The 20 Best Girls Trip Ideas to Get the Gang Together This Summer

• Best For: water activities and beach days
• How to Get There: fly to Key West International Airport (EYW)
• Where to Stay: Lunara Bay Estates, Lennon’s Lodge, Luxury Houseboat at Yacht Club Resort

Sure, the nightlife in Miami is hard to beat, but if you’re looking for a girls trip that has the perfect balance of partying and chilling in a beach house with a view, I suggest you fly right over and head to Key West instead. Indeed, Key West has earned a reputation as a vacation destination that’s all about kicking back. That said, there’s more than just beach bum island vibes to the place. In fact, Key West is rich with culture, history and natural beauty. Charter a boat and try your hand at fishing, diving and pretty much every other water sport under the sun with the girls; visit the home of Ernest Hemingway, one of the island's most illustrious former residents; and, by all means, gorge yourselves on the best seafood you’ve ever tasted while taking in every gorgeous sunset and getting to know some of the eccentric residents—colorful characters who came to the island and decided never to leave—over drinks. There are plenty of beach destinations in Florida that draw in tourists from around the country, but you'd be hard pressed to find one with more character than this.

• Best For: relaxing in the countryside
• How to Get There: drive 1.5 to 2 hours from any NYC airport
• Where to Stay: Wildflower Farms, Auberge Resort Collection

Executive Editor Alexia Dellner enjoyed a girls retreat at this gorgeous countryside resort in the Hudson Valley and gave her experience at Wildflower Farms five stars: “I went with my two best friends to celebrate one of them beating cancer and it was the most relaxing and rejuvenating weekend, which was just what we needed. The accommodations were gorgeous, the scenery was beautiful and the food was amazing. It was also great to go and not feel pressured to do anything—just connect with each other and relax.” In other words, if you’re looking for a nearby escape from the big city that will put you in touch with nature in a not-hiking-just-taking-in-the-landscape sort of way, then a perfect girls trip experience awaits at this luxe resort.

• Best for: off-the-grid stays, total privacy, nature lovers
• How to Get There: fly into Palm Springs International Airport and drive one hour
• Where to Stay: Starlit Dunes, The Highlands Retreat, Stargaze Hacienda Joshua Tree

Friend groups who are eager for an opportunity to unplug should head to Joshua Tree State Park. This desert oasis in California boasts incredible sprawling, landscapes, as much privacy as you could ever want, and a ton of wildlife. This girls trip idea is excellent for active folks who enjoy early morning and evening hikes, punctuated by poolside breaks at luxurious glamping-style rentals. It’s also worth noting that Joshua Tree is not far from Palm Springs, so if you want to enjoy some five-star dining experiences and/or a day of spa pampering, you can find it all just a short drive away.

• Best For: an energetic big city experience
• How to Get There: fly into any NYC airport
• Where to Stay: The William Vale, Vibrant NYC Loft, Townhouse Near Times Square

The Big Apple is always an exhilarating place to visit on a girls trip—namely because there’s so much to do that making memories together is particularly easy. Catch a Broadway show, tour the museums, go gallery hopping and walk the Highline in Chelsea, picnic in Central Park, visit the iconic Russian Tea Room or enjoy a budget-friendly spa day at the Russian & Turkish Baths in the East Village. Indeed, you’ll have no trouble filling an itinerary when you visit NYC. If you’re looking to save money, I suggest you consider looking for accommodations outside of Manhattan, since vacation rentals are much cheaper than five-star midtown hotels and anything you want to see in Manhattan is just a hop, skip and a jump away by train from Brooklyn or Queens. If you want a hotel stay, I strongly recommend checking out The William Vale, in the Williamsburg neighborhood of Brooklyn. It’s a gorgeous boutique hotel with a sprawling rooftop that boasts panoramic views of the city skyline.

• Best For: cultural and culinary experiences, nightlife
• How to Get There: fly into Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport
• Where to Stay: Hotel Monteleone, Upscale Apartment On Streetcar, Gentilly Breeze

When it comes to colorful cultural experiences, the melting pot that is New Orleans is hard to beat. For starters, the culinary options are out of this world, so a food crawl is an absolute must. Some other itinerary ideas include taking a scenic steamboat cruise on the Mississippi River. I highly recommend the immensely popular Natchez jazz cruise (pictured above) for a truly memorable experience that combines picturesque river views with an authentic taste of NOLA’s vibrant music scene. There are also numerous museums to explore by day and, of course, a famously lively nightlife scene to be found on (you guessed it) Bourbon Street.

