Adult weekend getaways to make your spirit soar

Nothing quite beats the feeling of packing your bags, putting all your worldly concerns on hold, and embarking on an indulgent weekend getaway. For many, the default mini break is a high-octane weekend in a major city, packed with culture, sightseeing, food, and nightlife. Or perhaps you’d rather recharge your batteries by reconnecting with nature on a hiking trip. Whether you’re longing for a romantic escape, hankering for some quality alone time, or planning a long-overdue catch-up with old friends, one of these weekend vacation ideas is sure to fit the bill.

Taste Hawaiian paradise with a romantic weekend in Kapalua

Dreaming of a decadent romantic weekend on the idyllic Hawaiian island of Maui? Look no further than Kapalua. Conveniently located less than an hour by car from Kahului Airport, this alluringly upscale area boasts pristine white-sand beaches, verdant mountain slopes, tranquil spas, and chic restaurants serving fresh farm-to-table cuisine with a gourmet twist. There’s also a wealth of alluring vacation homes, including luxurious apartments with oceanfront decks, BBQ grills, and pool access.

Take a weekend trip to Tulum for romance and ancient ruins

Perched on Mexico’s dazzling Caribbean coast, around a 90-minute drive from Cancún International Airport, Tulum is an ever-popular choice for a relaxing weekend getaway. There are so many reasons to fall in love with this jaw-dropping UNESCO World Heritage Site—stunningly preserved Mayan ruins, powder-soft sand, turquoise ocean, shimmering lagoons, and dense jungle. Sought-after local villa rentals offer tempting perks like gleaming terraces, private pools, and sea views. And with eateries ranging from cozy streetside taquerias to upscale restaurants housed in natural caverns, there are plenty of options for romantic dining experiences.

A wild weekend break with friends in Miami

Crank up the heat with a group weekend excursion to Miami. Florida’s most cosmopolitan and fun-loving city is a bucket list destination boasting colorful art deco architecture, miles of palm-fringed beach, and a mind-boggling array of restaurants, with a strong emphasis on hearty Cuban fare and innovative fusion cuisine. Miami continues to sizzle after dark, with sleek cocktail lounges, laid-back beach bars, and dress-to-impress clubs where you can dance until sunrise. There are plenty of lavish mansions for rent, spacious enough to accommodate a sizeable party crew. Or if you’re feeling particularly flashy, you could rent a private yacht for your wild weekend.

Gather a group for weekend wine tasting in Napa

A scenic hour’s drive from San Francisco, Napa is the gateway to Northern California’s elegant wine country. Find a vacation home rental big enough for your entire gang, and brace yourselves for a weekend of sheer self-indulgence. Hop aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train, and travel between verdant vineyards and revered wineries, sampling crisp whites and full-bodied reds as you go. It’s not the best idea to embark on a wine tasting adventure on an empty stomach, so thankfully Napa is also a haven for foodies. You can splurge on a meal to remember in a Michelin-star establishment with blissful valley views, or feast on wood-fired pizza in a casual group-friendly joint. With a pleasant Mediterranean climate, Napa is a particularly great choice for a spring or fall weekend getaway.

Treat yourself to a weekend getaway for one in hip Portland

Famously friendly and laid-back, Oregon’s hippest city is a compelling option for a solo weekend escape. It’s a breeze to navigate by foot or bike, so there’s no need to worry about hefty taxi fares. It boasts an array of chic independent cafes and casual craft beer pubs, where you can easily mingle with locals or enjoy some chilled-out alone time. If you’re self-conscious about dining out by yourself, Portland is renowned for its gourmet food trucks, which serve everything from homemade hummus and falafel to spicy Korean bibimbap. And the city is awash with cozy vacation home rentals, including sleek Downtown studios and quaint suburban bungalows.

Discover the joy of solo travel in diverse Toronto

With its futuristic high-rise skyline and teeming streets, Canada’s most populous city makes a dazzling first impression. Dig a little deeper and you’ll discover a mesmerizingly multicultural metropolis, packed with cavernous museums, cutting-edge art galleries, eclectic eateries, and buzzing bars. Toronto regularly ranks high on lists of the world’s safest major cities, so it’s extremely popular with single travelers. And with an extremely efficient public transport network, you can pack a lot into a fast-paced weekend break. You’ll find plenty of appealing one-bedroom vacation rentals all over Downtown Toronto and beyond.