Share The Article

Santa Barbara is certainly no secret, but there are still many gorgeous gems lining the coast and stretching into wine country that still go unnoticed.

Whether you’re squeezing in a late spring getaway before summer shores see a sea of crowds, or prefer to kick back in a town you’ve never heard of with a craft beer in hand or a local glass of wine, we’ve got you covered either way.

As Southern California tends to hog the spotlight away from coastal gems north of Los Angeles, we at Travel Off Path believe the Central Coast is long overdue for its flowers and a little more fanfare

With that said, as Santa Barbara is undeniably the powerhouse destination of the region, these 4 neighboring towns, equally alluring in their own right, offer fewer crowds and more authenticity for the kind of blissful vacation many travelers overlook.

PLUS: We’ve put together an interactive quiz for you at the end of this article so you can find out which one is perfect for you, so stick around!

1) Carpinteria: The ‘World’s Safest’ Beach Destination

If you’ve never heard of Carpinteria, you’re not alone.

This coastal hideout is better known among the hang-loose surf crowd with their bleach-blonde dreadlocks and lingo nobody understands.

But while surfers are shredding waves, you could be in your own slice of paradise, in Santa Barbara’s town next door, as tourists tend to skip this pass-through town along world-famous Highway 101.

Though if there’s one claim to fame besides surfing, it’s the food scene, backed by its locally-grown avocados.

So much so, they even throw an annual festival (October 2 – 4, 2026)

More notably, and maybe a stretch, Carpinteria claims to be the “world’s safest beach destination“. While safety isn’t a particular concern once you leave LA’s city limits (you can check LA’s current safety score here), it’s nice to know there’s one little beach haven that all but guarantees you don’t need to keep your head on a swivel.

2) Summerland: The Quaint Beach Escape Hidden In Plain Sight

In between the Spanish splendor of Santa Barbara and celebrity-riddled enclaves of Montecito lies the map-dot town of Summerland.

In other words, it’s a sweet spot to enjoy the Central Coast’s stunning seaside without Erewhon prices or Santa Barbara’s crowds.

Better yet, as gorgeous as the seemingly unspoiled beaches may be, this tiny town isn’t just a beach getaway — it’s a full-fledged vacation spot known for wine tastings, boutique shopping, and the lone luxe hotel perched along the Pacific, Inn on Summer Hill, holding rave reviews for its prime location and cozy vibes.

If you’re cruising down the 101, Summerland is well worth a stop, even if you opt to stay elsewhere. It packs for its size.

3) Ventura: Spacious Shores & Fish Tacos Galore

Right now is one of the best times of the year to plan a trip to Ventura. Teetering somewhere between “hidden gem” and local favorite, Ventura may not attract many out-of-state license plates, but those in the know do flock to the gorgeous shores come summertime, especially July and August.

Located just across from Channel Islands National Park, which we’re not saying is or isn’t an alien base, but ya know, do a little digging…

You can visit one of America’s most unsung national parks simply by hopping on a boat from Ventura Harbor, and whether you see little green beings or not, there’s no denying the scenery is out of this world.

Sorry, had to…

Any way you slice it, a Ventura vacay can’t be complete without a visit to Spencer Makenzie’s sensational fish tacos (and score a 2-for-1 deal if you visit Mon-Thu from 3-5 pm).

4) Buellton: A Burgeoning Beer Town Within Vast Vineyards

Buellton likely doesn’t ring a bell unless you’re a wine snob (we use “snob” loosely ’round here if it relates to food and booze).

That’s because Buellton to this point has largely been known as a secret wine hideaway laden with scenic vineyards and even off-the-wall roadside attractions like Ostrichland USA (yes, really).

This inland town in the Santa Ynez Valley is undergoing a renaissance, striving to add “beer destination” to its already lengthy boozy resume with such popular wineries as Buscador Winery & Tasting Room, holding a near-perfect Google rating.

But the reality is beer is the new draw here.

