For years, I鈥檝e snubbed Europe鈥檚 mountains as soon as the ski season ended. For me, the Alps were long synonymous with winter: hut-to-hut ski tours in the Italian Dolomites, shots of schnapps at apr猫s in Austria, and cozy cabins and hearty meals of fondue and raclette in Switzerland.

Around a decade ago, a work assignment took me to the Savoie region of France in June. The landscape was even more dazzling when it wasn鈥檛 covered in snow. Azul alpine lakes shimmered. Vast meadows were carpeted in Technicolor wildflowers. Cows, bedecked with giant bells, grazed in the bright green pastures. And the mountain huts that warmed me in winter fueled me with cheese souffl茅s and glasses of crisp ros茅.

Yes, we have plenty of epic hiking opportunities at home in the States, but there was something special about immersing myself in a different culture at such a slow and undistracted pace. When I hike at home in Boulder, Colorado, I tend to be a mountain goat racing to the summit. But hiking in Europe has taught me how to dial it back, embrace the local hospitality, and savor the views.

I鈥檒l admit, some of Europe鈥檚 most storied hikes, such as Spain鈥檚 Camino de Santiago, and the multi-country Tour du Mont Blanc, intimidate me. If you don鈥檛 have a month鈥檚 vacation or mountaineering skills, you have plenty of other options.

The following are some of my favorite multi-day hikes in Europe. I鈥檝e chosen a mix of both mellow and challenging trails; most can be broken up in sections if you don鈥檛 want to tackle the entire route in one go. All require some planning and basic fitness levels.

Newer hikers, or those who want an assist with logistics, should consider booking a self-guided or fully-guided trip. Not only does this guarantee accommodations (mountain huts book up fast in Europe, just like campsites at America鈥檚 top parks), but it also eases your load by taking care of luggage transfers. And fully-guided trips are a great option for nervous solo transfers, or nerds like me who want to know the name of every wildflower and distant peak and understand the history of the region. Happy trails.

1. Mare 脿 Mare Nord, Corsica

Distance: 86 miles
Effort: Challenging

Why we love it: A less congested and less demanding, yet equally scenic alternative to Corsica鈥檚 mythical G20 long distance hiking trail, the point-to-point Mare 脿 Mare Nord is bookended by stunning beaches in the village of Moriani on the island鈥檚 east coast and the fishing port of Carg猫se on the west. Sporty, but not technical, the trail covers more than 7,700 feet of elevation as it winds through chestnut forests, past wild gorges and natural rock pools, and to sleepy mountain villages and coastal towns steeped in tradition.

Need to know: The trail is broken into 12 stages, each taking between four to nine hours. It can typically be completed in 10 to 12 days between mid-April through November. The trail is well-marked with orange paint. Accommodation options can be found and should be reserved in advance. Local tour company offers an 11-day self-guided trip that includes luggage transfers between accommodations (a mix of hotels, mountain huts, and one night camping) as well as most meals (from $1,630).

2. The Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland

Distance: 33 miles
Effort: Moderate

Why we love it: While it鈥檚 primarily known as a road trip, Northern Ireland鈥檚 rugged Causeway Coast also makes for an epic hike. A series of clifftop paths and small coastal roads stretch from Belfast to Derry, taking in the raw landscapes that have served as film locations for 鈥淕ame of Thrones鈥� and 鈥淪tar Wars.鈥� The route showcases cliff top castles and wild beaches, but the UNESCO-listed Giant鈥檚 Causeway, with its 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, is the highlight.

Need to know: This relatively mellow hike is best attempted between June and October. Build in extra time for detours to friendly pubs and Bushmill鈥檚, Ireland鈥檚 oldest distillery. offers multiple variations of itineraries for this hike, including a seven-day group trip that tacks on some hiking in the craggy mountains of Glenveagh, Ireland鈥檚 second largest national park (from $3,255).

3. Laugavegur Trail, Iceland

Distance: 35 miles
Effort: Challenging

Why we love it: Petrified lava fields. Snow-crowned peaks. Electric blue glaciers. Tussock meadows. The drama of Iceland鈥檚 landscape is at its peak along the Laugavegur Trail. Stretching across the heart of Iceland鈥檚 southern region, the trek begins in the highlands of Landmannalaugar, an area known for its hot springs and multi-hued rhyolite mountains, and concludes in the glacial valley of Th贸rsm枚rk. Most people conquer the trek in four to five days; overachievers tack on another two days and trek over the next pass to Sk贸gar to see the nearly 200-foot Sk贸gafoss waterfall.

Need to know: Simple mountain huts (from $65) and tents (from $20) are open on the trail from June 20 to September 17, 2025 and must be . Icelandic Mountain Guides offers ($2,503) and ($1,248) treks.

4. Cortina d鈥橝mpezzo to Alta Badia: the Dolomites, Italy

Distance: 37 miles
Effort: Moderate

Why we love it: The fang-like peaks of the Dolomites provide more than a stunning backdrop for trekking. They also deliver a lesson in history, geology, culture, and cuisine. The journey between the Venetian-influenced town of Cortina d鈥橝mpezzo and the Ladin-influenced villages of Alta Badia in South Tyrol takes hikers through mugo pine and larch trees, past World War I tunnels dug into the mountainsides, around the fortress-like Sella Massif, and into the heart of Puez-Odle Nature Park. Along the way, you鈥檒l stay in charming rifugios that serve typical local dishes such as canederli (bread dumplings).

Need to know: Mid-June to early October is the best time for hiking in this region. Most people devote one week to this trek, planning for four to seven hours of hiking a day. You鈥檒l want to prep your legs for some serious ascents and descents. The Dolomites are known for their vast network of rifugios, which offer private rooms and shared rooms, home-cooked meals, and some, like (from $85 for a dorm-style room), now feature saunas. , one of the region鈥檚 most respected adventure operators, offers seven-day guided (from $4,570) and self-guided itineraries ($1,920) that include transfers, rifugios, and meals.

5. The Great Glen Way, Scotland

Distance: 79
Effort: Moderate

Why we love it: The West Highland Way is considered the granddaddy of Scotland鈥檚 long-distance hikes, but this shorter, tamer coast-to-coast route is a fantastic option for less experienced hikers thanks to its gentler terrain and more gradual ascents. The trail begins beneath the slopes of Ben Nevis, Britain鈥檚 highest mountain, and stretches east across the Highlands to its terminus in Inverness. You鈥檒l be properly warmed up for the second half, when the trail gradually gets more challenging as it winds up the hillsides above the famed Loch Ness. Keep an eye out for Nessie.

Need to know: Your best chance of avoiding midges (pesky, gnat-like flies) is to hike in April or May鈥攁dded bonus, the flowers will be in bloom. Summer is warmer and drier, but more crowded. The leaves are golden in fall, but the midges are still around. The trail is dotted with humble guesthouses and B&B-style accommodations. Give yourself four to eight days to complete the trek. runs an eight-day self-guided itinerary that ranges from seven to 18 miles per day and includes meals, accommodations, and luggage transfers (from $1,302).

6. GR92 Mediterranean Trail, Spain

Distance: 348 miles
Effort: Challenging

Why we love it: Spain鈥檚 answer to Italy鈥檚 iconic Cinque Terre trek, this long-distance trail is broken into that hug the Catalan coastline. Throughout parts, you can dip your toes in the sea at quiet beaches. At other points, you鈥檙e admiring the azure waters and rocky coastline from high up in the massifs of the Catalan coastal mountain range.

Need to know: The entire trail can take anywhere from eight to 16 days depending on your pace. Many people choose to tackle the first four stages (about 42 miles) on the dreamy Costa Brava. Stage one begins near the French border in the town of Portbou, which can be reached by a 2 hour 30 minute train ride from Barcelona. From there, you鈥檒l pass through the fishing town Cadaqu茅s, an artist haven where Salvador Dal铆 found inspiration. The fourth stage provides hikers a glimpse of the wetlands in Aiguamolls de l’Empord脿 Natural Park. The Mediterranean climate allows for hiking year round. Be warned, summer can get hot, even on the coast. Outfitter offers an easy, week-long self-guided itinerary on the GR92鈥檚 Costa Brava stretch (from $1,000).

