25 best places for your next girlfriend getaways

A Week at the Beach :: Inspiring Busy Moms to Travel More

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20 Best Destinations for Girlfriend Getaways

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The other ladies around the table just gawked at us, mouths half open.

“I want in next year for sure!” one of them said, finally breaking the silence. I sipped my wine and glanced knowingly at my friends. We’d just finished telling them about our wonderful four-‐night getaway on the beach in Mexico. Our sun-‐kissed shoulders shook with laughter as we recalled more than a few funny moments around the pool.

Much to my delight, this Mexican girlfriend getaway has become an annual event. Last year we had twelve moms on our long weekend away in Mexico. The majority of us are working moms, and with about 27 kids between us, it's no small task to coordinate this getaway. But with some advance planning, not only is this annual getaway do-‐able, but also we’ve blocked off this time annually for what has become a very important emotional necessity.

Making time to travel nourishes friendships, clears the mind and helps our tired and stressed bodies relax for a few days in the warm Mexican sun. It's important.

Whether you’re beginning to plan your first Girlfriend Getaway or if you’re looking for new ideas for your well-‐traveled group, this list of Best Girlfriend Getaways for Busy Moms is a great place to start! Forward this blog post on to your girlfriends and see which options rise to the top of the list for your group.

Then, get a planning party on the books and make it happen!

I sincerely hope this list inspires you to get away and have a great adventure with your best girlfriends.

Rest and Relaxation Best Girlfriend Getaways

#1. Riviera Maya, Mexico: From almost anywhere in North America, travel to Mexico is easy and relatively inexpensive. Leave in the morning and be on the beach for happy hour! The famous, soft white sand beaches on the Caribbean side of Mexico stretch from Cancun down through the Riviera Maya and all the way to Tulum, and offer a range of accommodation options with something for every group. If an all-‐inclusive resort is the direction your group is headed, be sure to select an adults-‐only resort that isn’t overly honeymoon-‐focused (otherwise you will spend your trip either surrounded by screaming kids or canoodling couples).



Where to stay: The adults-‐only Secrets Resorts and Spas, of which there are six on the Caribbean side of Mexico, recently introduced an Unlimited-‐Luxury package. For only $70, you can enjoy a mani/pedi session, access to the spa’s wet areas (usually reserved for those who have booked a spa treatment), and an additional 10% off extra spa treatments, daily yoga sessions and special room service.

#2. Scottsdale, Arizona: Generally, flights to Phoenix from anywhere in the U.S. are inexpensive year-‐round. Add to this the warm desert sun, beautiful natural surroundings and ample options for dining and drinking and you have the ingredients for a perfectly relaxing Girlfriend Getaway. There are plenty of hotels in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area that offer stunning pools and great spas ideal if your girls group keen on doing, well, nothing!

Where to stay: The Four Seasons Scottsdale at Troon North is a great place for a restful girlfriend getaway. Reserve one of the poolside cabanas in advance, and enjoy as much (or as little) sun as you desire. Rates (for up to 3 people sharing one room) start at about $619 per night.

#3. Out Islands Bahamas: If you like the idea of relaxing on a Caribbean island but don’t want the crowds, or cruise ship traffic, of Cozumel, Nassau or even Aruba, The Abaco Islands and their low-‐key local scene may be ideal for your group of girlfriends. There are three airports in the Abacos: Marsh Harbour (the major one, on Great Abaco Island), Treasure Cay, and Walker's Cay. The easiest way to get to The Abaco Islands is to fly to Miami and connect directly to Marsh Harbour on Bahamasair. In addition to white sand beaches and warm Caribbea water, get ready for lively nightlife in the funky villages and superb dining, including lots of conch!



Where to stay: For a cozy “house party” experience (picture gathering for cocktails in the living room before dinner and family-‐style dining) and all the fresh Bonefish you can eat, try the Delphi Club. This cozy atmosphere will welcome your girls group with open arms! Priced from $1,629 per person for a 3-‐day stay (discounts available for groups of 8 or more).

#4. Anguilla: Getting to Anguilla involves a bit more flight time than most destinations on this list, but this package simply can’t be beat. For the girls group who has already done Mexico, Vegas and the Bahamas, Anguilla should be next on your list. In addition to enjoying the lively atmosphere on the island, organize for a day tip to a deserted Scrub Island with its magnificent, totally empty beaches. You will be dropped off in the morning with a delicious picnic and plenty to drink and bought back in the afternoon of whenever you'd like.

