When thinking about their next adventure, many people think of a place with a beach; I know that I usually do. But what about those who would rather explore other beautiful aspects of the world, such as the mountains and national parks, and have once-in-a-lifetime experiences? In this article, we’ll dive into some amazing destinations you’ll love that are much more than just your typical beach vacation!
Non-Beach Destinations You’ll Love
Williamsburg, VA
This historical town of Colonial Williamsburg has everything for anyone looking to avoid the beach this summer. History buffs can explore museums such as the Jamestown Settlement and visit unique sites like the Williamsburg Winery! Williamsburg has its own Busch Gardens location and a Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park for those looking for a thrill! You can also enjoy the free ferry ride on the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry and explore the York River State Parks when visiting this historical, non-beach destination!
Outer Banks, NC
This chain of barrier islands might have the most beautiful coastlines and beaches, but that’s not why we’re here, as the Outer Banks has so much more to offer. For instance, Jockey’s Ridge State Park has the tallest natural sand dune, where you can fly kites, sandboard, and view the incredible sunset! There is also the Outer Banks Distilling Company, which houses several varieties of Kill Devil Rum. Then, of course, the Outer Banks has a thriving art scene, rich maritime history, and some of the most unique sea-to-table meals!
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
The natural beauty of Jackson Hole cannot be understated. From their stunning views through Grand Teton National Park and scenic hiking trails to the Granite Hot Springs, where you can relax and tune out the world! If you prefer exploring indoors, you can experience the National Museum of Wildlife Art and the thrill of the rodeo at the Jackson Hole Rodeo. You also do not want to miss a classic Western bar experience at the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, which is just one more reason Jackson Hole is an excellent choice as your non-beach destination.
Glacier National Park, Montana
The Glacier National Park has over 700 miles of trails to explore, and it doesn’t matter if you’re new to hiking or an avid hiker; the trails here have a spot for everyone. You’ll find yourself on these trails in perfect view of their magnificent sunsets. If you like the water but don’t care about the beach, this national park has incredible rafting experiences. Whether you’re looking for a fast-paced whitewater experience or would rather spend a calming afternoon floating around in the sun, you can’t go wrong visiting this special piece of Montana.
Cape Town, South Africa
While Cape Town does have some of the most incredible beaches, it is so much more than that. You can explore the area’s historical heritage by visiting Bo-Kaap or Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned. There are incredible views to be seen at this non-beach destination, such as those at Table Mountain and Lion’s Head hiking trails, and the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is nothing short of uniquely amazing. Then, consider exploring their world-class cuisine and wine, such as a day trip to a wine region like Stellenbosch.
Scottish Highlands, Scotland
The scenery in the Scottish Highlands is nothing short of incredible and is only one of the many reasons why Scotland should be on your list of must-visit non-beach destinations! While here, you’d want to visit Glen Coe, known for its stunning “Three Sisters” mountains, and experience the largest national park in the UK, the Cairngorms National Park. You can explore the various Castles and Ruins to immerse yourself in the area’s history, experience Highland Games, and discover their unique wildlife, such as the Red Deer. Then, to top it all off, you can visit a whisky distillery and learn everything there is to know about whisky and sample some flavors!
Douro Valley, Portugal
Douro Valley is considered to be a wine lover’s dream! It’s known for its Port wine, which is only produced here, and you can enjoy some wine tastings at various estates! On top of a wonderful wine-rich experience, this non-beach destination in Portugal has so much scenic beauty, which can be seen through the Douro River Cruises, the drive along Estrada Nacional 222, and hiking, such as through the national parks. You can also learn about their rich culture and delicious cuisine!
Hallstatt, Austria
Another non-beach destination is Hallstatt, Austria. Hallstatt offers a wonderful experience through its lakeside village. From boat rides on Lake Hallstatt to exploring the Salt Mine and taking stunning hikes around the Alps, this Austrian location is more than worth visiting. The area’s historical architecture and cultural heritage earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. A visit to the Hallstatt World Heritage Museum can give you a deeper background on the area. Be sure to experience the Dachstein Giant Ice Cave for a truly unique experience!
Final Thoughts
From Wyoming to Cape Town, the world has so much to offer. With the beauty of rolling hills, the importance of rich culture and history, and incredible cuisine, there are so many beautiful places to visit for your next non-beach destination! Alongside these breathtaking views and experiences, the opportunities for once-in-a-lifetime adventures cannot be understated. Whether you’re seeking time away to relax, have an adventure, take in some history, or a little bit of it all, these non-beach destinations are full of hidden gems! So what are you waiting for? Start packing your bags and get ready for some unforgettable experiences at these non-beach destinations!