7. Kesch Trek, Switzerland

Distance: 37
Effort: Moderate

Why we love it: Graub眉nden, Switzerland鈥檚 largest and highest altitude mountain region, is better known for its winter ski resorts, like St. Moritz, Davos, and Laax. But when summer arrives, it鈥檚 a hiker鈥檚 paradise. This classic jaunt between the Fl眉ela and Albula Passes engulfs hikers amid soaring peaks and glacial landscapes. During the hike, glimmering alpine lakes beckon hikers to cool off with a brisk dip. The trek can be completed in four days and connects to three of Switzerland鈥檚 comfiest mountain huts, including the solar-powered Kesch H眉tte, which has its own climbing garden with various bolted routes.

Need to know: The trek is accessible between July and September. Hut reservations are essential and dormitory rooms start at $55 per night. The trek鈥檚 three huts offer a bargain three-night package that includes half-board (breakfast and lunch) and optional picnic lunches for $500. The first day is relatively low-effort. If time allows, consider climbing to the 10,325-foot summit of Fl眉ela Schwarzhorn.

8. Bled to Lake Bohinj: the Julian Alps, Slovenia

Distance: 42
Effort: Test-your-mettle challenging

Why we love it: The sparkling lakes of Bled and Bohinj are downright fairytale worthy, and Slovenia鈥檚 awesome hut system still flies under the radar. The Alpine Association of Slovenia maintains more than 170 mountain shelters across a trail network of 6,200-plus miles. This challenging route in the Julian Alps showcases medieval castles, plunging waterfalls, and the wild beauty of , home to seven lakes and Slovenia鈥檚 highest peak. Along the way, you鈥檒l pop into sleepy villages where locals will renew your energy with homemade brandy and schnapps.

Need to know: You鈥檒l want to mountain huts at least one week in advance during peak season in July and August (but it鈥檚 worth it to see the wildflowers in bloom). Huts start at $25 per person, per night. Note, some have limited water so showering might not be possible. runs an affordable, eight-day, self-guided trip that includes a mix of hut and hotel stays, luggage transfers, and meals (from $1,995).

9. Stubai High Trail, Austria

Distance: 50
Effort: Challenging

Why we love it: Be transported to the 鈥淪ound of Music鈥� as you trek a horseshoe-shaped route high above the lakes, glaciers, and alpine meadows of the Stubai Valley. The hike has a total elevation gain and loss of just over 37,000 feet, so make sure your legs are conditioned. Eight historic connect the of the trail. Each has its own challenges and takes between four to seven hours to complete. But the warm, Tyrolean hospitality (and fresh-from-the oven strudel) that awaits at the end of each stage is motivation to keep trekking.

Need to know: Huts should be booked at least a month in advance. Most offer a mix of accommodations ranging from dorm-style rooms that require sleeping pads (from $20) to private rooms (from $55); all serve hearty, Tyrolean fare. The trail typically takes nine days. Some hikers tack on days and use the Franz-Senn H眉tte, located at stage two, to acclimate and train. Perched at 7,044 feet, via ferratas and climbing parks surround the classic Bavarian lodging, which has wifi, too. Hiking company Hut to Hut Hiking Austria has a nine-day, self-guided itinerary that includes hut reservations and most meals (from $1,585).

10. Classic Loop of Jotunheimen National Park, Norway

Distance: 58 miles
Effort: Test-your-mettle challenging

Why we love it: Jotunheimen translates to 鈥渉ome of the giants,鈥� a nod to being home of the tallest mountains in northern Europe. It鈥檚 possible to loop the park, staying in historic mountain huts managed by the Norwegian Trekking Association throughout the journey. This circuit includes a strenuous ascent of bucket-list Besseggen Ridge, an 8.7-mile trail with 3,608 feet of elevation gain. Panoramic views of emerald and turquoise lakes, electric blue glaciers, and snow-crowned peaks make every step worth the effort.

Need to know: The within the park average $105 a night and should be reserved in advance; note some require to reach and those tickets should also be purchased in advance (from $7 each way). This hike is best during the summer to avoid snow or ice. Give yourself six to eight days鈥攎ore if you want to summit Norway鈥檚 highest peak, Galdh酶piggen. Ease logistics by booking a self-guided circuit with , a tour operator in the park that takes care of transfers to and from Oslo, hut reservations, meals, luggage transport, and boat crossings (from $1,930).

Jen Murphy is a regular 国产吃瓜黑料 contributor. She recently wrote about the world鈥檚 best bike tours and North America鈥檚 best surf schools. She is an avid hiker and will be trekking hut-to-hut in the Dolomites this summer.听

The post After 10 Years Hiking Europe, These Are My 10 Favorite Treks appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

I wasn鈥檛 introduced to the pleasures of lake life until my early 30s. Born and raised on the Jersey Shore, I was ocean obsessed. If the water didn鈥檛 have waves and leave me salt-kissed, I wasn鈥檛 interested. When I moved to Colorado 15 years ago, I was gripped by land-locked panic and started road-tripping to any body of water I could find. I soon discovered many of my favorite ocean sports (kitesurfing, paddleboarding, foiling) could be performed on lakes. And many of the lakes I visited were surrounded by wilderness trails that I could hike, bike, and run. Some shocked me with their Caribbean-esque beauty. Others awed me with their alpine backdrops.

While the jet-set flocks to Europe to see-and-be-seen on the glamorous shores of Lake Como, Italy, and Lake Lucerne, Switzerland, the adventure set heads to the U.S., where lake life is blissfully more rugged than refined. America is blessed with nearly 3 million lakes. Everyone knows Powell, Placid, and Tahoe (for good reason), so I won鈥檛 be redundant. And I鈥檒l urge you to read 国产吃瓜黑料 contributor Stephanie Pearson鈥檚 wonderful story on the overlooked playground of Lake Superior, which I have yet to visit. Based on my travels, these are nine lesser-known American lakes I highly recommend exploring this summer.

1. Bear Lake, Utah-Idaho Border

Why we love it: sparkling jewel is nicknamed the 鈥淐aribbean of the Rockies鈥� for its crystal-clear, turquoise waters, which owe their hue to an abundance of calcium carbonate deposits. At 20 miles long and 8 miles wide, the lake is almost perfectly split between Idaho and Utah. No longer a secret, its sandy shores can feel crowded in the peak of summer. But the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation purchased an additional 28 acres of land last March, adding 1,200 feet of shoreline to the west of the lake to ease congestion.

国产吃瓜黑料 intel: On my first visit to Bear Lake, I spent my days paddleboarding, kayaking, and wake surfing off popular Rendezvous Beach at the south end of the lake. Rental companies and stock every imaginable toy from Sea-Doos to water trampolines. Over the border, ($20) two geothermal-heated pools are located right on North Beach and will warm you up after a windy day on the lake. Make time to explore beyond the shores. The surrounding area is home to fascinating caves, like Idaho鈥檚 Paris Ice Cave, which never completely melts, and fantastic hiking spots, like , near Logan, UT.

Base: lets you channel your Oregon Trail fantasies and overnight in retrofitted covered wagons that sleep up to six people (from $236). Located on the edges of the west side of the lake in Garden City, UT, one of the area鈥檚 main hubs, this Old West-inspired glamping resort has complimentary cruiser bikes, an onsite general store, and one of the best restaurants in town (they can also make picnics).

2. Cave Run Lake, Kentucky

Why we love it: Almost completely surrounded by the northernmost section of the , this 8,270-acre lake is a mecca for anglers hunting muskellunge, known as the 鈥渇ish of 10,000 casts鈥� due to their elusive nature. It鈥檚 also a dream destination for boating, kayaking, sailing, and swimming and its shores are surrounded by hundreds of miles of hiking and biking trails.

国产吃瓜黑料 intel: The town of Morehead is known as the Muskie Capital of the South. Hire Gregg Thomas at and try to hook a fish that tops the state record, just shy of 50 pounds. Tackle a stretch of the 300-mile Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail or trek the approximately six-mile out-and-back , which follows the shoreline and rewards hikers with an unbeatable view of Twin Knobs across the lake.

Base: On the south side of the lake, the has some 200 sites (from $31) spread out over 10 forested loops. Campers have access to a beach, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, plus a boat ramp and fishing dock. The site also has easy access to scenic, low-key hikes, like the 2.5-mile Twin Knobs Shoreline Trail and the 1.5-mile Knob Overlook Trail.

3. Lake Ouachita, Arkansas

Why we love it: The refreshing lack of shoreline development around Arkansas鈥檚 largest lake makes it still feel wild and untouched; it also boasts some of the cleanest waters in the country. Surrounded by 1.8 million acres of forest and sprinkled with 200-plus islands, you can find a patch of wilderness all to yourself, even in the height of summer.

