier, giving way to the shimmering beaches of Caravel and the haunting graveyards of Morne à l’eau.

Basse Terre, the larger of the two isles, is a wilder place.

Dressed in jungle that springs in one thousands shades of green from the volcanic soils, it’s cut-through by countless waterfalls, towered over by the mighty tops of La Grande Soufrière (the tallest mountain in the whole Lesser Antilles chain!) and peppered with ancient Arawak archaeological sites.

Also see : Best things to do in Guadeloupe

15. Bermuda

Fabled for its place on one point in the mysterious Bermuda Triangle (although perhaps people might not mind going missing here!), this hook-curve of land is actually not, strictly speaking, in the Caribbean at all.

Instead, it bridges the gap where the Caribbean Sea meets the North Atlantic, giving it an altogether different character to many of the islands on this list.

Take the beaches, which are hued in pink thanks to powdered corals, and lapped by waves of frothy Atlantic rollers.

The topography is rugged, with rocky walls rising straight from the ocean to host clifftop golf resorts at spots like Tucker’s Point, while the climate maintains a steady sultriness and pleasant humidity, from December to December.

There are also glaring similarities to the Caribbean, like the colonial Englishness, which still sprouts up in Bermuda’s hearty country pubs and oozes from the whitewashed mansions of St George.

Also see : Best things to do in Bermuda

16. Cayman Islands

Join smiling locals, flapping endangered sea turtles, blooming ghost orchids, multi-coloured iguanas, and some of the richest folk to ever raise mansions on the edge of the Caribbean Seas on the trio of isles that form the Caymans.

Enfolded between Cuba and Jamaica, it’s hardly surprising that these sun-kissed spots look the part.

There are gorgeous beaches, going from Seven Mile on Grand Cayman (one of the most popular) to the untouched, seaweed-dressed sands of little Cayman Brac.

There are formidable colonial forts, like St. James Castle, and museums chronicling British maritime history and Carib piracy in George Town.

Treasures lurk underwater at Stingray City (guaranteed stingray viewing!), while uber-rare turtles wait in the pools of Boatswain’s Beach.

And at night the hedonism takes over, with al fresco parties at the legendary Sunset House, and rum-packed cocktails aplenty at Billy Bones!

Also see : Best things to do in the Cayman Islands

17. British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands poke their jungle-clad heads above the swells where the North Atlantic Ocean meets the Caribbean Sea.

Blown over by the perpetual trade winds, these crown territories have long been a mecca for the chino-wearing, well-to-do sailor, raising a flapping sail and weaving designer yachts amidst the empty coves and crevices that line the moneyed tax haven of the VI archipelago.

However, in recent decades the spot has also entered the mainstream more and more, with intrepid types focusing on the endangered hawksbill colonies off Ginger Island, the blooming colours of the coral gardens, and awesome SCUBA spots, like the sunk RMS Rhone.

There’s surfing opportunities on Apple Bay, while the whitecaps all around Anegada isle offer windsurfers some long and challenging rides.

And when it’s time to relax, be sure to hit the glimmering crystalline waters of the so-called Baths, hidden between black volcanic boulders on the edge of Virgin Gorda.

Also see : Best things to do in the British Virgin Islands

Where other Caribbean islands are all about luxury resorts and bespoke cocktails, designer brands and well-to-do hotel suites, Haiti is more about one thing: adventure.

This half of Hispaniola has certainly had its troubles, from devastating earthquakes to coup d’etats, but that can’t change the rugged cliffs and palm-fringed beaches of Jacmel, nor the turquoise-blue waters of Labadee, where cruise ships now dock by their thousands.

But for all intents and purposes, Haiti remains an off-the-beaten-track option with oodles of hidden surprises.

Check out the soaring walls of the Citadelle Laferrière, the largest fortress in the Americas that oozes tales of slave revolts and colonisation alike.

Then there are the gorgeous sands of Cape-Haïtien, the pirate retreats of Tortuga, the dense Forêt de Pins and its hiking trails – the list goes on.

Yep, Haiti looks like it’s set to become one of the Caribbean’s top draws in the 21st century!

Also see : Best things to do in Haiti

19. St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Saint Vincent is the kingpin of its eponymous archipelago, shaken like a pepper pot to release the empty and secluded reaches of the smaller Grenadines to the south.

And what a kingpin it is! Clad in swathes of emerald rainforest, it’s got biodiversity to rival anywhere in the Americas: hummingbirds flit between magenta orchid blooms; waterfalls crash through tropical glades; turtles and dolphin pods weave past each other amidst the deep-blue waters.

Tourist wise, there are much fewer folk here than in say St. Lucia just to the north.

Some do come however, to explore the lagoons and sparkling cays of the Grenadines, or to honeymoon with views of Bequia Beach, or on the isolated Tobago Cays.

Others will strap on the SCUBA gear and go underwater, flitting between Bat Cave and the endless schools of frogfish and barracudas.

Also see : Best things to do in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

20. Montserrat

Hailed by many as the Pompeii of the modern era, Montserrat was ravaged back in 1995 when the mighty dome of the hitherto quiet Soufrière Hills mountain exploded in plumes of magma and ash, covering the pretty little English-flavored capital of Plymouth with flows of volcanic rocks and stone.

The people who lived there – many descendants from Irish immigrants in the 1600s – largely moved to the northern section of the island, which is now the only safe place to visit outside of the so-called Seclusion Zone.

But travel to tiny Montserrat has and always will be an adventure.

Proudly off-the-radar of the typical Caribbean luxury trail, this mountain-topped speck in the Lesser Antilles is a place for hitting empty trails and driving empty coastal roads.

You’ll find the likes of isolated Rendezvous Bay, jungle-spotted volcanic massifs deep in the Central Hills, see multi-coloured thrushes amidst the trees, and dive in young coral gardens.

Oh, and drink frothy Guinness in hearty Gaelic pubs!

Also see : Best things to do in Montserrat

21. St. Barts

Home to some of the most luxurious hotel resorts and exclusive boutiques on the planet, St.

Barts has a certain air of importance that often works to keep away the casual visitor.

But you don’t need to be a billionaire oil fat cat to enjoy this one. (It just helps a little.)

There’s no question that the prize is worth paying for though…glistening sands hide between the green headlands at Shell Beach and uber-romantic Flamands, snorkelers trawl the waters at Colombier, and cocktail-sippers chatter the days away in designer bikinis between the bars of Grand Cul-de-Sac.

Evening sees the SCUBA divers and submarine tourers emerge from the depths to enjoy fresh lobster cuts, while Gustavia – the capital – has countless private yachts and bespoke fashion shops in its midst.

There’s also a charming Francophone edge to this overseas territory of Paris’, with elegant haute and fine-dining just two examples of the European influence.

Also see : Best things to do in St. Barts

22. Trinidad and Tobago

Unlike most all of its Caribbean neighbors, the duo of Trinidad and Tobago has a special economic trump card: oil.

Yep, thanks to the refineries and booming fossil fuel industry here, tourism has remained firmly in the backseat. That’s not to say it’s a bad place to come.

On the contrary: it’s perfect if you want something a little less in the way of Disneyland tropics and something more in the ilk of wild Carib backcountry.

Trinidad is the largest isle, its hills cascading in blooms of coconut palms down to beautiful beaches like Maracas, Chagville and Las Cuevas.

Tiny little Tobago, meanwhile, is even more undeveloped.

It’s got Pigeon Point and Englishman’s Bay – both picture-perfect images of exotic beaches, the sort you could find in a travel brochure.

Travelers can also see the whitewashed remains and canons of Fort George, go turtle seeking on Matura Beach, or join the raucous celebrations of the archipelago’s Pre-Lenten Festival – a medley of Brazilian colour and carnivalesque dances that’s one of the biggest cultural dates on the Caribbean calendar!

Also see : Best things to do in Trinidad and Tobago

23. St. Kitts and Nevis

St. Kitts and Nevis is sculpted volcanic hills covered in blankets of tropical green.

St. Kitts and Nevis is historic sugar plantations clad in ages of moss and crumbling colonial fortresses where canons rust in the salt sea breezes.

St. Kitts and Nevis is about soaring Mount Liamuiga and its brooding volcanic cone.

St. Kitts and Nevis is the eye-opening dive sites of the Monkey Shoals and the gliding sea turtles of Frigate Bay Reef, it’s the English-style churches and regal fountains of Basseterre; the striking remains of Brimstone Hill and sheer-cut black cliffs that drop to a wavy ocean.

St. Kitts and Nevis is a fine balance of adventure and relaxation, gorgeous tropical vistas and interesting – if occasionally brutal – colonial history.

In short, St. Kitts and Nevis is a well-rounded holidaying spot in the middle of the sun-splashed Lesser Antilles.

Also see : Best things to do in St. Kitts and Nevis

24. Martinique

A patchwork of virgin forests and rising volcanic mountains, cascading coastal hills and the occasional powdered cove where the Caribbean Sea drifts in and out at regular intervals, Martinique combines the beauty of the tropics with all the refinement you’d expect of a French overseas territory.

For example, there are exhibitions dedicated to the artistic output of Paul Gauguin (who came here in the late 19th century) set in the shadow of the steaming top of active Mont Pelée.

Then, countless folds of empty sand going from Grand Anse to Anse Turin are met by the rugged, moss-clad walls of the Gorges de la Falaise (the Caribbean’s answer to Greece’s Samaria Gorge), and curious mashups of spice-packed Tamil curries mix with Francophone pastries on the streets of Fort-de-France.

Also see : Best things to do in Martinique

25. Curaçao

The elusive ‘C’ of the ABCs makes its home between the cacti-spotted reaches of Aruba and the shimmering reefs of Bonaire.

There, just a stone’s throw from the Venezuelan coast, it rises from the cobalt waters to display multi-coloured Dutch mansions in Willemstad (a UNESCO World Heritage Site besides), craggy boulders and cliffs and swimming sea turtles at the Shete Boka National Park, boat-bobbing harbours at Fort Amsterdam, floating markets and cactus-topped hills for walking.

Given the diversity, it’s hardly surprising that Curaçao draws a really broad range of travelers.

Some come to kick-back in luxury resorts like the Hyatt with its private beach at Barbara, others will dive into awesome Playa Kalki, explore the hanging stalactites of the Hato Caves, or case out the colonial history at spots like the Maritime Museum and Postal Museum in the capital.

Also see : Best things to do in Curacao

25 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit:

• Turks and Caicos
• Antigua and Barbuda
• US Virgin Islands
• Dominican Republic
• The Bahamas
• Puerto Rico
• Cayman Islands
• British Virgin Islands
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines
• Trinidad and Tobago
• St. Kitts and Nevis

Protect Your Trip »

8 best bahamas islands, ranked.

From uninhabited cays to lavish resorts, the 700 islands of the Bahamas have something to offer everyone. Crystal clear waters, sugary white sands and average year-round temperatures in the 80s make this tropical paradise a must-visit for relaxation seekers. To help you choose the best Bahamian island for your tropical getaway, U.S. News considered factors like pristine beaches, unique attractions and thrilling water sports to bring you the best islands in the Bahamas. Have a say in next year's list by casting your vote below.

Harbour Island

Grand bahama island, long island, bahamas, paradise island.

For the ultimate fairy-tale getaway, head to Harbour Island. With pastel-colored cottages, swaying palm trees and alluring blush-tinted sand , this dreamy oasis is worthy of a postcard. Spend a day exploring the quaint streets of Dunmore Town on a golf cart (the island's primary mode of transportation), then refuel with a delicious lunch of conch fritters (shellfish that is battered and deep-fried with vegetables and seasonings). When you're ready to hit the beach, Harbour Island's illustrious Pink Sand Beach provides excellent swimming and snorkeling conditions, while the Lone Tree at Girl's Bank Beach is a must for photographers.

Famed for its cobalt blue water, white sand beaches and friendly swimming pigs , this chain of 365 cays along the Atlantic Ocean is so esteemed that many of its islands are privately owned by celebrities (including Johnny Depp and Tyler Perry). Head to Coco Plum Beach for prime sand dollar hunting or get your feet wet at the renowned Tropic of Cancer Beach. Meanwhile, divers should suit up for a swim at Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, the world's first land and sea reserve, or Thunderball Grotto, a fascinating underwater cave featured in the 1965 James Bond flick, "Thunderball."

Boasting a plethora of resort hotels and more airports than any other Bahamian island, Eleuthera may be easy to visit – but it's definitely not easy to leave. Dramatic cliffs, miles of unspoiled coastline and some of the sweetest pineapples in the world make this picturesque island ideal for long, leisurely days by the water. Hang 10 at Surfer's Beach or spend an evening on Lighthouse Beach, a stretch of pink sand best for romantic strolls. For an unforgettable experience, see where the aquamarine waters of the Bight of Eleuthera meet the dark blue Atlantic Ocean at the Glass Window Bridge.

Visit Grand Bahama Island if your idea of a perfect island getaway includes ample water sports. Snorkel in some of the Bahamas' best blue holes or go diving with tiger sharks at Tiger Beach. Lucaya Beach and Taino Beach are both top-notch shores, but the rippled sand at Gold Rock Beach in Lucayan National Park has been known to attract photographers and cinephiles (it is featured in several of the "Pirates of the Caribbean" films). In the evening, head to Count Basie Square in Port Lucaya Marketplace for dinner, drinks and traditional goombay music.

Spanning 120 miles, the boating capital of the Bahamas is home to the Sea of Abaco, a naturally protected body of water with stellar fishing and premier sailing. Marsh Harbour's myriad restaurants, resorts and marinas make a great home base for island hoppers, while Hope Town, a charming village known for its colorful cottages and iconic Elbow Reef Lighthouse, appeals to history buffs. Don your scuba diving gear to explore the underwater caverns of Walker's Cay, or stroll the sandbar at Tahiti Beach. Only accessible by bike, boat or on foot, this secluded stretch of shore is perfect for leisurely beach days.

Along the western shore of Long Island, pristine white sand beaches frame the calm, sapphire waters of the Great Bahama Bank. Here, visitors can sunbathe, swim or spot exotic birds along the coast of Cape Santa Maria Beach. Meanwhile, dramatic cliffs tower over the Atlantic Ocean on Long Island's eastern shore, where bonefishing, scuba diving and sailing are popular pursuits. Hold your breath for a thrilling free dive of Dean's Blue Hole, the world's second deepest blue hole, or explore the stalactites at Hamilton's Cave, the largest cave system in the Bahamas.

If your perfect vacation includes glitzy resorts, sparkling white sand beaches and family-friendly activities, head to Paradise Island. The massive Atlantis, Paradise Island resort complex is the island's crowning jewel, sheltering the world's largest open-air marine habitat and one of the Caribbean's largest casinos and water parks. Book your stay with the resort or purchase a day pass to enjoy amenities, such as the Predator Lagoon, Aquaventure and Dolphin Cay. Keep in mind that Paradise Island is primarily a tourist destination, so expect crowds.

Although this unpretentious island lacks the flashiness of Nassau and Great Exuma, it is precisely this low profile that keeps its beaches pristine and uncrowded. Go kitesurfing at Greenwood Beach, search for sand dollars along Fernandez Bay or chat with locals at New Bight Beach. Afterward, visitors can hike Mount Alvernia, the highest point in the Bahamas, or embrace the island's folklore by trying to spot the fabled mermaids in Mermaid Hole. Visit in June when the annual Rake 'n' Scrape music festival lights up the island with a farmers market, battle of the bands and quadrille dancing.

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The 9 Best Party Destinations in the Caribbean

See recent posts by Lara Grant

While the most alluring aspects of Caribbean destinations are the year-round warm weather, beautiful sandy beaches abutting blue water, and water-based activities ranging from paddleboarding to scuba diving, many travelers also want a healthy dose of partying on their vacation. From buzzing nightclubs and casual beachfront bars, to strong rum cocktails and all-inclusive drink packages, there are some Caribbean locales that offer a plethora of party-minded pros for visitors. Keep reading for our top party-centric spots in the Caribbean.

1. Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

College kids and young-at-heart travelers head to Cancun for the free-flowing margaritas, Caribbean sunshine, and rampant nightlife spots. Though visitors should expect lots of Americanized restaurants and bars, as well as some rowdy behavior, there’s no denying it’s a great spot to let loose while overlooking the beautiful white-sand beach . Resorts in the Hotel Zone can provide all the party essentials, plus the area is packed with popular spots like Señor Frog’s, Carlos’n Charlie’s, and Coco Bongo dance club, all of which are close together for easy bar-hopping.

Our Party Hotel Pick: Hard Rock Hotel Cancun

The all-inclusive Hard Rock Hotel Cancun is a fantastic pick for party-minded guests, thanks to its gorgeous infinity pool with ocean views and two popular swim-up bars, lovely beachfront, five restaurants serving international cuisine, and live entertainment, plus a great spa to rejuvenate after a night of dancing and imbibing.

Pricing for Hard Rock Hotel Cancun

3. San Juan, Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is a fun, colorful, and vibrant country with tons to do, and nowhere is that more apparent than the capital of San Juan . On Puerto Rico’s northern coast, San Juan has gorgeous Colonial-style buildings and cobblestone streets, which contrast the casinos , nightclubs , and bars found throughout. Start your night with refreshing pina coladas, then pop into one of the many spots for salsa and flamenco dancing, such as the popular La Factoria. For more sand-filled fun, head to Isla Verde Beach and grab a cocktail at Alambique Beach Lounge.

Our Part Hotel Pick: San Juan Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino

The upscale San Juan Marriott resort and Stellaris Casino is a 527-room property with direct access to a scenic stretch of Condado Beach. Extensive features include a pool complex with swim-up bar and waterslide, attractive guest rooms with flat-screen TVs and balconies, multiple restaurants and an ocean-view bar, popular casino, and full-service spa.

Pricing for San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino

You won’t find a ton of massive all-inclusive resorts or areas packed with nightclubs in Aruba , but the small island is still a worthwhile party spot, particularly for those looking to do some gambling. Drinking and gambling at one of the several casinos is legal for 18 year olds, plus the casinos are often open until late at night and have some form of entertainment. Visitors can find a hotel with a swim-up bar for day drinking, and head to the Palm Beach area at night, which is home to popular Gusto night club, Soprano’s Piano Bar, Saloon Bar, and Bugaloe Beach Bar & Grill. For more authentic culture, drive 20 minutes south to Oranjestad to the highly frequented rum shop, Local Store, and Cafe Chaos, a pub that attracts both locals and tourists.

Our Party Hotel Pick: Marriott’s Aruba Surf Club

The lively Marriott’s Aruba Surf Club is a mid-range property in Aruba’s popular beachfront High Rise district. Rooms with kitchenettes, or apartment-style units with full kitchens are available, and many have wonderful views of the pool and ocean. The highlight here is the series of pools with a Lazy River, waterslide, and swim-up bar.

Pricing for Marriott's Aruba Surf Club

5. Negril, Jamaica

Travelers looking to experience more local culture than the average Caribbean island — without sacrificing party-filled activities — should head to Negril, Jamaica . Although it’s not nearly as culturally immersive as the capital of Kingston , it offers a lovely blend of stunning beaches , seaside bars and restaurants serving jerk chicken and Red Stripe, and live entertainment from Jamaicans. Cliff-jumping at Rick’s Cafe, fresh seafood along Seven Mile Beach , and dancing to DJ-led music at spots like The Jungle Night Club are not to be missed.

Our Party Hotel Pick: Hedonism II

The all-inclusive Hedonism II is an upper-middle-range nudist resort, popular with couples looking to spice up their vacation, fun-seeking groups, and some singles. This adults-only resort is tucked into a quiet, secluded section of Negril’s Seven Mile Beach in Jamaica. There are both a “nude” and “prude” side here to accommodate guests of different comfort levels, in addition to sexy theme nights, a risque playroom, and shop for lingerie and toys.

Pricing for Hedonism II

6. Cartagena, Colombia

You may know Cartagena from its plethora of Instagram-worthy facades in vibrant hues with climbing greenery, but this coastal Colombian city is home to a wide array of day and nighttime attractions . After spending a day exploring the colonial architecture within the historic Walled City , travelers can head to nearby spots such as Cafe Havana for cuban music and salsa dancing, Alquimico for fancy craft cocktails, and Via Apia for tapas. For more nightclubs, beaches, and modern buildings, take a quick taxi to the Bocagrande neighborhood.

