Best Relaxing Vacation Spots USA [3 Laid-Back Retreats]

Everyday life is already so “go, go, go.” Why not have a vacation where you can take it slow? Wouldn’t it be nice to worry less about when you’re going to do something, and spend more time soaking up the atmosphere of a new destination? If you care more about vibes than activities, this is for you. Here are some of the most relaxing vacation spots in the USA.

Relaxing Vacation Spots in North Carolina

If you’re looking for relaxing vacation spots, you’ll find plenty of them in North Carolina. The stunning forests and imposing mountains make for striking scenery, and for the most part, the state has a calm, quiet atmosphere. Still, if you can only visit one place in the Tar Heel State, we’d recommend the small town of Robbinsville. This rustic hideaway acts as the gateway to some of the most stunning nature in the state. Want to unwind by the water? Then you’ll love Lake Santeetlah. This lake features peaceful shorelines surrounded by the tall trees of the Nantahala National Forest. It’s a great spot to take in the natural beauty of the state while enjoying a bit of fishing.

Speaking of the Nantahala National Forest, you can spend days doing nothing but roaming its hiking trails. As the largest of North Carolina’s four national forests, Nantahala encompasses more than half a million acres of pristine woodlands, with elevations from a high of 5,800 feet to a low of 1,200 feet. Needless to say, it isn’t hard to find a quiet patch of the woods to take in the sights and sounds of the forest. When you’re ready to mix things up though, trade your hiking boots for some wheels and take a drive along the Cherohala Skyway. Stretching out for 43 miles, the Skyway was named one of the top ten most gorgeous motorcycle rides by the Discovery Channel. It’s especially great in the summer when you can see the beautiful golds, yellows, and reds of the changing leaves across the drive.

Where to Stay in North Carolina

If you’re really going to enjoy a relaxing vacation spot, you can’t spend time worrying about getting where you’re trying to go. Luckily, the historic Tapoco Lodge is near the best sites to soak up the North Carolina scenery. Nestled on the banks of the Cheoah River, this boutique hotel has been a North Carolina mainstay since 1930. Don’t let its age fool you though, behind its old-time charm, there’s plenty of modern amenities and up-to-date accommodations. So, while you may be staying in a piece of history, you don’t have to live like it!

Amenities

Accommodations

• Lodge Room: features a king bed and bathroom. Accommodates two guests.
• Lodge Suites: features a king and queen bed, bathroom, and small seating area. Accommodates two to four guests.
• Cabins: features king and queen beds and a bathroom. Other amenities may vary. Accommodates two to six guests.

Relaxing Vacation Spots in New York

When you think about New York, you probably think of the big city, but there’s more to the Empire State than that. In fact, you’ll find one of the most relaxing vacation spots in the USA 120 miles out from NYC. You’ll know you’ve reached the Catskills once you see its rolling fields, dome-shaped mountain peaks, and small towns that look like they’re right out of a movie. The Catskills have a little bit of everything! Want to experience the great outdoors? Then trek through the woods to get a breathtaking view of Kaaterskill Falls, a stunning, two-tier waterfall. Paddleboarding? There’s plenty of that in Alder Lake, Batavia Kill, and the East Branch of the Delaware River.

If what you’re really after are small-town vibes, though, the Catskills still have you covered. You can swing over to Livingston Manor and see the unique art on display in galleries and museums around the town. Be sure to check out the home of Thomas Cole to see breathtaking landscape art. Speaking of breathtaking, you can end your day with views of the water from the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse.

Where to Stay in New York

Nestled in the heart of the Catskills, you’ll find Callicoon Hills. This casual vacation resort has a quiet, cozy atmosphere with tons of accommodations for all kinds of guests. So, no matter what kind of travel group you have, you’ll be sure to enjoy staying at Callicoon Hills.

Amenities

Accommodations

• Pool House King Room: features a king bed and bathroom. Accommodates two guests.
• Tree House King Room: features a king bed and bathroom. Accommodates two guests.
• Deck House Standard King Room: features a king bed and bathroom. Dog-friendly and accommodates two guests.
• A-Frame Cabin: a striking, distinct cabin with a floor-to-ceiling window. Features a queen bed. Accommodates two guests.
• Creekside Cabin: a larger cabin. Features two king beds, a sofa bed, two bathrooms, and a full kitchen. Accommodates six guests.

Relaxing Vacation Spots in Georgia

Sometimes relaxation and isolation are one in the same. If that’s the case for you, you’ll love Summerville, Georgia. While all of the relaxing vacation spots we’ve covered in the USA are close to the great outdoors, Summerville stands out for being a great place to fully disappear. You’ll be right next to the expansive but quiet Little River National Park. Here, you’ll find breathtaking views of serene nature, waterfalls, and rolling hills. Additionally, you can head for a scenic walk or hike on miles of wooded trails. Not to mention, it’s a great spot for birdwatching. And with all the peace and quiet, you’ll have no trouble hearing their majestic songs.

The quiet doesn’t stop at Little River. In fact, you’ll find plenty of fun by the water at the James H. “Sloppy” Floyd Park. On top of being another great birdwatching area, you can enjoy plenty of outdoor activities on the water. Toss your line down at the fishing pier, or take a boat ride out using one of the two boat ramps. Want to enjoy a relaxing picnic? Then head over to DeSoto Falls. The Falls are stunning on their own, having carved out its own small canyon, and you’ll find plenty of picnic tables nearby. So, nature lovers are bound to enjoy a meal by the water. We’ve only scratched the surface of the fun things to do here in Georgia, but needless to say, it’s a great place for a getaway!

Where to Stay in Georgia

If you really want to feel far away from it all, it doesn’t get better than Dunya Camp. You’ll sit high above 42 acres of tree line in luxury tents. Dunya Camp blends seclusion with luxury to create one of the most relaxing glamping spots in the USA.

Amenities

Accommodations

• Sunset Tent: features a plush king bed, day bed, antique furniture, and a wood-burning stove. There’s also a spa deck with a hot tub, fire pit, and an outdoor shower. Accommodates two guests.
• Grand Sunset Tent: features all of the amenities found in the sunset tent, along with a barrel sauna and the most expansive views of stunning sunsets and distant mountain vistas. Accommodates two guests.

Find Even More Relaxing Vacation Spots in the USA with Nook

These may be the most relaxing vacation spots in the USA, but they’re not the only great destinations here! At Nook Outdoors, we’re always on the lookout for fun vacation spots that are a little off the beaten path. So if you like your vacations a little less conventional, you’re in good company here. Click the button below to browse more destinations!