Buellton will soon host Buellton Brew Fest on May 2nd, where over 50 vendors will pour into town, showcasing the best in craft beer, wine, spirits, and even kombucha.

If you can’t swing a May getaway, check out the existing taproom rivals in town, such as Figueroa Mountain and Firestone Walker.

Share The Article

Can’t cope with the Lisbon crowds anymore?

The jam-packed praças, narrow alleys where you’re practically standing shoulder-to-shoulder with fellow tourists, and those reheated pastéis de nata that taste industrial, yet are charged as if they’re freshly-made?

There are always exceptions to the rule, of course, but let’s not sit here and pretend that, undeniably stunning as Portugal’s leading city are, they’re well past their ‘new in the scene‘ excitement phase.

That being said, here’s a handful of smaller towns, tucked away in the (largely rural) Portuguese hinterland that have held on tight to their centuries-old traditions, and instead of matcha drinkers and IT expats in every café, it’s mostly locals sitting around tables chatting their afternoon away.

No mass tourism or TikTok-fied spots. These 4 Portuguese jewels are probably the closest you’ll get to the tourist experience in a then-uncrowded Lisbon 40 years ago:

PLUS: We’ve created a quiz for you at the end of this article to find which one is your perfect match, so stick around!

Vila Real

Right by the Douro Valley, Portugal’s most prestigious wine region, Vila Real is a proper Baroque town that honors its regal name.

It’s home to Mateus Palace, a 16th-century ensemble comprised of a manor, a winery, and a richly decorated chapel. You can visit it for the opulent rooms and gardens, or as part of an organized wine sampling tour.

In the heart of the Historic Center, the Church of São Domingos is a Gothic marvel built in the 1400s, and all around it, there are beautiful cobblestone streets to discover. They don’t have big names on most maps, but this is a rather compact town, so my advice to you is just wander around.

I’m sure you’ll find hidden corners and that incredibly photogenic small plaza all on your own.

A 12 min taxi ride away, or if you don’t mind the scenic walk, a 36 min trek, Panoias Sanctuary is an Ancient Roman archaeological zone, with engraved basins carved into granite boulders. According to the available information, it was formerly a purification ritual site.

The best part? It costs only €2 ($2.36 to visit).

Silves

A fortified settlement down in the Algarve—some 12 miles inland from the actual coast—Silves is a virtually intact Moorish-era castle town that, for a brief moment, was even an official contender for the capital of Portugal.

You’re wondering why? The striking red-sandstone Moorish castle built here in the Middle Ages rivals Lisbon’s own in might:

Perched on the hill towering above the white-washed Old Town, it completely dominates the skyline, with thick stone walls, battlements, and watchtowers looping around the entire hilltop.

When I visited Silves, my favorite thing to do was walking along the walls. The views of the verdant Algarvian hills and their rolling vineyards, stretching as far as the eye can see, and all the farmhouses in the distance, are hard to beat.

Silves is also one of the best-preserved Moorish towns left in Europe.

If you’re unsure what that means, for roughly 8 centuries, large swathes of Portugal (and Spain) were in fact controlled by Muslim caliphates originating from modern-day Morocco. The red-tiled roofs, flowery patios, and plethora of fountains, ideal for religious ablutions, are pretty much living Moorish memory.

Last but not least, the cathedral is a must-see:

Formerly a mosque, it was converted into a church by the Christians following the ‘Reconquest’ in the 13th-century, and it masterfully blends Islamic architecture, with geometrical motifs and subtle arch shapes, Iberian Gothic, seen in the ribbed vaults and stained-glasswork, and even Baroque altarpieces and decoration.

Penedono

Some 130 miles northeast of Porto, Penedono is that one medieval gem Europe’s usual castle and storybook-town lovers haven’t discovered yet.

The standout monument here, as you might have guessed, is the fairytale-like Penedono Castle, distinguished by its Disney-like crenellated walls, irregular embattlements, and photogenic time-worn towers.

