"In a perfect world, your next vacation would be a relaxing jaunt to somewhere new. You know, the type of trip where you can enjoy all the big sites at your leisure, stumble upon hidden gems and mouth-watering restaurants, and feel so ingrained in the community that you feel like a local. But depending on where you go, your time away might be anything but relaxing. Navigating packed crowds for a mere glimpse of the top sites? Waiting for what feels like a small eternity for a table at an overplayed, overpriced restaurant? Feeling like you’re wearing a sign that has “tourist” written all over it? Honestly, I’d rather stay home.
Blame it on social media or the ever-growing tourism industry, but some travel destinations (though gorgeous) are crowded, touristy, and well… overrated. Sure, some parts of the world are classic vacation spots for a reason—you can’t see the Eiffel Tower or the Acropolis anywhere else, after all—but why not try someplace that’s more off the beaten path? If you’re looking to expand your horizons, read on for eight overrated travel destinations—and where to go instead.
1. Napa Valley, California
From picturesque views to mouth-watering pours of cabernet sauvignon, Napa Valley is often pegged as a wine lover’s paradise. But while the region is still known for making some of the finest wines stateside, the droves of tourist groups can make the adult playground feel a little claustrophobic.
Where to Go Instead
The good news? You have plenty of options. For a nearby alternative, drive approximately 50 miles northwest to Sonoma County, a more spread out and less-crowded wine region. Make the town of Healdsburg your home base for visiting wineries like Jordan Winery or Flowers Vineyards & Winery. Chow down on small savory bites at Willi’s Seafood & Raw Bar or splurge on the tasting menu at Valette for a taste of local cuisine. Meanwhile, you can rest easy at the area’s well-appointed hotels like The Madrona, which was designed by renowned interior designer Jay Jeffers.
If you’re looking for something more remote, Mendocino offers a similar California wine country experience with even fewer tourists. Nearly 160 miles north of San Francisco, it is a bit of a schlep; however, the rugged coastal views can’t be beat. Here, you can explore Northern California’s Anderson Valley wine region and sip on vino from Goldeneye Winery and Navarro Vineyards. But since the views are really the highlight here, don’t forget to book a stay somewhere along the coastline, like the Heritage House Resort & Spa.
2. Cancun, Mexico
Though the best part of a vacation to Cancun is lounging beachside at an all-inclusive resort, the area is often packed with beach vendors, chain restaurants, and lots of people. Lively? Absolutely. Relaxing? Not so much.
Where to Go Instead
If you’ve already booked your flight to Cancun—but want to dodge the crowds—head to nearby Puerto Morelos. The old fishing village sits less than 40 miles away from Cancun and offers a restful respite from the flocks of tourists. But just because Puerto Morelos is a tamer alternative to Cancun doesn’t mean it lacks things to do. The area is known for its turtle-laden beaches and excellent diving spots. And thanks to all-inclusive properties like Grand Residences Riviera Cancun—which offers well-appointed, oceanfront suites—you can still enjoy a luxurious beach vacation away from the hustle and bustle.
3. Santorini, Greece
While many dream of seeing the whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches that adorn Santorini, the droves of tourists that flock to the island have driven up prices and made the narrow streets unbearably crowded. (Think less Mamma Mia, more tourist mania.)
Where to Go Instead
A change of scenery—or, in this case, a different island—can make your Grecian getaway feel much more idyllic. In-the-know travelers name Paros as a beautiful Plan B. As part of Greece’s Cyclades islands, Paros is close to Santorini and Mykonos but not nearly as buzzy. Don’t worry: With medieval buildings, breezy beaches, and some fun nightlife, this island still has a lot to offer. Paros is on the up-and-up, but you can get some well-deserved privacy at PAROCKS Luxury Hotel and Spa, which is nestled on a cliff on the more secluded eastern side of the island.
4. Monterey, California
Don’t get me wrong: Monterey has delicious food, impressive coastal views, and a pretty solid aquarium. However, many pop culture enthusiasts have been flocking to the Central California locale after binge-watching Big Little Lies. And trust me: You’re not the only one who will be playing “Cold Little Heart” by Michael Kiwanuka on repeat.