国产吃瓜黑料 intel: Fishing outfitter can help you hook whopper stripers and bass. This is also one of the few lakes that allows spear fishing. Lake Ouachita State Park hugs the eastern shores and its marina rents all the equipment you might desire. Kayak the 16-mile . The first water-based interpretive trail included in the National Trails System features 12 exploration areas that shed light on the lake鈥檚 unique geological formations. You can also ogle many of these formations underwater while the lake鈥檚 30 dive spots.

Base: Lake Ouachita State Park has 93 campsites (from $16) and eight cabins (from $220), most overlooking the water. Or book a floating home from (from $3,000 for three days for up to 10 people).

4. Grand Lake, Colorado

Why we love it: Originally called Spirit Lake by the Ute Tribe, Colorado鈥檚 largest and deepest body of water is a Front Range gem in summer with its public beach, yacht club, and marinas. Hemmed in on three sides by Rocky Mountain National Park, the area offers countless land-based adventures. And the tiny town of Grand Lake oozes old-timey nostalgia.

国产吃瓜黑料 intel: Located steps from the historic downtown boardwalk, the Headwaters Marina rents pedal boats ($30 per hour), sports boats ($100 per hour), pontoons (from $140 per hour), and offers scenic, one-hour boat tours ($25). Family-operated is just in front of the marina and rents single and tandem kayaks (from $30 per hour). Rocky Mountain Park鈥檚 west entrance in Grand County is far less trafficked. The starts in town. It鈥檚 only .8 miles round-trip to reach the cascades. Continue another mile for awesome views of Mount Baldy and听 another 4.8 miles to reach Lone Pine Lake.

Base: Perched high above the water, has been welcoming guests since 1921. The cabins, originally purchased from the Sears Roebuck catalog, were recently renovated (from $185). It鈥檚 debatable which has the better sunset view: the porch swings or the hot tub and pool.

5. Green and Round Lakes, New York

Why we love it: These two mesmerizing jade-colored bodies of water form the heart of 1,955-acre Green Lakes State Park, located 10 miles east of Syracuse. Aquatic anomalies, both are meromictic鈥攁 rare condition where surface and deeper waters do not mix鈥攁nd contain calcium carbonate, which precipitates out of the water during late May to early June and settles to form white, reef-like structures on the shores. One of 28 National Natural Landmark sites in the U.S., Round Lake stands out for its border of old-growth forest (uncommon in the northeast).

国产吃瓜黑料 intel: Green Lake, the larger of the two, has a sandy public beach with swimming access and a boat house that rents rowboats and kayaks (from $12 an hour). A network of showcase the park鈥檚 old-growth forests and gorges; birdwatching fanatics can try to .

Base: Green Lakes State Park Campgrounds has 137 campsites ($20-$39) and seven cabins ($115 per night, two-night minimum). Reservations can be made up to nine months in advance; non New York residents must pay a $5 fee. 听

6. Lake Jocassee, South Carolina

Why we love it: Nestled in the northwest corner of South Carolina, this fjord-like reservoir can only be accessed through Devils Fork State Park. Four Appalachian mountain rivers feed the lake, keeping its mirror-like waters remarkably clear and refreshingly cool. When I visited, I marveled at the solitude I found while angling for trout in a deep cove and paddleboarding past waterfalls that tumble into the lake.

国产吃瓜黑料 intel: Located just outside of the park, Jocassee Outdoor Center is your one-stop-shop for groceries, boat rentals (from $400 for four hours), and wakeboards, tubes, and other water toys ($45 each). rents single and tandem kayaks (from $50 per day) and also offers to the best waterfalls ($125 for six hours). The park鈥檚 towering waterfalls鈥攕ome of the highest in the eastern U.S.鈥攕teal the spotlight, but if you arrive in early spring, you might see pinkish-white Oconee Bells, one of America鈥檚 rarest wildflowers.

Base: The park operates 20 cozy, one- and two-bedroom 鈥渧illas鈥濃�攆ully-furnished cabins with screened porches and waterfront views; all require a two-night minimum and some require a full week (from $275 per night). Campers can choose from 59 RV and tent sites, (from $32). For total seclusion, one of the 25 sites in the park鈥檚 boat-in campground (from $40).

7. Lake McConaughy, Nebraska

Why we love it: The azul waters of Lake Mac appear like a reverie amid Nebraska鈥檚 corn fields. If it weren鈥檛 for the John Deere tractors dotting the talcum shores, you鈥檇 think you were in the Turks & Caicos. The state鈥檚 largest reservoir, located within the , is a 3.5-hour drive east of Denver. It鈥檚 one of my favorite summer 鈥渂each鈥� escapes for camping on the sand, wake surfing, paddling, sailing, and kite surfing.

国产吃瓜黑料 intel: The lake鈥檚 gateway town, Ogallala, is 20 minutes from the water. Make a pit-stop for supplies and a Nebraska-raised beef burger from excellent, locally-owned restaurant . rents ski boats and pontoons ($225 for two hours) as well as jet skis ($180 for two hours). offers rentals and instruction ($25 for two hours). Birdwatchers should bring their binos. The lake is home to some . Fishing enthusiasts descend here in July to compete in the .

Base: are required during peak season, May 20 through September 10. Non site-specific beach camping in 17 designated areas can be reserved 30 days in advance (from $20). Reservations for the five non-beach campgrounds can be made 180 days in advance (from $15). Last summer, I couldn鈥檛 score a site, but I was able to get a lakefront tent pitched ($33) on two-mile stretch of private shoreline. The recently renovated resort also has RV hookups (from $40) and motel-style rooms and cabins (from $124), plus kayak rentals, a general store, and a great restaurant that regularly hosts live music.

8. Clear Lake, Oregon

Why we love it: Boasting over 100 feet of underwater visibility, Clear Lake lives up to its name. This shimmering beauty was formed more than 3,000 years ago when a volcanic lava flow dammed the McKenzie River. A ghostly sunken forest lies beneath its cold, crystalline waters. Bounded by the Willamette National Forest, it鈥檚 a paradise for hiking and mountain biking.

国产吃瓜黑料 intel: It鈥檚 of the best freshwater diving spots in the U.S. because it鈥檚 so clear and bottom-lined with ancient, petrified trees. Pack your 5 mill wetsuit (at least) as the water temperature averages 37 degrees Fahrenheit. You can rent gear and get intel at or in Bend. Get the lay of the land by hiking the 4.8-mile Clear Lake Loop Trail. The legendary is a must for mountain bikers, with 26 miles of singletrack winding through lava fields and old-growth forest along the eastern section of the lake. rents mountain bikes (from $55 per day) and offers shuttles ($35).

Base: The on the eastern shore has 34 campsites, plus a boat ramp and fish cleaning station for anglers (from $33). On the lake鈥檚 north edge, Clear Water Resort has yurts (from $90) and cabins (from $80) and rents glass-bottom tandem kayaks ($25 per hour).

9. Lake Willoughby, Vermont

Why we love it: Sandwiched between the fjord-like peaks of Mounts Pisgah and Hor in the Northeast Kingdom, this glacial-carved lake is often referred to as America鈥檚 Lucerne. Its translucent waters stretch five miles long and one-mile wide, making it ideal for paddling, boating, and wild swimming.

国产吃瓜黑料 intel: Earn your dunk after hiking the semi- strenuous, highly scenic 4.8-mile, out-and-back Mount Pisgah North Trail or biking the of Willoughby State Forest. The lake鈥檚 calm waters are a pleasure to paddle (see equipment deets below).

Base: is a little haven on the north shore (from $219). Ten log cabins each have two bedrooms, full kitchens, and porches (cabins 2-6 have the best lake views) and Clyde River Recreation delivers kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes right to the property (from $35 a day). On the south shores, Willoughby State Forest offers . If you need amenities, has RV Hook-Ups (from $52), tent sites (from $41), and cabins (from $81), equipment rentals, and a seriously good cafe that serves breakfast all day.

Jen Murphy is a regular 国产吃瓜黑料 contributor and converted lake lover. She has plans to spend a week at Caspian Lake in Vermont this summer.

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In the age of and , I used to wonder why anyone would pay to join a bike tour. Why not just download the route and ride on your own? But after I took a guided bike tour around southern Arizona with Backroads in 2019, I was hooked. I loved the camaraderie of the group and the luxury of having a support van behind me in case I got a flat or needed to refill my water. Most of all, I appreciated not having to make every single decision. The team of Backroads handled everything, from the hotel and restaurant reservations to the routes, which came in many options to appease those who wanted to go hard (me!) or take it easy.