It rose from the ground at the peak of the Christian Reconquest of Portugal, and walking through its narrow, arched gateway, into the main courtyard, up the castle walls, you can almost hear the echoes of knights from long ago.

Like most Portuguese villages, this one has quite a number of charming buildings, though the stone-built Matriz Church might steal the limelight.

The altar’s painted wooden ceiling is a one-of-a-kind, and one of the most beautiful you’ll ever see.

Remember those Portuguese pastries we mentioned earlier?

Lisbon might be churning out versions that start to look a bit Tesco-esque each year, but Pastelaria Santa Eufémia in Penedono is still serving up crunchy-on-the-outside, creamy-on-the-inside custard tarts, with a perfectly relaxed sit-down vibe.

Évora

A regional capital with a small town soul, Évora is the cultural heart of Alentejo, and an ancient settlement dating back to Roman Times that still revolves around a UNESCO-protected Historic Center:

Standing proudly in the heart of the city’s main square, the Temple of Diana is Évora’s best-preserved Roman-era structure: built around 10–20 AD, with surviving columns of the Corinthian order, built in the slimmest, most highly-decorative form.

Only a few steps away, the local ‘Sé’, Cathedral, is an architectural landmark that blends Romanesque and Gothic styles. Other than visiting the beautiful medieval cloister and the cathedral’s own interior, make sure you climb up to the rooftop terrace for panoramic views of Évora.

The Old Town itself is an absolute marvel to wander: picture a cobbled maze lined with those typically Iberian chalk-white buildings, traditional boutiques, and family-owned eateries.

If you plan on gorging on those Alentejo classics, Fialho is the place to go: lamb stew, pork cheeks, migas, rich desserts, you name it. Do make sure you book ahead, though: it’s quite popular with locals themselves, and it can get fully-booked during the weekends.

---

Take this quiz to find out which Portugese getaway is perfect for your travel style:

Share The Article

Got Georgia on your mind?

Well, you can breathe a sigh of relief knowing you don’t have to follow the crowds to Savannah as enticing as one of America’s prettiest cities may be.

The great state of Georgia boasts far more than Savannah’s European charm and Atlanta’s chaotic airport with numerous small town hideaways just waiting to be discovered.

Speaking of Europe, one such town borrows its name from one of Europe’s most iconic destinations — and that’s no accident.

Founders noticed the town’s seven rolling hills mirrored those of Rome, inspiring them to name this Georgia gem — you guessed it — Rome.

This unsuspecting slice of Europe is hiding in plain sight, but local experts at Southern Living are raving about it as their favorite place to escape the city grind, immersing themselves in a timeless townscape surrounded by gorgeous nature.

Let’s dive in and see why Rome, Georgia is one of the state’s most unsung standout getaways:

When In Rome…

Quiet, scenic, and unpretentious, those seeking to avoid the same-o, same-o Savannah weekend getaways have another option at hand.

Little-known Rome offers an atmosphere just as alluring, though pint-sized when directly compared to Savannah, Charleston, and even St. Augustine, as storied cities oozing European flair.

Rome is anchored by Berry College, so this is a rare trip you’ll likely go back to school (without the lifelong student loan bills).

Berry is the most postcard-worthy landmark is town, and happens to be one the world’s largest school campus, yet feels like it was dropped from the sky straight out of Oxford, or perhaps Hogwarts.

Rome’s downtown district is a delight to visit as well, in addition to ample nature hikes throughout the lush tree-lined outskirts of town, which was especially highlighted by Southern Living as one of the South’s most underrated getaways to enjoy the great outdoors.

Savor Down-Home Comforts In This Riverside Refuge

This small town of roughly 40,000 people offers visitors quintessential charm and comforts you just don’t find outside the South.

You know — front-porch pitchers of sweet tea, rows of gorgeous historic homes with manicured lawns, and locals who still wave just to acknowledge your existence (try finding that up North), all wrapped in a pace of life that feels refreshingly unhurried.

