You’re retired, and it’s time for you to choose the destination you’ve always dreamed of and go on a well-deserved vacation. That’s what most people think in their working years: “Nah, it’s too expensive; I’d rather do something else with the money. Maybe next year.”
If you’re in your golden years and have some savings (not the ones for emergency cases), treat yourself to a lovely vacation! With no time constraints, you can take your time to plan a stay of several days or even a few weeks, then wait for the day you’ll arrive at the chosen destination.
The question is, where to go? Well, we’ve made sure to round up this year’s best travel destinations for seniors. We promise you, these wonderful places are sure to spark your motivation to start packing!
Let’s take a look!
1. Alaska
If you don’t have a passport yet but daydream about a truly unique vacation, consider a visit to Alaska. Whether you want to engage in active outdoor activities or just want to kick back (or maybe both), this destination can be whatever you’d like. What’s great about Alaska is that it provides a great place to disconnect, so most seniors will love it.
If you’re up for an adventure, you definitely should join boat tours where you can paddle among the sea otters and the whales. Or you can go hiking and explore nature as bald eagles soar above. Seniors who want to relax can do that too, enjoying a view of grand glaciers and magnificent waterfalls.
If you get the chance, try to visit some of the charming Alaskan towns; you’ll fall in love with them! Not only will you be surrounded by wilderness and unique landscapes, but you’ll also spot some wildlife.
2. California’s Pacific Coast Highway
A road trip can make for an awesome vacation, particularly when visiting a place you’ve never been before. Traveling Highway One along the California coast is quite a unique experience, so if you’ve never done it, you definitely should plan to.
There’s a stretch of highway known as the “Big Sur Coast”, between San Simeon and Carmel, that is truly magical. In fact, seniors will enjoy one of the most spectacular views in the world here. There are several gorgeous resorts and inns where you can spend the night. In the morning, take the time you need to soak up the ocean views, admiring how stunning nature can be.
If the drive isn’t too long for you, consider heading further north to San Francisco or even Mendocino. You’ll see other breathtaking views that are pretty hard to beat.
3. Nevis, Caribbean
The Caribbean is quite accessible, and there are lots of islands to choose from if you want to enjoy the ultimate tropical getaway. For seniors who want to relax and avoid wild, sleep-interrupting celebrations, Nevis is the best destination, as it’s beautiful and peaceful and comes without loud parties and noisy casinos.
As one of the Caribbean’s greenest islands, here you’ll also enjoy idyllic, uncrowded white-sand beaches and lush, breathtaking scenery. Plus, it’s one of the best destinations when it comes to cuisine, with delicious dishes that are typically a fusion of American, African, and European, along with an endless number of local fruits like tamarind and mangoes.
Seniors who like to golf can stay at the Four Seasons Resort, where they can tee off on one of the most scenic courses in the world. It features several oceanside holes, as well as Green Vervet monkeys and views of the historic sugar mills from Nevis Peak.
4. Douro River, Portugal
The Douro Valley in northern Portugal is more than just a grape-growing region and a wine-producing culture. As one of the world’s oldest wine regions, the area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the undulating curves of the hillsides create a dramatic and beautiful landscape.
No matter in which season you go there, the views are enchanting, with stunning valleys and steep slopes that make it a great destination. Just a short drive from Porto, where the famous Port wine is made, the Douro Valley has a lot to offer in terms of food, scenery, history, culture, and obviously, wine.
Seniors who want to learn new things can visit one of the region’s wineries, then head over to Museo do Douro, a space dedicated to preserving and representing the Douro Valley wine region. Travel from Porto to Pocinho for a truly unique train journey.
5. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Did you know that Santa Fe is the oldest state capital in the US? Once you’re there, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into an entirely different country.
This is a great destination for seniors; it has a lot of history, and the main plaza is definitely a spot you shouldn’t miss. But that’s not all. There are many other unique attractions, extraordinary museums, and a wide array of art galleries.
In fact, there’s a higher density of museums and galleries here than in almost any other place in the world. And seniors will love this: all the attractions are within reasonable walking distance from the town square.
The adobe city is also renowned for its transformative qualities, and lots of seniors come here to experience its healing energy. Plus, the food truly stands out, the surrounding scenery is awe-inspiring, the climate is amazing, and there are plenty of trails nearby to engage in if you like to hike.
6. Williamsburg, Virginia
Another great destination for seniors is Williamsburg, Virginia. If you’re a history buff, you’ll definitely love this place! Here, you’ll get the chance to see what it was like to be an original settler by spending the night at one of the 26 Colonial Houses scattered throughout the historic area.
But this destination isn’t just for history enthusiasts. Its attractions include living-history museums, luxurious spas, award-winning restaurants, world-class golf, and surprising thrills. Take a walking tour to visit the blacksmith, the saddle maker, the apothecary, and a wigmaker. The best part? Many of these attractions offer senior discounts!
Along the way, you’ll also meet up with historical figures, like First Lady Martha Washington or one of the Founding Fathers. Costumed characters recreate the atmosphere of the early years of America, offering a glimpse at this era that you could never discover in a history book.
7. Key West, Florida
The Florida Keys, which stretch over 124 miles from Miami-Dade County in the north to Key West, offer more opportunities for sailing and other water sports than almost any other similar destination in America. In fact, it’s safe to say that Key West is our country’s crown jewel.
It’s also one of the greatest places for those who want to kick back and enjoy a slower pace of living, so no matter how relaxed or active you want your vacation to be, you’ll find it here. The sunsets are incredibly stunning, and one of the best ways to truly experience them is to take a sunset sailing cruise.
If you prefer to stay on land, the dock at Mallory Square provides a glorious view of the sun going down. Seniors can also take a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park, famous for its world-class snorkeling. Don’t forget to also sample Cuban-inspired cuisine at one of the many eateries that line the island’s main beachfront.
8. Tuscany, Italy
Seniors who haven’t been to Tuscany definitely should visit it in their golden years. In fact, chances are, this destination is already on your bucket list.
Choose to explore the heart of Florence, the “Cradle of the Renaissance”, or go for a more affordable trip with a stay in the countryside, surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. There are many wine tours you can join, including private tours for small groups that can show you the top wineries, which obviously means you’ll have the chance to enjoy local delicacies and meet some of the winemakers too.
Gaze up at centuries-old cathedrals and palazzos, unwind in picturesque squares, or just soak up the Tuscan sun while admiring the breathtaking scenery.
You may also want to read 7 Amazing Senior-Friendly Travel Groups You Can’t Miss.