Since then, I鈥檝e taken dozens of bike trips with various companies. I’ve learned that each cycling tour outfitter offers something unique, like super high-end service and Michelin-star meals or truly rugged, off-the-beaten path itineraries. The following list of the world’s best bike tours showcases both famous and lesser known cycling destinations. Sure, you could tackle their gravel, single-track, and pavement on your own. But these outfitters add a little something special to each experience. Some have developed exclusive, first-of-their-kind routes and have relationships with family-run hotels you鈥檇 never find online. Others include over-the-top racing bikes and opportunities to climb like a pro on fabled routes. All take care of the details鈥攕o you simply get to enjoy the riding.

1. The Blue Ridge Mountains, the Carolinas

Why: Long stretches of protected land, including , the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, and the famed Blue Ridge Parkway make this a cycling paradise. If you want test-your-mettle climbs with unbeatable vistas, you鈥檒l find plenty, like the 6.5-mile ascent to Caesar鈥檚 Head summit. This region was hit hard by Hurricane Helene last fall and needs tourists to return to help support local businesses and communities affected by the storm.

Book with: has been operating cycling trips in the Carolinas since 2014. Its five-day itinerary in the region offers up to four routes each day, so cyclists can take it easy riding nine relatively flat miles or push themselves, tackling as much as 63 miles or up to 5,100 feet of elevation gain. This trip kicks off with two nights at George Hincapie鈥檚 fancy cycling base camp, , and guests have the chance to ride the former Tour de France competitor鈥檚 Gran Fondo route.

Effort: Moderate to challenging
When: May, June, September, October
How much: $3,999 per person based on double occupancy

2. Greece鈥檚 Balkan North

Why: Northern Greece is still mostly untouched by mass tourism. Around a decade ago, the country built a network of modern tunnels and highways to divert traffic from its old mountain roads. With the exception of the occasional shepherd, those winding roads are now empty for cyclists.

Book with: OG bike adventure company is the only operator to run trips in this region. Its upscale itineraries cater to cyclists looking for luxe stays and indulgent meals. This seven-day trip averages 10.5 to 26 miles of cycling per day and is layered with cultural activities, like cooking demonstrations, truffle hunts, and visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the .

Effort: Recreational
When: May, June, September
How much: $7,995 per person double occupancy

3. The French Alps

Why: Conquering the storied HC (hors cat茅gorie) climbs and cols of the French Alps provides the ultimate cycling bragging rights. Retrace mythical Tour de France ascents like Col the Alpe d鈥橦uez, with its 21 hairpin turns, and discover lesser known, yet equally demanding ascents like the Col d鈥橝llos, a road where the average grade can reach 7.8 percent. Riding here is the epitome of type two fun.

Book with: Duvine鈥檚 week-long averages 55 miles and 8,734 feet of elevation gain per day, covering some of France鈥檚 gnarliest terrain. Riders’ efforts are rewarded with gourmet alpine fare, like tartiflette and raclette, fine wines, and overnights in cushy villas and chalets.

Effort: Pro-level
When: July and August
How much: Six-day trip from $5,295 per person double occupancy

4. The Chianti Region of Tuscany, Italy

Why: People were riding gravel in Tuscany long before it blew up Stateside. Home to the legendary Strade Bianche race (named for the white gravel roads of the Crete Senesi area) and L鈥橢roica, an amateur event where participants ride vintage bikes and wear retro clothes, the Chianti region is steeped in cycling culture. World-class quiet roads twist past unfathomably picturesque countryside blanketed in rolling vineyards and olive groves. The mid-ride coffee stops are worth lingering over and cyclists can carbo load on meals of hand-made pici and pappardelle.

Book with: Jo茫o Correia, founder of , lived and trained in Tuscany when he was a pro racer. He鈥檚 poured his knowledge into insidery itineraries, like a six-day Chianti Classico trip that covers more than 220 miles of epic climbs, technical descents, and chalky gravel roads. Another itinerary allows cyclists to watch the pros race the Strade Bianche, then ride the course the following day. And inGamba鈥檚 services鈥攎echnicas, soigneurs, $15,000 Pinarello racing bikes鈥攚ill make you feel like a pro.

Effort: Pro-level
When: June; Strade Bianche: March 3-9, 2026
How much: Chianti Classico trip from $6,895; Six-day Strade Bianche Experience from $7,450

5. South Island, New Zealand

Why: South Island鈥檚 old gold mining trails, stock routes, and railways now form quiet backcountry roads that make it possible to cycle from Christchurch to Queenstown. And you鈥檒l be hard pressed to find a more dramatic backdrop for gravel riding than the Southern Alps, with its vivid blue lakes, sparkling rivers, and snow-capped peaks.

Book with: Since its inception in 1992, 国产吃瓜黑料 South NZ has rooted its business in environmental, community, and cultural stewardship. The company鈥檚 seven-day itinerary is one-of-a-kind, featuring three iconic backcountry passes, the best section of the Otago Central Rail Trail, plus the Clutha Gold and Roxburgh Gorge Trails. Out-of-the-saddle highlights include visits to the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve and the Waitaki Whitestone UN Geopark, plus pit-stops at historic pubs.

Effort: Challenging
When: November, December
How much: From $2,775 per person double occupancy

6. Mallorca, Spain

Why: This Balearic Island is blessed with over 300 days of anual sunshine and some of the planet鈥檚 most jaw-droppingly gorgeous coastal roads. The idyllic weather and variety of terrain, including grueling routes, like Sa Calobra and Puig Major (the island鈥檚 highest peak), make it the training base of choice for teams like Lidl-Trek and Team Ineos. And you鈥檒l likely find yourself getting smoked by local stars like Tom Pidcock, aka the King of Sa Calobra.

Book with: Trek Travel鈥檚 let you train like a pro. The week includes a mix of guided and self-guided rides featuring punchy climbs, thrilling descents, and coffee breaks at cult favorite cycling cafes like Cycling Planet. You鈥檒l test your muscles and mindset on some of the island鈥檚 most daunting ascents, including Sa Calobra, a 12-mile ribbon of road with an average 7 percent gradient. Guided days are fully supported, so you鈥檒l have sunscreen, water, electrolytes, and bocadillos (sandwiches) at your beck and call, and you can always ride back to the eco-hotel basecamp if you bonk.

Effort: Challenging
When: March-May, October, November
How much: Six-day trip from $1,999 per person double occupancy

7. The Nubra Valley, Ladakh, India

Why: Most people travel through the Himalayas on foot, but the region is even more awe-inspiring to experience on two wheels. Cycle through Tibetan villages, remote valleys, and camel-dotted deserts, along vestiges of the ancient Silk Road trading route, and over soaring mountain passes. Nicknamed the roof of the world, Ladakh鈥檚 high-altitude mountains will have your lungs burning just as much as your quads.

Book with: SpiceRoads鈥� doesn鈥檛 include any technical riding. The challenge comes from the high-altitude effort. After arriving in Leh, cyclists warm up with a three-day acclimatization loop that hugs the banks of the Indus River and takes in ancient monasteries. The payoff for strenuous climbs, like Wari La Pass, which tops out at 16,972 feet, and Khardungla Pass, hitting 17,582 feet, is cinematic views of snow-capped peaks and exhilarating descents. A true cultural immersion, SpiceRoads arranges overnights in homestays and campsites along the journey.

Effort: Active
When: July, August
How much: 14-day trip from $3,100 per person based on double occupancy

8. East to West Traverse of the Alps

Why: Cycling across the Alps puts an athletic twist on the Grand Tour, a coming-of-age adventure across western Europe that was undertaken by young aristocrats in the 18th century. Experience the different cuisines, dialects, architecture, and customs of France, Switzerland, Italy, and Slovenia as you pedal across borders. The variety of terrain is truly extraordinary, from famous alpine passes, like Italy鈥檚 Aprica Pass, theatre of the Giro d鈥橧talia multiple times, to mellow routes that hug the shores of some of Europe鈥檚 most popular lakes, including Lake Annecy in France and Lake Como in Italy.

