Whether you’re planning a short road trip or an epic around-the-world adventure, these are the places where you’ll find the most opportunities to travel alone in style. From the perfect getaway spot to the ultimate destination for self-care, we’ve got you covered. Take a look at the list of 15 places you should see on your solo travels.
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1. Kauai, Hawaii
The Hawaiian island of Kauai is the only place with enough natural beauty to make it onto our list twice. You can visit some of its famous sights like Waimea Canyon or go out to one of its many secluded beaches (and do nothing but relax). Kauai also has plenty of off-the-beaten-path spots that will give you the feeling of being truly alone. Visit the mysterious Nihoa Island, explore the underwater world of Molokini Crater, or take a boat ride to see the turtles laying eggs at Hanalei Bay.
2. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg is a popular vacation spot for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of their everyday lives. This mountain town is surrounded by forests, lakes, and rivers, making it the perfect place to unwind from all the stress. Large cabins in Gatlinburg have been created specifically for visitors to rent, allowing them to feel like they’re right at home while still enjoying the outdoors.
3. Banff National Park, Alberta
Banff National Park is known as “Canada’s national playground,” making it an excellent choice if you want to experience Canada without leaving the country. There are so many ways to enjoy this park:
- Hiking through the snow
- Camping under the stars
- Going white water rafting down the Bow River
- Even visiting the nearby town of Banff itself
The only downside? That means there’s not much privacy—but that’s part of what makes it such a great place to go.
4. Pismo Beach, California
Pismo Beach lies on the coast of California, which means it has the beautiful beach life you’d expect from any seaside town. It’s also just a hop away from Los Angeles, making it an easy place to visit when you want to be close to civilization. Plus, the area is home to plenty of hotels and other accommodations for travelers looking to get away from it all.
5. Zion National Park, Utah
Zion National Park is known for its breathtaking views, especially if you visit during springtime. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, climbing up sandstone cliffs, or even taking a hot air balloon ride over the desert landscape. If you’re not into outdoor activities, though, there are plenty of ways to relax in Zion. Some of the hotel rooms here offer spa services, giving you the chance to pamper yourself while you’re in the middle of nowhere.
6. Yerba Buena Island, California
Yerba Buena Island is located just south of San Francisco, making it the perfect getaway if you’re trying to avoid the city’s crowds. There are plenty of small towns near this island, so you can visit one that’s closest to your preferred level of comfort. You’ll also find plenty of lodging options available on Yerba Buena Island, allowing you to choose the ideal location for your stay.
7. Malibu, California
Malibu is a celebrity hotspot, so it’s no surprise that it’s also a popular place for solo travelers. Many people prefer to visit Malibu because it offers them the opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle of LA but still be close enough to the city to enjoy its many amenities. You can book a room at one of the many hotels in Malibu or even rent a private house.
8. Colorado Springs, Colorado
Colorado Springs is a major tourist destination, but it’s also known as a place where you can find solitude. Many hotels in Colorado Springs offer visitors a wide range of accommodation options. Some of the more popular ones include the Broadmoor Hotel, the Palace of the Plains, and the Little Nell Hotel.
9. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
Bryce Canyon National Park is a gorgeous sight to behold, and it’s full of interesting geological features. You can hike around the colorful hoodoos, visit the Fairyland Loop Trail, or even climb up the towering spires. It’s a great place to go if you want to see some amazing scenery without having to deal with too many people.
10. Chautauqua Lake, New York
Chautauqua Lake is a popular vacation spot for those who love nature. The lake is surrounded by forested land, meaning there’s plenty of wildlife to see, and it’s also very close to the city of Jamestown. There are plenty of hotels and campgrounds near the lake, allowing you to pick the one that works best for you.
11. Tulum, Mexico
Tulum is a popular destination for tourists looking to get away from it all. It’s a little far from the main cities in Mexico, but it’s still an easy drive, and it’s packed with hotels, restaurants, and bars. Some of the best hotels in Tulum include Casa Maya, Palapa Suites, and La Tortuga.
12. Santa Barbara, California
Santa Barbara is known for its wine country, but it’s also a popular destination for those who enjoy the beach. It’s also known for its charming downtown, making it an excellent place to go if you want to enjoy a relaxing weekend. You can book a hotel room in Santa Barbara or rent a house.
13. Mendocino, California
Mendocino is a quiet coastal town that’s known for its gorgeous beaches and sunsets. It’s also a great place to visit if you want to experience some of the best surfing in the United States. If you’re looking for a place to stay, there are plenty of hotels and beds & breakfasts nearby.
14. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
The Grand Canyon is one of the most famous landmarks globally, and it’s also a popular destination for solo travelers. You can book a room at one of the many hotels in the area or even rent a cabin. The Grand Canyon is a great place to go to experience something unique without worrying about other people.
15. Lighthouse District, San Diego
San Diego is a big city, but it’s also home to several smaller neighborhoods that make it easy to get away from the crowds. The Lighthouse District is one of those neighborhoods, and it’s known for its vibrant nightlife scene. There are plenty of hotels and apartments in the area, so you can easily find a place to stay.
Final Words
Traveling alone doesn’t mean you need to be completely isolated from the rest of the world. It’s a great way to meet new people and learn more about the world. These are just 15 of the best locations to travel solo in 2023, but we hope you’ll find inspiration from them as you plan your next trip.