Where to Go Instead
For something that’s slightly more under-the-radar, head north to Marshall, California. Nestled along Tomales Bay—which is a quick drive from San Francisco—this area has similar coastal vibes minus the crowds. Tomales Bay is known for its delicious seafood, so consider this your sign to slurp down oysters at Hog Island Oyster Farm and order a warm bowl of clam chowder at the Marshall Store. The bay is also a great spot for kayaking—you can even book a guided tour to see the bioluminescent plankton glowing in the dark. For a stay that’ll make you feel immersed in the beautiful scenery, book a room at the modern-rustic Lodge at Marconi.
5. Austin, Texas
Locals might want to “keep Austin weird,” but the surge of incoming tech companies and bachelorette parties is making the Southern gem feel more mainstream these days.
Where to Go Instead
Boise, Idaho, might be a flight away, but if you’re looking for a less predictable destination that has a similarly cool feel, it’s well worth the visit. This western hotspot has something for everyone: Creatives can get a slice of culture at the Boise Art Museum, while outdoor enthusiasts can bike or float down the Boise River Greenbelt. Later, you can meet for drinks at a speakeasy like Thick as Thieves before retreating to bed at Hotel Renegade, a new boutique hotel with old-world charm.
6. Montauk, New York
I hate to break it to you, but spending a summer “out east” isn’t as cutting-edge as it once was. With so many New Yorkers flocking to Montauk each summer, the locale feels more like a claustrophobic mini-Manhattan than a chill beach town.
Where to Go Instead
The secret to leaving the bustle of New York behind is, well, leaving New York. Newport, Rhode Island, is a short drive from the Big Apple and offers similar waterfront wanderlust. Not only are there some delicious eateries—ranging from seafood at Midtown Oyster Bar to White Horse Tavern, which is dubbed America’s oldest tavern—but you can also tour a handful of well-preserved mansions from the Gilded Age. In fact, several of the mansions served as filming locations for the HBO show The Gilded Age. If you’re a coffee drinker, be sure to stop by The Nitro Bar for one of their viral lattes. As for accommodations, you’ll find plenty of spots to choose from, from smaller bed and breakfasts like Beech Tree Inn to well-appointed hotels like Castle Hill Inn. For a unique experience, you can even stay in a lighthouse on Rose Island!
7. Mackinac Island, Michigan
Known for its delicious fudge and the ever-opulent Grand Hotel, the car-free island of Mackinac is one of the most sought-after (and overrated) travel destinations in the Midwest. However, a quick Google search will show you that some visitors find the charming island to be outdated and over-priced.
Where to Go Instead
Fortunately, the Midwest has more vacation spots to offer than one island. Case in point: Saugatuck, Michigan. Perched on the coast of Lake Michigan, the town has an island feel without leaving the mainland. Book a stay at one of the area’s quaint accommodations—Wickwood Inn offers luxurious rooms and farm-to-table dining inside a gorgeous Colonial revival house—and get ready for a trip full of fun. Action-packed dune rides? Pie and cider tastings at Crane’s Pie Pantry Restaurant? Getting a whiff of Europe in Holland, Michigan? All of the above—and then some.
8. Phuket, Thailand
After traveling around the world to get there, the last thing you want is to be disappointed by rampant crowds and overpriced accommodations. But unfortunately, that might be what’s waiting for you in Phuket. And since a lot of hotels are built on its hills, you may not even get a view of its bucket-list beach.
Where to Go Instead
If you’re craving a more idyllic island experience, high-tail it out of Phuket and check out the surrounding Thai islands. For starters, Koh Samui is rife with luxury—and many eagle-eyed fans believe the next installment of White Lotus was filmed at the island’s Four Seasons. Meanwhile, Koh Yao Yai offers a taste of paradise. Unlike Phuket, the island is mostly undeveloped, which means remote beaches are a walk (or motorcycle ride!) away. As for where to stay? Between the rustic villas and an infinity pool that overlooks Thailand’s iconic limestone karsts, Koh Yao Yai Village will make you feel one with nature.