There’s a certain kind of magic when you gather close friends and escape routine. A girls trip is less about the destination and more about feeling free, recharged, and entirely yourself. The best trips balance indulgence and adventure: lazy mornings that melt into beachside lunches, nights that turn into dance floors under the stars, and conversations that remind you why these women are your chosen family. Below are 14 tried-and-true girls trip ideas from travel writers and specialists—places that left them refreshed, inspired, and loving friendship all over again.
Montauk, New York
If you’re near New York City, Montauk makes a perfect short summer escape—about a four-hour drive or a few hours by Jitney. There’s a mix of restaurants, beaches, shopping, and bars. Stay at Duryea’s sunset cottages and eat by the water (the lobster cobb salad is iconic). For sunsets and good music, Surf Lodge is a popular outdoor bar. The weekends here are ideal for beach lounging, long chats, and plotting the next trip. — Meaghan Kenny
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
For a multi-generational getaway, Sea Pines Resort offers villas with big kitchens and pools, plus easy beach access for sunrise yoga walks. Try a private boat tour to Daufuskie Island, a chef-led cooking lesson in your villa, or a paint-and-sip night with a local artist. It’s a relaxing, activity-rich spot that suits large groups wanting both downtime and organized fun. — Rebecca Alesia
Cartagena, Colombia
Cartagena is lively with boutiques, restaurants, and nightlife. Stay in a well-staffed rental or villa with a rooftop pool for city views. Book curated experiences—private salsa lessons that include Afro-Colombian history, or a yacht trip to the Rosario Islands for turquoise-water beach time. Eat local rice and roasted chicken at your villa or dine out at Norma Ristorante for live music and seafood. For drinks, try a rum-and-chocolate lesson at El Arsenal: The Rum Box. — Kristin Braswell
Washington, D.C.
A quick flight makes D.C. a great city escape with festivals, museums, and monuments to explore between events. Visit the Lincoln Memorial, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and the National Museum of Women in the Arts. Stay near the monuments at the Kimpton Banneker Hotel, then recover after a night out with brunch at Busboys & Poets or Silver Social. — Kayla Brock
Scottsdale, Arizona
Scottsdale is ideal for design lovers and spa seekers. Visit Taliesin West for Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, stay at Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows or the Fairmont Princess, and splurge on the Well & Being Spa. La Hacienda is a favorite for Southwestern dining. The desert views, midcentury-modern hotels, and spa time make for a restorative girls trip. — Iona Brannon
Puglia, Italy
Visit Puglia in fall when crowds thin and the weather is still warm. Whitewashed villages, cobbled streets, and turquoise Adriatic waters create gorgeous scenery. Base yourselves at a small luxury hotel like Naturalis Bio Resort & Spa in Salento for a wellness vibe, spa time, and rooms with unique features (think oversized sunken tubs). Day trips to Otranto for boutique shopping and fresh seafood are a must. — Jessica Avery
Miami
Miami blends beaches, nightlife, art, and a global food scene—Caribbean, Cuban, Ethiopian, and more. Lounge on beaches like Hobie Beach or Virginia Key, shop the Design District, and hit clubs or Art Basel exhibits depending on timing. Stay at playful, design-forward hotels—The Goodtime Hotel channels Miami’s upbeat, pink-hued energy. Expect lively nights, excellent restaurants, and plenty of sun. — Johnaé De Felicis
Antigua
With beaches all around, Antigua is an easy pick for beach days, beach fêtes, or active beach workouts. Consider Hodges Bay for private-island access by water taxi, or Curtain Bluff for resort-style spa and dining. Sheer Rocks offers cliffside dining and views; Papa Zouk is a spot for local vibes. The island’s safe parties and club scene make it great for groups wanting both relaxation and nightlife. — Sidnee Michelle Douyon
Puerto Rico
Accessible flights from the U.S. and no passport required make Puerto Rico an easy group destination. San Juan’s Old Town offers historic charm and boutiques; El Yunque has rainforest hikes, natural water slides, and swimming holes. Highlights include night kayaking to see bioluminescence, snorkeling with turtles at Escambrón Marine Park, and sipping cocktails at La Factoría. Split time between Airbnbs and hotels—Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, is a standout property. — Alexandra Toto
Loudoun County, Virginia
Virginia’s wine country is peaceful and scenic, with vineyards along country roads and excellent food-and-wine experiences. Visit Greenhill Vineyards for tastings and views; stay at boutique properties like Goodstone Inn, where cottage-style accommodations across rolling acreage create a private, villa feel. It’s perfect for groups who want wine, pretty drives, and relaxed country luxury. — Megan duBois
Colorado Historic Hot Springs Loop
For an outdoorsy or spa-focused trip, drive the Colorado Historic Hot Springs Loop from Denver. Soak in natural hot springs at places like Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort, or splurge on a luxury stay at the Four Seasons in Vail after a day in Glenwood Springs or Steamboat Springs. Avalanche Ranch and other rustic lodges offer charming, intimate stays. Book ahead in peak seasons and plan a mix of springs, hikes, and cozy evenings. — Emily Pennington
Philadelphia
Philadelphia is a great city for culture, museums, restaurants, and speakeasies. Visit Rittenhouse Square, explore museums and interactive exhibits, and eat at top local restaurants. Stay at hotels like W Philadelphia for central access and skyline views—book a corner room if you can. Philly suits groups who want urban culture plus excellent dining and nightlife. — Shayna Conde
Bali
Bali blends relaxation, adventure, and culture. In Ubud, explore temples, rice terraces, and waterfalls; add a spa day, ATV ride, or floating breakfast. Seminyak offers beach time, water sports, and lively nights out. Bali fits every type of traveler—adventurers, culture seekers, foodies, and those who just want to unwind. Shared experiences and quiet moments make it ideal for deepening friendships. — JoAnna Niles
Phuket
Phuket’s mix of powdery beaches like Nai Harn, boutique hillside hotels, and easy island-hopping makes it a dreamy getaway. Take a sunset boat to the Phi Phi Islands, swim among bioluminescent plankton, and savor lazy beach afternoons with mango slices and good company. The best moments are often the unplanned, simple ones—no schedules, just present time with friends. — Muskaan Pahwa
These destinations cover a range of moods—from restorative spa weekends and vineyard escapes to island-hopping adventures and city festivals. Whatever you choose, plan a balance of organized activities and plenty of unstructured time so serendipity can do its work. After all, the best girls trips are the ones that leave you laughing, rested, and already planning the next one.