Where to stay: The Arawak Beach Inn runs a girlfriend getaway package including transfers, three nights' lodging (in two oceanfront rooms), breakfast daily, a six-‐pack of Carib beer upon arrival, a full-‐day excursion to an uninhabited island (picnic lunch and transportation on a boat captained by one of Anguilla's most eligible bachelors -‐ ha!), and a one-‐day car rental to explore the island from $269 per night.

Active Adventure Best Girlfriend Getaways

#5. River Rafting in California, Oregon or Idaho: Burn some calories and get some sun at the same time on this active girlfriend getaway. Especially if you live in a big city, rafting on the river in California, Oregon or Idaho gives you a chance to unwind and reflect in natural beauty for a change. But really, they had me at “…knowledgeable wine stewards and five-‐star epicurean offerings.”



Where to stay: O.A.R.S., a long-‐time leader in river rafting and outdoor adventure trips, organizes these amazing Wine Tasting on the River Adventures and while the chefs and wineries change per trip, the five-‐star quality is guaranteed. Three-‐day trips start at about $700, including all activities, camping accommodation and all meals and wine.

#6. San Juan Islands, Washington: Just a short ferry or floatplane ride away from Seattle, the San Juan Islands offer island camping and activities where you and your friends can run around in the wilderness for days on end. The islands are great for photographers and the charming Friday Harbor is friendly and walk-‐able.

Where to stay: Lakedale Resort on Neva Lake offers all the relaxation of the natural surroundings, with the service that makes for a great Girlfriend Getaway. To experience "Glamping" for yourself, check out their Canvas Bunkhouse, a 6-‐person, 450-‐square foot canvas-‐walled cabin with two queen beds and a full-‐size futon. Rates for the entire tent are about $279 per night. Enjoy the signature Lakedale granola served for breakfast and hot-‐water bottles to keep your tootsies warm at evening turn-‐down.

#7. Moab, Utah: Well-‐known for it’s year-‐round mountain biking terrain, Moab’s best-‐kept secret is that it also has amazing road riding. In addition to pedaling through Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, your group could also do some hiking and rafting. The beautiful red rock terrain and endless views are sure to inspire.



Where to stay: The Sorrel River Ranch in Moab includes rustic chic accommodations in private cabins, so you can relax in comfort after a day of activity. Their River View Family Suite is perfect for a bigger group, and is priced at about $779 per night for the entire cabin.

#8. Las Vegas, Nevada: Warm weather and ease of access pretty much guaranteed Las Vegas a spot on this list of best Girlfriend Getaways for moms, but there is so much more to Las Vegas than only casinos. Begin your getaway with a few days hiking in the Red Rock Canyon, then end with a few days on the strip, enjoying the lively pool scene by day and amazing culinary options by night.

Where to stay: Located near the entrance to Red Rock Canyon National Recreation area, begin your getaway at the Red Rock Resort. This hotel boasts a 25,000 square foot spa, which is the perfect end to your day of hiking. Weekend rates are around $200 per night for a double Queen room. Then, head on back to the strip. I love the Art Deco-‐inspired Four Seasons Las Vegas. Enjoy the private Four Seasons pool or check out the livelier scene at the neighboring Mandalay Beach, where you’ll also have signing privileges for food and drink. Rooms here start at about $240 per night.

#9. Beaver Creek, Colorado: During ski season both Vail and Beaver Creek are both awesome for girlfriend getaways. I love spending the weekend in Beaver Creek with my girlfriends, as it’s smaller and less crowded than neighboring Vail. When staying anywhere in Beaver Creek, you can take advantage of the free local shuttles that service the entire area. After a day of epic power skiing, be sure to have an après cocktail in the lounge at the Ritz-‐Carlton Bachelor Gulch. You’ll find a cozy



atmosphere, great people watching and even live music around a massive outdoor fireplace (and make your own s’mores!)

Where to stay: Definitely a splurge, but the Ritz-‐Carlton Bachelor Gulch is worth every penny. Go early in the ski season and rates are as low as $359 per night for a room that sleeps four (later in the seasons rates soar to about $700 per room per night.)