Our Party Hotel Pick: Hotel Casa del Arzobispado

Set within the historic Walled City, across the street from Cartagena’s famous Catedral de Santa Catalina, Hotel Casa del Arzobispado is an upper-middle-range boutique that’s charming and elegant. The property has just 10 spacious, individually decorated rooms, a beautiful pool and courtyard, and free Wi-Fi. All rates include breakfast and there’s a small spa and sauna for relaxing.

Pricing for Hotel Casa del Arzobispado

Albeit smaller than its neighbor Aruba, the Dutch Caribbean island of Curacao still has a great spread of hopping bars and clubs. Close to the cruise terminal is Mambo Beach , which houses Wet & Wild Beach Club offering happy hour and live DJs, and Madera Ocean Club, featuring well-priced cocktail and food menus. The more central Willemstad area has 27 Bar & Terrace, a popular live music venue, and Sopranos sports bar. The great windsurfing conditions, photogenic colonial architecture, and rampant beautiful beaches are just cherries on top of the piña coladas.

Our Party Hotel Pick: Santa Barbara Beach & Gold Resort, Curacao

The 350-room Santa Barbara Beach & Golf Resort is an expansive luxury property that draws both couples and families with its array of features such as a lovely spa, kids’ camp, and three pools. The wide, white-sand beach and protected swimming area are highlights, as is an 18-hole golf course. The all-inclusive package covers all meals at the restaurant and pool bar; select beers, house wines, and cocktails

Pricing for Santa Barbara Beach & Golf Resort, Curacao

8. Barbados

Known for pink-sand beaches , observable British influence, and shipwreck diving , Barbados is a spirited Caribbean nation with nightlife to match. The most popular area for drinking and dining is St. Lawrence Gap , a strip of restaurants, bars, clubs, and hotels near Dover Beach . The Cove is a bustling club there that plays a variety of music including calypso and reggae, while nearby Old Jamm Inn has a dance floor, cheap drinks, and a mix of locals and tourists. For those closer to the capital of Bridgetown , the open-air Harbour Lights is a well-regarded nightclub, while visitors to the Holetown area often make a stop of Red Door Lounge and Drift Ocean Terrace Lounge.

Our Party Hotel Pick: Yellow Bird Hotel

The mid-range Yellow Bird has a great location across from a beach in the popular St. Lawrence Gap area, within walking distance of nightlife, restaurants, and several beaches. There are 22 rooms here with contemporary decor, kitchenettes, and furnished balconies overlooking the sea. A small outdoor pool with loungers and an all-day, open-air restaurant and bar also provide ocean views.

Pricing for Yellow Bird Hotel

9. Trinidad and Tobago

Our Party Hotel Pick: Courtyard by Marriott Port of Spain

To be near the Carnival hub, we recommend staying at Courtyard by Marriott Port of Spain. This upper-middle-range property has 116 clean, contemporary rooms with mini-fridges, flat-screen TVs, and balconies in some. The hotel offers an outdoor pool set in a spacious sundeck, a fitness center, and all-day restaurant, plus free Wi-Fi.

Pricing for Courtyard by Marriott Port of Spain

What to Bring on Your Trip: Blowfish for Hangovers

As the only FDA-approved hangover cure, you’re going to want to pack some Blowfish in your bag for your next party-filled vacation.

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12 Stunning Places to Travel for Your Birthday in 2022

ASAPtickets travel experts have created a list of ideas for your birthday vacation! Celebrate your birthday in one of most beautiful places on Earth!

Don’t want to organize a birthday party and spend a fortune on food and drink? Skip the usual celebrations by picking one of 12 stunning places to travel for your birthday vacation.  Because let’s be honest, your birthday is all about YOU!

The experts at ASAP Tickets have created a special list of 12 top places to travel for your birthday! Because what can be more exciting than popping a bottle of champagne or blowing out candles in one of the most beautiful places on Earth?

#1 Palau, Oceania

Palau is a small independent island between Guam and the Philippines. It is a floating wonderland for divers and snorkelers! The island is well known for so many reasons! Spectacular landscapes, limestone rock islands, pristine colorful reefs, a lake of stingless jellyfish , exotic forests, and sky-blue lagoons. Heading to Palau would be the best birthday vacation idea!

#2 Namib Desert, Namibia

The Namib is the world’s oldest desert. It stretches along the Atlantic Ocean and is the closest thing to Mars that we have on Earth. The desert charms travelers from all over the world with its ever-changing orange dunes, the shadowplay at sunset and sunrise, its unique nature, and its surreal landscapes. You can enjoy watching the shadowplay around Sesriem or the famous Dune 45 and capture some scenic views at Deadvlei and Sossusvlei .

#3 Zhangjiajie, China

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is a part of the Wulingyuan Scenic Area. Its pristine forests and thousands of sandstone hills – some even taller than the Empire State Building – make for an impressive skyline. The view over the national park is incredible. It’s one of the most beautiful places in China. The scenic Zhangjiajie landscape inspired the floating Hallelujah Mountains in the movie Avatar . Among all birthday vacation ideas, this might be one of the most exotic!

#4 Palawan, Philippines

The Philippines are home to 7,107 exotic islands , of which Palawan is one of the most popular destinations. The island will take your breath away with its limestone cliffs, pristine lagoons, and white sandy beaches . On Palawan, you can find dozens of iconic landscapes and spectacular wildlife. It’s an exciting adventure.

[Read: 15 Fun Things To Do in The Philippines ]

#5 Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to walk on water, you can experience this magical feeling in Bolivia. Salar de Uyuni is the world’s largest salt flat . In the rainy season (roughly from December/January till April) it turns into a beautiful landscape like Salvador Dali’s artwork, making anyone standing on it look as if they’re part of an enormous mirror.

#6 Mù Cang Chải, Vietnam

Mù Cang Chải is a rural district of Yen Bai province, northeast Vietnam. It’s popular for its majestic rice terraces and mountainous landscapes. Mù Cang Chải is one of most attractive destinations in Vietnam, and it is most beautiful during the grain season in September and October.

#7 Santorini, Greece

Santorini is officially one of the most stunning islands in the world and our top pick among all the picturesque places to travel for your birthday. Its local charm, magnificent ocean views, pristine beaches and unique architecture will make your heart skip a beat. The island is famous for one of the world’s best scuba diving and snorkeling spots, exquisite vineyards, and scenic ocean views, as well as the beautiful white Santorini villas.

[Read:   Should I Use a Travel Agent to Book Flights? ]

[Read:  5 Ways How to Book Cheap Flight Tickets ]

#8 Bagan, Myanmar

Bagan is an ancient city in Myanmar. The city’s skyline gives everyone goosebumps, especially at sunrise and sunset, when the sunlight illuminates more than 4,000 ancient temples . Bagan is well known for hot-air balloon festivals. When hot-air balloons fill the sky over the stupas and temples of Ancient Bagan, the view is one of the iconic images of Myanmar.

#9 Trolltunga, Norway

Trolltunga is one of Norway’s most scenic cliff faces. The famous Trolltunga ledge lingers 700 feet above the beautiful Ringedalsvatnet Lake. The views from here are breathtaking – you can take in the gorgeous blue lake, the towering fjords, the snow-capped mountains, and the unforgettable landscape. Trolltunga is one of the top hiking spots in Norway. Tourists from all over the world come to see the spectacular Trolltunga ledge, Pulpit Rock, and Kjerag  “face to face”.

#10 Tulum, Mexico

Tulum is well known for its ancient Mayan wonders and untouched beauty. The beautiful town on the Caribbean coast is home to one of the best beaches in Mexico. Tulum charms travelers from all over the world with its eco-parks, its magical underground caves and cenotes, its tropical forests, and its jade-green freshwater pools.

#11 The Rainbow Mountains, China

The surreal Rainbow Mountains are part of the Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park . This natural artwork is more than 24 million years old . The Rainbow Mountains are most beautiful at sunset and sunrise when the sunlight brings out the red and orange colors in the rocks that form the mountains’ surface. Zhangye is one of the most beautiful places in China.

[Read:  How to Book Multi-city Flights? ]

#12 Amalfi Coast, Italy

The Costiera Amalfitana (or the Amalfi Coast) in Campania is one of the most scenic coastlines in the world . Its beauty rests in the craggy cliffs, the brightly-colored sea, and the thirteen magical villages terraced into the coast’s hillsides. The Amalfi Coast is a place for everyone – charming, romantic, and adventurous.

Plan Your Birthday with ASAP Tickets

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Birthday ideas: 13 trips to celebrate

By Laura Chubb

Got a milestone birthday on the horizon? Misty-eyed maudlinism will only help you miss the real opportunity – which is, of course, a massive, over-the-top, it’s-all-about-you group holiday. And the bigger the birthday, the better the excuse for something really top drawer. Whether your thing is once-in-a-lifetime trips to the Arctic or East Africa , living large on Ibiza , celebrity-spotting in Baja California , or even renting your own island , we’ve got an epic getaway plan for you. Many happy returns.

Go low-key: Greek island hopping

More suitable for a cluster of close friends than a huge entourage, hopping around the Greek islands can be as blowout or pared back as you like. We would take a couple of your nearest and dearest on a jaunt around some of the biggest hitters. For a splurge in Santorini , take over whitewashed Perivolas Hideaway , a four-bedroom villa built into the ruins of a pumice mine that is accessed by speedboat and which has a horizon-pushing seawater pool, roof terrace and private beach. Next, travel to tiny Folegandros , a speck of an island that’s an hour's ride the fast ferry from Thira/Santorini. Just eight miles long, it’s one of the Cyclades' lesser-visited destinations, where you might have the yellow-sand beaches all to yourself. Finish up on Mykonos , the party island, to lose afternoons at beach clubs such as Nammos or Scorpios. Sarah James

Go glam: Lake Como, Italy

Make like George Clooney and bring your entourage to Como , where you can swan around your own lakeside villa. Maybe it’s the fact the Milanese holiday here that makes it so effortlessly fashionable; nothing much ever happens, but there’s an innate, sedate elegance in those long aperitivos, sipping the world’s best espressos on waterfront promenades and gazing contemplatively over silvery ripples towards the Alps . You must, of course, rent a mahogany motorboat and go touring: preferably in a pair of ludicrously expensive sunglasses and short-shorts. The best hotels in Lake Como are amongst some of the best in the world. At the top of the list is Il Sereno , a smart hotel with 30 immaculate rooms done out in walnut and leather. The Mandarin Oriental is another option, beloved for its meticulous gardens, floating swimming pool and celebratory afternoon tea. 

Go cultured: Ghent, Belgium

Fresh-faced Ghent might be known for the medieval architecture that lines its canals, but in recent years the small Belgian city has undergone an artisanal revolution, driven forwards by the student population who make up about a quarter of locals. The beer scene here is famous – best sampled at traditional pubs such as Trollekelder – but there are also clever gin distilleries and cocktail bars such as tiny waterside spot De Alchemist. By day, you can wander along the bridges and down narrow cobblestone streets seeking out quirky shops and urban-cool food joints (one of our favourites is De Superette, a bakery-restaurant in an old mini market). Take over two-bedroom De Waterzooi Lodge , set in a 16th-century house, to live like a local. Sarah James

Go large: Can Mimosa, Ibiza

The ultimate go-large destination, Ibiza is flush with chic villas perfect for private after-parties. One of our favourites is Can Mimosa , from British interior designer Caroline Legrand: a place of cool white marble with retro-tropical accents (clock the banana-leaf-print wallpaper). Equidistant from traditional San José and party beach Playa d’en Bossa, it has the best of both worlds: secluded seafood restaurants and lazy pavement cafés on one hand; super-clubs including Hï Ibiza (formerly Space) on the other. Plus, the location is all the better for being a five-minute drive from Blue Marlin (such a darling of the A-list, it has its own water-taxi service for private yachts). Sleeps 11. For an Ibiza hotel stay, Nobu Ibiza Bay has a party atmosphere, particularly around the glamorous beachside pool.  

Go once-in-a-lifetime: Northern Lights, Iceland

Perhaps retreating to a remote Arctic nowhere to catch the Northern Lights doesn’t quite say ‘birthday bash’ (quiet, cold, and not a wine shop in sight). Unless, of course, you head for Iceland , which has a fabulously cosmopolitan capital just a short ride from the country’s stock landscape: darkened wilderness unpolluted by urban glare. For a once-in-a-lifetime stay, rent this spectacular glass cottage Airbnb , where the lights can be spied from under the glass ceiling in bed, and the glass bathroom means you can shower while admiring views of volcanoes. Or book a cosy room at Hotel Rangá , a log-style cabin with glacier views that's one of our favourite hotels in Iceland . When you’re ready for action, head into the city for fine new Nordic cooking (Dill sheep-dung-smoked lamb is better than it sounds), and craft tap rooms (cosy Micro Bar pulls exclusively Icelandic brews).

Go A-list: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Jennifer Aniston’s favourite retreat – she even brought her squad here to celebrate her 50th birthday – Cabo is the epitome of relaxed glam. With its mix of glorious sun-bleached beaches , smart hotels and restaurants, and more low-key traditional markets and cantinas, it’s an occasion destination without pretense, and a guaranteed good time. The Friends actor is partial to the One&Only Palmilla – which has a hacienda-style, four-bedroom villa. For privacy and beach swimming, Montage in nearby Los Cabos is perched on Santa Maria Bay, the most swimmable beach in the area. Don’t plan on spending days sightseeing: the Hollywood set come to Cabo for sun, ceviche, massages and cocktails. Do as they do.

Go east, Kerala, India

Kerala ’s backwaters offer a birthday-ready blend of lazy and exotic; it’s otherworldly magical, but also mercifully laidback. The done thing, of course, is to charter a traditional rice barge for gentle meanders around beautiful lagoons. But consider, for a moment, what it would be to hire your own luxury motorboat, with eight cabins and 24-hour butlers instead. That’s the appeal of the Oberoi Vrinda , tastefully decorated like a rice- barge and cleverly designed so as not to disturb the peace. With a bar, dining room, roof deck and large picture windows for capturing those 50-shades-of-green views, it’s an ultra-comfortable way to sail around the region, and there are small rice boats on hand for visiting the narrower canals, too.

Go sailing: British Virgin Islands, Caribbean

The BVIs were made for sailing: a string of 60 islands, islets and cays, stroked by steady winds and strewn with sheltered coves. Far from jazzy hotels and jet-skis, it’s a private-feeling Eden of dazzling white-sand beaches, superlative snorkelling and ramshackle rum shacks. Hire a skipper ( The Moorings come recommended) for an easy idle on its gentle currents, with little to do but live the barefoot dream: be that at The Baths on Virgin Gorda, where volcanic boulders form grottoes and pools; or on Jost van Dyke island’s legendary Soggy Dollar Bar for signature Painkiller cocktails (best enjoyed while swinging in a sea-facing hammock). Guana private island is the place for a big-birthday feast: chef Xavi Arnau trained at Nobu in London and Catalonia’s El Bulli.

Connor Sturges

Lauren Burvill

Olivia Morelli

Go remote: The Scottish Highlands

It’s tempting to equate going big with going far-flung. But there’s no need to jump on a long-haul flight if you’re after epic landscapes in a remote destination. The Scottish Highlands have some of the most beautiful scenery anywhere in the world – as well as white-sand beaches, a delicious farm-to-fork food scene and wonderful places to stay. Take over the two-bedroom Boat House at The Torridon , a private hideaway set right on the water with views across the loch. There’s 58 acres of grounds to explore – try sea kayaking, a whale cruise or go all out and charter a yacht to the Isle of Skye . Sarah James

Go Safari: Serengeti, Tanzania

It doesn’t get much more ‘big birthday’ than a hot-air-balloon ride over the Serengeti . And if you thought a safari might skew a little too rustic for a birthday celebration, don’t worry: there’s plenty of coddling at Four Seasons Safari Lodge , where creature comforts include your own private infinity pool and elevated sun deck. Book a terrace suite and watch elephants drinking at a nearby waterhole over your morning coffee; or presidential villa perks include two bedrooms, a private chef, poolside barbecue and an outdoor tub for deep soaking. Four Seasons safaris offer game drives, walking adventures and, of course, that all-important sunrise balloon ride, followed by a Champagne breakfast in the bush.

Go Tropical: The Tamarind, Thailand

The Tamarind is a luscious tropical escape that feels a world away from Thailand ’s frenzied beach hotels. Close to Bangsaray, a relaxed seaside getaway popular with wealthy Thais, it’s clean, green and quiet, which is more than can be said for better-known neighbour, Pattaya, a 20-minute drive north. The Tamarind has two villas: one sleeping 20 people, set in three acres of jungly gardens; the other housing 12, on the shores of the lake. Also thrown in: 25 full-time staff (can’t confirm), including chefs and drivers. Better still, nearby Hat Sai Kaew beach is the jewel of the region: managed by the Royal Thai Navy, it’s utterly pristine, with mountain views, soft, white sand and crystal-clear shallows for swimming. Also close by is Silverlake Vineyard, a seriously scenic spot for lunch.

Go refined: Napa Valley

In the billionaire’s playground that is the Bay Area, one region in particular is a byword for unparalleled luxury: Napa. Here, big shots retire to tend their own wine estates, eat at triple- Michelin-starred restaurants and tootle two-lane highways through manicured countryside that appears forever bathed in a soft summer glow. Fancy giving the gift of the wealthy Californian’s life – albeit briefly – to yourself? Villas of Distinction rents a £10,000 a night, five-bedroom house in the heart of Napa’s winelands, with a pool, hot tub, 20ft wood-beamed ceilings and roaring fires for those chilly Northern California nights. ( Roman Coppola ’s favourite place to eat, Ciccio in Yountville, is nearby.) Or rent a two-bedroom, cedar shingle lodge at woodland wonderland Calistoga Lodge , one of our favourite wine-country hotels in the world.

Go all-out: Dolphin Island, Fiji

None of this sounding big enough? Then how about this: your own island in the South Pacific . Fourteen-acre, castaway retreat Dolphin Island , available for exclusive-use only, can host a maximum of eight guests. Along with four thatched-roof suites, there’s a hilltop open-air bedroom, lit only by lanterns and candles for the ultimate in stripped-back luxe. Surrounded by shallow water and reefs, snorkellers can head straight out from the sandy beach, and there are 25 excellent dive sites all within an hour. There is, naturally, an infinity pool, helipad and on-tap spa treatments, too.

24 Totally Epic 30th Birthday Trip Ideas

Local laws may restrict service availability to all. See the Equality Index for more information.

When it comes to one-of-a-kind 30th birthday trip ideas, the options for epic celebrations are endless. A blowout beach vacation? The Maldives' overwater bungalows have your name all over them. A low-key cottage in the countryside? Why not make it a culinary excursion at Blackberry Farm in Tennessee? For bottle service and all the fanfare, look no further than Miami or Las Vegas.

We've scoured the latest travel trends and bucket list trips to narrow down 24 of the top birthday vacation destinations that will make the start of your 30s truly eventful. From budget-friendly spots to far-flung trips abroad, get ready to start planning this milestone moment.

• Best 30th Birthday Trip Destinations in the US

For a birthday celebration that's sure to be a memorable one, there are plenty of fantastic options right in your own backyard in the US. From luxe farm stays in the Great Smoky Mountains to over-the-top après-ski in Aspen, here's where to toast to 30 in style.

In this article:

Best 30th Birthday Vacation Ideas Abroad

Budget-friendly 30th birthday trip ideas, all-inclusive resorts for a 30th birthday vacation, 30th birthday weekend getaways near you, miami, florida.

Forget the days of Spring Break—Miami has matured and South Beach is now lined with rooftop bars that have sister spots in Tulum, Michelin restaurants that have become dining destinations, glamorous pools and beach clubs, and shopping that could rival Fifth Avenue or Rodeo Drive. In a city where the standard birthday celebration is a yacht day, you know you're in for a treat.

Things to Do: Dine and listen to jazz at Delilah ; peruse the latest modern and contemporary collections at Pérez Art Museum Miami ; dine at Uchi before dancing the evening away at Dante's HiFi .

