Last Updated on February 10, 2025 by Steph
Each January, publications everywhere publish lists of trends for the new year. 2025 has a lot of focus on wellness, which I can get behind. So much is happening online that is terrifying and overwhelming, so it makes sense that travelers seek destinations where they can unplug and find some calm. Resorts advertise top-of-the-line beds and sheets, wellness services, and fresh air activities. Quietcations is one of the words flying around the trend lists, so I wanted to dive into it. I’ll cover what a quietcation is and some places that would make perfect destinations for a getaway like this. Let’s dive in and start planning our peaceful retreats ASAP.
What is a Quietcation?
Quietcations are getaways where travelers can escape the madness of daily routines and life and enjoy the peace. Instead of packing an itinerary with tours, attractions, and exploration, these trips don’t have strict plans. All you need is a comfortable place to stay with access to nature and an out-of-office that doesn’t require you to check emails or text messages.
With notifications constantly pinging us and news alerts popping up with new information around the clock, it’s more important than ever before to take a break and escape from overstimulation. You’ll need to exercise some self-control, but you can also choose a destination where you’ll be surrounded by beautiful nature and can avoid the distractions caused by screens. Giving yourself a calm reset can do wonders for your overall mental health.
Interest in more remote or quiet destinations has increased by 50% over the last year. Others are specifically searching for calm-focused travel. Resorts have started to implement quiet areas and provide options for guests to do quiet activities like forest bathing, guided meditation, or even lockboxes for phones and computers.
We pulled together 15 destinations that would be perfect for a quietcation. Some people like to escape to the mountains and remote regions for a longer getaway, others prefer a beach where they can just sit in the sand all day, and some are just looking to dip their toes in quietcations with a weekend retreat. There is something for everyone looking to find some zen on their next trip.
Relaxing Quietcation Destinations in Nature
San Juan Islands, Washington
These remote islands feel miles from the rest of the United States, but it’s just a quick ferry ride from the Seattle area or Bellingham, WA. There are 400 islands, but only four are accessible by ferry. You’ll have access to restaurants, shopping, and other small-town specialties, but with so much waterfront space, you can easily find a spot to relax and watch for Orcas in the water. In the warm months, you can stay in tents and simple cottages. There are beautiful resorts with fireplaces in the winter, and you’ll enjoy the off-season quiet.
Book the Lopez Island Tent spots or check out the stunning Outlook Inn on Orcas Island.
The Boundary Waters, Minnesota
There are some protected lands in the deep woods of Northern Minnesota, and the only way in is by canoe. It’s possible to access the peace and quiet of this beautiful landscape without a canoe if you stay on the edges of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. I grew up camping here, taking day trips (called portages) to different lakes, and watching for Moose and other animals. You’ll get zero cell phone signal; without motors or cars, all you hear is nature. Escape to Minnesota’s north shore and experience Lake Superior and more of Minnesota’s 10,000 lakes.
Stay on the outskirts of the BWCA in a lodge, or check out one of America’s best small towns and stay nearby.
Marfa, Texas
If you’ve been served a “cosmic cowgirl” playlist on Spotify, consider escaping to Marfa. This Western Texas town is known for its funky art vibes and the fact that you can escape here. Day trip to explore Big Bend National Park or unwind in the desert. The stars are unreal with the lack of city lights out here.
El Cosmico is an iconic spot to block out the world or stay in town and have a few more luxuries at this stunning property.
Paradise Valley, Montana
I am such a massive fan of the Big Sky area of Montana, but if you’re looking for natural beauty and the opportunity to enjoy a quietcation, head over the range to Paradise Valley. The Yellowstone River runs through this picturesque valley as it approaches Yellowstone National Park. Hike on one of the countless trails, try fly fishing, or just stare at the majestic mountains surrounding the valley.
This lodge is on my bucket list because of its perfect location, or take advantage of these glamping sites to immerse yourself in nature.
Coastal Towns of Oregon
Cannon Beach and Manzanita are two of my favorite towns on the Pacific Coast. Oregon’s coastline has beautiful cliffs, vistas, and big open beaches with ten times more birds than humans. I call this a writer’s paradise because you can find a place to stay with a big window overlooking the ocean and get cozy. There are great coffee shops where you can grab a hot drink before walking along the shoreline and listening to the sound of the waves. Just make sure to stay south of Seaside to avoid the busier areas.
This oceanfront property has the big windows I’m talking about, or you can stay at this gorgeous property near Haystack Rock.
Beachfront Quietcation Destinations
Todos Santos, Mexico
This little beach town is about an hour north of Cabo San Lucas. It’s a great way to spend time in Baja while escaping from the crowds of tourists. You can spend hours on the beach relaxing with very few people around. Volunteers can assist with a daily release of sea turtles, and there are beautiful places to hike and take in stunning ocean views, like the Sugar Port Trail. This is one of our favorite gems.
Many new spa-like spots have opened recently, but this original spot is hard to beat. You can also stay in town in the cute main street area.
Big Sur, California
Central California is one stunning overlook after another. It’s much quieter than the beaches of southern California, so it’s a perfect spot for a quietcation where you just want to sit in the sunshine and watch the water roll in. Walk among the giant trees or climb down to the water, there are plenty of places to find peace, but most importantly, enjoy the drive.