Rome is nestled along the confluence of 3 distinct rivers — the Etowah, Oostanaula, and Coosa — providing an idyllic setting except for the throes of winter.

A couple of blocks away lies another of the town’s must-see landmarks, a recently renovated 1800s Clock Tower locals claims is one of the most relaxing spots in town and offers incredible views if you brave the 107 steps to the top.

There are a handful of beautiful riverside parks to spend time enjoy the scenery and many local eateries make the most of the waterfront setting.

Southern Living hypes Harvest Moon Cafe for a sensational farm-to-table meal, but we at Travel Off Path love River Remedy Brewing, holding a perfect 5.0 Google rating from happy patrons and Cosmic Dog Outpost for an out-of-this-world selection of food and beerd, plus front-row seating for unbeatable river views.

But if you want to discover a true hidden in Rome that lives up to Southern Living’s passion for this place, it’s gotta be Kingston Downs, located in the cricket-chirping countryside, boasting cozy cottages for a quiet retreat to recharge.

How To Get To Rome

The problem with winter travel is unpredictable weather, and many travelers burnt their well-deserved PTO during summer.

So, long road trip may be out of the question.

Atlanta may be a headache to visit as their massive airport feels more like the Mall of America than a major hub for air travel, but this is your best bet to reach Rome, especially for a weekend getaway as that’s how most tourists experience this delightful town.

Atlanta (ATL) is one of America’s most connected airports. As such, you should have no trouble finding a direct flight here.

Rome is approximately an hour and half from ATL if you luck out missing Atlanta’s notorious traffic jams, but you could also give nearby Chattanooga a try across state lines, or Huntsville, Alabama too.

Share The Article

Needless to say, Washington D.C. is a hotbed for national news — and not often do headlines portray anything travel-related.

So, let’s allow talking heads to be talking heads and reset our nation’s capital with some positivity, shall we?

Here at Travel Off Path, we drive to inspire people to travel however they see fit, but we also know the headaches that can come along the way in doing so.

One such headache is busy airports, which can be an all-encompassing nightmare for gridlock traffic to and from, slow-moving lines, grumpy TSA agents, and that’s just scratching the surface…

Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) is one of America’s most popular hubs, so you can imagine the crowds at certain times…

But even with 2 other major airports close by, officials have announced big plans to open a currently private airport for commercial use — and yes, there are already plans for your favorite airlines to anchor this unheard-of town, roughly 30 miles from D.C.

Does Washington D.C. Need A Fourth Airport?

While past-their-prime pundits continue bickering about whether the White House needs a new ballroom or not, what hasn’t been reported nearly as much is if the region needs a new airport to give Dulles and others a breather.

In total, these are D.C.’s active airports:

• Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) –
  Served about 27.2 million passengers in 2024
• Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) –
  Served around 26.29 million passengers in 2024
• Baltimore/Washington International (BWI) –
  Served just over 27 million passengers in 2024

That’s a lot of butts in seats!

Humor aside, and not to bring down the mood, let’s talk about the elephant in the room regarding D.C. air travel.

Not long ago, one of America’s most disastrous aviation accidents happened with the Capitol in the background as an American Airlines passenger jet collided with a military helicopter just moments before landing at Reagan.

As a result of this fatal incident, it became a huge talking point about congested airspace with constant military drills and a pair of popular airports all navigating tight corridors near some of D.C.’s most famed landmarks.

Discounting Baltimore (BWI), approximately 45 minutes from D.C., the idea to open a fourth commercial airport may not sound so bad since it would be located 30 miles outside one of the busiest air traffic zones in the country, providing travelers more options without sacrificing convenience and easing pressure on existing airports.

Where Will D.C.’s New Airport Be Located?

Ever heard of Manassas, Virginia?

Odds are you haven’t, as this sleepy town is more known for small-town charm and Civil War battlefields than being a travel hub.

Though it’s important to note Manassas does have an Amtrak station to connect you where you need to go, because let’s be honest — you probably aren’t vacationing in this little-known D.C. suburb.