Places to Stay: The Setai, Miami Beach ; Life House South of Fifth ; The Standard, Miami Beach ; Arlo Wynwood Miami ; Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club

Napa Valley, California

Perhaps this year you want to slip away from the city and relax in the countryside with your other half—and we couldn't think of a better spot than Napa Valley. Let a private driver whisk you around to wine tastings in between spa sessions and lavish Michelin menus. You'll come back feeling a whole decade younger after this trip to California's wine country.

Things to Do: Cycle down First Street downtown, pausing to visit shops along the way; soar over the vines on a hot air balloon ride that ends with a glass of bubbly; score a reservation at lauded The French Laundry ; kayak along the Napa River; or take a small-group tour to a selection of wineries in Napa Valley and Sonoma.

Places to Stay: Auberge du Soleil ; Carneros Resort ; Bardessono Hotel and Spa ; Meadowood Napa Valley

Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville is a year-round party with live music, festivals and events, and a food scene that just keeps getting better. Turn your birthday into a music tour visiting the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and historic RCA Studio B (where Elvis recorded more than 200 songs) before sitting (or standing) and enjoying a show at the Grand Ole Opry or The Bluebird Cafe .

Things to Do: Brush up on your line dancing with a private lesson ; bar hop along Honky Tonk Highway; take a helicopter tour over the city's skyline; or sample the best of the city's cuisine on a walking food and drink tour of Downtown .

Places to Stay: Kimpton Aertson Hotel ; Graduate Nashville ; Four Seasons Hotel Nashville ; Noelle

Aspen, Colorado

Après-ski is the ultimate party, and nowhere does it quite light Aspen, where Champagne is literally sprayed on the slopes (add Cloud Nine to your list). With ski resorts catering to all ski levels (even beginners won't be intimidated by the gentle terrain at Buttermilk Mountain), you can spend the morning hitting the black diamonds or embracing the bunny slopes—followed by a wine-fueled lunch in one of the buzzy bistros like Ajax Tavern .

Things to Do: Aspen's dining scene has become one of the best in the country, so be sure to make the rounds to a few favorites, including Element 47 , Casa Tua Aspen , Clark's Oyster Bar , White House Tavern and Acquolina . Decorate a hat at Aspen landmark Kemo Sabe (a great birthday gift to yourself!) and visit downtown's Aspen Art Museum . Don't miss Montauk favorite The Surf Club's winter supper club and lounge, The Snow Lodge , at The St. Regis Aspen Resort .

Places to Stay: Hotel Jerome ; The Little Nell ; W Aspen ; The St. Regis Aspen Resort ; Limelight Hotel Aspen

Las Vegas, Nevada

No need to wait for a bachelorette party to make a trip to Sin City, where you can go all-out with DJ-driven pool parties, fabulous shopping, over-the-top dining and shows by stars like Christina Aguilera. Who knows, you may even have a bit of extra birthday luck at the slots.

Things to Do: Sit back and watch the show at The Mayfair Supper Club , where singers and dancers serenade diners; book seats in the speakeasy-style omakase room at WAKUDA ; float down the Grand Canal on a gondola ; or take a day trip on a red rock canyon tour through the desert.

Places to Stay: Wynn Las Vegas ; The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas ; The Venetian Resort Las Vegas ; Bellagio Las Vegas ; NoMad Hotel Las Vegas

Blackberry Farm, Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

Blackberry Farm deserves a section all of its own since the 4,200-acre mountain haven is a destination in itself—and champions farm-to-table dining in the most luxurious of ways. Sleep in one of the secluded cottages, where you can sit back with a glass of wine and admire the surrounding scenery from a wooden swing on the glass-enclosed living porch. Wine and food here is the work of a team of artisans who have blended the best of haute cuisine and Indigenous Smoky Mountain fare, and you can learn how to master some of these standout dishes during the daily cooking demos.

1471 West Millers Cove Road Walland, Tennessee 37886

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Maybe you've been looking for the right time to finally book that trip to Europe, or you've had Japan on your bucket list and finally saved up enough for the big birthday. Whether you want something exotic and far-flung or prefer sticking closer to home, we have the perfect spots to celebrate the big 3-0.

Tokyo, Japan

Japan has had a major moment since reopening, so jump on the bandwagon and head to the bustling capital city of Tokyo. Get lost in translation strolling past neon-lit high-rises, ancient temples, quirky theme cafes and vibrant nightlife in the form of bars and izakaya.

Things to Do: Cross the city's most famous temple, Sensoji, off your list; cruise or stroll along the Sumida River ; head to the well-heeled Nakameguro during cherry blossom season in spring; ferry to the nearby Tokyo Islands where you can swim with dolphins off Miyake or experience Japan's version of the Galapagos in the Ogasawara Islands.

Places to Stay: Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi ; Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo ; The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo ; Hoshinoya Tokyo

Paris, France

Thanks to a mix of budget-savvy airlines like French Bee and the entirely business-class La Compagnie, flying to the French capital has never been easier. As the city gears up for a celebration this summer when it hosts the Olympics, plan a birthday blow-out of your own complete with rooftop restaurants overlooking the Eiffel Tower, dreamy boat rides along the Seine, shopping at grande dame department store Le Bon Marché, and an evening of dancing at Silencio or Le Carmen .

Things to Do: After checking off landmarks like the Louvre and Eiffel Tower, picnic in parks like the Tuileries or Luxembourg Garden; go antiquing at the weekend flea market in Saint-Ouen; splurge on a memorable meal at La Tour d'Argent ; or spend a spa day at Dior Spa Cheval Blanc Paris .

Places to Stay: Le Grand Mazarin ; Hotel Hana ; Hôtel Dame des Arts ; J.K. Place Paris ; Madame Rêve

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town might not be the easiest spot to reach, but once you arrive and see Table Mountain on one side, the turquoise ocean on the other, you'll wish you had a few extra weeks to soak up the scenery. The entry point for safari is worth spending more than a few days, especially as the arts scene continues expanding with museums like contemporary Zeitz MOCAA and galleries like Goodman . Plus, there's fantastic shopping everywhere from The Old Biscuit Mill to The Watershed on the V&A Waterfront.

Things to Do: Hike Lion's Head, ride a cable car up Table Mountain , visit the penguins on Boulder's Beach or enjoy a wine tasting and tour of nearby Stellenbosch and Franschhoek.

Places to Stay: Ellerman House ; Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel ; Gorgeous George ; Dorp ; Cape Grace ; The Silo Hotel ; The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa

Istanbul, Turkey

A bustling city that's a feast for the senses, Istanbul is both Old World and cosmopolitan, with its maze-like Spice Market and Grand Bazaar, gorgeous architecture and chic bars and restaurants. And with direct flights from New York clocking in at just a little over nine hours, you don't have to spend a full day traveling to reach an exotic locale that'll have you feeling like you've truly stepped back in time.

Things to Do: Day trip to Sakara along the Black Sea; visit the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque and Blue Mosque ; sample street food in the neighborhood of Kadikoy; or indulge in a scrub at a Turkish bath like Kiliç Ali Pasa .

Places to Stay: The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul ; Four Seasons Hotel Bosphorus ; Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul ; Ciragan Palace Kempinski ; The Peninsula Istanbul

Palm Island, St. Vincent and the Grenadines

You don't have to be a jetsetter to vacation on a private island. A hopper flight from Barbados followed by a quick boat ride from Union Island and you'll reach adults-only Palm Island in St. Vincent and the Grenadines—which has remained something of a secret in the Caribbean. The toes-in-the-sand-style spot is a low-key way to celebrate the milestone birthday with your other half. Picture days spent snorkeling at the beach or reading in a hammock, couple's massages with the waves in the background, and catamaran cruises to barbecues on neighboring islands.

4.5 Star Rating [insert TripAdvisor rating] | Read Reviews

The Caves Hotel, Negril, Jamaica

For a birthday trip that has Instagram written all over it, The Caves' scenic locale—perched on limestone cliffs in Negril's stunning West End—is one you'll instantly swoon over. The more intimate property features just 12 custom-designed cliffside cottages with outdoor showers or stargazing gazebos. Add luxe extras to your stay like a private five-course cave dinner or book a package that includes cliff diving, non-motorized water sports, a complimentary Caribbean sugar scrub treatment and welcome cocktails.

144 One Love Drive, Negril, Jamaica

5.0 Star Rating | Read Reviews

From road trips to national parks to charming Southern cities and beachside cottages, these more affordable trip options won't break the bank—meaning you can splurge on a bigger gift this year.

Joshua Tree, California

Toast to the new decade with a scenic road trip to one of the country's most photogenic national parks, Joshua Tree. This is a spot where you'll find glamping options of all sorts, from luxe Airstreams to yurts and geodomes. While you'll feel like you're in the middle of nowhere (the beauty of an early-morning desert hike or evening spent stargazing!) you won't be too far from more cosmopolitan spots like Palm Springs.

Things to Do: Hike the park by moonlight with a guide; set off on an open-air Hummer adventure ; go professional stargazing ; try a beginner rock climbing class ; or relax with a sound bath and cacao ceremony .

Places to Stay: AutoCamp Joshua Tree ; Mojave Sands ; Bubbling Wells Historic Hot Springs Ranch ; 28 Palms Ranch

Asheville, North Carolina

An arts haven that draws bohemians and those seeking something more spiritual, the hippie town of Asheville is full of locally-owned shops, galleries and restaurants. Couples can embrace the city's two sides: the romantic, Old World charm of its Art Deco, Beaux Arts and Neoclassical architecture and the surrounding nature that make it a true outdoor playground. Sip local craft beer, dine at one of the many award-winning restaurants and embrace the mountain locale with a drive or hike through some of the highest peaks east of the Mississippi River on the Blue Ridge Parkway, nicknamed "America's Favorite Scenic Drive."

Things to Do: Spend the day at Biltmore Estate touring Biltmore House and the gardens; sip craft beer at one of the breweries downtown; visit the open-air market at Grove Arcade; hike one of the many mountain trails; shop handmade crafts at the Folk Art Center .

Places to Stay: The Windsor Boutique Hotel ; The Foundry Hotel ; Sweet Biscuit Inn ; The Omni Grove Park Inn ; The Restoration Asheville ; The Inn on Biltmore Estate

St. Augustine, Florida

The oldest city in America packs plenty of small town Southern charm into a walkable historic downtown. Sure, some things may be a bit cheesy like the Fountain of Youth , but it can't hurt to give it a shot and embrace the quirky culture in the beachside town where you'll come across re-enactors in period dress, living history events and horse-drawn carriages. In the spring, the town hosts tons of festivals and live music events—plus, white-sand beaches are just a few miles away from the historic quarter.

Things to Do: Admire views of medieval castle Castillo de San Marcos on a sunset cruise ; take an airboat ride along St. Johns River past manatees and alligators; kayak past dolphins and sea turtles; explore St. Augustine's spookiest sites on a haunted ghost walk .

Places to Stay: Casa Monica Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection ; The Collector Inn ; Renaissance St. Augustine Historic Downtown Hotel ; The Saint Augustine Beach House

Providence, Rhode Island

Newport's mansion-lined coast tends to get the majority of Rhode Island's love, but artsy Providence deserves a weekend trip of its own. Time your stay when the award-winning WaterFire—a series of nearly a hundred bonfires blazing on three rivers in downtown Providence—takes place. History buffs will find plenty of landmarks to add to their list, which they can explore on a self-guided downtown historic walking tour or Early Black History Tour . A true foodie town, you'll find fantastic fare everywhere from bakeshops and pizzerias to tasting-menu favorite Gracie's .

Things to Do: Hit six different spots on a Downcity Arts District walking food tour ; soak up the city's landmarks on a guided boat tour ; join a city-wide scavenger hunt ; or catch a show at the Providence Performing Arts Center .

Places to Stay: The Dean Hotel ; Graduate Providence ; The Beatrice ; Hotel Providence

Savannah, Georgia

Cobblestone streets, pastel-colored homes, Spanish moss—there's a reason Savannah's Southern charm has earned it a reputation as one of the most romantic cities in the country. Maybe you're looking for a driving destination from somewhere in the Southeast, or perhaps you're coming from the northern part of the US and want to discover a historic town without worrying too much about crowds (or bachelorette parties). Savannah offers a nice mix of culture, architecture, dining and wildlife. Plus, it's a walkable town that you can also tour by horse-drawn carriage.

Things to Do: Visit the beaches and lighthouse on nearby Tybee Island; explore Savannah Wildlife Refuge's 30,000 acres of creeks, freshwater marshes, gators and birds on a boat tour ; dine at one of the standout, celeb chef-helmed restaurants like The Grey .

Places to Stay:

Florida Keys, Florida

Get your playlist ready for the 113-mile drive to Key West along the Overseas Highway, where water runs parallel on either side of the scenic stretch. Your destination may be the southernmost point of Key West, with its walkable old town lined with galleries, restaurants and bars that were once writer hangouts (hello, Hemingway!). But don't discount the rest of the Florida Keys—each has its own small-town beach charm, from spectacular snorkeling in Key Largo to the sport fishing capital of the world, Islamorada, which is also a scuba diving haven.

Things to Do: Spend the day kayaking and basking on the beach at Bahia Honda State Park; snorkel in Dry Tortugas National Park , a boat ride away from Key West; sip your way along the bars on Duval Street; post up for the nightly sunset celebration on Key West's Mallory Square.

Places to Stay: Cheeca Lodge & Spa ; Ocean Key Resort & Spa ; Parrot Key Hotel & Villas ; Baker's Cay Resort Key Largo ; Isla Bella Beach Resort

Skip the stress of planning restaurants and daily activities and let the resort do the work for you. The fantastic part about an all-inclusive resort is that once you've paid, you don't have to open your wallet for the rest of your stay. For couples, this means endless poolside margaritas, multiple dining options, beachside service, and extra perks (especially on your birthday!) like early check-in or a bottle of bubbly to celebrate the milestone occasion.

Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu, Maldives

You don't have to wait for a honeymoon or major anniversary to plan a bucket list trip to the Maldives—a 30th birthday is excuse enough. A 30-minute seaplane from the getaway airport in Malé, Coco Palm Resort offers couples a few options for dreamy spots to stay, from Deluxe Pool Villas with pools curving alongside the private beach to Sunset Lagoon Villas with plunge pools and ladders leading down to the sea, so you can snorkel any time of day you like. Among the more affordable options in the Maldives, you'll wine and dine in five-star style—especially if you're planning a combo birthday and honeymoon .

Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu Resort, Baa Atoll, Maldives

Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort, Mexico

Perched on a secluded bay, this all-inclusive in trendy Tulum is home to 735 rooms and suites—all with private balconies—spread across two-story, villa-style buildings. Get ready to indulge at 13 different restaurants and bars, with everything from fresh ceviche at Chiringuito Seasalt to Italian at La Luce. If you want to step the experience up a notch, book an Enclave room that includes VIP perks like private check-in and checkout and private pool areas.

Carretera Cancun Tulum 307 Tulkal Chemuyil, Tulum 77774 Mexico

4.0 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Iberostar Selection Playa de Muro Village, Mallorca

If you've already checked Madrid and Barcelona off your list, now is the time to explore Mallorca, the stunning Spanish island that's perhaps one of the best-kept secrets in the Mediterranean. Located on one of Spain's top three beaches, Iberostar Selection Playa de Muro Village also ranks top in terms of gastronomy and service. Take a dip in one of four pools, relax beachfront with a cocktail or indulge in a massage and Turkish bath session at the sumptuous SPA Sensations.

Avenida de s'Albufera, 6, 07458 Playa de Muro, Majorca Spain

Bawah Reserve, Anamba Islands, Indonesia

Bawah Reserve , a cluster of six islands in Indonesia's Anambas Archipelago off the southern shore of the Malaysian peninsula, is the perfect add-on to a trip to Singapore. The largest of the islands, Bawah, measures a little over a square mile and is dotted by dirt trails that crisscross through foliage of ferns and orchards up to viewpoints that are prime for sundowner cocktails. If you're looking for privacy, you've got 13 beaches to choose from. Safari-style tented suites line the sandy shores, while overwater bungalows as beautiful as you'd find in the Maldives balance on stilts over the sparkling turquoise South China Sea. Even better, everything from daily spa treatments to castaway picnics on secluded shorelines are included.

Anambas Kiabu, Pulau Bawah, Kec. Siantan Sel, Anambas Islands 29791 Indonesia

Bungalows Key Largo, Florida Keys

No need to jet across the world—or even leave the US—for an adults-only, all-inclusive experience. At Bungalows Key Largo , a stay in one of the waterfront or garden bungalows includes a romantic outdoor soaking tub, plus access to five restaurants, poolside and beachside dining, two pools and jacuzzis, poolside and beachside cabanas, snorkel gear and non-motorized water sports. Oh, and did we mention the spa's waterfront treatment tiki?

99010 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037

Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana, Dominican Republic

Located within the gated community of Capa Cana on the picture-perfect shores of Juanillo Beach in the Dominican Republic, Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana checks off two boxes: it's adults-only and all-inclusive. No children splashing in the expansive infinity pools with swim-up bars or at the 25 different restaurants and bars. A quick drive from the airport, this is an easier-to-reach destination if you're planning a long weekend getaway (it's less than two hours nonstop from Miami and about three-and-a-half from New York), and once you arrive, you're right next door to a championship golf course, marina and adventure excursions.

Blvd. Zona Hotelera, Playa Juanillo, Cap Cana, Dominican Republic, 23302

For a 30th Birthday trip for couples within a few hours drive, check out these romantic getaway guides by state for more ideas.

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7 Places to Celebrate a Big Birthday, According to T+L's A-List Advisors

Planning a celebration for a milestone birthday? Consider one of these amazing destinations for a trip to remember.

No matter your age or stage of life, every birthday can be celebrated with a big trip. Some exciting destinations are perfect for visiting in your 20s , like backpacking through Southeast Asia or road tripping the Pacific Coast Highway. Others, like a relaxing beach vacation in Hawaii or Thailand, might be better suited to those in retirement .

We asked our trusted A-List of top travel advisors for their recommendations on the best places to celebrate a milestone birthday, whether you want to go alone or with a larger group, stay in one place or visit multiple locations. Here are their suggestions for over-the-top destinations to celebrate your big day.