Book with: ExperiencePlus! Bicycle Tours has been running trips in Europe since 1972. The company鈥檚 exclusive is a 23-day, 915-mile epic. Cyclists average 47 miles in the saddle each day, with plenty of down time to explore local gems like Yvoire, a medieval settlement on the shores of Lake Geneva and the Madonna del Ghisallo Cycling Museum in the tiny Italian town of Magreglio.

Effort: Active
When: July
How much: From $11,595 per person double occupancy

9. Costa Rica Coast to Coast

Why: Riding 300 miles across Costa Rica from the Caribbean to Pacific provides a highlight reel of the country鈥檚 diverse natural wonders. Ogle the Arenal Volcano. Spot sloth and howler monkeys in the rainforest canopy. Cross the mighty Pacuare River by raft. Splash in the surf of Playa Hermosa. And after a steep climb over the Great Divide, soak sore muscles in natural hot springs.

Book with: BikeHike 国产吃瓜黑料s ran its first official trip in 1994 to Costa Rica. To celebrate the company鈥檚 20-year anniversary, founder Trish Sare developed a cross-country mountain biking trip called the . One of BikeHike鈥檚 most popular offerings, it complements adventurous riding with white-water rafting, surfing, paddleboarding, zip-lining, beaches, and more. Most nights are spent in small, independent hotels that support local communities.

Effort: Challenging
When: November-February
How much: Ten-day trip from $3,499 per person

10. Vermont

Why: From the flat, paved roads of the Champlain Islands to the rugged gravel routes in the Northeast Kingdom, Vermont has a mix of terrain suited to riders of all abilities. There鈥檚 no prettier backdrop come fall, when the leaves transform into a patchwork of gold and orange, and there鈥檚 always a cold craft beer waiting at the end of a long ride.

Book with: Family-run outfitter Great Bike Tours is headquartered in Vermont鈥攖hey know the state intimately. Its five-day, is based out of charming in the tiny (and hilly) village of Pittsfield. Designed for recreational cyclists who care more about leaf peeping and apple cider stops than Strava status, it covers 20 to 40 mellow miles a day on the islands of Lake Champlain and in the countryside around the towns of Woodstock and Middlebury. Overachievers can tack on hills and e-bikes are also welcome.

Effort: Recreational
When: October and November
How much: From $3,395 per person double occupancy

11. The Scottish Highlands

Why: Gilded glens. Mirror-like lochs. Wild beaches. Slate blue mountains. The Scottish Highlands are an enchanting tapestry of landscapes rich in history and culture. Routes once walked by highland drovers and their cattle are now perfect for off-road cycling. You can鈥檛 find a more hospitable culture or better place for a customary post-ride dram of whisky.

Book with: When it comes to biking and hiking in Scotland, no one aces itineraries like local outfitter Wilderness Scotland. They recently debuted a new week-long that starts near Glasgow in the south, crisscrosses the heart of the Highlands, and finishes at the coastline of a wee village called Findhorn. You鈥檒l need stamina for the week. Days average between 30 to 50 miles with a total ascent between 1,640 to 4,920 feet. But you won鈥檛 need to worry about fuel. Wilderness Scotland keeps its cyclists well fed with locally-sourced meals at the team鈥檚 favorite restaurants and hotels.

Effort: Challenging
When: August
How much: Seven-day trip from $3,968 per person double occupancy

12. Belgium

Why: Even the most hard-core cyclists agree that Belgium鈥檚 rich cycling culture and diverse terrain make up for its lack of punishing climbs. Miles of scenic bike paths line the country鈥檚 pretty canals and wind their way to cobbled roads in postcard-worthy towns. Cycling geeks come to watch the famous Tour de Flanders and visit the cycling museum in Oudenaarde, and beer lovers can create their dream cycling and beer tasting tour.

Book with: Ciclismo Classico is known for its innovative itineraries and exceptional local guides. The company鈥檚 trip averages 40 miles and 1,600 feet of elevation gain per day. A dream trip for beer and bike aficionados, routes pass through renowned brewing sites like Leffe and Achouffe, but also overlap sections of the Tour of Flanders, including its signature muren.

Effort: Moderate
When: June-August
How much: From $6,795 per person double occupancy

Jen Murphy is a regular 国产吃瓜黑料 contributor. A runner-turned cyclist, she has joined group cycling tours in Arizona, Mallorca, the Blue Ridge Mountains of the Carolinas, Colorado, Tuscany, and Romania. The French Alps and New Zealand are on her wish lists.

The post The 12 Best Bike Tours in the World appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

The recently opened cleverly channels the feel of walking through an aspen grove from its forest floor-inspired lobby all the way to its 鈥渃anopy鈥�-level rooftop bar. Located across from Civic Center Park, the 13-story building鈥檚 curvy, white-washed facade is reminiscent of the work embraced by Antoni Gaud铆, the Catalan architect and early adopter of biomimicry, a design practice that imitates nature. Jeanne Gang, the founder of award-winning architecture firm , takes the concept to a new level with Populus.

The hotel鈥檚 moniker comes from the scientific name for the quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides), the native tree that served as muse for the project. An avid hiker, Gang explored many of Colorado鈥檚 aspen groves early on in the creative process; the hotel鈥檚 365 windows were designed to evoke the dark, eye-shaped marks left behind on the bark as aspens shed their lower branches. Aspens also sequester huge amounts of carbon dioxide, as does Populus, which owns bragging rights as being the first carbon positive hotel in the U.S. (meaning it removes more carbon dioxide from the air than it emits.)

Innovative sustainability strategies include the use of low-carbon concrete, 100 percent renewable energy, and converting every scrap of food into compost that gets returned to local farms. The building鈥檚 distinctive windows have a unique hood that provides shade while efficiently deflecting rainwater from the exterior, reducing the building鈥檚 energy needs for temperature control. In addition to purchasing carbon credits, the project鈥檚 Seattle-based developer, , partnered with the U.S. Forest service to plant more than 70,000 Engelmann spruce trees near Colorado鈥檚 La Garita Wilderness to offset their carbon footprint during construction. They will continue to negate their impact by planting one tree for every guest night at the hotel.

鈥淥ur goal is to better the environment and actively inspire a reverence for nature among everyone who walks through the doors,鈥� said Jon Buerge, president of Urban Villages.

Wilderness wonders greet guests at nearly every turn, from an elevator soundtrack of bugling elk and birdsong that was recorded in Rocky Mountain National Park to headboards crafted from fallen beetle kill pine (a significant problem in Colorado鈥檚 forests). As guests enter the hotel, they鈥檙e hit with an earthy aroma that emanates from a stunning ceiling installation made from some 500 sheets of Reishi, an eco-friendly leather alternative sourced from the root of mushrooms.

Other touches are more subtle. The poured concrete floor, for example, showcases exposed aggregate with irregularity in scale and sheen similar to pebbles and rocks scattered across a forest floor. 鈥淲hen I take a walk in the woods I鈥檓 overtaken by a feeling of serenity. As I go deeper I start to pay attention to the details, like the patches of moss or sprouting mushrooms,鈥� said Heather Wildman, the principal of Wildman Chalmers Design, the Pittsburgh-based firm behind the interiors. 鈥淚 wanted guests to have that same feeling throughout their stay at the hotel.鈥�

After checking in at the reception desk (a gorgeous slab of kiln-dried, locally-salvaged Rio Grande cottonwood), guests transition to guest floors, which are intentionally low-lit to signal a departure from the forest floor to the heart of the aspen tree. Each of the 265 guest rooms and suites are done up in warm earth tones and feature biodegradable carpets, drinking glasses made from recycled wine bottles, and those signature windows perfectly frame the State Capital, City Hall, and the distant Rocky Mountains.

The best views, however, await at Stellar Jay, the hotel鈥檚 rooftop restaurant and bar. Intended to feel like a lush tree canopy, the dining room is a mix of forest green velvet banquettes, wooden high-top counters and low, stone tables with veining that looks like a web of lichen. Some walls are covered in cork, while others look like works of art, composed of apple and Siberian elm tree slices scorched using yakisugi, the Japanese wood preservation technique. In the dining room, a light installation of layered steel discs refracts rays as if guests are peeking through leaves. Above the double-sided bar, a custom installation of tiny white lights looks like a starry night sky in the evenings.听 The bar spills out to a large terrace with sweeping city view and is landscaped with perennial trees and flowers, intended to be an urban oasis for the public as well as pollinators.听 From $299 ($499 during peak season);

This piece first appeared in the summer 2025 print issue of 国产吃瓜黑料 Magazine. Subscribe now for early access to our most captivating storytelling, stunning photography, and deeply reported features on the biggest issues facing the outdoor world.