Currently, Manassas Regional Airport is a general aviation field where retired airline pilots and aviation hobbyists can log hours and practice landings, but soon they’ll be sharing runways with commercial jets.

And it’s all but official, already securing a 40-year lease for commercial use and key FAA clearances amidst the transition.

As we all know, clearing bureaucratic hurdles like these is often what pushes these lofty goals back, but there is an estimated date to look forward to.

When Will Manassas (MNZ) Open To The Public?

Speaking of setbacks, believe it or not, MNZ was supposed to open to the public in 2025, but has since been postponed to 2027.

Here is what we know so far:

• As stated, the FAA has already provided a certificate clearing the airport’s transition from private to public
• Officials now expect the first commercial flights in spring 2027 (April or May as the soonest realistic target)
• Infrastructure upgrades, including taxiway and runway bridge work, are awaiting an environmental assessment
• New tower is expected to take 18 months to complete (dependent on FAA funding)
• Expected ‘curb to gate’ time is expected to be 7 – 12 minutes
• The goal is to welcome only 1 or 2 airlines in the initial launch phase
• No airlines have committed to MNZ as of yet

Share The Article

We get it — if you want to fulfill every ounce of expectations you have for a paradise vacation abroad, Punta Cana ticks off every box.

But the truth is, more travelers are ditching the crowds and forging their own path to lesser-known locales.

Here at Travel Off Path, we do our best to live up to our name. In this case, we’re lockstep with fellow experts at Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) about the next Dominican hotspot you may not have heard of — yet.

It’s safe to say Punta Cana isn’t going anywhere as its become the most sought-after vacation spot in the Dominican Republic, but if you’re seeking fewer footprints in the sand, open barstools at swim-up bars, and far less odds of seaweed invasions, then Going nailed it by revealing the D.R.’s 2026 must-visit beach town.

Presenting La Romana: The Dominican’s Turquoise Oasis

First-timers to Punta Cana may be surprised by how small it is, given its world-renowned status. As I write this article from the Prague airport, guess where the next flight was taking off after mine…

That’s right — Punta Cana.

What’s more surprising is La Romana (LRM) finds itself on many departure boards in Europe too, and will surely continue to grow among U.S. airports as well.

This slice of paradise packs a punch despite its diminutive stature. Located on a secluded stretch of shoreline on the D.R.’s southern coast, this up-and-coming gem is laden with equally luxurious all-inclusives, gleaming turquoise waters, and usually swimmable waters since vibe-ruining sargassum rarely trickles into this region.

For now, you’ll also find fewer crowds than in Punta Cana. That being said, La Romana seems to be where the overflow of tourists visits for more space, which won’t last forever.

Truth be told, I had the pleasure of whizzing by La Romana on a boat last year and it looks even prettier than Punta Cana if you ask me, especially Bayahibe Beach.

Boasting turquoise waters, tropical forests, and posh resorts, La Romana is too enticing to be a hidden gem forever. As Going stated, ‘La Romana enjoys world-class beaches with calm waters and far fewer tourists’.

With new convenient flights, there’s no time like the present to enjoy it before it’s a household name.

You Have 3 Airports To Choose From

It’s been a minute since we reported on American Airlines’ exciting new flight from Miami (MIA), but it’s been a raging success with more sure to come.

This was a groundbreaking flight for multiple reasons, but mainly these two:

1) Even many Dominicans don’t know Red Air, a D.R. based budget carrier formerly the only available nonstop flight from Miami — therefore many Americans would likely feel uncomfortable flying with them

2) The less amount of road time the better in the Dominican — the U.S. Embassy recently issued an alert regarding the dangers of roadways here

Before Miami’s flight launch in 2024, U.S. travelers only had the option of flying into Santo Domingo or Punta Cana.

The good news is La Romana is located in between them, making for a fairly easy shuttle ride. Those flights still exist, obviously, but if you can swing it, flying directly into La Romana is the way to go.