Cayo Espanto, Belize

Three miles off the coast of Belize, this private luxury Robinson Crusoe-style island offers just seven villas. Each one is luxuriously furnished with hardwood floors, mahogany beds, and crisp white bed linens. Enjoy panoramic views from your private pier and plunge pool, and world-class diving and snorkeling. — Will Bolsover, Natural World Safaris

Havana, Cuba

Start with a sunset convertible car ride through breezy Old Havana, soaking in the culture, colors, and sounds of this enigmatic island destination. Then, have dinner at a private table at the city's best rooftop restaurant with 360-degree views of the city—start with a rum and cigar tasting then dive into fresh fare caught locally. After dinner, head to the Tropicana nightclub for a taste of 1950s-era cabaret, or ask for front-row seats to a sold-out live local music concert. — Chad Olin, Cuba Candela

Renting an authentic Patagonian estancia with gauchos and all, and crossing the Andes on horseback, is a once-in-a-lifetime thrill. — Maita Barrenechea, Mai 10

A private ranch in Kenya hands down would be my recommendation, something like Ol Jogi or Arijiju. They provide the clients with everything they need at their fingertips, from tennis courts, wildlife interactions, and ATVs, to private chefs. You name it, they have it here.— Leora Rothschild, Rothschild Safaris

Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

There's nothing better than going all-out for a travel-related birthday bash! The Jackson Hole area in Wyoming, right near Grand Teton National Park and not far from Yellowstone National Park , is an incredible destination — it's rugged yet still luxurious. If the birthday adventurer is really looking for a once-in-a-lifetime bash, they would enjoy a private helicopter ride between the Tetons and Yellowstone. Who all can say they've flown into Yellowstone on a private helicopter? On a trip like this, they can travel to multiple locations with their group to get the best of what the Rockies have to offer. Hike, bike, maybe a little fly fishing near Grand Teton National Park, and a private air balloon ride at dawn for an unforgettable bird's-eye view! The accommodation options are quite lavish in this famous ski hub, and the celebrated traveler can enjoy modern or more historic downtown bars and restaurants for their special night in Jackson. — Dan Austin, Austin Adventures

Tanzania and Rwanda

I suggest a Tanzania/Rwanda combination. Land at Sasakwa Airstrip and transfer directly to Singita Serengeti House, set at the base of Sasakwa Hill overlooking the 350,000-acre Grumeti Reserve. Settle in, with all private services and your very own four-suite villa in the heart of game-rich terrain. Laid-back luxury with various outdoor living areas including outdoor sala, 25-meter lap pool, private tennis court and pavilion, a tented wellness suite, and a full fitness center as well as access to the Singita Boutique and Gallery at nearby Singita Sasakwa Lodge. And if you're keen to add another aspect to this trip, private charter from Sasakwa Airstrip to Kigali, Rwanda, and travel onwards to Singita Kataza House, set on the edge of Volcanoes National Park. Relish in the exceptional views, the privacy, heated pools, food and wine journey, and in-villa cinema. And, of course, location, location, location, as you're within easy access to gorilla trekking. — Tamsyn Fricker, Travel Artistry Africa

Monsaraz, Portugal

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

The perfect birthday trip in Portugal would include heading out to the deep countryside to the very small town of Monsaraz. Here, depending on the size of the group, we would do a buyout of the luxury countryside retreat São Lourenço do Barrocal and plan quite a few special activities: a hot air balloon ride at sunrise overlooking the Alentejo's rolling hills and castles; a private horseback riding lesson along the streets of the 12th-century castle of Monsaraz; a private stargazing session in complete darkness led by one of the leading Portuguese astronomers. A weekend full of activities, tranquility, and authenticity! — Gonçalo Correia, Tours For You

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15 Exciting International 50th Birthday Destinations

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So you’re turning 50 and you’re not sure where to go for your birthday celebration ? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. From the beaches of Hawaii to the hiking trails of Machu Picchu, we’ve put together a list of exciting destinations for your 50th birthday.

50th birthday trip ideas include some tips on activities that are popular in the listed destinations and that you should include in your itinerary.

Whether you’re looking for a party atmosphere or want to spend some time relaxing in nature, we’ve got something for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!

Machu Picchu, Peru

If you’re looking for an unforgettable way to celebrate your 50th birthday, a trip to Machu Picchu is a great option. This ancient Incan city is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Peru, and it’s easy to see why. With its stunning views and rich history, Machu Picchu is a truly magical place.

To avoid the long ticket lines, you can get the entrance ticket online . Only 800 people are allowed to visit Machu Picchu Mountain and Lost Citadel each day. This ticket allows you to be one of them and go on a hike to see this iconic place at your own pace.

Gringo Bill’s Hotel offers everything you need for a comfortable and unforgettable stay. From relaxing in the hot tub to indulging in delicious organic cuisine and Pisco cocktails, you’ll feel pampered and rejuvenated. Plus, the hotel’s proximity to main attractions like the Ministry of Culture and Perurail makes it an ideal base for exploring the city. Don’t miss the chance to create lifelong memories at Gringo Bill’s Hotel.

If you’re looking where to go for 50th birthday, there’s no better place than Hong Kong. Here are some ideas to get you started.

View the impressive panorama of Hong Kong from above. Victoria Peak is popular among tourists as it offers breathtaking views of the city below. You can hike, or take a cable car or a bus to get to the observation deck. Or you can go to the International Commerce Center’s 100th-floor observation deck to get another perspective of the city.

Take a ride on the world’s longest outdoor escalator. The Central-Mid-Levels Escalator is over 800 meters long and will take you from Robinson Road to Conduit Road. It’s a popular attraction lined with restaurants, bars, and shops.

If you are looking for something a little bit fancier then try one of more than 70 Michelin-starred restaurants in Hong Kong. Treating yourself to an unforgettable meal is a great way to celebrate your 50th birthday!

For an unforgettable 50th birthday celebration in Hong Kong, you can’t go wrong with Dorsett Wanchai . This award-winning hotel is located in the vibrant Wan Chai Business District, adjacent to the horse riding ground and just a short walk from Causeway Bay MTR Station. With elegant rooms featuring stunning views of the racetrack, rain shower experiences, and state-of-the-art amenities, you’ll feel like royalty. Don’t miss the chance to relax in the chic gym room, indulge in cocktails and wine at the 3T Bar, or host an unforgettable event in one of the hotel’s refurbished meeting rooms.

Hawaii, USA

If you’re looking for the best place to celebrate your 50th birthday, look no further than Hawaii. Here are three things that you can do that will make your birthday one to remember.

Take a helicopter tour of the island. There’s no better way to see Hawaii than from above. And what better way to celebrate your 50th birthday than by doing something exciting and adventurous?

Go on a short cruise . You can choose to go whale-watching, snorkeling, or just have a romantic dinner with the most magical sunset views. There are many options for different tastes, but one thing is sure – being on the water on your 50th birthday is an experience to be remembered.

Enjoy a luau. What would a trip to Hawaii be without attending a luau? It’s the perfect way to enjoy delicious food, traditional music and dance, and the company of friends and family. Plus, it’s a great way to get into the spirit of Hawaii and celebrate your birthday in style!

Located on Hilo Bay with stunning views of Mauna Kea Peak, the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel offers spacious and modern accommodations, an array of leisure activities, and thoughtful amenities, including a freshwater pool and gift shop. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in world-class dining at the in-house Whisky Steak Wine (WSW) The Steakhouse, featuring locally sourced produce, Prime Grade or Premium Certified Black Angus steaks & chops, seafood, and an impressive selection of fine wines and whiskies.

Turning 50 is a milestone worth celebrating, and there’s no better place to do it than in Iceland. Here are three of the best things to do in this beautiful country to mark your half-century:

1. Watch the northern lights dance across the night sky. There’s nothing quite like witnessing this natural wonder, and Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see them.

2. Soak in the famous Blue Lagoon or in one of the natural hot springs in Iceland. There’s nothing quite like relaxing in a hot spring, and Iceland has some of the best in the world. Soak up the relaxation on your birthday and you’ll be feeling 50 years young in no time.

3. Go hiking in Iceland’s stunning landscapes. There’s no better way to celebrate your birthday than by getting active in Iceland’s gorgeous landscape.

Are you looking for a 50th-birthday destination in Reykjavik that combines luxury, comfort, and convenience? Look no further than Center Hotels Laugavegur ! This hotel offers modern, non-smoking rooms with flat-screen TVs, free WiFi, and private bathrooms. Enjoy a delicious breakfast with buffet, continental or vegetarian options before exploring nearby attractions like Hallgrímskirkja Church, The Pearl, and Reykjavik Art Museum: Kjarvalsstadir. Don’t forget to unwind with a drink at the on-site bar and restaurant. With a prime location in the heart of Reykjavik and friendly, attentive staff, Center Hotels Laugavegur is the perfect place to celebrate your 50th birthday!

New Orleans, USA

What better way to celebrate your 50th birthday than by visiting the lively city of New Orleans? There’s no shortage of things to do in this vibrant city, but here are three ideas that are sure to make your birthday a memorable one.

For starters, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Bourbon Street. This historic street is home to some of the best bars and restaurants in the city, making it the perfect place to raise a glass to your 50th year. You can even go on a food/cocktail tour to explore multiple award-winning restaurants in one go.

If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, head to Jackson Square for a leisurely stroll and take in the sights and sounds of this iconic area.

And finally, no trip to New Orleans would be complete without a taste of the city’s famous cuisine. Whether you’re indulging in beignets at Cafe du Monde or enjoying a traditional jambalaya, you’re sure to have a delicious birthday experience.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable 50th birthday destination in New Orleans, Le Méridien is the perfect choice. With a prime location just a short walk from Woldenberg Park, the Mississippi River, and The Outlet Collection at Riverwalk outlet mall, you’ll have plenty to explore. After a day of sightseeing, relax by the rooftop swimming pool with lounge chairs and covered seating, or enjoy Cajun- and Creole-inspired fare at the on-site LMNO Restaurant. Don’t miss the chance to stay in stylish rooms with flat-screen TVs, private bathrooms, and free toiletries.

So whether you’re looking for excitement or relaxation, New Orleans has something for everyone celebrating their 50th birthday. Cheers!

Auckland, New Zealand

New Zealand is the perfect place to celebrate your 50th birthday. There are plenty of things to do, see, and experience and you’re sure to have a memorable time. Here are three of the best things to do in Auckland to celebrate your 50th birthday:

1. Take a Lord of the Rings tour . If you’re a fan of the Lord of the Rings movies, then you’ll love taking a tour of some of the filming locations in New Zealand. Many tours also include visits to other movie sites, such as The Hobbiton Movie Set.

2. Go wine tasting . New Zealand is home to some fantastic wineries, and what better way to celebrate your 50th birthday than by indulging in some of the country’s finest wines?

3. Try out a sailing cruise . These are just a few hours long, but you have a chance to enjoy the iconic city sights from the water.

Looking for a stylish and convenient 50th birthday destination in Auckland? Look no further than Ohtel Auckland ! With air-conditioned rooms featuring flat-screen TVs, private bathrooms, and city views, you’ll feel right at home. Don’t miss the chance to relax by the outdoor swimming pool, unwind in the sauna or hot tub, or explore the area on a bicycle. Plus, with an on-site restaurant serving delicious à la carte breakfast, you’ll be well-fueled for a day of adventure. Conveniently located near popular attractions like Viaduct Harbour and Sky Tower, Ohtel Auckland is the perfect place to celebrate your 50th birthday in style.

Las Vegas, USA

What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas…or so they say. If you’re looking to let loose and celebrate your 50th birthday in style, there’s no better place to do it than Sin City. Here are three of the best things to do in Vegas to make sure your 50th birthday is a party to remember:

1. Indulge in a luxurious spa treatment: You deserve to be pampered on your 50th birthday, and what better way to do it than with a day at the spa? Get a massage, get your nails done, and just relax and enjoy being taken care of for once. It’s the perfect way to unwind.

2. Hit the slots: Turning 50 is a lucky milestone, so why not test your luck at the casino? Whether you prefer table games or slot machines, put some money on the line and see if lady luck is smiling on you. Just don’t go too crazy – you want to be able to afford that big dinner later.

3. Treat yourself to an amazing dinner: One of the best things about Vegas is the food! There are so many incredible restaurants to choose from, so why not treat yourself to an unforgettable meal on your 50th birthday? Whether you’re craving steak or sushi, there’s sure to be a restaurant that will tantalize your taste buds. And don’t forget dessert – it’s your birthday, after all. Splurge on something chocolatey and rich, and savor every delicious bite.

Check out Treasure Island Hotel located right on the Las Vegas Strip. It has a spa, seasonal outdoor pool, and a casino, and it’s near uncountable other attractions and restaurants right in the city center.

Dublin, Ireland

Ireland may offer one of the best 50th birthday trips. If you’re looking for ways to celebrate this milestone birthday in Dublin, here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Take a walking tour of the city: Dublin is a compact city, making it easy to explore on foot. Consider taking a walking tour to learn more about the city’s history and culture. There are many different tour options available, from historical walking tours to food and drink tours.
• Go on a pub crawl: Dublin is known for its lively pub scene, and what better way to celebrate your 50th birthday than with a pub crawl through some of the city’s most famous pubs? Start at The Brazen Head , which claims to be Dublin’s oldest pub, and then make your way through some of the city’s other iconic watering holes, such as The Temple Bar and O’Donoghue’s .
• Visit a museum or gallery: Dublin is home to a number of interesting museums and galleries, including the National Gallery of Ireland, which features an impressive collection of Irish and international art. There are many indoor activities in Dublin if it happens to be raining on your birthday.
• Go on a shopping spree: Dublin is a great city for shopping, with a range of high-end boutiques and more affordable options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for designer clothes, unique gifts, or local crafts, you’ll find something to suit your tastes in Dublin.
• Treat yourself to a fancy dinner: For your 50th birthday, why not splurge on a fancy dinner at one of Dublin’s top restaurants? The city has a thriving food scene, with many Michelin-starred restaurants to choose from.

No matter what you decide to do, Dublin has many attractions and is a great city to celebrate your 50th birthday in. Whether you’re looking for history, culture, or just a good time, you’ll find it here.

If you’re looking for a stylish and comfortable 50th birthday destination in Dublin, look no further than Camden Court Hotel . With a prime location just a short walk from St Stephen’s Green, this hotel offers brightly decorated rooms with free Wi-Fi and all the necessary amenities. Relax in the leisure center with a pool, hot tub, sauna, and steam room, or enjoy modern cuisine at the elegant Iveagh Restaurant. Plus, with easy access to the city’s tram system and popular attractions like Dublin Castle and the Temple Bar district, you’ll be perfectly situated for a memorable celebration.

St Lucia, Caribbean

A milestone birthday is a special occasion, and there’s no better place to celebrate it than the beautiful island of St. Lucia. Here are three of the best ways to mark the occasion in style:

1. Go Sailing : There’s nothing quite like being out on the open water, and St. Lucia is the perfect place to enjoy a sailing holiday. You can charter a boat for the day or even a week, and explore all that this stunning island has to offer.

2. Indulge in a Spa Day: after all, you deserve it! There are plenty of luxurious spa resorts in St. Lucia, so you can indulge in some well-deserved pampering on your milestone birthday. Treat yourself to a massage, facials, and all the other treatments your heart desires.

3. Do some rum tasting . See the process of how the St. Lucian rums are made and taste some of the best rums on the island. It’s a fun experience and will be a great start to the evening of celebrations!

Looking for a relaxing 50th birthday getaway in Rodney Bay? Look no further than Bay Gardens Hotel. This tropical paradise offers two outdoor pools, free Wi-Fi, and tropical rooms with resort views. Enjoy on-site dining at the hotel’s restaurant, or indulge in a variety of international dishes and rum cocktails at the poolside Cinnamon Bar. Plus, with a complimentary shuttle to Reduit Beach and easy access to the hotel’s sister property, Bay Gardens Beach Resort, and Spa, you’ll have everything you need for a memorable celebration. Don’t miss the weekly Manager’s Cocktail party for complimentary rum punch, snacks, and live entertainment.

Palm Springs, USA

There’s no need to mope around when you turn 50 – it’s time to celebrate! And what better place to do it than Palm Springs, where the sun is always shining and the party never stops? Here are some great trip ideas to help you make the most of your milestone birthday.

If you wish to celebrate a relaxing birthday, spend a day or two at one of Palm Springs’ many world-class spas. You deserve to be pampered, so treat yourself to a massage, facial, or mani-pedi. Or go all out and spend the day at a luxury resort like The Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage .

For those who are more active, taking a hiking or driving tour of the breathtaking Joshua Tree National Park is a wonderful option. This is a great way to get some exercise and take in the natural beauty of the desert landscape.

And in the evening you can party the night away at one of Palm Springs’ many nightclubs or casinos. Whether you’re looking for live music, dancing, or gambling, you’ll find it all here. So put on your dancing shoes and let loose – it’s time to celebrate your 50th birthday in style!

If you’re planning a 50th birthday celebration in Palm Springs, you won’t want to miss the Hotel Movie Colony . Located in the heart of downtown, this hotel offers a variety of luxurious amenities, including spa treatments, a sunset wine hour, and free WiFi in every guest room. Plus, with easy access to the Palm Springs Convention Center and the airport, you’ll be perfectly situated for a stress-free and memorable getaway.

Bali, Indonesia

For many people, reaching the age of 50 is a significant milestone. After all, it’s not every day that you can say you’ve been alive for half a century! If you’re looking for a special way to celebrate your 50th birthday, why not consider a trip to the tropical paradise of Bali ? Here are some activities that are sure to make your birthday one to remember.

Consider inviting your family to have a vacation together. Spend quality time with your family and loved ones in one of the most beautiful places on earth. Bali is renowned for its family-friendly resorts, so you’re sure to find the perfect spot for your group.

Book a spa day. There’s no better way to relax and rejuvenate than with a day at the spa. Bali is home to some of the world’s best spas, so you’re sure to find the perfect treatment for you. ANd you’ll be surprised how affordable the prices are!

You can explore Bali island and enjoy its incredible natural beauty. There are plenty of day trips in Bali to temples, swings, rice terraces, volcanos, and many other incredible places, so you can find one that suits your interests. And what better way to celebrate your 50th birthday than by getting outdoors and enjoying nature?

Looking for a luxurious and serene getaway for your 50th birthday? Louka Beach Bali offers an idyllic escape with its stunning sea views, outdoor swimming pool, hot tub, and water sports facilities. The 5-star hotel boasts an exceptional restaurant, bar, and billiards room, providing the ultimate relaxation experience. Indulge in the buffet breakfast and enjoy the impeccable service provided by the 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, and room service.

New York, USA

50 is a big birthday. It’s a birthday that deserves a celebration, and there’s no better place to celebrate than in the city that never sleeps – New York. Here are some of the best things to do in New York to make your 50th birthday a birthday to remember.

First, take a walk (or carriage ride) through Central Park. Central Park is one of New York’s most iconic landmarks, and it’s the perfect place to spend a leisurely afternoon on your birthday. Take in the sights and sounds of the park as you stroll along, or go for a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride. Either way, you’re sure to enjoy some birthday magic in one of New York’s most beloved places.

Then, take in a Broadway show . There’s nothing quite like seeing a Broadway show in New York. Whether you opt for something classic like “The Phantom of the Opera” or something more contemporary like “Hamilton,” you’re sure to have an unforgettable time.

After the Broadway show go on a nice dinner. Choose from one of the fancy restaurants nearby, and do your research beforehand. Make a reservation to be sure to get a spot, as the New York restaurants are quite busy.

Celebrate your 50th birthday in the heart of Manhattan at Hampton Inn Manhattan – 35th Street Empire State Building. With free high-speed internet access, a fitness center, and a well-equipped business center, this hotel has everything you need for a comfortable stay. Start each day with a delicious hot breakfast and enjoy easy access to top attractions like the Empire State Building, Madison Square Garden, and Times Square, all just blocks away.

Fortuna, Costa Rica

50 is a big deal. It’s a time to reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and look forward to the future. And what better way to do all three than by taking a 50th birthday vacation? Costa Rica is the perfect destination for an unforgettable milestone vacation.

Here you can relax in a boutique hotel . After all, it’s your birthday and you’re going to want to spend some time relaxing and rejuvenating. And there’s no better way to do that than by enjoying a tropical forest setting, mountain views, and two pools.

If you are active, you can go on a hike to enjoy La Fortuna’s volcanic landscapes and a waterfall and soak in the nearby hot springs with a complimentary cocktail. For even more adventurous people, there are rafting and zip lining activities.

Escape to the natural beauty of Fortuna at Orquideas Boutique Hotel , offering an outdoor pool and hot tub surrounded by lush gardens. Relax in comfortable rooms with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms. Wake up to a delicious breakfast before exploring nearby attractions like La Fortuna Waterfall and Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park. Return to the hotel for a delicious dinner at the on-site restaurant. With free Wi-Fi and free private parking, Orquideas Boutique Hotel is the perfect place for a relaxing and memorable 50th birthday celebration.

Costa Rica is a beautiful and wild country, and the tropical views there are just amazing. So whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Costa Rica is the perfect destination for your 50th birthday vacation.

San Juan, Puerto Rico, USA

If you’re looking for a fun way to celebrate your 50th birthday, look no further than San Juan, Puerto Rico! There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure or a leisurely stroll through a scenic old town.

You can take a zip line tour through the rainforest: There’s nothing like a little dose of adrenaline to get the heart pumping on your birthday! A zip line tour through the rainforest is the perfect way to get your blood flowing and take in some breathtaking views of Puerto Rico’s natural beauty.

For a more relaxing activity, you can go swimming and snorkeling with turtles . The crystal clear waters of the Carribean are the perfect place to enjoy the colorful marine life.

And don’t miss out on sipping on some rum at Bacardi Factory . No trip to Puerto Rico would be complete without paying a visit to the Bacardi Factory! Take a tour of the facilities and learn about the history of this world-famous rum brand, then enjoy a complimentary tasting at the end.