The post Denver’s Newest Hotel is a Towering Treehouse in the Heart of the City appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

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

I still recall my first surf experience as a kid on the Jersey Shore. I had borrowed a friend鈥檚 shortboard and couldn鈥檛 make it past the relentlessly pounding breakers. Exhausted from being clobbered by the incoming waves, I gave up and tried to ride the whitewater. I ended up with a bathing suit full of sand and water leaking from my nose for what seemed like days.

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

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

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

Hammer Surf School, Jersey Shore

Pro surfer Sam Hammer has chased waves around the world from the tropical beaches of Costa Rica to the frozen shores of Iceland to star in Chris Burkhard鈥檚 hit film, Under An Arctic Sky. But he hasn鈥檛 forgotten his Jersey Shore roots. His namesake surf school hosts private 75-minute lessons throughout the summer in several Shore towns, including his hometown of Lavallette. And most locales, like Spring Lake and Bay Head, can be accessed by train from New York City via New Jersey Transit. Hammer personally teaches the Sunday sessions in Spring Lake and you can book him for private coaching. I grew up on the Jersey Shore and know first-hand that if you can surf in Jersey, you can surf just about anywhere. The waves tend to be weak, yet steep, so they鈥檙e harder to paddle into, and, once you鈥檙e in, tougher to navigate. Summer conditions tend to be more mellow, but still, if you earn your surfing chops on the Shore, you鈥檒l feel like a pro on the slow, peeling waves in other destinations.

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

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

Mario Surf School, Todos Santos, Mexico

Over the years, Los Cerritos beach has been discovered, but even with the crowds, it remains one of my favorite surf spots. Located just 10 minutes south of the hip town of Todos Santos and 45 minutes north of Cabo San Lucas, it鈥檚 incredibly accessible to reach and its mellow, smooth waves and a sandy bottom make it a friendly place for beginners. But those aren鈥檛 the only reasons Mario Becerril, a Baja native and former pro, chose to base his surf school there nearly 20 years ago. 鈥淚t鈥檚 also one of the few beaches in Mexico that has gradual wave zones suitable for all levels,鈥� he explains. This helps ease the congestion and is great for progression. Becerril鈥檚 school is known for its three-step, beginner-focused pop-up technique and also for offering more advanced learning options, such as multi-day clinics, and its surf excursions, which showcase the region鈥檚 best waves, like premier point break Punta Conejo.

Beginner Tip: 鈥淒on鈥檛 be afraid to surf on a bigger board when you are learning and work your way down to smaller boards progressively,鈥� says Becerril, 鈥渁nd remember the best surfer out there is the one that has the most fun.鈥�

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

Mary Osborne Surf Academy, Ventura, California

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

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

Details: 90-minute private lesson from $150;

Pro Surf School Hawaii, Waikiki, Oahu

In my opinion, Waikiki is one of the best spots to learn to surf. Legendary two-mile Honolulu beach has gentle, forgiving waves, plus it鈥檚 the birthplace of modern surfing, which makes it all the more special. Kai Sallas, the reigning International Surf Association longboard champion, was born and raised in Waikiki and operates his surf school from the stylish on the quieter, eastern edge of the bustling neighborhood. You don鈥檛 need to be a hotel guest to book a lesson (though if you鈥檙e visiting from out of town, it鈥檚 a relatively affordable, super convenient base, with the best brunch in town). Sallas and his team cater to both beginner and intermediate riders, educating on everything from surf etiquette and wave knowledge to performing more advanced maneuvers like cutbacks and snaps. He鈥檚 also a shaper and can suggest the perfect board for your riding abilities.

Beginner Tip: 鈥淎lways keep your eyes on the ocean,鈥� says Sallas. 鈥淪tudy it before you go out. Watch it as you paddle out and sit in the lineup. And keep examining the wave as you鈥檙e paddling into it.鈥�

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

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

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

Beginner Tip: 鈥淎lways check the conditions before you go out to surf, so you鈥檙e set up for success,鈥� says Will Skudin. 鈥淭here鈥檚 nothing worse than gathering all your gear, being stoked to get out there, and showing up to flat or dangerous conditions.鈥�

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

Surf Happens, Santa Barbara, California

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

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

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

Beginner Tip: 鈥淭reat surfing like a life skill and be patient, humble, and hungry to learn,鈥� says Keet. 鈥淟earn how the ocean works, be respectful of her power, and the people who you share it with, know your limits and never give up.鈥�

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

Surf Simply, Nosara, Costa Rica

This week-long, all-inclusive surf coaching resort in Nosara is widely considered the top dog of surf schools and typically books up six to 12 months in advance, so plan ahead. The sleek, 10-room lodge is just 200 meters from Playa Guiones, a long, wide beach that delivers over 350 surfable days each year, with wave conditions for all abilities. Surf Simply鈥檚 earned a cult following for its unique, analytical style, which provides students a road map of skills and drills. 鈥淲e don鈥檛 teach you how to surf, we teach you how to teach yourself how to surf, or surf better through a combination of video feedback, theory lessons, and in-water coaching,鈥� says Robin Bass, the school鈥檚 logistics manager. This holistic approach includes classroom sessions on swell forecasting and board design, fine-tuning board agility and turtle rolling in the pool, plus mobility work and post-surf massages. Surf Simply鈥檚 team of nine coaches work with just 12 guests per week, ensuring personalized attention. And every guest is sent home with photos of their sessions and a video from the week.

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

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

Surf Sister, Tofino, Canada

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

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

Beginner Tip: 鈥淭ake your time,鈥� says Teremy. 鈥淕etting into your wetsuit is hard enough when you first begin, so pace yourself with all things surfing and your entire surfing career will be all the better for it.鈥�

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

South Beach Surf School, Newport, Oregon

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

Beginner Tip: 鈥淧ractice the surf burpee on land so you get used to the mechanics of jumping to your feet,鈥� says McClanan. 鈥淵ou might be able to surf the whitewash crawling to your knees, but you can鈥檛 ride a real wave if you can鈥檛 get to your feet.鈥�

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

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

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

The captivation of seeing sea creatures up close explains why snorkeling is so popular. According to the Hawaii Ocean Safety Team, a nonprofit dedicated to making the state鈥檚 waters safer and cleaner, approximately 3 million people snorkel in Hawaiian waters each year. Most people won鈥檛 be surprised to learn how many people enjoy such an accessible, wonderful activity鈥攂ut what鈥檚 shocking is how dangerous it can be and the consistent number of snorkeling fatalities. According to the Hawaii State Department of Health, drowning is the , far outpacing the national average. Around 45 tourists drowned in the ocean each year in Hawaii , and snorkeling was the number one contributor.

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

While these incidents were terrible, they also didn鈥檛 shock me. I live part time in Maui and regularly see panicked snorkelers. In February, I watched an older gentleman crawl out of the water onto the beach as he was pounded by shore break in his snorkel gear. Later that month, I witnessed a young woman struggle to remove her mask after it had filled with water. Despite the dangers, many snorkelers appear to lack safety training or an understanding of their gear鈥擨 regularly observe people wearing fins backwards and snorkels upside down.

Underestimating the Skills Required to Snorkel

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

鈥淲hen people come to Hawaii, they see beauty, not danger,鈥� said Jason Bitzer, a former Honolulu Ocean Safety member who spent six years lifeguarding at . 鈥淰isitors think snorkelling is a controlled activity, like zip-lining. The ocean is in control.鈥�

Even in the calm, flat waters of Hanauma Bay, water can enter through the top of the snorkel. 鈥淧eople panic and instead of pulling the snorkel out of their mouth to spit out the water, they start to suck it in and choke,鈥� said Shayne Enright, a spokesperson for Honolulu Ocean Safety. 鈥淭hat鈥檚 how a drowning can start even in harmless looking ocean conditions.鈥�

A common misconception is that snorkeling is effortless and relaxing. It can be for some people. But for those new to the activity, it can be overwhelming and exhausting, too. 鈥淵ou need to have coordination, some fitness, and an awareness of your surroundings, even if you鈥檙e in three feet of flat water,鈥� said Enright. 鈥淛ust like riding a bike, it takes practice to get comfortable.鈥�

Why Do Experienced Snorkelers Drown?

