This past summer, my husband and I went to the beach for what was supposed to be a few days of rest and relaxation. I imagined sleeping in, quiet strolls on the boardwalk and watching the sunset while sipping chilled rosé. Instead, there were kids playing ball in the room next door, breakfast buffet pandemonium and little ones having meltdowns everywhere we went. It wasn’t exactly the restorative trip we had in mind.
Don’t get me wrong. I like kids, but as a childless-by-choice 50-something, I prefer to spend my precious vacation time with like-minded grownups seeking serenity, good food and a restful night’s sleep. It’s not easy to find a place that ticks all the boxes: Quiet but not dull, elegant but not staid and fun but not overrun with partying 20-somethings. Yet, it’s not impossible. Here are six delightful adult-friendly winter getaways perfect for traveling solo, with a partner or with friends.
Immersive Art and Mexican Culture in San Miguel de Allende
Known for its thriving art scene, charming cobblestone streets and cosmopolitan vibe, the Mexican colonial town of San Miguel de Allende is the ideal adult getaway. Two 21-and-over properties of note include La Valise San Miguel de Allende, a boutique hotel in the heart of the city with six rooms and suites, a quiet courtyard, tranquil pools and art installations by Pedro Friedeberg, and Casa Hoyos, which blends modern decor, colonial architecture and furnishings by Mexican artisans. Don’t miss Casa Hoyos’ stunning rooftop bar with panoramic city views.
Modernism and Vintage Vibes in Palm Springs, California
There's no place like Palm Springs for sun, fun and mid-century modern architecture and design. During Modernism Week, which runs from February 13-23, 2025, you can tour iconic mid-century homes and attend special cocktail parties and events. Back at your hotel, enjoy drinks by the pool without worrying about cannonballing kids. Adult-only properties of note include the Saint-Tropez-inspired Dive Palm Springs, the modern, but rustic Sparrows Lodge and the Movie Colony Hotel, a nod to old Hollywood glam.
Glamping and Mountain Views in Asheville, North Carolina
Head to The Glamping Collective, just 20 minutes from Asheville, for breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and a respite from daily life. Choose from glass cabins or fully-insulated geodesic domes with hot tubs and private decks where you can soak in the stunning scenery. Active travelers will enjoy the property’s private hiking trails with hidden waterfalls, native wildlife and awe-inspiring vistas. Be sure to request the adults-only section in a separate area of the 160-acre property. Prefer to stay in town? Book the adults-only Club Floor at the Omni Grove Park Inn. Guests enjoy turndown service, continental breakfast and evening cocktails with hors d’oeuvres.
Secluded Beaches and Unspoiled Terrain in Turks & Caicos
Ditch the more crowded (and family-friendly) Turks & Caicos beaches by staying at Sailrock South Caicos, a luxurious and eco-friendly beachfront property with 32 villas and suites, many of which have private pools. Guests can go whale watching (January-April), snorkel and commune with wild donkeys and indigenous flamingoes. For health-minded travelers, Sailrock offers a wellness menu crafted by nutritionists that can accommodate a variety of dietary restrictions. Other adult-friendly choices on the island include the classic Ritz-Carlton, secluded Beach Enclave North Shore, all-inclusive Pine Cay and super luxe Amanyara.
Wine and Wellness in Virginia Wine Country
Grab your besties and treat yourselves to a blissful kid-free four-day retreat at the adults-only six-room Farmhouse at Veritas B&B in the heart of Virginia wine country. You’ll hike the stunning Blue Ridge mountains, practice yoga, dine on delicious fare and tour Veritas Vineyard and Wine Cellar. You can also book the B&B nightly, making it a great home base for exploring Virginia’s Monticello Wine Trail. Other charming adult-friendly options include The Inn at Stinson Vineyards and Goodstone Inn.
Pura Vida and Whale Watching in Costa Rica
Deep in the rainforest and ideal for a romantic getaway, Hotel Three Sixty is an adults-only property with 12 luxurious villas, an infinity pool overlooking the treetops and Pacific Ocean, a spa, a rainforest yoga deck and an open-air restaurant. In winter months (January-March), guests might spot whales as they migrate north. Other activities include hiking to stunning waterfalls, kayaking and jungle tours. Casa Chameleon at Las Catalinas features 21 private villas with plunge pools, four dining options, a wide range of wellness treatments and activities such as a private catamaran tour, horseback riding, scuba diving and much more.
Photo credits (top to bottom): Courtesy Casa Hoyos; Courtesy Dive Palm Springs; Courtesy The Glamping Collective; Courtesy Sailrock South Caicos; Hannah Malloy/Courtesy Veritas Vineyard & Winery; Courtesy Casa Chameleon
Have you been to any of the above places? Let us know in the comments below.