Experience the charm of Old San Juan at 352 Guest House Hotel Boutique , with its convenient location, elegant decor, and modern amenities. Relax in the garden or hot tub, take in the city view from your balcony, and enjoy a delicious breakfast every morning. Explore nearby attractions such as Fort San Felipe del Morro and Cristo Chapel, or simply stroll through the historic streets of the district. Make your 50th birthday unforgettable with a stay at this lovely boutique hotel.

San Francisco, USA

There’s no better place to celebrate your 50th birthday than the Bay Area. With its incredible food, wine, and scenery, San Francisco is the perfect place to let your hair down and enjoy yourself. Here are three 50th birthday vacation ideas of the best things to do in San Francisco:

1. Enjoy a meal at one of the city’s Michelin-starred restaurants . Whether you’re looking for fine dining or casual fare, San Francisco has something to suit every taste. Make sure to try some of the Bay area’s world-famous wines too.

2. Take in the views from Twin Peaks or Coit Tower . There’s no better way to appreciate San Francisco’s stunning natural beauty than by taking in the panoramic views from one of its iconic landmarks.

3. Spend a day exploring Golden Gate Park. With over 1,000 acres of green space, Golden Gate Park is a great place to get away from it all and enjoy some time in nature. You can visit the park’s museums and gardens, go for a stroll or even rent a bike and explore further afield.

Looking for a unique and historic place to stay during your 50th birthday trip to San Francisco? Look no further than Marines’ Memorial Club & Hotel Union Square ! With its rooftop restaurant, full-service health club, and on-site theatre, this hotel has everything you need for a memorable stay. Plus, its “Living Memorial” museum and tribute to veterans add an extra layer of meaning to your trip. And with its convenient location just minutes from Union Square and Chinatown, you’ll be perfectly situated to explore all that San Francisco has to offer.

Epic 50th birthday gifts

Travel tips and tricks:

• Save big on flights with Skyscanner.com – This incredible tool lets you find the most affordable airfare to your dream destination. You’ll love their “Whole Month” feature, which displays the best prices for the entire month. If you’re flexible with travel dates, this is a game-changer for scoring the cheapest tickets.
• Stay in the heart of the action – I always find the perfect accommodation on Booking.com . Their map view lets me filter hotels by my budget and select ones that are right in the center of it all. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this easy way to book your ideal stay!
• Go beyond the resort – I’m all about making the most of my trips, and GetYourGuide.com has been a lifesaver for booking unforgettable tours and day trips. It’s the most hassle-free way to dive into the local culture and explore the hidden gems in every new place.
• Hit the road with DiscoverCars.com – There’s no better way to explore your destination than by car! Renting a vehicle has never been easier, and with their competitive prices, you’ll have the freedom to create your own adventures.

I highly recommend trying these tools for yourself – not only will you save money, but you’ll also create memories that last a lifetime. Happy travels!

3 thoughts on “15 Exciting International 50th Birthday Destinations”

Just FYI, Puerto Rico is not international. :o/

Several of the places on the list are in the US and the author states that Puerto Rico is part of the US. Perhaps the writer is in not in the US and these destinations are International to her.

Thanks for noticing! I updated the post to reflect that Puerto Rico is an unincorporated U.S. territory. I’m from Latvia, and all these are international destinations for me. There are several other places from the USA in the post.

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21 best places to go for a 21st birthday

Written by Sebastiaan

Your 21st birthday should be one to remember. The perfect way to celebrate this milestone is by treating yourself with a 21st birthday trip. Now your teenager years are far behind you and you’re starting to have a budget for your travels, this is the moment to splurge on this special birthday. We teamed up with other travel bloggers to give you some inspiration for the best places to celebrate your 21st birthday. From bucket list festivals to off the beaten path city trips and from tropical beaches to must-visit islands, these are the best 21st birthday travel ideas.

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21 destinations to travel for your 21st birthday

By Jin & De Wet from Museum of Wander

Macau is an exciting city, and if you’re looking for somewhere unique and exciting to celebrate your birthday, this tiny former Portuguese colony in southern China has it all. Visiting Macau is easy as almost everyone speaks English and most visitors don’t need a visa. Flights are often offered for a very competitive price .

Whether you’re planning to gamble in the luxurious casinos, explore its mix of European and Chinese culture, tuck into its  exceptional cuisine , or party, Macau has an incredible variety of things to do.

Turning legal, there is no better place to try your hand and blackjack, poker, roulette, or slot machines than in the Las Vagas of the East. Macau’s casinos make more revenue than those in Vegas, and the Kotai Strip has all the big names such as The Venetian, MGM, Wynn Palace, City of Dreams, Studio City, and The Galaxy amongst the most famous.

All these casinos have entertainment venues, shows, concerts, bars, and clubs to keep you and your friends on cloud 9 until kingdom comes (or your money runs out).

Being a former Portuguese colony, Macau has fantastic European and Chinese sights to explore. When you need some cultural distractions, head over to Senado Square to see the Baroque churches and colonial architecture. Foodies and Instagrammers will want to stuff themselves with Macau’s famous egg tarts and other delicious street food in Taipa village.

Stay at the Holiday Inn Express Macau City Centre and save your money for fun things to do, rather than splurging on a casino hotel.

Spend at least 3 full days in Macau to enjoy it to the fullest. It’s also easy (and recommended) to combine a trip to Macau with Hong Kong where you should spend at least another 3 days. 

#2 Savannah in Georgia, US

By Victoria from Southern Trippers

Savannah, Georgia is easily one of the best places to celebrate your 21st birthday! The city is so historic and cute and has a lot of European flair. It is a relaxed and refined city with tons of southern charm. Think Spanish moss dripping from trees, tons of little squares, dream homes lining streets, fountains everywhere, and a cute river walk!

Savannah is very compact and walkable, so if you want to drink for your 21’st birthday, you won’t have to worry about driving as most places are an easy walk from many hotels in the historic district . The food and drinks in Savannah are truly amazing and you won’t want to miss them! One of the best places to eat is Zunzi’s for sandwiches and bowls and it is vegan and vegetarian friendly too. If you go for lunch, make sure to reserve in advance so that you don’t have to wait in a long line. Don’t forget to stop at E Jones Street for some cute Instagram photos and to admire the gorgeous homes that run along with it. It is said to be the prettiest street in America!

Finally, end your night with a ghost tour, one of the  best things to do in Savannah , especially if you love spooky things! Savannah is one of the most haunted cities in the USA and a ghost tour is a great way to learn about the history while you are visiting!

You can visit Savannah either by car or by plane .

#3 Barcelona in Spain

By Carley from Home to Havana

If you’re looking for a mix of both relaxing on the beach and enjoying all that a big city has to offer, look no further than Barcelona for the perfect 21 st  birthday destination. From most places, you can easily find cheap direct flights to Barcelona. Combining both the beauty and cosmopolitan energy of Europe’s great cities with its distinctly Mediterranean feel, you’ll never have to look far for the perfect way to celebrate with friends or family.

Looking for  where to stay in Barcelona , it can be challenging especially as a first-time visitor to narrow down the city’s many unique neighbourhoods, but if you’re looking forward to visiting the beach definitely consider staying in the Barceloneta neighbourhood . Here you’ll find a distinctly seaside, even small-town feel, but with all the city amenities you could want, including paddleboard rental, surf lessons, and more.

Make sure to explore the nearby Gothic Quarter with all its beauty and history, as well as taking a self-guided tour through the neighbouring El Born neighbourhood of some of the city’s best tapas bars. This is the perfect way to explore both the culinary scene and enjoy a night out with friends, sampling the best local wines or cava at each bar. El Born favorites include La Plata, El Xampanyet, and Tapeo.

Plan on spending at least a long weekend, or up to four or five days, enjoying this incredible city and all it has to do – you won’t want to miss any of its beautiful sights and the incredible experiences visitors can have here.

#4 Bali in Indonesia

By Victoria from Guide Your Travel

Bali might just be the best place to travel for your 21st birthday. It perfectly combines nightlife with plenty of things to do plus it’s super budget-friendly. Try to spend at least a week in Bali to see the main sights although longer is better of course. We found the best flight deals to Bali here . Some countries might require a visa, You can easily get a visa for Indonesia online .

For the best nightlife experience stay somewhere close to Kuta which is the neighbourhood with the most clubs and cheap bars. Canggu is a lot more laidback although there are plenty of beach clubs and hip bars to explore.

A great way to celebrate your 21st birthday is to head to the nearby Gili Islands which are a lot smaller than Bali and located just a quick boat ride away. Gili Trawangan is especially lively with lots of beach bars and parties. Go on a boat ride and have a BBQ on the boat as you enjoy the sunset. There are also party boats available in Gili Trawangan with lots of drinks and other travellers whom you can get to know. Back in Bali make sure to take a day trip to Ubud to get back in touch with nature and get to know Bali’s fascinating culture. There are lots of rice fields and yoga retreats which are the perfect way to relax after a busy week.

#5 Mardi Grass in New Orleans, US

By Kerry Hanson from VeggTravel

If you’re looking for somewhere to go for your 21st birthday celebration, then look no further than New Orleans (NOLA). Not only do you have a beautiful city, with stunning architecture, interesting history and lots to do, but you also have amazing nightlife.

If your 21 st  birthday falls during February, then  Mardi Gras Carnival in NOLA  would be the party of a lifetime. During the day, you can check out the spectacular parades and grab handfuls of colourful beads. But, at night head to Bourbon Street in the French Quarter to get the party started. 

There are several bars, clubs, restaurants, and takeouts in the area that will keep you entertained into the early hours. Try the infamous local cocktails, the Hurricane, and the Hand Grenade to start the celebrations. The whole street is one big party, with many revellers on the decorated balconies, throwing beads to passers-by. Whether you’re visiting during Mardi Gras or not, the French Quarter is the place to be and recommended area to stay.

However, a birthday trip to New Orleans isn’t complete without a trip to Frenchmen Street for the full jazz experience. Walking by you will hear the mesmerizing sounds of the talented singers and musicians that fill all the bars in this area. Several jazz events and festivals take place throughout the year, and you will undoubtedly see fantastic talent when you drop by.

If you want to visit NOLA, you can check flights price here . Just be sure to plan at least 3 nights for your trip.

#6 Napels in Italy

By Lineke from Lineke Travels

Italy is a dream destination! It has beautiful cities, inviting people and great weather. Not to mention delicious food… La Bella Italia has a lot to offer, but to me, Naples and the Amalfi Coast are a winning combination. Definitely a great place to celebrate your 21st birthday!

Why? Well, first of all because Naples shows you the real Italy. With working-class neighbourhoods where laundry blows proudly in the wind and where scooters buzz through narrow streets like bees. In addition, here you’ll eat the tastiest pizzas ever and everything is dirt cheap. I recommend spending at least 3 days on your Naples city trip and to stay in the old town.

Combine your visit to Naples with the beautiful Amalfi Coast. You can easily take the train from Naples to Sorrento or Salerno. In little over an hour, you can already drive your rented Vespa scooter over the famous Costiera Amalfitana. This is the coastal road that connects all the small towns. Take your Vespa and go on your own little road trip. Eat ice cream in every town you visit and enjoy the view over the glittering seawater along the coastline. My favourite place on the Amalfi Coast? Ravello! This place really is picture-perfect and a lovely town to spend the night. I found it to be the perfect jumping-off point to explore the entire Amalfi Coast.

If you’re short on time, you can take a day trip from Naples to the Amalfi Coast. But I’d rather spend the night there and take at least two days to enjoy la dolce vita! If you’re interested in this amazing trip, you can easily check out the best prices for flights to Naples and start planning!

#7 Hanoi in Vietnam

By Trisha and Modi from Try Wandering More

Hanoi in Vietnam is a fantastic place to visit for your 21st birthday. It is lively, the culture is fascinating, the food is delicious, the architecture is mesmerizing, the lakes are serene, the nightlife is super fun and best of all – it is all very inexpensive.

It takes two to three days to see  Hanoi’s best attractions (check what a ticket will cost you). Start your trip by exploring the Old Quarter. You could spend an entire evening or two here just walking aimlessly- sampling street food and soaking in the Hanoi vibe. Make sure you visit the Hoan Kiem Lake and enjoy the street art on Phung Hung Mural Street. Also, visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex, an imposing memorial; the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university; The Imperial Thang Long Citadel, a UNESCO world heritage site; and the Tran Quoc Pagoda, Hanoi’s oldest Pagoda. If you love nature and its wonders, you could stay an additional two days to take day trips to Ninh Binh and Halong Bay.

Bring in your birthday at Bia Hoi Junction (Beer Junction) – the quintessential nightlife area in Hanoi. Think tons of beer (try Bia Hoi), food, hookah, and all kinds of music! Want something more mellow? Try the Binh Minh Jazz Club.

Stay in an apartment in the old quarter to be close to everything. Apartments are inexpensive and great for a group of friends. If not travelling in a group, you could also opt for a hotel, La Storia Ruby Hotel , or a hostel, Hanoi Amazing Hostel .

Continue reading: this is the perfect travel itinerary for Vietnam .

#8 Melboure in Australia

By Bec from Wyld Travel Family

Melbourne voted the most livable city in the world numerous times would have to be one of the most epic places to celebrate your 21st birthday.

There are  so many things to do in Melbourne  on so many different levels that you will be struggling to fit it all in on any length holiday Down Under. If you like nightclubs, there is a plethora within the Melbourne CBD, all within easy walking distance.

If you prefer culture and history you can visit the NGV (National; Gallery of Victoria) or the Melbourne Museum to see the current and permanent displays that are on show there. you can see a top theatre show at Her Majesty’s Theatre and then dine at an amazing restaurant to really make sure you celebrate well. China Town and South Bank are both wonderful places to get some of the best food in Melbourne. 

You can visit the Melbourne Zoo to have a look at the amazing and very unique Aussie animals. Sometimes the Zoo also offers a Keeper for the day program which would be an epic way to celebrate your 21st birthday in Melbourne.

If thrills are for you then a short tram ride out to Luna Park should be top of your list. Walkthrough the big wide mouth of the park and channel our inner kids to have an amazing time at this brilliant old-time theme park.

Melbourne also has some of the best day trips that will also add to your amazing trip to Australia. You can spend the day touring the Yarra Valley to sample some of the best wines in Australia and some of the magnificent food. You can take a day trip to the world-famous 12 Apostles and see what else the Great Ocean Road has to offer. You can visit the untamed wilderness of Gippsland by visiting the gold rush town of Walhalla or going further to Raymond Island to see koalas in their natural habitat.

It doesn’t matter what you like Melbourne is the very best place in the world for you to spend your unforgettable 21st birthday. Tickets are often reasonably priced, you can find the best deals here .

#9 Tulum in Yucatan, Mexico

By Cynthia & Alexander from Travel your Memories

If you’re looking for a great birthday trip idea, Mexico is a great country and tickets are often cheap . Here you will find beautiful beaches, fun parties, authentic villages, Maya buildings, and more. One of the best places to find all these things is Tulum!

Tulum is located in the popular province of Yucatan. All types of travellers can indulge themselves because Tulum has for everyone something to offer. Whether you’re looking for parties, beaches, or want to swim in cenotes, you’ll find it here.

What are the best  things to do in Tulum ? There is a lot to do in Tulum! There are several cenotes to discover of which the Grand Cenote and Choo-Cha are the best. You also have a Mayan ruin along the coast that is beautiful because of its location. It’s on a cliff. In Tulum you can enjoy typical Mexican beaches, Playa Paraiso is the best public beach to visit. You can do a lot of day trips from Tulum, such as visiting the world wonder Chichen Itza.

We recommend staying 4 nights in Tulum, so you have enough time to do the best things in and around Tulum.

Assuming that you don’t have a big budget before you turn 21, it is recommended to stay in the centre of Tulum instead of on the beach. Casa Almendro is a good option. It is just off the main street so you can do walk through everything. With a roof terrace, clean rooms and a good price, this accommodation is recommended.

Continue reading: these are the best travel tips, travel itinerary and places to go in Yucatán, Mexico .

#10 London in the UK

By Dymphe from Dymabroad

One of the best places to visit for your 21st birthday is London, the capital city of the United Kingdom. There are many reasons why this is the perfect destination when you are turning 21. One of the reasons is because there are many cute places in the city for your birthday. For example, there are many  pretty cafes in London . These cafes have beautiful decorations, are often pink, and serve cute food, such as cupcakes.

Besides that, London is amazing because of its nightlife. If you want to party for your 21st birthday, it is definitely an amazing place to be. You can find great pubs and clubs in the city Moreover, London is a large city with many famous sights. For example, you can find the Tower Bridge, Big Ben, and the London Eye in the city. It is very fun to see these sights, and this makes it even more fun to visit the city.

Also, it is very fun to go shopping in London for your 21st birthday. You find many places that are great for this. For example, Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Covent Garden are perfect for shopping. One of the best places to stay in London is the hotel Shangri-La in The Shard . From this hotel, you have an amazing view of the Tower Bridge. Moreover, the ideal number of days to stay in London is 4 days, as this allows you to do and see most of the things in the city. You can often fly directly and for a great price to one of London’s airports, or take the Eurostar train as we did .

#11 Queenstown in New Zealand

By Jennifer Parkes from Backyard Travel Family

Queenstown, New Zealand is an epic destination for a 21st birthday. While you might think ticket prices will be high, you can often find great deals . Whether you are looking for an adventure-filled holiday or a classy place to live it up, there are a plentiful amount of things to do in Queenstown . If you are up for an adventure-packed vacation that you will never forget, head to the sky. Start off your trip with a skydive over the Southern Alps and Lake Wakatipu. Incredible views mixed with adrenaline will have you literally floating on air. Or head indoors to I-Fly for an indoor flying experience. Then head to the water for one of the most unique experiences: a hydro attack shark boat. This shark-shaped boat will have you ducking and diving on this incredible waterfront. The Skyline Gondola has incredible views, but at the top, an epic group activity, the luge go-karts. For an even more memorable experience, try a spot of heli golf where your own helicopter will take you to the most picturesque holes you’ve ever played.

Those looking for a classy affair could try the incredible wine tasting in the Gibbston Valley and the magical hot pool experience at Onsen Hot Pools. Finish off your day with a fine dining experience at Rata or the Botswana Butchery.

Queenstown has a great range of accommodations ranging from budget to luxury. Big groups on a budget, looking for a great time will enjoy the Queenstown YHA in the centre of town. Nightlife is abundant and all within walking distance in this close-knit township.  Millbrook Resort is a luxury option on a world-renown golf course that will give you the space to relax in style.

#12 Hvar Island in Croatia

By PlacesofJuma

Hvar Island  is a real travel highlight in Croatia, and a real insider tip to celebrate a 21st birthday! Often called the St. Tropez of Croatia, Hvar has become a real scene island. On a birthday vacation, you can expect a unique flair, countless dream beaches, romantic coastal towns and a wide range of activities. And of course not to forget the lively nightlife, which is just perfect for celebrating your life.

Hvar is located in Dalmatia and thanks to its central location, it is easy to reach by ferry from Split or from the neighbouring islands! Really worth seeing is the historic old town of Hvar, which inspires by its Dalmatian stone houses and the romantic cobblestone streets. Here you go on a kind of time travel and you enjoy an ambience like from a postcard. Really cool are also the many beach clubs which enchants with amazing flair!

But also the rest of the island with the small fishing villages and the beautiful landscapes is fantastic! A real highlight, however, are the countless dream beaches that invite you to spend unforgettable summer days by the sea. Croatia connoisseurs even count these among the most beautiful bathing bays in the country.

Lovely and worth seeing are also the small, romantic villages like Stari Grad, Vrboska and Jelsa in the north of the island. They are less touristy and therefore promise quiet flair. Here, by the way, you can try some delicious local wines, which are grown on this part of the island. Convinced? Check out what a ticket will cost you.

#13 Sydney in Australia

By Cassie from Cassie The Hag

Sydney is one of the world’s most iconic spots to spend your 21st birthday. From world-famous beaches to a birthday drink overlooking the Sydney Opera House, make your 21st one to remember in this fantastic Australian city. Just like Melbourne, you will probably have to book a flight to get there.