Affordable Best Girlfriend Getaways

#10 Madison, Wisconsin: For those on a tighter budget,college towns tend to have more affordable dining and accommodation options while still offering a dose of sophistication and culture. Madison, WI for example, offers amazing restaurants such as dinner at L’Etoile, where produce, meats, and artisan Wisconsin cheeses are sourced from a local farmers’ market, and weekends are full of happy hours and college town cheer.

Where to Stay: In keeping with the Badgers (the University’s mascot) these, the HotelRED is the town’s most stylish boutique hotel. Enjoy their walk-‐to-‐everything location, modern art on the walls, and kitchenettes that make it easy to cook up a group dinner. Book a two-‐bedroom suite with a private balcony for only $319 per night.

#11 Outer Banks, North Carolina: The Outer Banks span 200-‐miles along North Carolina's coast, and are comprised of a string of barrier islands connected to the



mainland by bridges and ferries. Check out historic lighthouses and the wild horses when you’re not lounging on the beach. Fly into Raleigh/Durham, NC and rent a car to get to the Outer Banks, which is about a four-‐hour drive.

Where to stay: Book a vacation rental through Outer Bank Vacations. More intimate, spacious and often more affordable, choose from a wide selection of vacation homes and condos throughout the Outer Banks.

#12 Pelican Lake, Minnesota: The warm humidity of the Midwest in the summer, combined with the famously kind and outgoing locals, make for a perfectly relaxing getaway that won’t break the bank. Spend your days lounging lakeside or rent a pontoon boat (large boats rent for about $400 per day) and enjoy boat-‐side swimming and the ever-‐popular sunset booze cruise!

Where to stay: Pelican Lake, Breezy Point Resort is only 140 miles north of Minneapolis/St. Paul. If you prefer to fly, Breezy Point is just a 30-‐minute flight from Minneaplkis served by Skywest-‐Delta Connection into the Brainerd Airport with several daily flights. Book the Boat House, which sleeps 12 and is perfectly located right next to the lake’s boar marina.

Food and Wine Best Girlfriend Getaways

#13 Willamette Valley, Oregon: The Willamette Valley is a low-‐key, laid-‐back wine country experience where it’s not uncommon for the winery owners show up during tastings in dirty overalls. You’ll find no pretense or attitude here; just amazing Pinto Noir and some extraordinary culinary experiences.Don’t miss the Lange Winery for



some of my favorite Willamette Valley Pinot Noir, Domain Drouhin for their stunning tasting room experience and Sokol Blosser for one of the only organic wine in the valley.

Where to stay: While there are many cute B&B’s in the area, if you’re with your girlfriends opt for The Allison, the only luxury resort in Willamette Valley. A room with two queen beds will run about $460 per night. Enjoy the gorgeous pool and spa after a long day of wine tastings.

#14 Brittany, France: While this is certainly one of the more far-‐flung destinations on my list of top Girlfriend Getaways for moms, it’s also at the heart of culinary excellence so certainly could not be left off. Based in the green rolling hills of Brittany in Northwest France, you’ll live the local village life in a charming, renovated estate. Brush up on your French (or just download one of the many super-‐handy language apps available today).

Where to stay: If you’ve ever spent time in Minneapolis, you’ve surely heard of Lucia’s restaurant. Doing whole and local foods in haute cuisine before it was cool, Lucia has been a long-‐standing personality of the Twin Cities “foody” scene. Her French chateau is available for a vacation rental, and even better yet join her there for a cooking class a few times a year! While this is a splurge, you can justify it to your family by coming home with lots of new yummy things to try out on your family! Priced from $1,600 for six nights for six people.



#15 Santa Fe, New Mexico: Santa Fe has drawn artists and spiritual souls to the foot of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains for decades. With a lovely warm, dry climate and fascinating culture and history, Santa Fe is an intriguing, yet easy, destination for your Girls Getaway. Combine spa and some hiking with fine dining and shopping for a perfectly relaxing weekend. If you’re driving, you can also visit Taos (another cute artsy town), which is just over an hour away.

Where to stay: There are a number of cute boutique hotels in Santa Fe. Ten Thousands Waves Mountain Spa, located about ten minutes from downtown Santa Fe, is a great option. The property, and especially the spa, is inspired by traditional Japanese hot springs resorts (the communal soaking tub is women only and clothing optional). Rooms start at $219 per night.

Urban Best Girlfriend Getaways

#16 New York City: Nothing beats a weekend in Manhattan, where you can be as active or as lazy as you desire. Head up to Brooklyn to check out this evolving scene, and enjoy drinks and happy hour snacks at the Whiskey Soda Lounge. During the summer months events like movies and concerts in Central Park are fun, but the dining and shopping experiences are endless year round. You might even be inclined to dust off your dancing shoes and head out on the town!

