Kauai, Aspen, and More Incredible Trips for a 50th Birthday Celebration

For the trip of a lifetime that includes dramatic nature that’s easily accessible, Tofino has plenty to offer. The Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is lined with lakes, inlets, and trails through ancient rainforest. For an au natural spa day, Ocean Outfitters provides transportation to the coveted Hot Springs Cove, a cluster of dreamy, natural hot springs on Vancouver Island’s rugged coast, only accessible by boat or float plane. Stay at Wickanninish Inn (pictured), with chic rooms and some of the best Canadian cuisine on the coast.

Solo celebrators can treat themselves to a life-changing retreat at Miraval Resort. Set on 400 acres in Arizona’s Santa Catalina Mountains, this wellness sanctuary offers more than 120 mindful activities and life-balancing workshops designed to help you live your next life chapter to the fullest, from meditation to nutrition.

Lake Tahoe’s epic beauty makes every vacation there feel like a monumental trip. But now there’s a new addition raising the stakes for special occasions: The Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe’s Lake Club, where hotel guests can buy day passes to the private new mansion-esque club. The all-inclusive structure means a carefree day of cocktails that pair with the chef’s barbecue menu, lakeside lawn chairs at the water’s edge, and a private pier stocked with wave runners, boat rentals, parasails, and chartered fishing—all without the crowds.

When it comes to epic 50th birthday ideas, it's hard to beat Hawaii. Kauai is one of those destinations that’s magical on its own, but next-level if you approach it strategically. A few must-dos for the best birthday weekend: hike a section of the vertiginous Kalalau Trail, order organic shave ice served from the window of Wishing Well Shave Ice truck in Hanalei, have a seafood dinner at Postcards Cafe, and watch the sunset from the Makana Terrace of St. Regis Princeville Resort.

On the northern end of Napa Valley, St. Helena offers a prime refuge for romantic renewal. Las Alcobas Napa Valley is the latest addition to the town’s collection of luxury hideaways, comprising of an historic estate tucked between vineyards. The location, just a stone’s throw from downtown St. Helena, means skipping wine country traffic or spending the whole celebration on the property.

There are few places more perfect for kicking off a big birthday than Aspen in the winter. The focus? Cloud 9, a ski-in, ski out European-style cabin at the top of Aspen Highland’s powdery slopes, famous for its champagne-spraying lunches and gooey raclette fondue.

For an amazing getaway that’s warm, accessible, and has plenty of options for celebrating, Los Cabos is an easy pick. With lots of nonstop flights from many U.S. hubs and plenty of group activities, it’s hassle-free enough to do as a double-date getaway or a trip with close friends. Celebrate by land at Acre, a group-friendly restaurant on a farm, or by sea on a snorkeling or fishing excursion, and base your party at the stunningly modern boutique resort, The Cape.

For those looking to ring in the next decade with a next-level celebration, San Diego is the place to do it. Flagship Cruises & Events offers private catered yacht charters on the water, so your group of friends and family can toast to a new you on the Pacific at sunset. For an equally festive place to stay, La Valencia Hotel (pictured) has beautified grounds overlooking La Jolla Cove.

Looking for some 50th birthday ideas for a Seattle staycation? For special-occasion views, perch yourself at the Four Seasons Hotel Seattle’s rooftop infinity pool (pictured) and soak up the panoramic sweep of the Puget Sound and Olympic Mountains. Make dinner equally special with a meal at Michelin-starred Altura, an intimate, elegant restaurant serving elevated Italian fare. Continue the festivities with a bottle of Washington cab at upscale wine bar, Purple Cafe & Wine Bar.

A family trip to Zion National Park is a must-do adventure for any nature buff. Hike The Narrows, a stream that doubles as trail lined by thousand-foot-high cliffs on both sides. Come evening, bed down inside the tricked-out luxury tents pitched on 196 acres bordering the park; Under Canvas Zion (pictured) is glamping at its very best.