In the morning, have brunch at the fabulously photogenic The Grounds or Cuppa Flower. For something more lowkey, head to one of the beachside cafes at Bondi. From here, you can stroll along the famous Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk. This is a great way to enjoy Sydney’s famous white sand beaches with unbeatable views over the Pacific Ocean. 

In the afternoon, you can relax at one of the city’s many beaches or take on an adventurous activity. If you’re not afraid of heights, you can take on the BridgeClimb at Sydney Harbour Bridge. If ocean depths are more your thing, go snorkelling or scuba-diving, or take a dip in one of Sydney’s ocean pools such as the Bondi Icebergs. Finish your evening at one of the historic pubs in The Rocks, celebrate in style at The Opera Bar (right outside the Sydney Opera House itself!), or check out one of the city’s rooftop bars. 

If you have more time, why not celebrate your birthday over a weekend, and enjoy one of Sydney’s best day trips such as the Blue Mountains or Palm Beach? Or for an alternative itinerary, head to Sydney’s North Shore and enjoy Curl Curl Beach Pool, snorkelling at Shelly Beach, and dinner in Manly. Enjoy!

#14 Istanbul in Turkey

By Emily from Wander-Lush

The most beautiful place in Turkey  and one of the world’s great cities, it’s hard to imagine a destination more apt for celebrating a 21st birthday than Istanbul. History, culture, nightlife, incredible food: Istanbul has everything you need to mark this milestone in an unforgettable fashion.

Istanbul’s history goes back to 660 BCE. This is the kind of city where places you’ve read about in novels and characters you’ve met during history class come to life before your very eyes. There’s nothing like a trip to Turkey’s capital to put world history into context. Must-see landmarks include The Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Galata Tower, and the Basilica Cistern.

Foodies will adore Istanbul’s culinary scene. Feast on a classic Turkish breakfast at Van Kahvalti Evi in Beyoglu, then gorge on Turkish delight, baklava and chewy Turkish ice cream at Hafiz Mustafa, one of the city’s oldest cafes. Take a boat trip on the Bosphorus to see the point where two worlds – Europe and Asia – collide, roam the colourful neighbourhood of Balat, climb the 5th century Walls of Constantinople for a city view, and don’t leave without partaking in a traditional hammam bath treatment.

After spending your days immersing yourself in history and culture, when night falls, it’s time to soak up Istanbul’s world-renowned nightlife scene. Go bar hopping on Istiqlal Street or head to Ortakoy. Anise-flavoured Raki is the drink of choice in Istanbul, so do what the locals do and order a cocktail made with the strong spirit.

Istanbul is a budget-friendly destination, which makes it perfect for young people. Flights are reasonably cheap and there’s a great hostel scene if you want to meet other travellers, and more than a few affordable boutique accommodations if you’d prefer to treat yourself. Social travellers will love Hostel Le Banc , conveniently located in bustling Taksim and with a gorgeous rooftop terrace. If your budget permits, a few nights at the heritage Ayramin Hotel is the perfect place to spend your birthday in luxury.

Speaking of treating yourself: Where better to go shopping for a birthday present than at Istanbul’s iconic Grand Bazaar. A traditional Turkish coffee set, a peshtemal towel, jewellery or spices all make for great souvenirs.

#15 Ibiza in Spain

By Nadine from Le Long Weekend

The most lively of Spain’s Balearic Islands, Ibiza is a destination that has it all for a 21st birthday celebration. Well known as a party island, you’ll have your pick of the best clubs to visit, with a stellar lineup of DJs to dance the night away. The world-famous superclubs such as Ushuaia and Hï Ibiza allow you to party until the sun comes up in their new open-air space, Palmarama. Or you can club hop your way around the island on the dedicated Discobus.

If superclubs aren’t your scene, there are plenty of quieter places to stay in Ibiza than the hedonistic capital (although you should spend at least a day exploring the old town – Dalt Vila – with its cobblestone lanes and hipster cafes). Instead, head along to Portinatx or Cala de Sant Vicent on the northeastern end of the island where you’ll find dreamy beaches and a more laid-back atmosphere. Spend your days visiting the famous hippy markets, eating succulent fresh food in seaside bistros, partaking in the many watersports on offer, or jumping on a sailboat cruise to Formentera. You’ll need at least 5 days in Ibiza to truly sample a little of everything the island has to offer, but a full week would be better. Take the boat from Spain, or book a cheap flight to get there.

#16 Milos in Greece

By Mal from Raw Mal Roams

The Cycladic Island of Milos is an excellent location to spend your 21st birthday. Milos is located off Greece’s mainland. You can either fly from Athens or get here by ferry from one of the ports of the Greek capital. Milos is an up and coming destination, and if you love nature and looking for something less pretentious than Vegas or Ibiza, look no further.

If you’re wondering  where to stay in Milos  for great nightlife, the island’s biggest town Adamas is the most lively location. Adamas is also the island’s port and the most convenient location for organizing various activities. Santa Maria Village Hote l comes with a pool and a beautiful view of the sea. One week would be the perfect time to explore Milos. 

Hire an ATV and go exploring because Milos has some unworldly landscapes you must see! The most famous beach in Milos is Serakiniko, with its iconic, moon-like scenery. Climb down the ladder to see the Tsigrado Beach or go on a boat trip to see the Kleftiko Beach and caves that are only accessible from the sea. 

In the evening, stroll along the Adamas’ promenade to find the perfect spot for the evening meal. Have a drink in one of the seafront bars and continue into the night in one of the Adamas’ nightclubs. 

Continue reading: these are the 12 best islands to visit in Greece .

#17 Nashville, US

By Michelle from Moyer Memoirs

The best place to celebrate your 21 st  birthday is Nashville, Tennessee so that you can bar-hop along Broadway Avenue, Honky Tonk Highway, the main street in Nashville that is lined with the bright lights of the honky-tonk bars. These popular honky-tonk establishments play free live music all night long along with serving their fair share of alcohol to make the party even wilder. There are bars specializing in every genre of music, to please every sort of music-lover.

Did I mention that there is no cover charge? The bands only play for tips, so this means you can visit many honky-tonks in one evening without going broke paying a cover charge each time. The party can go on into the wee hours of the morning since the entertainment and bar service often lasts that long. 

Nashville is a perfect weekend trip  since there are a lot of sites to see during the day too, including beautiful parks and gardens, artistic wall murals and galleries, and interesting museums like the Country Music Hall of Fame. It has a large supply of shopping destinations for boutique and antique shoppers. On your 21st birthday, you and your party friends can site-see during the day and then start the celebration on Honky Tonk Highway as the sun goes down.

If you’re planning a trip you can either drive there by car or check out prices for a cheap flight . The best place to stay in Nashville is within walking distance of Broadway so that you don’t need to worry about transportation. There are several downtown hotels to choose from to make your party special. If you don’t mind finding a short cab ride home, there are also nice areas outside of downtown.

#18 Cape Town, South Africa

By Katja from Wander Cape Town

Cape Town, South Africa’s capital city, is a fantastically fun place to spend your 21st. There are so many adventurous activities in Cape Town , from paragliding and caving on the mountains to free-diving and surfing in the brisk ocean. 

A Cape Town-based 21st birthday with friends – or even solo – is sure to be filled with fun and adventure. It also sits among rich Winelands, so you could spend your birthday wine tasting at the foot of Table Mountain after a morning of surfing or hiking. Or follow up a kayaking experience with a bar-hopping exploration of the many different craft beers and craft gins South Africa has to offer. 

This is also a university city, known to have uncommonly friendly locals, so you’ll find many young people to chat to. If you get invited to follow up a long night of dancing with an early morning hike up Table Mountain, don’t be surprised! 

You will probably have to fly into Cape Town. Luckily flight tickets are often reasonably priced . It’s best to stay central in Cape Town, as the public transport isn’t top-notch. Sea Point , Green Point or the CBD are the best places to stay for safety and convenience. And while you could spend months exploring all the trails and beaches of the beautiful city, it’s best to stay between three days and a week. And then, if you have the time and budget, you can explore the iconically biodiverse Garden Route !

#19 Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany

By LeAnna Brown

For Americans, their 21st Birthday means one thing: Booze. And what better place to go to drink than Oktoberfest! Visiting Munich is a memorable trip, no matter the age, but for a truly epic 21st birthday extravaganza, Oktoberfest is the perfect place to celebrate. One should allow for  3 days in Munich  if you plan on doing Oktoberfest. You’ll want at least one day to see the main sights of the city, one day for Oktoberfest itself, and that leaves you with one day for either more Munich Sightseeing or great day trips, like seeing Neuschwanstein Castle. Munich has its own airport and tickets tend to be quite affordable .

Now, Oktoberfest is not to be taken lightly. You have to remember that German beers are much stronger than what other countries produce. And you aren’t just getting a bottle of beer. Oh no, you’ll be lifting up that heavy, 1 liter Maß…that’s over 33 oz of beer per mug! Just because you have thrown back some beers in college does not mean you are ready to down several Maß. So even though this is your 21st birthday, take it easy.

One way to help pace yourself is to make sure to eat all the delicious Bavarian food while at the fest. Things like steak semmel (sandwiches), kase spaetzle (cheese noodles), and of course, giant Brez’n are fantastic ways to sop up the alcohol in your stomach. Staying in Munich during Oktoberfest can get expensive, but luckily there are several hostels throughout the city that can help keep costs down. However, all accommodation, especially the cheaper options book out far in advance, so plan on nailing down a place 9-12 months before going. No matter your age, Oktoberfest is truly a bucket list item! 

#20 Prague in Czech Republic

By C haru Goyal from Travel with CG

Prague is another great destination to visit for your 21st birthday. Home to picturesque castles, cobblestone streets, medieval bridges, and a colourful Old Town; it is a city full of many interesting spots to see. Being an incredible walking city, it is also inexpensive to get around in.

Begin your trip with a walking tour of the Old town and visit the top of the Astronomical clock for a unique perspective. The nearby rooftop restaurant called Terasa U Prince also has gorgeous views of the city’s iconic orange-topped roofs and is a perfect place to raise a toast for your special day.

Now, continue onto Prague castle and spend a few hours exploring the castle complex at leisure. Next, treat yourself to a vintage car tour and then head to the famous Charles Bridge for sunset. Although the bridge itself is free to visit, you can also climb one of the towers for a small fee and get a special seat to see the sky change colours.

Prague is also a destination known for its happening nightlife, music scene, and cheap beer. The Letña beer garden situated in one of the most beautiful parks in Prague is ideal for those looking for a view. Live music is also popular in Prague, so you will probably come across artists performing at touristic sights like the John Lennon wall while there. The most  famous sights in Prague  can be seen in a weekend or three days. The Radisson Blu Hotel located near Wenceslas Square is a beautiful property to stay in Prague. If you’re interested, check out the best flight deals to Prague .

Continue reading: these are the best places to go in the Czech Republic .

#21 Sabah in Malaysia

By Khushboo from Munni of all Trades

Sabah, Malaysia is the perfect destination for your 21st birthday. Admiring the majestic peaks, relaxing on the gorgeous beaches, cultural tours and savouring mouth-watering halal cuisine; there is definitely more to Sabah than meets the eye. There are several things to do in Kota Kinabalu, the state capital of Sabah. You can spend a day enjoying the local handicrafts market, visiting the famous City Mosque, take in the breathtaking views of the Signal Observatory and end your day at the Jesselton Waterfront enjoying live music and a lovely dinner with your friends!

Hiking Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site and also the highest mountain is perfect for those who love an adventure. On your hike, you’ll see pitcher plants which are common in the sub-tropical jungle of Kinabalu National Park.

I also recommend visiting the Mari Mari Cultural Village to learn about five different ethnic groups in Sabah: Dusun, Rungus, Lundayeh, Bajau, and Murut. Each group offers a different experience. For example, in the Dusun house, you can learn how to cook with bamboo, while in the Rungus house, you can learn how to make traditional crafts.

It is widely acknowledged that Sabah has one of the best sunsets in the world. So check out what a ticket will set you back and don’t forget to enjoy one on every day of your stay!

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15 Unforgettable Places to Go for Your Birthday This Year

09/13/2022 by Emily Becker Leave a Comment

Let’s face it, most of us only have a weekend to celebrate our birthdays each year. So for those who love to travel, how do you find places to go for your birthday that are apt for a quick celebration?

Whether you only have a couple of days or perhaps more time to spare, whether you hope to spend your birthday alone or with loved ones, this list is sure to give you some inspo this year:

Table of Contents

Outdoorsy Havens

We’re all about spending time outdoors here at BMTM. If you’re a fellow nature lover, chances are your ideal birthday would be somewhere in the woods, on a lake, at a waterfall, or anywhere else in nature that tickles your fancy. If you can relate, these are the best places to go for your birthday:

1. Lake Tahoe, California & Nevada

One of the greatest things about Lake Tahoe is that it’s a spectacular place to go for your birthday, no matter the season. If you visit in the summer , you can spend time on the water, hiking through the woods, or climbing Mount Tallac. You can also camp and have a birthday barbecue if that’s your jam. If you visit in the winter , you can snowshoe along the trails, or try your hand at skiing or snowboarding. Springtime is another fantastic season for visiting Lake Tahoe, with its azure waters, pristine forests, and rugged peaks.

Lake Tahoe makes a great birthday trip because it’s a fantastic destination for a group of friends, your family, your partner, or even just yourself. I mean, hey, those views are just as stunning if you’re on your own.

Another big plus is that there are many beautiful places to stay , either right on the lake or nearby.

2. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Another place to go for your birthday that is magical during every season is Joshua Tree National Park. Whether you’re down for a summertime getaway to see starry skies or a mild winter weekend to celebrate, Joshua Tree has something in store for you. It’s an excellent place to hike, but you can also go rock climbing or simply catch a sunset view. Find out what else you can do in Joshua Tree here .

Although the spectacular desert scenes here are enough to make anyone’s birthday special, the real reason why it makes this list is the accommodations. From swanky boutique hotels just outside the national park to cool Airbnbs just a short drive away, Joshua Tree has some great options for solo travelers, couples, and groups alike. For example, take this retro Airbnb called The Birdhouse , which sleeps up to six guests but is equally ideal for couples or families.

3. Glacier National Park, Montana

This is more of a late-spring to early-fall kind of place to go for your birthday trip, as many parts of Glacier National Park in Montana close during the winter. However, you can technically visit any time of year, as long as you’re prepared for the weather. It is truly a gem and offers some seriously wild landscapes.

This birthday destination is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who love getting off the beaten path. Montana is famous for its wide-open spaces and rugged terrain, so Glacier is an obvious choice if that kind of thing excites you.

Check out the best things to do in Glacier National Park here . You can tick many of these sites off in just a few days! Plus, read about the best hikes in Glacier National Park .

4. Big Bend National Park, Texas

Who said Texas is all about cattle ranches and endless farmland? A fabulous choice for nature lovers who want to beat the crowds and find their slice of heaven, Big Bend National Park is calling you. The scenery here is breathtaking. You’ll find overlooks with views that seem to go on forever, many that feature river-carved valleys next to towering mountains.

Big Bend is a spectacular place for stargazing, and you can camp inside the park if you’d like. The wide-open skies become dazzling at night, leaving you with a new core memory of your special day. This is easily one of the most unique places to go for your birthday.

Whether you go it alone or bring along a friend or two, Big Bend National Park has plenty to keep you busy for a weekend or longer.

Beautiful Beaches

For those of us who didn’t grow up near a beach, taking a coastal birthday trip feels like an extra special affair. After all, your day only happens once a year, so why not treat yo’self? For the babes who just want to chill on the beach for their birthday, these destinations are just for you:

5. Kauai, Hawai’i

Depending on when your birthday lands, you might want to book your trip to Kauai sooner than later, as it can get pricey if you go during high season . However, chances are you’ll forget all about how much your flight cost as soon as your toes hit the sand on Kauai’s beaches. Here you’ll find golden yellow-to-white sand and dreamy waves that look straight out of a postcard.

In case you don’t want to spend your entire birthday trip soaking up the sun on the beach, there’s plenty else to do on Kauai . From daring hikes to helicopter rides and secret tide pools, the island full of adventure.

6. San Juan, Puerto Rico

A birthday trip to Puerto Rico feels like visiting a distant country, but it’s really only a stone’s throw from the continental US. This makes it the perfect weekend birthday getaway for those of you who want to feel far from home but don’t have a whole week to spend on vacation.

San Juan’s colonial architecture and colorful buildings are enchanting enough to be the star of the show, but let’s face it: you came for the beaches. The ones near San Juan are some of the best in the US and offer quite a variety of scenes.

Head to Atlantic Beach for a party vibe, or Isla Verde for a bougie afternoon in the sun. If you want to escape the crowds, stick to Hobie Beach, which is more laid-back (unless you visit during Noche de San Juan on and around June 23rd). You can also go snorkeling with turtles near San Juan , which is an unforgettable experience perfect for a birthday celebration.

Enchanting Small Cities

For many of us who come from bustling cities, the perfect birthday trip probably involves going somewhere more quiet, chill, and relaxing. Small cities that have a special air of enchantment make a fabulous destination to celebrate your trip around the sun:

7. Mendocino, California

Mendocino’s dreamy coastline offers views over rocky cliffs that plunge into the Pacific beautifully. It’s a longtime favorite destination among poets, novelists, actors, and other creative people because of its moody and enchanting atmosphere. Mendocino is the perfect birthday destination for a girls’ trip, but you can even enjoy it solo or with your partner.

Take a hike through Headlands State Park, see the pygmy forest at Jug Handle State Natural Reserve, or simply spend the afternoon sipping wine on your terrace overlooking the Pacific Ocean. However you decide to spend your time there, Mendocino has plenty of things to do to make your birthday special.

One of the best places to stay in Mendocino is Brewery Gulch Inn , which has a cozy environment that you’ll appreciate any time of year. Want to see more options? Here’s a list of the chicest boutique hotels in Mendocino.

8. Santa Fe, New Mexico

For a delightful, colorful birthday celebration, head to Santa Fe. This southwestern gem is bursting with culture and is an art lover’s paradise. For such a small city, it sure packs a punch with its abundance of neat museums, impressive gastronomical scene, and head-tilting architecture. Whether you spend your day exploring the eye-popping MeowWolf Museum or strolling down Canyon Road to check out the art galleries and cafés, you’ll find tons of interesting things to do in Santa Fe .

There are also ample opportunities to explore nature just outside of town with your birthday companion(s). You can go rafting on the Rio Grand Gorge, check out an ancient meteor strike at Santa Fe Shatter Cones, or simply get out for a hike at the Santa Fe Canyon Preserve .

Big, Bustling Cities

This is for those of you who have a “go big or go home” mindset when planning your birthday trip. Whether you’re celebrating a big milestone or any other birthday, these big cities will fill you with their infectious energy to ring in another year of your fabulous life:

9. New York City, New York

If you really want to go all-out for your birthday, what better way to do it than spending a weekend in New York? Whether you get excited about the bright lights of Broadway or want to spend your birthday with your closest friends hopping from borough to borough, NYC has endless possibilities.

It’s no secret that the city that never sleeps can be pricey to visit. For that reason, you might want to take advantage of the many free things to do in NYC . After all, if you spend less on activities, you can splurge more on your birthday dinner at that restaurant you’ve been dying to try.

10. Chicago, Illinois

Although many consider Chicago to be the “second city,” there’s nothing second place about the epic variety of things to do here. It’s more affordable than New York, and there are also tons of free things to do in Chicago .

Too many visitors spend too much time in the Loop (aka, downtown) and miss out on all the culturally rich neighborhoods throughout the city. So hop on the L train and explore neighborhoods like Lincoln Park, Uptown, Pilsen, or Wicker Park on your own or with your travel buddies.

Throughout, you’ll find museums, parks, and of course, lakeside hangout spots. I recommend doing at least one food tour, like this underground donut tour or this Chinatown walking food tour . What better way to treat yourself on your birthday?

11. Miami, Florida

Particularly if your birthday is in the winter and you live somewhere cold, Miami makes for an awesome trip. Not only will you enjoy the sunny weather, but you’ll find plenty of things to do in Miami to fill your birthday weekend with unforgettable experiences.