• Best For: outdoor excursions, hikers, nature lovers
• How to Get There: fly into PHX and drive 3.5 hours to the South Rim; fly into the smaller Flagstaff airport (FLG) and drive 1.5 hours to the South Rim
• Where to Stay: Grand Getaway, Tiny Home In Williams, Hillside Hideaway

Nature lovers should absolutely consider a visit to the Grand Canyon as a girls trip idea. After all, it’s one of the seven natural wonders of the world and seeing it with your closest friends is sure to be a memorable experience. Explore the numerous hiking trails, walk across the Grand Canyon Skywalk for panoramic views of the geological wonder from on high, take a scenic drive and, when you retreat to your vacation rental, make sure to light up the firepit and spend some time under the night sky for an unparalleled stargazing experience.

• Best For: surf and sun
• How to Get There: fly into LAX and drive 25 minutes
• Where to Stay: Hotel Erwin Venice Beach, Chic Venice House, Venice Beach Villa

Gather your friend group and enjoy a Barbie-inspired moment rollerskating up and down the vibrant Venice Beach boardwalk. Explore the area’s numerous beachfront shops, soak up the sun, take a dip in the Pacific and then carve out some time to check out the numerous other nearby attractions before you retreat to your oceanfront vacation rental. (Celeb spotting in West Hollywood or an indulgent shopping spree on Rodeo Drive, perhaps?) Bottom line: a stay in Venice Beach promises wonderful, laidback vibes—some might say the best you can find in L.A. —plus close proximity to all the glitz and glamour associated with the City of Angels.

• Best For: nostalgic fun and theme park thrills
• How to Get There: fly into MCO and drive 20 minutes
• Where to Stay: JW Marriott Grand Lakes Orlando, The Ritz-Carlton Grande Lakes Orlando, Disney/Universal Villa in Kissimmee

If you and your girls have a soft spot for Disney, this one is kind of a no-brainer—and Disney World is arguably more fun to visit as an adult than as a child. Best of all, the park is constantly evolving and there will be several new attractions opening up in 2025. Beyond that, simply enjoy the luxe accommodations at one of the numerous nearby resorts—and be sure to pack wisely, plan your days at the theme park itself in such a way that gets you the most bang for your buck and follow this sage advice for a fairytale stay.

• Best For: spa treatments and luxury amenities
• How to Get There: fly into PHX and drive 25 minutes
• Where to Stay: Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, Hotel Valley Ho, Luxe Old Town Oasis

Editor-in-Chief Jillian Quint recently enjoyed a dreamy girls trip to Scottsdale, Arizona, and describes it as an ideal destination for numerous reasons: “We stayed at the Scottsdale Princess, which was divine, and mostly just hung around by the pool…but we also went hiking on the Gateway Trail and spent time walking around Old Town Scottsdale,” she says, adding that this small city escape outside of Phoenix is “a relaxing desert oasis with tons of spas and restaurants.” In other words, if you’re looking to unwind in a warm and welcoming place that boasts plenty of luxury amenities, Scottsdale fits the bill.

• Best For: beach days and dinner parties
• How to Get There: drive three hours from NYC
• Where to Stay: Montauk Beach Bungalow West, Silver House in East Hampton, Stunning Hampton’s Waterfront Escape

Maybe you live in NYC or maybe you and your pals have already been there dozens of times. Either way, you need something different. Then check out the Hamptons, aka where wealthy New Yorkers escape to once temps start to rise. This warm weather retreat boasts gorgeous beaches, luxe shopping, top-notch restaurants and excellent people watching. The vibe is laid-back and bougie, making it ideal for a girls getaway. Just make sure your crew packs enough sundresses, face masks and rosé to toast at golden hour.

• Best For: pristine lake beaches, arts and culture
• How to Get There: fly into Grand Rapids (GRR) Airport and drive 45 minutes
• Where to Stay: Wickwood Inn, Luxury Riverside Home Near Oval Beach, Manchester By the Lake

Pristine lake beaches, outdoor recreation, arts and culture. Let’s just say Saugatuck checks all the boxes. This city in Michigan’s Allegheny County was awarded Best Beach Town 2020 by Midwest Living Magazine, but Saugatuck is more than just a dreamy lakeside retreat. In fact, it’s also known as Michigan’s Art Coast—a well-deserved title that speaks to its vibrant art scene. When you’re not lounging lakeside, check out the local galleries, pay a visit to the Saugatuck Center for the Arts, and definitely pencil in a stroll through the town center, where the streets are lined with charming shops offering everything from antiques to locally made jewelry. For something more active than simply sunbathing, head to Saugatuck Dunes State Park, where you will find numerous scenic hiking trails and unspoilt beaches to explore.