Where to Stay: The Eventi Hotel, a Kimpton property, is ideally located in Chelsea near the Theater District and great design, with lush, rich colors throughout the hotel, rates for a room with 2 queen beds are around $549 depending on day of the week.

#17 Miami, Florida: Be warned, Miami isn’t for the modest. Expect to see, and maybe even show, lots of skin while enjoying the Miami heat until the break of dawn. Miami is known for glitz and glamour, so pack, and plan accordingly. Days at the beach or the spa, followed by nights out are a great way to spend a few days in Miami.



Where to stay: Book your girls group in at the Fontainbleau. With an amazing spa, no less than nine dining options on site and crisply decorated rooms, this hotel is the perfect scene for your girlfriend getaway. Mid-‐week rates start at $399 for a room that sleeps 4.

#18 Nashville, Tennessee: If your group of girlfriends loves music, Nashville (aka Music City) is a great getaway option. And you’ll find much more than just country music. To find out who's playing when and where, grab a copy of Nashville Scene, an alternative weekly available for free around the city. Plus you’ll find plenty of amazing culinary experiences to be had. Chefs across Nashville serve up fun and often farm-‐fresh takes on classic southern dishes. I love Nashville’s tourism web site, Visit Music City, packed with great info to help you plan the perfect weekend away.

Where to stay: Check out the The Printers Alley Lofts, a collection of fully equipped industrial-‐chic lofts. With full kitchens and plenty of lounge space to hang out with a glass of wine before hitting the town, these lofts are a great alternative to hotel rooms and perfect for a group of ladies. Book these lofts on HomeAway.com, prices start at $275 per night (sleeps 4) with a 2 night minimum.

Healthy Best Girlfriend Getaways

#19 Palm Springs, California: Sure there is plenty of party action to be had in Palm Springs (check out the scene at the Riviera and the upcoming Splash party for starters!), but if you want to relax and return from your getaway refreshed and feeling healthy there are some awesome options as well. The warm air and stunning natural surroundings make it a perfect place to kick off a healthy new you alongside your besties.

Where to stay: The Spring boasts their own mineral hot springs which have been called some of the best in the world. While you’re here you can even do a juice cleanse. with only 12 rooms this boutique hotel is intimate, quiet and chilled out. Priced from about $160 per night (sleeps 3 adults), The Spring is also a great value.

#20 Napa Valley, California: Need a good excuse to start running? Why not double up on your getaway and run a half-‐marathon followed by a few days of tasting some of the best wine in the world. The Wine Country Marathon series always sells out fast though, so be sure to plan well in advance.



Where to stay: There are a number of awesome places to stay here, but I love the quintessential Calistoga Hot Springs. Especially if you’ve just run a half marathon, soak in the natural mineral waters until you’re ready to start your wine tastings! Rates start at about $285 per night for a room that sleeps 4.

#21 Troncones, Mexico: Nestled between the lush mountains of the Sierra Madre and the sparkling Mexican Riviera, Troncones is a laid-‐back beach-‐front village. Located about 20 miles north of the Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo International airport, which is served daily by most major carriers, the area has long been famous with surfers from around the world.



Where to stay: In addition to being a charming boutique hotel right on Mexico’s Pacific coast beach, Present Moment Retreat is a retreat for the cultivation of human consciousness and well being. Just what every busy mom needs most, right!? Prices start at about $115 per person per day, but a number of retreats and packages are offered year-‐round, so be sure to inquire direct with the hotel before booking.

#22 Austin, Texas If your pre-‐kid girlfriend getaways included music festivals like Coachella and SXSW, Austin is the right town for you. Spend a few nights at the Lake Austin Spa Resort to spend your days surrounded by stunning interior décor, taking a Cardio Dance Party class or enjoying a critically acclaimed massage. Then wrap up the weekend with a few nights in downtown Austin, about 45 minutes away, enjoying nightlife, food and drink.

Where to stay: Mix it up and spend a few nights at The Lake Austin Spa followed by a few nights in the city. Hotel Ella is a fun boutique hotel in a great part of town.

Have you taken a memorable trip with your girlfriends? I’d love to hear about your experience!

25 best places for your next girlfriend getaways

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