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

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

Someone called 911, but medical professionals weren鈥檛 able to resuscitate him. The autopsy report deemed Ray鈥檚 death an accidental drowning, which Patti said she doesn鈥檛 believe. The friends who had been snorkeling with Ray told her at one point, he said, 鈥測ou gotta help me, I鈥檓 having trouble breathing.鈥� That鈥檚 when they decided to head to shore, she said. 鈥淚 don鈥檛 think you鈥檙e having a conversation if you鈥檙e drowning,鈥� she rationalized.

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

What Is ROPE and How Does it Affect Snorkelers?

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

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

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

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

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

Should You Be Wary of Full-Face Masks?

Generally speaking, you want a simpler snorkel design that is easy to breathe from, said Dr. Han. 鈥淵ou don鈥檛 want to be pulling against a lot of resistance,鈥� she said. Of the 50 masks and snorkels tested in the snorkel safety study, only four were , which allow the user to breathe through their nose and mouth and typically feature a tube at the forehead.

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

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

The includes a section about the pros and cons of using a full-face mask, and links to a from Dr. Monty Downs, President of the Kauai Lifeguard Association in which he opined: 鈥淒on鈥檛 use full-face snorkel masks unless you are an expert who鈥檚 had a lot of training and experience with them.鈥� Many in Hawaii have independently banned the use of full-face mask snorkels and tourism boards, such as the one for , now warn visitors of the risks of full-face mask snorkels.

Snorkel Safety 101

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

• Check ocean conditions and only snorkel at guarded beaches. 鈥淭he chance of a rescue and resuscitation is much higher at a guarded beach,鈥� said Enright, of Honolulu Safety.
• Never go alone. Always have a buddy. Inexperienced snorkelers should consider booking with a tour operator.
• Rest a day or two after flying. 鈥淚 never suggest anyone go straight from the plane to doing any activity, whether snorkeling or surfing,鈥� said Enright. 鈥淢any visitors come here dehydrated and need to acclimate to the different climate. Give your body time to regulate.鈥�
• Test your gear on dry land or even in a pool before jumping into the ocean. Your fins and mask should have a snug, yet comfortable, fit. Practice breathing through the snorkel. Know how to clear water from your snorkel and what to do if your mask leaks or fogs. Make sure you can scissor kick with your fins while swimming. A doggie paddle or frog kick won鈥檛 cut it.
• Don鈥檛 wear your fins on the beach or boat. Walk into the water first, get past the shore break, then put them on. Similarly, take them off before you exit the water.
• Go slow, breathe slowly, and keep your heart rate low. Don鈥檛 overexert yourself.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Puerto Vallarta

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

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

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

San Miguel de Allende

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

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

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

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

Riviera Maya

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

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

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

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

Mexico City

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

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

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

Cancun

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

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

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

Oaxaca City

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

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

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

Baja California Sur

Why It’s a Popular Destination: I have been making two to three trips a year to this region for more than a decade and still can鈥檛 get enough of its surf-swept beaches, desert oases, exceptional dining options, ranging from humble ceviche stands to multi-course meals prepared by star chefs, and out-of-this-world marine experiences. Between November and April you can watch Humpbacks breach straight from shore and swim with whale sharks. Hundreds of Olive Ridley turtles hatch during the summer. And the sea lions are always out near Land鈥檚 End and Pelican Rock. Of all my travels throughout Mexico, I鈥檝e never met more hospitable locals.

Safety Precautions: Don鈥檛 confuse Baja California, which includes the border town of Tijuana and has a Level 3 risk, with Baja California Sur, which is a and has no travel restrictions. Matt Lindsay, founder of LUXSurf Travel, a San Jos茅 del Cabo鈥揵ased surf guiding company, cautions that local police are known for pulling over tourists for small infractions, like using a cell phone, and threatening them with big fines. 鈥淭hey may threaten to take you to the station, but you stay calm and say, 鈥業鈥檇 like to pay the ticket now,鈥� and hand them $30 to $50,鈥� he says. 鈥淏e insistent.鈥� He also warns if you鈥檙e out partying and decide to skip the bathroom line and whizz in an alleyway, the cops won鈥檛 hesitate to throw you in jail.

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

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

• No matter where I鈥檓 traveling, I download and use safety apps such as , which sends first responders your exact location, and , which gives safety scores to neighborhoods.
• Zach Rabinor, founder of Journey Mexico, recommends only withdrawing money from bank ATMs. 鈥淜eep your eyes out for anyone that may be watching or targeting you while you make a transaction,鈥� he says.
• Only use official taxis that are ordered through your hotel, restaurant, or other trusted source, says Rabinor. Typically they should have taxi-meters and negotiating a price before getting in is alternately customary, he notes. Ride share apps are unreliable and face some restrictions in airports and other places.
• Don鈥檛 buy drugs. 鈥淢arijuana is still illegal in Mexico,鈥� says Rabinor. 鈥淭his seems like a no-brainer, but many people still don鈥檛 follow and getting involved with drug dealers, at any level, in any capacity is never a good idea.鈥�
• Don鈥檛 drive at night. 鈥淩isks include animals in the road, poorly lit and signed roads, and more,鈥� says Rabinor.

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

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

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

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

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

1. Playa Espadilla, Costa Rica

Location

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

Why We Love It

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

Know Before You Go

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

2. Playa Uvita

Location

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

Why We Love It

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

Know Before You Go

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

3. Playa Conchal

Location

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

Why We Love It

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

Know Before You Go

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

4. Playa Chiquita听

Location

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

Why We Love It

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

Know Before You Go

The Caribbean Coast doesn鈥檛 experience Costa Rica鈥檚 typical weather patterns. From May through November, when much of the country is wet and green, this area is dry and sunny. A handful of unmarked trails lead from the street to dirt paths that access various points of the beach. has a direct path and its shady beach club is open to the public and serves delicious dishes, like spicy ceviche and rondon seafood soup (from $365 per night).

5. Playa Guiones

Location

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

Why We Love It

This is one of my favorite surfing beaches on the planet, particularly for longboarding. Playa Guiones is blessed with swell nearly all year. Mornings and later afternoons usually deliver glassy wave perfection. And when the waves aren鈥檛 breaking, I love running the 4.3-mile crescent-shaped stretch of firm-packed sand. When I first started taking surf trips here in the early aughts, it still felt a bit undiscovered. Since the pandemic, the laidback beach town has become a favorite base for remote workers. You鈥檒l definitely be sharing waves, but the pura vida ethos keeps the vibe mellow, and the line-up offers a variety of peaks, so you can spread out in the water and find the perfect spot to suit your abilities. The sandy bottom, varying conditions from beginner-friendly whitewater to long, peeling lefts and rights, and dozens of local surf schools, make it an ideal place to improve your surfing.

Know Before You Go

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

6. Playa Avellanas

Location

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

Why We Love It

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

Know Before You Go

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

7. Playa Ostional听

Location

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

Why We Love It

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

Know Before You Go

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

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

The post The Ultimate Guide to the Best Beaches in Costa Rica appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

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

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

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

国产吃瓜黑料 editor Mary Turner has hiked all over the West but was humbled by some of the treks on Kauai. 鈥淎 friend called one trail spicy, but I wasn鈥檛 worried,鈥� she recalls. 鈥淏ut it was hot and humid and sticky and the vegetation was so thick you could have easily walked right through it and off the side of a cliff. And at the end of the trail, you had to scale a rock face with a very frayed rope. The guy in front of us said it wasn鈥檛 safe and turned around. We did the same, and I thought, geez, hiking in Hawaii is for real.鈥�

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

Hawaii doesn鈥檛 have a state-level search and rescue (SAR) coordinator. Wilderness SAR is handled at a county level, falls under the responsibility of the fire department, and they are only mandated to search for 72 hours when someone is reported missing. O鈥檃hu, Kauai, and Maui all have volunteer SAR teams as well. The lack of an overarching umbrella organization makes it difficult to accurately track the exact number of rescues per year, but government officials have estimated that about 1,000 hikers are rescued across the state annually.

Cautionary Tales

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

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

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

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

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

Hawaii鈥檚 Terrain and Climate Pose Distinct Challenges

On the mainland, a 22-mile out-and-back hike with 1,600 feet of elevation gain, typically wouldn鈥檛 daunt me. But the Kalalau Trail, a bucket-list trek with zero cell service that hugs Kauai鈥檚 storied Na Pali coastline, isn鈥檛 just another hike. CNN has called it one of the , with hazards including falling rocks, flash floods, shore breaks, and cliffs on the trail. I鈥檝e attempted it five times without success and have no regrets about turning around due to raging water crossings, treacherously slippery conditions, and in another case, simply fatigue. Others haven鈥檛 been as lucky. In 2022, 46 people needed to be rescued from the harrowing route and in 2014, 121 people needed rescue over the course of a few days.