• Best For: luxury mountain retreat, national park access
• How to Get There: fly into Jackson Hole Airport (JAC)
• Where to Stay: Hotel Yellowstone at Jackson Hole

Anyone who wants to enjoy a mountain retreat with luxe amenities and stunning views of unspoilt nature should book a stay at Hotel Yellowstone in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Surrounded by the majestic Grand Teton, Teton Mountain Range and the Snake River Valley, this five-star, adults-only resort offers guests an incredibly serene, spa-like experience, as well as easy access to all manner of outdoor adventures. (The resort provides exclusive excursions to the nearby national parks.) The well-appointed suites are the epitome of opulence and luxury, featuring breathtaking vistas that can be enjoyed from the comfort of your room, and the on-site restaurant, Olivia’s, serves up world class, destination-inspired fare. Nature lovers: pack your bags for a not-so-rugged but highly immersive experience in one of the country’s most beautiful regions.

• Best For: picturesque public spaces, cultural attractions
• How to Get There: fly into Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport
• Where to Stay: Homewood Suites by Hilton Savannah Historic District/Riverfront, Savannah Riverwalk Townhome, The Factors Penthouse

Here, a recommendation from my very well-traveled sister who recently visited “The Hostess City of the South” on a girls’ trip with her best friends. From her experience, there is “much more to enjoy than the throngs of women visiting for their bachelorette party,” so don't let that side of Savannah deter you if you’re going for a different vibe. In fact, Savannah has a wealth of cultural attractions, including SCAD—a truly exceptional Contemporary Art Museum—and the beautiful Bonaventure Cemetery. The city is also replete with picturesque public spaces that are perfect for gathering with friends.

Be sure to plan a picnic under the weeping willows in beautiful Forsyth Park, stroll the scenic riverfront, and check out the numerous boutiques and cute shops in the postcard-worthy historic district. As for dining recommendations, check out Alligator Soul for top-notch Southern fare that can be made gluten-free, Alley Cat Lounge for drinks, and The Funky Brunch Cafe for a very fun, kitschy breakfast spot.

• Best For: historic attractions, arts and culture, Old World charm
• How to Get There: fly into Montreal-Trudeau International Airport
• Where to Stay: Le Mount Stephen, Penthouse Old Port, Heritage Home

If you’re looking for a taste of France without crossing the ocean, Montreal will not disappoint. This city in the Quebec region of Canada has a very European flavor that’s enhanced by its numerous cultural attractions and excellent culinary offerings. Main sightseeing attractions include Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal, which rivals the original one in terms of grandeur and beauty, as well as the Jardin Botanique de Montreal, a botanical garden that boasts 75 hectares of exotic and native flora. The historic streets of downtown are peppered with cute wine bars and bistros with great live music. Mount Royal is a landmark mountain with a beautiful public park that boasts sweeping views of the city and art enthusiasts will swoon over the collection at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts.

Finally, don’t head back stateside with the girls until you have explored the picturesque streets of Old Montreal and made your way to the banks of the St. Lawrence River for a ferris wheel ride you won’t soon forget.

• Best For: walkable city escape, cultural attractions, historic architecture
• How to Get There: fly into Václav Havel Airport Prague
• Where to Stay: THE MANES Boutique Hotel Prague, The Mozart Prague, Billionaire’s Nest

If Disney World is a little too kitschy for you, plan a girls trip to Prague instead for a truly authentic, Old World fairytale experience. In addition to the world famous Prague Castle, the city is replete with Gothic cathedrals, Romanesque chapels, Baroque palaces and beautiful gardens. The architectural attractions alone make Prague a truly breathtaking and memorable European destination, but the relatively small and highly walkable city has more going for it than just its striking looks. Be sure to check out The Museum of Senses for an offbeat but decidedly captivating interactive experience; tour a traditional Czech brewery; visit Old Town Hall, preferably at night when it lights up like magic; and, before you head back stateside, be sure to take a charming cruise to Slavonic Island, which sits on the Vltava river and boasts beautiful scenery, ample park space (picnic anyone?) and delightful paddleboat tours.

• Best For: fine dining, upscale shopping, beautiful beaches
• How to Get There: fly into Nice Airport and drive 1.5 hours
• Where to Stay: Hotel La Ponche, Villa Cosy Hotel & Spa, Prestigious Waterfront Apartment

Feeling fancy? Tap into your inner Brigit Bardot and gather the girls for a glamorous French Riviera retreat on the island of Saint-Tropez. Originally a small fishing village, this gem in the Côte d’Azur is now a go-to destination for the global elite, so you can expect plenty of upscale shopping, fine dining and luxury amenities. Don’t worry if you’re not invited on a celebrity's yacht, though; the scenery in Saint-Tropez is absolutely stunning and there are numerous public beaches where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the fresh Mediterranean waters. Enjoy a uniquely French (and not so hoity-toity) shopping trip at the place des lices—a colorful, open air market where you can buy plants, clothing, artisanal creations and the finest produce the region has to offer—and for a more enriching, cultural experience, be sure to immerse yourself in the island’s maritime history at the Citadel and tour the historic four towers of Saint-Tropez. (Psst: you can find more itinerary recommendations for, you know, regular travelers here.)

