The holidays are almost over, and it’s time to start thinking about what you want to do in 2023. Maybe you’ve been dreaming of relocating your family somewhere new, or maybe you’re just ready for some long-overdue R&R. Whatever your reason, rest assured: There’s no shortage of amazing destinations on the planet we can all call home—from urban havens like New York City and Paris to rural locales like Idaho and Montana. And while there are countless options out there for where to go next year, I’ve rounded up 8 off-the-beaten-path destinations that will help inspire you (and maybe even inspire a little envy)
Camp on the Beach in Mexico
Beach camping is another off-the-beaten-path idea that could be right up your alley. If you want to escape the city, beach camping can be an easy way to do so with minimal planning and cost. You’ll enjoy nature while having access to all of the amenities available in a city (elevators, bathrooms). Plus, it’s more affordable than other options like Airbnb or hotels because there isn’t any additional fee for using your tent or RV park space.
The only downside of this vacationing is that sometimes people who go “beach camping” don’t realize how difficult it can be during cold weather months (or even during spring break) when temperatures drop below freezing at night! But if you’re willing to invest in some warmer clothes, then hopefully, nothing will stop them from enjoying their trip, regardless.
Take the Road Less Traveled in Southern California
If you’re looking for a change of pace, consider exploring the back roads of Southern California. This region has plenty to offer in terms of history, culture, and natural beauty. You’ll discover hidden gems like Joshua Tree National Park, which has many hiking trails that will take you through forests filled with desert plants and animals. The park features red rock formations that are part of an ancient geological formation known as The Colorado Plateau (formerly Basin and Range Province).
You can also head north from Joshua Tree on Highway 62 toward Palm Springs—a city renowned for its artistic community and beautiful weather year-round! Some other popular destinations include Death Valley National Park; Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort; Big Bear City; San Clemente Beach & Pier; Las Vegas Strip; Victorville/High Desert
Discover Hidden Gems in Las Vegas
If you love the outdoors and want to explore some of the best hiking trails in Las Vegas, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is an ideal destination. The park offers several trails that can be accessed via paved roads and dirt paths. And if you have a Go Las Vegas Pass, you’ll get exclusive discounts on activities like biking, camping, fishing, and bird-watching, as well as horseback riding and riding lessons for beginners and experienced riders alike at local ranches. What’s more? It’s only 20 minutes away from Las Vegas! The city has also been named one of America’s Best Bike Rides by USA Today, so you won’t want to miss the opportunity to explore the trails on two wheels
Give Back to Nature on the Oregon Coast
The Oregon coast is a great option if you’re looking for a family-friendly vacation that will keep everyone entertained. Many parks along this stretch of beaches and cliffs include Nye Beach, Cape Lookout and Oswald West State Park. You can also check out tide-pooling in Cannon Beach or whale watching at Depoe Bay State Park.
Get Lost in Costa Rica’s Rainforests
If you’re looking for a change of scenery, consider Costa Rica. This country is home to some of the most pristine rainforests in Central America and boasts some of the best beaches on earth. You can visit them all in one trip—or better yet, split your trip between two countries!
You may have heard that Costa Rica has excellent wildlife: monkeys, toucans (birds with colorful beaks), iguanas and sloths are just some of the animals you can find there. If you want even more adventure than this, check out your local coffee plantation! They offer tours where they take guests through their fields and teach them how to grow coffee beans from seedlings through the harvest season. If you happen to live near an area where it often rains (and keeps getting colder), then wintertime at a coffee plantation could be just what this world needs right now.
Head Off-Road in Guadalupe Mountains National Park
If you’re looking for an adventure, the Guadalupe Mountains National Park is great. Located in Texas and known for its natural beauty, this park offers hiking trails that will take you through some of the most beautiful scenery in America. While there are many different habitats here—from desert to pine forests—the most popular destination is Twin Falls Lake, where visitors can enjoy swimming and fishing opportunities. You might even see some wildlife while exploring!
The high elevation makes it especially cold during the winter months (December through February) so if you’re planning on visiting during these months, make sure to pack accordingly!
Find Peace and Quiet on Mt Hood
Mt Hood is a great place to get away from the crowds and also great for hiking. There are many trails—some of which are more challenging than others—that you can take advantage of throughout the day or night. You can also snowshoe or snowboard while you’re out there if that sounds like your thing!
The scenery on Mt Hood is beautiful all year round. In fact, one of my favorite things about visiting this area is watching wildlife during their migration patterns as they make their way up into Canada or down through Washington State during the springtime (March through May).
Get Unplugged in Sedona
If you’re looking for a place to get away from it all and relax, Sedona is a great option. Located in the red rock country of Arizona, this town has natural beauty on every street corner. There are hiking trails, scenic drives and unique shops that cater to travellers looking for someplace new to visit next year.
As part of your journey toward unplugging from technology (which we know can be difficult), consider taking an evening hike with friends or family through one of Sedona’s many parks before settling down for dinner together at one of its many restaurants—or even better yet: stay overnight in one of their guest rooms!
Conclusion
Maybe you’ve been doing the same vacation for years or haven’t had a vacation in a while. Either way, it’s time to get out there and explore! There are so many different places where you can go. You need to figure out what fits your style of travel—and then make reservations as soon as possible so that when January comes around again, your dream trip is already waiting on its shores!