Stay in the quiet Big Sur area, or save a little money and stay in nearby Carmel.
Costa Esmeralda, Nicaragua
Head south to Central America to find beaches that haven’t been oversaturated by tourists yet. Costa Rica is beautiful but has become popular recently, and it’s harder to find spots for a true quietcation. Consider visiting Nicaragua instead on the Pacific Coast. There are yoga and surf retreats where you can take advantage of lessons to help you learn new skills. Spend your in-between time sitting quietly on the beach.
Stay in this beautiful Surf Lodg, or sign up for a full yoga/surf retreat at a location like this.
Koh Pha Ngan, Thailand
Koh Pha Ngan is known for the rowdy full moon parties, but we spent two weeks here, and it was peaceful and stunning. You just have to head to the northern part of the island, away from the raves and crazy parties (or visit when there isn’t a full moon.) Rent a motorbike and cruise around to explore the different beaches. Take yoga classes or just plop down in the sand and enjoy the quiet. You can visit other Thai islands with a quick ferry ride.
Enjoy the experience of this spa destination, or stay a little closer to more restaurants and options on the northwest side of the island.
Turks and Caicos
We haven’t spent much time in the Caribbean, but these islands are at the top of my list for a beachfront quietcation. The photos are so stunning, and everyone we know who has honeymooned there cannot say a bad thing about it. There are many all-inclusive resorts, so you don’t have to think about anything other than just sitting and enjoying yourself. There might be budget-friendly options, but this seems like more of a high-end luxury destination (maybe I’ll spend my 50th birthday there or celebrate winning the lottery.)
This all-inclusive resort looks incredible, but I’d probably choose something a little smaller like this stunner.
Quietcation Escapes for the Weekend
Hudson Valley, New York
Just a short train ride north from Penn Station, you can spend a weekend wandering through farmer’s markets, flower fields, historic towns, and the Catskill Mountains. We used to have a quietcation near Woodstock each New Year’s Eve when we lived in New York City. Finding a spot near running water meant you could enjoy that while you slept instead of garbage trucks and a constant flow of pedestrian traffic.
This brand creates the perfect environment for quietcations or stay closer to the train station in this adorable town.
Joshua Tree, California
There is one spot that seems like it belongs on Earth just to provide an escape, and that’s Joshua Tree National Park. The strange shapes of trees, the cactus garden, the boulders that provide a little privacy in the park, and the quirky towns surrounding the park all serve up a perfect weekend escape. Extend a night or two in Palm Springs, where you can sit poolside with all the retirees and get a taste of pastel paradise.
Rent a campervan and really enjoy the quiet nights, or stay in our favorite quietcation spot.
Taos, New Mexico
People say that Sedona, Arizona, is an energy vortex, but the one place I’ve been to that seemed to shift my energy in the best way was Taos, New Mexico. There is something so inspiring about the landscape. It’s like you can hear the stories of the people who have called this area home for thousands of years. Artists have been flocking to this region for year, and it’s the perfect place to search for quiet inspiration.
Check out the spot we’ve recommended more than any other spot in the US, or if it’s booked, stay at this extraordinary living resort or this historic inn.
Stevenson, Washington
Now that we live in Seattle, the Columbia River Gorge has been a wonderful escape for us. It has water, mountains, adorable little towns, and countless hiking trails. While the Oregon side gets all the hype, I like the towns on the Washington side, and they are typically quieter and more peaceful. Bring a book, your pup, and comfortable clothes and enjoy a quietcation in the Gorge.
This lodge is very well-known and has great options for any type of traveler. You could also grab one of these cottages tucked away in the woods.
Your Own Backyard
You don’t have to get far away from home to enjoy this travel trend. I’ve mentioned Autocamp locations already, but a few fantastic brands have locations all over the country. Postcard Cabins have destinations close to many major cities and are set up as tiny houses without wifi meant for disconnecting. Under Canvas glamping sites are set up near many national parks. And VRBO always has a good assortment of rental places perfect for quietcations.
What Do You Need to Bring for a Quietcation?
The beauty of a quietcation is the simplicity of packing and planning. My quietcation would be spent in lounge sets and hiking clothes. Bring things you are comfortable in and can wear for walks in whatever weather you’ll be in.
Screen-free time means keeping your phones, tablets, and computers at home or tucked away. Bring a physical book or two. I would also pack a journal and a puzzle. Consider packing a face mask or something that requires you to sit still for a bit and treat yourself.
I would also plan a little ahead for drinks and snacks. Some destinations are pretty remote, so it might be smart to stop at a grocery store and stock up on some of your favorite snacks, smoothies, coffee, and water.
Final Thoughts on the Quietcation Trend
Quietcations are one of those travel trends that should be here to stay. People need to take more frequent breaks from notifications and screens. It can benefit your mental, emotional, and physical health. Whether you take a solo trip or bring loved ones with you, it’s essential to use a few of your PTO days to recharge and actually rest. You can do that in beautiful places like the ones we’ve listed and really make the most of it. Let us know in the comments where your ideal quietcation would take place.
Pin this to help you plan your future quietcations:
Leave a Reply