The city is an adult playground perfect for a birthday trip with friends. Visit the magical Museum of Illusions to take photos with funky 3-D backgrounds, or eat your way through Little Havana on this food tour . Whatever you decide, Miami is the place to be completely extra on your birthday.

Quick International Getaways

You’ve been dying to go somewhere far away for your birthday but might not be sure how to fit it into your tight schedule. Or perhaps you want to go international without venturing to far from home. These places make it possible for you to have an epic birthday trip in another country:

12. Tulum, Mexico

If you want to feel worlds away from home on your birthday without having to venture too far, consider heading to Tulum. Most major cities in the US have direct flights to Cancún, and then it’s just a couple of hours’ drive or bus ride to Tulum ( find out more about the route here ).

It’s a fantastic place to visit on your own, with your partner, or with a group of friends. The beaches are stunning, the cenotes (swimming holes) are refreshing, and there are tons of unique places to stay in Tulum .

My favorite thing about the town and the rest of the Riviera Maya is that there are dozens of cenotes that are a short distance from Tulum , each with its own character, and visiting one on your birthday is pretty epic. Besides the cenotes and beaches, however, there are plenty of other spectacular things to do in Tulum that make the international trip worth it.

13. Baja California Sur, Mexico

If you’re itching to visit the other side of Mexico, consider road-tripping through Baja California Sur . The skinny peninsula is perfect for that because there’s so much to see in such a short distance. With bright blue lagoons, pristine beaches, flowing waterfalls, and rocky mountains taking over the landscape, Baja is breathtaking.

If you want to take advantage of everything this road trip has to offer, spend a week or two here. It’s also a great choice if you’re looking for some solitude on your special day.

Aruba is a small island in the Caribbean that you can easily fly into from most major cities in the US. Here you’ll find the softest white-sand beaches you’ve probably ever seen in your life, along with some stellar snorkeling and diving opportunities. It’s one of the ultimate tropical places to go for your birthday, alone or with friends.

Although there are tons of things to do in Aruba , one of the best is simply chill on the beach. I mean, after all, Aruba’s beaches are stunning. You can also check out the famous Flamingo Beach and see these pink birds up close. Pretty cool way to spend your birthday, right?

15. Quebec City, Canada

Last but not least on this list of the best places to go for your birthday is the magical wonderland that is Quebec City. This is the perfect spot for you if you’ve been dreaming of visiting France for your birthday but only have a weekend. Quebec City has much of what makes small cities in France so enchanting: Old World architecture, adorable cafés, inspiring museums, and of course, people speaking French everywhere.

Besides having a fairytale-like atmosphere overall, Quebec City’s charm doesn’t stop at the sights and sounds. This is one of Canada’s gastronomical capitals, and you’ll find some truly mouthwatering dishes here. Get familiar with Quebec City’s tastes on this historical walking food tour .

For more ideas on how to spend your birthday here, check out this Quebec City itinerary .

You don’t have to feel bad for wanting to splurge on places to go for your birthday. After all, it only comes around once a year!

Which place caught your attention the most?

*Some links in this post are affiliate links for products and services we personally use and love. Any purchase you make through them supports us at no extra cost to you. Thanks so much!

About Emily Becker

Emily Becker is a digital nomad based in Costa Rica. She's been traveling on and off since 2014 and has visited 15 countries—planning to tick many more off her bucket list. In addition to writing for BMTM, she works as a copywriter and project manager.

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25 Best Florida Islands to Visit For Vacation

By Lisa Wells September 22, 2023 Updated: January 30, 2024 · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Looking for the perfect island getaway? Look no further than Florida, where you'll find some of the most unique and beautiful islands in the United States. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventure-filled outdoor excursion, Florida's islands have something for everyone.

From the white sand beaches of Marco Island to the tranquil atmosphere of Amelia Island, each island offers a unique experience that is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to explore the best Florida islands.

The Sunshine State boasts more than 4,500 islands, making it a dream destination for beach lovers. Florida's islands offer everything from quiet and rustic settings to high-end resorts and bustling nightlife. Whether you are a book-on-the-beach kind of traveler or a thrill-seeking water sports adventurer, or a foodie looking for plentiful dining options, there is a Florida island that is right for you.

Best Florida Islands

Find your dream destination, from barrier islands on the Atlantic Ocean to the Florida Keys to small islands on the Gulf Coast. Here's a list of the best islands to visit for your next Florida vacation.

1. Alligator Point

Located in what is known as Florida’s Forgotten Coast, this Gulf Coast gem is a haven for nature lovers and a quiet beach community away from the hustle and bustle of some of the state’s more touristy destinations.

The nearest major airport is Tallahassee (42 miles), and lodging is limited to  rental homes ; you will want to plan ahead and bring your own food and other supplies as this is a quiet area with no real commercial district.

If the idea of getting away from it all appeals to you, with unspoiled views of the coast and in an area teeming with wildlife,  Alligator Point  is a perfect place.

2. Amelia Island

Two of the state’s most stunning resort properties ( The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island  and  Omni Amelia Island resort ) draw visitors to this island for fabulous vacations with world-class lodging and amenities.

Located at the northeast corner of the state,  Amelia Island  is one of Florida's most easily accessible islands, especially for those traveling in on Interstate 95. It is a short half-hour drive from the Jacksonville International Airport, and the historic district in Fernandina Beach is a favorite place for visitors to shop and dine. 

Amelia also boasts a mix of outstanding public and private golf courses, two state parks, and numerous other historic sites. 

3. Anna Maria Island 

South of Tampa-St. Pete,  Anna Maria Island  is a stunning barrier island with sugary white sand and gem-colored waters. While it is small enough to remain quaint and charming (with a resident population of less than 10,000), Anna Maria Island still boasts plenty of activities and amenities to keep visitors engaged and entertained.

Several dozen hotels, ranging from charming inns to larger beachfront resorts, offer visitor accommodations, and fresh local seafood is available in large and small restaurants all across the island.  

The island trolley is a free and fun way to get around and explore while you’re there, and in addition to several local hardware and general stores, there is also a Publix on the island to pick up groceries on the way to a rental home.

Be sure to check out the Beach Market at Coquina Beach for handmade souvenirs from local artists, and take a kayak tour through the mangroves for a truly one-of-a-kind Florida experience.

4. Bahia Honda Key

Unoccupied  Bahia Honda Key  sits in the lower Florida Keys and is home to the Bahia Honda State Park. This is a beautiful  place to camp  during a Keys getaway for those who don’t mind “roughing it” a bit.

The campgrounds can accommodate everything from large RVs, with access to a bathhouse, hot showers, and a dumping station, or if you’d rather pitch a tent next to a picnic table and grill, more primitive spots are available as well.

Bahia Honda Key is a fantastic place to snorkel, and you can arrange a snorkeling tour at the park concession .

5. Big Talbot Island

One of the northernmost barrier islands on Florida’s East Coast,  Big Talbot Island  is 20 miles east of Jacksonville. Big Talbot Island State Park is a nature preserve that draws visitors who enjoy birdwatching, hiking nature trails, canoeing and kayaking, and just taking in all of the wonders of Florida’s coastal habitats.

Paid admission is required to enter the park and the fishing pier, and the stunning Boneyard Beach is especially popular with photographers. There are campsites available in the adjacent Little Talbot Island State Park for overnight visits. And both parks are easy day trips from Amelia Island or Jacksonville. 

6. Captiva Island

While  Captiva  may be smaller than its “sister island,” Sanibel, it is definitely not short on stunning views, accommodations (nearly 500 rooms on the island), or things to do. While on vacation at this tranquil island paradise west of Cape Coral and Fort Myers, you can fish, sail, cycle, play golf, or just hit the beautiful white-sand beaches for a day of relaxation. Check out  the South Seas Island Resort  for the best in Captiva accommodations. 

7. Cayo Costa

For those longing to experience a truly unspoiled slice of Florida,  Cayo Costa  is a Gulf Coast barrier island accessible only by boat, where the wonders of the natural landscape reign supreme. Camping by tent or in cabins is available for visitors wanting to spend a few days on this pristine island shelling, swimming, fishing, birdwatching, snorkeling, and just savoring the sunset views.

Captiva Cruises  also offers half-day and full-day excursions to Cayo Costa State Park, making for a fun day trip from nearby Sanibel and Captiva Islands.

8. Cedar Key

This Gulf Coast island on the northwest coast of the Sunshine State is Old Florida at its best.  Cedar Key  is a quaint and quiet community where there are no high-rises or outlet malls or any of the “glitz” of big beach resorts. 

Here you will instead find people making their way around on bicycles and golf carts, spending their days birdwatching, kayaking, or just soaking up pristine views of waterways and salt marshes. The Cedar Key Seafood Festival takes place each October, and no trip to the island is complete without sampling the abundant local catches and the delicious farm-raised clams. 

9. Fisher Island

If your dream vacation in Florida is free from budget restraints, then the high-end luxury of exclusive  Fisher Island  may be calling your name! This barrier island just south of Miami Beach counts some of the country's richest people among its residents, and it is also home to a mansion once belonging to the Vanderbilt family that  now serves as its landmark club and hotel .

10. Gasparilla Island

A southwest Florida Island,  Gasparilla  is best known as the home of Boca Grande, one of the state’s most popular vacation spots thanks to its beautiful sandy beaches and world-class fishing. Don't miss Gasparilla Island State Park and historic lighthouse museum. 

The historic  Gasparilla Inn & Club  is a great place to stay to experience this island, with beautifully appointed guest rooms, a spa, onsite dining, and plenty of amenities for even the most seasoned travelers. Or you can get away from it all with a  vacation home rental on Little Gasparilla Island . Separated from Gasparilla Island by an inlet, it's accessible only by boat or water taxi, and there are no roads or cars on the Little Gasparilla.

11. Jupiter Island

This barrier island is part of Florida’s Treasure Coast, with “treasure” an apt description for a place where some of the country’s wealthiest people live. Fortunately, the rest of us can catch a glimpse of the good life since  Jupiter  is open and accessible to the public. 

If you want to drive over and spend a day visiting the island’s beautiful parks and beaches, it is only 20 miles from Palm Beach and 60 miles from Fort Lauderdale. A Jupiter Island lunch cruise  is a great way to view the island’s stately homes by the water. 

12. Key Largo

The northernmost Florida Key,  Key Largo , welcomes visitors just off the mainland as they begin their journey into the state’s most well-known chain of islands. Many people like to “island hop” from one key to the next but staying put in Key Largo is never a bad idea.

In Key Largo, you can spend your days snorkeling or sport fishing and your nights enjoying the freshest local seafood or, better yet, a tropical cocktail and live entertainment at the famous Snook’s Bayside tiki bar.

Key Largo also has many accommodations, from quaint rental cottages to  beach resorts .

13. Key Biscayne

​Just a short drive from downtown Miami, Key Biscayne feels like a world away. Spend your days lounging on the pristine beaches, exploring the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse, or taking a stroll through the lush Crandon Park. 

Or check out  The Ritz-Carlton , in Key Biscayne Village for a luxurious beach resort experience.

14. Key West

The southernmost point in the continental United States, Key West, is one of the most popular tourist destinations (even without a roller coaster of any kind!) and draws millions of visitors to its charming, history-filled streets. 

Visit this favorite vacation destination to see how it stole the heart of writer Ernest Hemingway, and if traveling to Key West with kids , be sure to include the aquarium and the butterfly conservatory on your to-do list.

You’re never far away from a cocktail in the Conch Republic. Don’t miss the Sloppy Rita at Sloppy Joe’s, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. (Note: Key West is a favorite destination for spring breakers and bachelor/bachelorette parties: if you are a light sleeper, you might want to pack your earplugs!)

15. Little Palm Island

Accessible only by boat or seaplane,  Little Palm Island  is an exclusive gem in the Florida Keys. A stay here comes with a hefty price tag, and the resort is capped at 60 guests at a time.

While the private island resort is only a short distance from Key West, it feels like a remote tropical destination. Thatched-roof bungalows give the property a British West Indies feel. The luxurious amenities include a spa, a pool overlooking the ocean, and staff ready to assist you with excursions ranging from scuba diving to fishing to tandem skydiving.

16. Marco Island

Accessible by bridge and located south of Naples,  Marco Island  is a Gulf Coast favorite, once home to Native Americans and now a popular travel destination. Over 100 miles of waterways surround this island, and accommodations range from  large resorts  to quaint motels.

Water activities rule the day on Marco Island, whether that means a fishing trip or a dolphin tour, or canoeing and kayaking through Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. 

Visitors prefer Marco Island in the spring and fall as its subtropical climate means a rainy season from June to September.

17. Merritt Island

Tucked between the East Coast of Florida and popular Cocoa Beach is  Merritt Island , best known as the home of NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. While this is an obvious draw to the island, Merritt Island offers a completely different experience to visitors with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. 

Here you will see an incredible variety of animals in their natural habitats and 1,500 species of plants, making the island a favorite destination for nature lovers and photographers.

The Space Coast, as this area is known, also has all of the activities you would expect from a Florida Island vacation, from surfing and fishing to shopping and dining.

18. Palm Island

This quiet piece of paradise is accessible only by boat, and once on  Palm Island , you’re likely to use a golf cart as your major means of transportation. Two miles of sandy beach and a stunning view of the Gulf are what keep visitors coming back, and accommodations range from 1-bedroom villas to large and luxurious private homes.

The resort has 10 tennis courts, and golfers can choose from nine area golf courses within 25 minutes of the island. You can spend your days soaking up the sun and relaxing on the island, or if you are in search of more activity, there are numerous attractions and day trips nearby to Sarasota, Venice, Englewood, and Boca Grande. If you are traveling with kids, check out Sarasota Jungle Gardens. 

19. Pine Island

The largest of Florida’s Gulf Coast Islands,  Pine Island , is a short drive from Cape Coral and Fort Myers and a mecca for anglers. Fishing is easily the most popular vacation activity here, but there are also many eclectic shops and galleries on Pine Island for those with an eye for local arts and crafts.

Most of the accommodations on the island are simple hotels or quaint villas geared toward fishermen. 

20. Sand Key

If you're looking for a quieter island retreat,  Sand Key  is the perfect destination for you. Located just south of  Clearwater Beach , this barrier island offers a more peaceful alternative to its bustling neighbor. Soak up the sun on the white sand beaches, or take a stroll in Sand Key Park to spot some of the local wildlife. With its tranquil atmosphere and stunning natural beauty, Sand Key is the ideal spot to unwind and recharge.

21. Sanibel Island

Known for its miles of beaches and world-class shelling,  Sanibel Island  is the perfect destination for those looking for an old Florida experience. Take a leisurely bike ride through the island's lush wildlife refuges, or explore the historic Sanibel Lighthouse for a glimpse into the island's past. Sanibel is one of the  best places for collecting sea shells , they even have a shell museum.

With its laid-back island vibe and stunning natural beauty, Sanibel Island is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, explore the great outdoors, or simply soak up the island's unique atmosphere, Sanibel has something for everyone.

22. Santa Rosa Island

Santa Rosa Island is a barrier island located in the western Florida panhandle region with miles of pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back island vibe. Visit Pensecola Beach, Navarre Beach, and the Gulf Islands Nationa Seashore. Take a hike through the park and discover the unique flora and fauna that call this island home, or explore the historic Fort Pickens for a glimpse into the island's rich history. And if you're a water sports enthusiast, you're in luck -  Santa Rosa Island  offers world-class opportunities for surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. 

23. Siesta Key

Siesta Key  near Sarasota on the Gulf of Mexico is a beautiful and welcoming leave-your-worries-behind island getaway. A free trolley makes it easy to get around on this 8-mile-long island, and accommodations are plentiful, with condominiums, resorts, and  larger luxury rental homes available . (Pro tip: don’t leave the island without stopping at Meaney’s Mini Donuts!)

With its relaxed vibe and luxurious amenities, Siesta Key is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the Gulf of Mexico.

24. St. George Island

St. George Island  in the panhandle is an idyllic spot for family vacations, with its pristine waterways and preserved natural environment. If you’d rather your kids spend time kayaking and birdwatching than playing arcade games or standing in line at waterparks, St. George is the island for you. 

Even with its low-key, laid-back beach vibe, there are still plenty of places to shop and dine on the island, where fresh oysters, clams, shrimp, and blue crab are an enticing part of many restaurant’s menus. You can also fill your cooler when you leave the island to take some of these glorious tastes home with you!

25. Sunset Key

Last but certainly not least on my list is one of the southernmost destinations in the Sunshine State - beautiful  Sunset Key , a small island neighboring Key West. A shuttle boat running from Opal Key Marina is the main way for visitors to reach this 27-acre island. 

Guests renting cottages have access to the resort spa and dining options (or you can travel to and from Key West for more options; the shuttle runs 24 hours a day). 

This is a great spot for people who want to visit Key West and want to “get away from it all” and escape the busier tourist areas at the end of the day. Sunset Key is the perfect tranquil “antidote” to the lively streets of Key West.

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Cruises Make Great Birthday Weekend Getaways

Throw your kid a party they won't forget.

By Heidi Sarna | Published on April 29, 2024

Birthdays are the best time of year to celebrate your loved ones, especially your children. As your child's birthday approaches this year, consider making a bigger splash than a routine visit to your local arcade or trampoline park. Go for the ultimate wow factor and get away with your family for a celebration on a cruise ship — your go-to for the best birthday weekend getaways.

Cruises make the best weekend trips for birthdays because they offer immersive fun for all ages. Trade planning birthday parties for seamless celebrations everyone in your crew can enjoy. And let the ship, which caters to the younger set with nonstop bow-to-stern fun, serve as their playground. I can't think of a more perfect setting for the best birthday trips.

As a mom who has delighted in celebrating my twin sons' birthdays on Royal Caribbean cruise ships, I'm thrilled to offer my top tips for planning the best birthday cruises, ensuring your kid's next birthday is one they'll never forget.

How To Choose The Right Ship And Itinerary

Every ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet is a potentially great choice for weekend birthday trips. The stage is set the minute you board, with the engaging crew on the gangway — your very own birthday weekend welcome wagon. The buzz is palpable, and a festive vibe permeates the air.

While the ship and its amenities provide the ultimate birthday backdrop, the destinations you visit will also be great opportunities to make memories. Which itineraries promise the best birthday weekend getaways? Well, that's easy, in my opinion. The best birthday cruises are Royal Caribbean's weekend cruises to The Bahamas.

Three-night cruises depart Fridays from three Florida ports — Orlando (Port Canaveral), Ft. Lauderdale and Miami . All of these sailings feature the best way to spend a birthday in paradise: a visit to Perfect Day at CocoCay , Royal Caribbean's private island in The Bahamas.

The Party Starts In Your Stateroom

Royal Caribbean offers a variety of birthday trip celebratory gifts that you can pre-order in advance (or once you're onboard — a win for my fellow procrastinators out there). Classic Royal Caribbean packages include a magnetic "Happy Birthday" sign for your door, while your stateroom is adorned with a birthday garland and festive decor.

Tap into your inner creativity and stash a few extra decorations from home in your suitcase (don't forget some magnets if you want to put more birthday decor on the cabin door). I've found that photos or cutouts of my kids' favorite film characters, superheroes or animals work great.

I packed a few rolls of colorful crepe streamers to celebrate my twin sons' eighth birthdays on a birthday weekend getaway, looping nautical-themed blue and white streamers around their cabin bunk beds as they slept so they'd wake up to festive vibes. I also went to the onboard shop and purchased cute inflatable ships to place around the stateroom and captain's hats for our family to wear. Signifying we were on a birthday trip brought many welcome cheers from the ship's excellent crew as well as guests.

No perfect birthday weekend getaway is complete without cake. Royal Caribbean can help by delivering your sweets , too. Choose a vanilla or chocolate birthday cake, a box of mini vanilla or red-velvet cupcakes or request chocolate-chunk brownies, which can arrive at your stateroom to kick off your celebrations. I fondly recall a birthday cruise with Grandpa and Grandma in tow. We started the all-day birthday celebrations for my boys nice and early with ice-cream sundaes at Ben & Jerry's® for breakfast!