• Best For: nature lovers, geological wonders
• How to Get There: fly into Reykjavik International Airport
• Where to Stay: Tower Suites Reykjavik, Reykjavik Residence Apartment Hotel, Entire Loft in Reykjavik

Cross something off your bucket list and take a girls trip to Reykjavik to see the Northern Lights. OK, you can’t actually see the Northern Lights from Reykjavik during the summer months because, well, the sun is pretty much up all day. Don’t let that stop you, though: Perlan, an enormous natural history museum with a futuristic glass-domed restaurant and cocktail bar, offers visitors a year-round Northern Lights show in 8k, in addition to some other pretty cool attractions (a 4k planetarium, indoor ice cave, volcano exhibit and virtual underwater journey, to name a few). For a truly unique spa experience, you can soak together in the geothermal waters of the sky lagoon while taking in breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

That said, to make the most of your visit to Reykjavik I highly recommend some outdoor excursions, such as hiking an actual glacier or taking a whale watching cruise, so that you can truly appreciate the incredible natural beauty of Iceland.

• Best For: walkable city stay, picturesque public spaces, cultural attractions
• How to Get There: fly into Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
• Where to Stay: Ambassade Hotel, Family Home in Old City Center, Canal View Home

Europe’s most bicycle-friendly city has charm to spare. From the picturesque cobblestone streets and scenic canals to the crave-worthy street food and vibrant cultural scene, Amsterdam has quite a lot going for it. There are cultural attractions galore—including several noteworthy museums (The Stedelijk Museum for Modern Art, The Van Gogh Museum and the Anne Frank House, for example) and numerous public parks and gardens where you and the girls can just, well, do nothing at all. Amsterdam also provides easy access to several nearby beaches, though I recommend you start by exploring the city itself with a canal cruise and a few bottles of wine.

• Best For: island vibes, beachfront relaxation
• How to Get There: fly into Sangster International Airport
• Where to Stay: Excellence Oyster Bay, The Jewel at Dream 36, Soleil Residences Condo

If you’ve never been to Jamaica, it should absolutely be on your bucket list. I can attest to the fact that the vibes in this very special Caribbean country are so overwhelmingly positive—and it might sound like a cliche but it’s actually true: Jamaicans are the funniest, friendliest and most welcoming people I have ever met on my travels. If you’re looking to share a joyful bonding experience with a group of close friends, I can’t think of a better destination. There are plenty of other places on the island to stay, but I highly recommend a trip to Montego Bay because it’s home to one of the island’s international airports, which means you can minimize time wasted on travel.

Once there, I suggest settling into a suite at Excellence Oyster Bay—it’s where I will be staying for my honeymoon and the location, which happens to be right next to the only bioluminescent lagoon in the Caribbean, is absolutely gorgeous. As for other recommendations, make sure to stop by Margaritaville—a laid back restaurant where you can waterslide into the crystal clear waters, jump on a water trampoline, or just watch other people do that while you kick back with the signature drink in hand.

• Best For: outdoor excursions, luxury beachfront stays, natural attractions
• How to Get There: fly into Cancun International Airport
• Where to Stay: Hilton Cancun Mar Caribe, El Cielo Private Villa, Marina Vista Retreat

I actually took a mother-daughter trip to Cancun this past November to bond with my tween daughter, which is admittedly a different kind of girls trip than the type you likely had in mind when scrolling through this story. Still, I can’t say enough good things about the four days and three nights I spent there and would repeat the experience with a group of girlfriends in a heartbeat.

Long story short, if you’re under the impression that Cancun is nothing more than a Girls Gone Wild spring break destination, you couldn’t be more mistaken. (Though you certainly can find that, too, if that’s your speed.) An itinerary that I would wholeheartedly recommend for a memorable girls trip is one that emphasizes outdoor excursions, so that you can really lean into all the natural beauty the region has to offer. Take a thrilling ATV ride through a lush jungle, go snorkeling and scuba diving and definitely don’t miss what I think is the best experience of all: ziplining over a limestone sinkhole with a practically bottomless pool of water (i.e., a cenote.)

As for accommodations, there is no shortage of luxury resorts in Cancun, but we stayed at the Hilton Cancun Mar Caribe and couldn’t have been happier with our accommodations. Our all-inclusive stay provided direct access to a pristine and blessedly uncrowded beachfront, private pools with sweeping views and the best ceviche I’ve ever tasted. Let’s just say you’d be hard pressed to find a better home base for your Mexican adventure.