鈥淧eople drastically underestimate and underprepare for the challenges of a trail like Kalalau,鈥� says Sarah Laouxz, of . 鈥淭hey see the pretty photos and want to be there, but they don鈥檛 take into account the physicality of getting there and back.鈥�

They also underestimate easier trails. Take the , an iconic 1.6-mile roundtrip hike located minutes from Waikiki in O鈥檃hu. Pearson-Pomerantz estimates the Honolulu Fire Department makes more rescues a year on that trail simply because hikers aren鈥檛 prepared. 鈥淗iking Diamond Head is a classic thing for tourists to do,鈥� he says. 鈥淵ou get spam musubi, hike Diamond Head, get a shave ice, and that鈥檚 your day. Maybe because of its proximity to the city, people attempt it in high heels, without water or sun protection.鈥� The trail is steep and uneven and climbs 560 feet. People often become dehydrated or roll an ankle, he says. When vacation brain sets in, visitors start looking through their camera lens instead of at the path in front of them. At least once a month his team has volunteer 鈥渢rail angels鈥� patrol the route with water, snacks, and sunblock. 鈥淗eat is the biggest threat to hikers and a bad sunburn is probably our most common injury,鈥� he says.

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

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

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

Social media posts of people cliff jumping into the ocean or diving off waterfalls have created the illusion that the islands are a controlled amusement park. Injuries frequently occur when people leap with no knowledge of the water depth or without considering how they鈥檒l get back to land. 鈥淎 lot of hikes lead to what look like beautiful jumping places, such as Queen鈥檚 Bath, an ocean pool in Kauai,鈥� says Berquist. 鈥淏ut due to the steepness of the cliffs or looseness of rocks, a lot of adventurers can鈥檛 scramble back up.鈥�

Weather Can Change on a Dime

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

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

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

Many of Hawaii鈥檚 Most Popular Trails Are Actually Illegal to Hike

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

It doesn鈥檛 help that many guidebooks, travel blogs, and social media posts provide detailed instructions on how to access these illegal trails. And, as was the case with Snyder, hikers often follow GPS tools that direct them to non-sanctioned trails, which aren鈥檛 inspected or repaired and most likely, won鈥檛 have signs warning hikers of dangerous conditions.

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

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

Off-limits signs have been in place at the Stairway to Heaven, an infamous hike on O鈥檃hu also known as the Haiku Stairs, since 1987. Yet posting a photo from the hike鈥檚 Edenic summit, which is reached by climbing 3,922 slick steel steps, has become a social media badge of honor. Fines of up to $1,000 and the threat of arrest haven鈥檛 discouraged hikers. Between 2010 and 2022, 118 people had to be rescued, according to the Honolulu Fire Department. The city is now in the process of to prevent illegal use once and for all.

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

8 Ways to Stay Safe When Hiking in Hawaii

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

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

What to Do If You Become Lost

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

1. Don鈥檛 panic. Pause and take some deep breaths. O鈥檃hu Search and Rescue created a demonstrating how to do the 4-7-8 breathing method to calm yourself.
2. Keep moving. 鈥淓veryone says stay where you are if you are lost, but I only recommend people do that when they know they are 15 or fewer steps off the trail,鈥� he says. 鈥淧eople that participate in their own rescue are more likely to be found.鈥� If you are medically injured, it may be pertinent to stay in place, but try to make yourself noticeable and make noise.
3. Make yourself visible. If you think you are more than 15 steps off trail, move to an openly visible area, like a high elevation clearing or stream-bed that can be seen from the sky. Make a massive ‘SOS’ or light a fire to create smoke.
4. Shelter in smart places. Don鈥檛 hunker down and hide from the elements in a place people won鈥檛 see you. If you do seek shelter, display your backpack out front and make an arrow pointing to where you are, he says.

鈥淗awaii tries too hard to feel nice with its messaging to visitors,鈥� says Berquist. 鈥淲e鈥檙e not all mai tais and leis. The message needs to feel sharp: the lava rock and coral will slice you, the selfies and cliff jumps will kill you.鈥� So, in other words, don鈥檛 underestimate the power of nature. Be careful and prepared, don鈥檛 hike where you鈥檙e not supposed to, know what you鈥檙e getting into, and skip the selfies.

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

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If a cave dwelling conjures images of primitive camping, you haven鈥檛 seen the Cave at . This 1,500-square-foot rock formation turned modern vacation home 50 miles southeast of Columbus, Ohio, books out one year in advance. Bold design touches like crystal chandeliers, purple kitchen tiles, a pool table, and floor-to-ceiling walnut bookcases stocked with 500-plus tomes have made it a social media sensation. , a YouTuber who showcases the coolest Airbnbs in the United States, has called it the most unique home he鈥檚 ever been to.

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

The Backstory: How Dunlap Hollow Cave Came to Be

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

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

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

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

鈥淗ocking Hills has no shortage of cabin rentals,鈥� he says. 鈥淚 knew a cave home would be something special.鈥� Gingerich drew on his engineering background and constructed it like a slab home, installing solar panels and radiant floor heating. He added floor-to-ceiling windows across the entrance to flood sunlight into even the far reaches of the cave, and four humidifiers that remove 40 gallons of water from the air per day. He sunk $400,000 into the eight-month project, and couldn鈥檛 have fathomed its return on his investment. In two years, it鈥檚 had one vacant night and during the peak summer months, costs $1,200 per night. All three rentals collectively earned $700,000 last year, which after costs, brought him $350,000 in net profits.

Secrets to Rental-Home Success

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

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

What Guests Love About This Airbnb

Alison Payden of Columbus discovered Dunlap Hollow through social media and was struck by the contrast of the natural rock formation and the contemporary decor. 鈥淚t feels like you鈥檙e staying in a medieval castle,鈥� she says. 鈥淭he interiors are like a work of art filled with beautiful tile work, arched doorways, royal color schemes, and locally sourced antiques.鈥� She and her husband rented the property when summer was in full bloom and in the dead of winter. 鈥淣o matter the season there is so much beauty to soak in everywhere you look,鈥� she says. 鈥淚t is so quiet and secluded, you wouldn鈥檛 even know there are two other homes on the property.

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

Gingerich estimates that half of Dunlap Hollow鈥檚 guests are from Columbus and are looking for an easy urban-to-nature detox. Kim Poling of Columbus booked the cottage for her 25th wedding anniversary in September 2023 and she and her husband have returned four times since. 鈥淭here is a sign in the cabin that says 鈥楢nd into the woods I go, to lose my mind and find my soul,鈥� and that sums up my experience,鈥� she says. 鈥淚t鈥檚 around an hour from our home, which is a perfect escape from reality. It is so serene. We bring food because once we check in, we don鈥檛 leave.鈥� The couple has navigated the property鈥檚 trails, but mainly they relax, soaking in the outdoor hot tub or sitting by the indoor or outdoor fire. 鈥淢y husband doesn鈥檛 like to spend money but he said the cottage is worth every hard earned penny,鈥� she says.

Repeat past guest Matt Martin of Columbus also rarely leaves the grounds. The property has a 1.2-mile trail network and the 0.8-mile, out-and-back Overlook Trail has trailheads at all three units and leads guests to a scenic overlook with views of the valley below. Over the last decade, the growth of the Central Ohio region combined with the pandemic boom in outdoor activity, has caused a surge in area tourism, says Martin. In the peak months of summer and fall, trails can often feel crowded. 鈥淒unlap Hollow feels like a state park but you鈥檙e on private land,鈥� he says. 鈥淭o have these caves and trails all to yourself is something you just don鈥檛 get from other cabin rentals in the region.鈥�

Martin says the wilderness setting would be a perfect camp site. 鈥淚鈥檝e thought about bringing a tent but the rentals are too nice to resist,鈥� he says.

Local Intel: What to Know About Hocking Hills

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

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

Cool Outdoor Things to Do at Dunlap Hollow and Nearby

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

See the Geological Wonders Within Hocking Hills State Park

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

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

Get Off the Ground

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

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

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

Make the Most of Lake Life

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

Enjoy a Different Take on Nightlife

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

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

The post This Cave in Ohio Is One of the Nation鈥檚 Most Booked Vacation Homes appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.