The Best Birthday Activities Onboard

If you were celebrating on land, you might rent a party space or take the kids to an amusement park for their birthday. On a Royal Caribbean cruise, the stage is already set with countless included activities for all ages.

A day onboard quickly fills with fun for all ages, from mini golf to rock climbing, zip lines and water slides, not to mention my kids' favorite, the FlowRider® surf simulator. Much of the fun is included in your cruise fare, with a few options offered at an additional charge, like the RipCord® by iFLY® skydiving simulator on Quantum Class ships. It's totally worth it, by the way.

I can't forget to mention the fun for kids joining the Adventure Ocean® Youth Program. A highlight of my sons' weekend birthday cruise was making new friends, dabbling in some arts and crafts and participating in wacky science experiments in their age-appropriate grouping.

You can always put on your thinking cap (or birthday hat) and design a little treasure hunt for your wee ones. I did this once, drawing a simple treasure map for my sons' birthday that led them around the ship to find six special birthday surprises — a slice of pizza, an ice cream cone, the toy section of the gift shop, roller-skating tag with mom, etc. Royal Caribbean ships are ready-made for special event cruises, so make the most of it.

Perfect Port Days

The best birthday weekend getaways include a stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay. When it's time to take the party from the ship to the shore, Perfect Day at CocoCay is ready for you.

Almost all of Royal Caribbean's weekend cruises out of Florida call on the cruise line's private island. It's an island paradise that truly caters to the whole family, especially kids. Eat as many burgers, hot dogs and fries as you want at the island's five complimentary dining spots when you're not jumping for joy in the giant Oasis Lagoon®, the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean.

Birthday kids can live it up splashing around Captain Jill's Galleon℠, a shipwreck complete with geysers, slides and drench buckets, and the Splashaway Bay℠ water park for the smallest swashbucklers with fountains, pools, mini waterslides and more.

When you need a break from the party pace, unwind on the powdery sands of Chill Island® and South Beach — family-friendly spots with beach chairs and umbrellas lined up and waiting.

And since you've got a birthday to celebrate, why not spring for Thrill Waterpark® ? With a floating trampoline, wave pool and 13 waterslides, it's a great place to let little ones have a blast and earn bragging rights. Did I mention one of the attractions is the tallest waterslide in North America at 135 feet?

Your kid's special day wouldn't be complete without a ride on Up, Up and Away, a helium balloon that takes guests soaring 450 feet up for out-of-this-world views from the highest vantage point in The Bahamas.

Customizing Birthday Cruises: Top Tips

Whenever you're sailing with Royal Caribbean, you'll see many groups celebrating. It's fun to see many families and groups kitted out in matching T-shirts, baseball caps and accessories designed with the birthday kid's name. Consider planning ahead with your own custom-designed clothing to make your weekend party cruise that much more fun.

Of course, in the dining room at any given time, you can hear the sound of "Happy Birthday" being sung by the servers and fellow guests eager to join in the revelry. Make sure you mention to your waiter that there's a birthday kid in your party.

Think outside of the birthday box and see how you can customize your weekend birthday cruise to suit your preferences and requirements. With some planning, sometimes private spaces onboard the ship can be reserved, and special food and music arranged — especially if you're traveling with the extended family or a group of friends. Contact the Royal Gifts department (or Groups Department , if you're traveling with a large group of friends and family) to see what can be put together.

Capturing The Birthday Fun

The ship's professional photographers will be happy to capture precious moments of your sailing, including a weekend birthday cruise bash. Get the family dressed in their finest — or maybe in the matching T-shirts you brought along or the captains' hats you bought in the gift shop — and make some seriously fun memories to cherish forever.

If you have special thoughts about where you want your photos taken, talk to the photography team. They're a friendly crew with lots of ideas. When your photo shoot is over, you can purchase your favorite pictures in digital form or as prints — it's up to you.

The icing on the birthday cake? Royal Caribbean's family- and birthday-friendly weekend cruises often include frequent offers for families like complimentary sailing for kids if they stay in the same stateroom as their parents. Now that's a birthday present for the adults, too!

Written By HEIDI SARNA

Heidi Sarna, a freelance writer who specializes in cruising, is a contributor to Frommer's, Travel Weekly, CNBC.com and The Points Guy, among others. Heidi has taken more than 125 cruises and has visited 78 countries and counting.

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The Best Caribbean Islands For Seniors: A Holiday You’ll Never Forget

I t’s no secret that the Caribbean is among the world’s most popular regions for vacation destinations. Yet with so many distinct resorts on a broad range of islands, it might be hard to select which island or islands to visit.

If you are a senior, you may have some additional considerations and concerns when deciding where to go on vacation too.

The landscape of the island, how simple it is to access, what activities are available, and what types of accommodation are available might all be different considerations for seniors than they are for other tourists.

While all of the islands in the region are excellent choices, we’ve found that there are some Caribbean islands that are better for seniors than others.

As we know this region so well, we decided to help out. So here’s our list of the best Caribbean islands for seniors to visit. We promise that each choice offers an unforgettable vacation.

THE BEST CARIBBEAN ISLANDS FOR SENIORS

• St. Martin/St. Maarten
• US Virgin Islands
• Puerto Rico

The Five Best Caribbean Islands for Seniors: Expect Adventure, Views and Fun

1. barbados.

Barbados is an excellent choice for seniors seeking a tropical setting without the difficult terrain seen on most islands.

There are numerous possibilities for various budgets on Barbados, and lots of easily accessible tourist activities. While the island as a whole is very accommodating to guests of all ages.

Let’s delve deeper into why Barbados makes our list of the best Caribbean islands for seniors.

Area/Terrain

Barbados is a small island with a lot of flat terrain, making it easy to navigate on foot and car. The island’s elevation is normally in the 180-foot range, with moderate rolling hills.

Barbados is also rather small, with a length of 21 miles and a width of 14 miles, which makes it an easy island to explore, with no long road trips needed.

The island’s capital, Bridgetown, is one of the most densely inhabited places on the island. But because it is near the shore, it has a flatter location with lovely walking spaces and 17th-century architecture and many museums and cultural attractions to explore.

Barbados offers a variety of activities for seniors who want to experience the island in a less rigorous way.

Scenic bus trips throughout the island are common and an excellent opportunity for visitors to see the island from a variety of perspectives. Picnics, especially in one of the island’s numerous parks, are also a terrific and relaxing way to enjoy Barbados.

Some of the nicest parks are the King George V Memorial Park, Errol Barrow Park, National Heroes Square, Welchman Hall Gully, and Queen’s Park. All of these parks provide spots for picnics, strolling, and taking in breathtaking sights that you won’t find anywhere else.

The Barbados Boardwalk is located just south of Bridgetown, and well worth a visit too. The boardwalk, which stretches a full mile down the coast, is a great spot to stroll from place to place since it is lined with restaurants and bars. Not to mention the incredible ocean view you’ll have the entire time. If you’re looking to enjoy a drink in the sun with great views and a lovely walk, the boardwalk is unbeatable.

On top of all that, there are several history and wildlife trips and tours available on the island too.

Plantation homes dating back to the 17th century may be seen all around the island, and there are plenty of parks to observe the vegetation and even animals that live on Barbados.

Furthermore, the Garrison Historic Area and the Barbados Museum are both excellent venues to learn about the island’s fascinating history.

Accommodation

There are two main hotel areas where people of all ages tend to stay on the island – the west coast and the south coast.

The island’s west shore is recognized for having more luxurious hotels, making it the most costly area. But both sections of the island are great options for vacationing and touring the island, with many excursions available from each.

When looking to experience the best in luxury and world-class service, it’s hard to beat the 5-star Coral Reef Club resort. It’s located on the island’s west coast, within walking distance of many famous beaches. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with high-quality furnishings and amenities and a lovely balcony.

The hotel offers a buffet breakfast every morning with extensive facilities for guests. There’s a bar, an on-site restaurant that serves various international dishes and vegetarian options, a fitness centre with state-of-the-art equipment, a spa with massages and facials from local experts in the field, and an outdoor swimming pool overlooking the sea below. You’ll also enjoy all kinds of activities on the property, including cycling, windsurfing, snorkelling, scuba diving and more. See photos and rates here.

The Coral Sands Beach Resort , Sugar Bay , and Southern Palms Beach Club are among the more affordable alternatives on the south coast.

Wherever you end up staying, you will have access to beautiful accommodation choices with even more amazing ocean views.

The fact is the entire island is surrounded by beaches with fine white sand and access to the ocean, so shoreside resorts are likely to have easy access to a fantastic beach. Which is one of the reasons why Barbados made our previous list of best Caribbean islands for beaches !

2. St. Martin and St. Maarten

Despite the fact that their names are spelled differently, St. Martin and St. Maarten are two sides of the same island. St. Martin is the island’s north half and is governed by France, whereas St. Maarten is the island’s south half and is governed by the Netherlands.

The two areas are very well connected though and both have a lot to offer visitors and vacationers.

Why does that make this Caribbean island great for seniors? Well when we’ve stayed on the island it feels like spending time in two different Caribbean destinations but without the hassle of plane journeys and/or ferries!

Yet as they are part of the same island, it’s easy to access and enjoy both sides, while staying at the same hotel or resort.

The entire island is mountainous, with a few small lakes strewn around. The more you travel inland, the higher you will get. That provides some spectacular views from the island’s center, where you will get panoramic views of the island as well as the ocean.

Both sides are highly inhabited, and the cities and villages that border the beaches are easily accessible by foot.

Despite the terrain, there’s plenty of tours that go around the island, and the roads are well maintained so there should be no trouble if hiring a car.

There is plenty to do on both sides of the island. On the St. Maarten side, there are over 20 casinos where you may play blackjack, roulette, and other games. Many of these casinos also provide additional tours and excursions, which are ideal for individuals who wish to see the island while also gambling.

On St. Maarten, Phillipsburg is a fantastic spot to visit too. Phillipsburg has hundreds of businesses and lovely walking spaces and is undoubtedly the island’s hub. The city also has several fantastic eateries that are guaranteed to satisfy your appetite.

The side of St. Martin has a lot of fun activities as well. Fort St. Louis, a fort erected in 1767 that currently sits above the city, is located in Marigot Bay. The fort is easily accessible by car, and if you don’t want to travel alone, there are several trips that go there and back.

This fort is a must-visit and one of the best places on the island to get a panoramic view. And if the weather is clear enough, you might even be able to see all the way to the island of Anguilla!

For your stay in St. Martin and St. Maarten, there are several very nice hotels and resorts.

The Grand Case Beach Club is a fantastic hotel on the St. Martin side. They provide spacious apartment-style accommodations to make you feel more comfortable during your stay.

The resort also has two completely private beaches as well as a swimming pool with views of Grand Case Bay. There’s also an on-site restaurant, a gym, and spas. See rates and photos here.

On St. Maarten’s side, the Divi Little Beach Resort has exceptionally big rooms with a long list of facilities. This resort, which is situated on a tiny peninsula, has immediate beach access as well as beachfront dining and drinking.

Divi Little Beach also has various pools, a fitness facility, and a spa on site. Excursions and outings to some of the nicest spots on the island are also available, so you can enjoy hassle-free sightseeing. See photos and rates here.

3. US Virgin Islands

The three islands that make up the US Virgin Islands are ideal for a variety of senior activities.

Resorts, excursions, and amazing places to view abound on St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John.

All three islands are quite different, as we show you below. But with good connections between all three, you can have an island hopping adventure with little stress. If you’re looking for more of an adventurous holiday, then these islands could be perfect.

While the islands are under the same name, they each have their own distinct appeal.

Tourists flock to St. Thomas because it is heavily inhabited by stores, resorts, bars, and other attractions.

With almost 84 square miles of land, St. Croix is the biggest of the three islands. It is the most culturally and historically significant, and while not the most popular, it’s got many cultural and historical sights to explore.

Finally, St. John is the island to visit if you want to see animals and natural wonders. It’s ideal for individuals who want to be more active because of the magnificent scenery and incredible adventure opportunities.

On each of the islands, there are several activities suitable for senior citizens. And with so many trips to choose from, there is bound to be something for everyone.

The Big Blue Excursions company are ideal for individuals who want to get out on the ocean and see the island from a different perspective. They make trips to some of the greatest beach spots on both St. Thomas and St. John. If you’re feeling really daring, snorkeling equipment is available so you can observe the water life up close.

IslandBuddy Jeep Tours are a fantastic way to experience the islands if you want to stay on land. Your driver and tour guide will make sure you get to see some of the most beautiful parts of St. Thomas and St. John. There are beaches, ruins, and possibilities for swimming, hiking, or simply relaxing outdoors if that’s your thing.

Each island also offers several historical sites and museums to visit for history aficionados.

Fort Christiansvaern in St. Croix is one of the greatest. This 18th-century fort is around seven acres in size and is still fully intact, allowing you to explore practically every portion of it. Along the route, there are even monuments and displays to give you a taste of the area’s history while you explore.

The resorts and hotels in the US Virgin Islands, like its activities, are plentiful and of exceptional quality.

The Ritz-Carlton , the islands’ sole 5-star resort, is located on St. Thomas. This hotel provides several trips to tour the island along with stunning views from every bedroom and miles of beaches to enjoy.

The resort also has four restaurants on-site that provide a variety of delectable cuisines. Staying here gives you a real feeling of luxury. See rates and photos here.

The Buccaneer , a four-star resort on St. Croix is another great choice and is located on the coast with private beach access. It’s also close to Christiansted, making it simple to go out and about on the island without needing to abandon the resort.

If you want to remain on the premises, The Buccaneer also offers an all-inclusive package that includes all meals. The resort includes a spa, golf course, aquatic activities, and more. See photos and rates here.

4. St Lucia

St. Lucia is a small island between Martinique and St. Vincent and the Grenadines that has a lot to offer, and more adult-only resorts than most Caribbean islands too.

There is a great variety of things to appreciate around the island, with fantastic views from the elevated interior and great experiences to be had in the coastal cities around the island.

The magnificent Pitons mountains may just be the most spectacular sight in the Caribbean too.

Although, we have to admit that compared to the other destinations on our list of best Caribbean islands for seniors, St Lucia’s infrastructure and road system is a little more difficult. However there are also plenty of positives.

The Pitons, a pair of mountains on the island, are St Lucia’s most prominent feature. Many routes around the mountains lead to some stunning locations with streams, waterfalls, and a variety of intriguing fauna in the interior.

Castries, the island’s capital, is located on the more populous shore. Some of the greatest restaurants, shops, and atmospheres on the island and in the Caribbean can be found in this region. It’s also a major cruise ship port.

The city is quite accessible and simple to explore on your own, making wandering about and visiting the city a simple and pleasurable experience.

St. Lucia has a variety of activities that are enjoyable for people of all ages.

The St. Lucia Rainforest Aerial Tram excursion is one of the most unique, allowing travelers to ride above the jungle canopy in an open air gondola!

Starting from up high, the jungle tram trip allows you to enjoy a pleasant descent while learning about the island’s vegetation, animals, and history. It’s adventurous and exhilarating, but best of all it’s all done sitting down!

If you prefer a more active activity, there are many stables on the island that allow you to ride horses across St Lucia and take in some of the greatest coastline sights the island has to offer.

If horseback riding isn’t your thing, there are a variety of off-road buggy trips that provide all of the same sights and activities without the extra stress of riding a horse.

The Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens and Mineral Baths are also a great nature experience for travelers who don’t mind a little walking. This tranquil region, which spans over six acres, allows you to explore big waterfalls, rich foliage, and the island’s variety and beautiful flora.

St. Lucia boasts a far higher number of adult-only lodgings and resorts than other Caribbean islands, making it suitable for seniors seeking a more peaceful vacation without children running about. That’s another reason why St Lucia has made our list of the best Caribbean island for seniors.

The five-star Sandals Grande St. Lucian adults-only resort is a fantastic spot to consider staying. There are a variety of room types available, including oceanfront of course, as well as private pools and tropical gardens.

There are 12 on-site eateries and another 15 nearby, so there is plenty of places to dine at the Grande St. Lucian. Private cabanas, on-site stores, and local excursions are among the many facilities available. See rates and photos here.

The Jade Mountain Resort is another adults-only resort with a spectacular view of the ocean and the Pitons from its hilltop perch. The resort ensures that each visitor gets the most out of their stay by offering just 29 suites. A private infinity pool or a double jacuzzi is included in each suite.

Furthermore, eating options are numerous, with on-site dining as well as the option of having any meal delivered to your hotel! The bulk of Jade Mountain’s facilities are located offsite, including the restaurant, spa, and beach access. See photos and rates here.

The 80-room Sugar Beach Resort is worth considering too. It’s situated between the two Pitons, in arguably one of the most beautiful locations in the Caribbean! Each suite has a private pool as well as butler service. Villas and cottages are also available if you are traveling with a group or a family.

Sugar Beach also has two beaches, one that is available to everyone and the other that is just for adults. The on-site restaurants and beachside dining are among the best in the area and are easily accessible too. See rates and photos here.

5. Puerto Rico

We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention Puerto Rico, which is one of the Caribbean’s most popular islands, and for good reason.

It is consistently one of the top options out of this big collection of islands, with some of the greatest food, experiences, and resorts in the Caribbean.

It’s also an island where English is widely spoken, making it easy and simple to communicate and get around.

While the center of the island is made up of steep slopes and mountainous landscapes, the commercialized and developed coastal cities are easy to explore and good fun to walk around. That’s one of the reasons why Puerto Rico makes our list of the best Caribbean islands for seniors.

San Juan and Vieques are two of the greatest places to visit for fun. One of the best aspects about this island is the fact there are many unique activities all within walking distance of one another, so you won’t have to drive far to locate the next thing you want to do.

In Puerto Rico, there is never a shortage of things to do.

The Bioluminescent Mosquito Bay in Vieques may be one of the most remarkable experiences. The bay appears ordinary during the day with a beautiful view of the ocean, but it becomes anything but ordinary at night. Hundreds of thousands of creatures known as dinoflagellates create a blue glow at night, lighting up the whole bay and creating a one-of-a-kind scene.

Early mornings in Old San Juan provide a unique opportunity too, with a chance to experience the neighborhood without the crowds. The historic district is bordered by well-built structures and well-known landmarks.

If you want a real experience of Puerto Rican food, there are street vendors and eateries throughout San Juan, and the old neighborhood is one of the finest on the island for getting a true sense of the culture.

El Morro is the place to go if you’re interested in learning about the island’s history. This castle was erected between the sixteenth and eighteenth centuries, and has hosted a variety of residents, including Portuguese troops and American military personnel. It is even a UNESCO World Heritage Site because it is the site of many historical events.

In Puerto Rico, there’s no shortage of fantastic hotels and resorts. In fact there are over 130 hotels and resorts to select from despite the island’s tiny size.

The five-star Hyatt Hacienda del Mar is one of the most luxurious. The Hacienda del Mar, located near Dorado, offers a variety of lodging alternatives to suit any scenario. The Mahi Mahi Bar and Grill, located near the beach and pool, provides breakfast, lunch, and supper, eliminating the need to leave the resort.

The resort also provides a variety of options and forms of exploration throughout the island, allowing you to find something new to try with ease. See rates and photos here.

Another wonderful resort choice on the island is Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve . There are a variety of rooms available, several of which offer immediate beach access.

Dorado Beach also ensures that you don’t have to leave the resort to dine if you don’t want to, with five on-site restaurants and room service. There is also a fitness facility and spa for guests to utilize, as is customary in resorts.

Finally, Dorado Beach provides a broad choice of incredible experiences, including water activities, land adventures, golf, and even a photographic concierge, ensuring that you get the most out of your time in Puerto Rico. See rates and photos here!

Lastly, Isabela’s Villa Montana Beach Resort is a beachfront resort with plenty to offer. The resort has suites and villas with one to three bedrooms, as well as patios and jacuzzis. There are also two pools, tennis courts, free-to-use bicycles, and private beach picnics, among other amenities.

Golf, horseback riding, and even fishing are among the many excursions and activities available at Isabela’s resort. To top it all off, the award-winning Eclipse Restaurant is the resort’s on-site food and beverage provider, offering some of the greatest eating in Puerto Rico. See rates and photos here!

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