When Is The Best Time To Visit La Romana?

The throes of winter may be impending on much of the U.S., but it’s the prime vacation season in La Romana for its sun-drenched shores, astounding scenery, and affordable luxury at such places as the 5-star Casa de Campo Resort and Villas.

Right now, even though you won’t see Punta Cana’s level of crowds, it’s the largest number of tourists you’ll see until mid-spring as “snowbirds” will flock back home by then.

May is the beginning of shoulder season with fewer vacationers, but the trade-off is occasional rain, so make sure you book a comfy room.

But rain can increase in the summer, especially during hurricane season. In summary, November to April is largely considered the best time of year, given the weather, affordability, and the ability to find a peaceful spot on the beach.

To level up your vacation even more, we highly recommend checking out nearby Saona Island too — truly postcard-worthy and a Travel Off Path favorite hideaway.

Share The Article

When you think of gorgeous mountain getaways, places like Asheville, Lake Tahoe, and Colorado’s array of alpine villages likely come to mind.

But the Southwest is your best bet to avoid teeth-chattering chills over the next few months unless you’d rather stay back home and shovel your driveway — who wants to do that?

As much of the U.S. sees sweater weather become puffer-jacket season, Arizona’s vast desert landscape typically sees its harshest temps come nightfall, making for an underrated vacation spot, whether for an in-and-out weekend trip or a full-fledged vacation as an excuse to avoid holiday get-togethers (my favorite play in the playbook!).

At Travel Off Path, we do our best to dig deep and not regurgitate the same ol’ listicles you find elsewhere — and that brings us here to perhaps Arizona’s best kept secret.

Full of whimsy, wine, and twinges of winter wonderland vibes, leave Scottsdale to the thousand-dollar millionaires this winter in favor of Jerome, a delightful artsy hideaway, equal parts haunts and history, for a quiet retreat in the high desert.

Move Over, Marfa! Jerome Is The Southwest’s Coolest Town

There may not be a random Prada store anywhere in sight, but Jerome offers some eye-catching attractions where you’d least expect it.

You see, Jerome was once a mining boomtown, and after a period of dusty decline, it’s become one of the coolest towns you could ever experience.

It’s truly full of surprises.

At first glance, it may look like any ordinary post-Gold Rush ghost town. But once you start to wander the rustic strip of former outlaw hideouts and storied storefronts, you’ll quickly discover why this unsuspecting town is a tightlipped secret.

What appears to be old-timey saloons are now fine dining restaurants past the weathered batwing doors, as well as numerous art galleries, boutique shops, cozy cafes, and selection of classic inns.

Don’t let the initial rustic aesthetics fool you. Sure, it’s jam-packed with history with plenty of accommodations etched in time to immerse yourself between 4 walls you wish could talk — or maybe not given the endless ghoulish stories passed down through generations…

But, with a vibrant arts scene, and friendly yet very eccentric locals, sensational restaurants in timeless settings, Jerome is no doubt one of the Southwest’s most fascinating small towns.

One Of America’s Most Underrated Wine Towns

It’s not just tales of infamous gunslingers who once roamed the mean streets of Jerome.

There is one current notable resident who has brought Jerome to the global stage, priding himself on putting Jerome’s wine scene on the map — and he is definitely one of the town’s aforementioned eccentric individuals.

Lead vocalist of popular bands Tool, Puscifer, and A Perfect Circle, Maynard James Keenan’s Caduceus Cellars is even more impressive than his stage wigs.

Jerome is only a 2-hour drive from Phoenix, and many of Caduceus’s patrons are day-trippers or weekenders who love to come sip Arizona-grown reds.

There’s a tasting room on the main strip with rave reviews. While Caduceus is certainly the most well known at this point, Jerome is a true wine destination home to a few other wineries worth visiting too:

• The Original Jerome Winery
• Passion Cellars
• Cabal Cellars

Plus, since the town is so walkable, you don’t have to worry about spitting out the wine so you can drive back to your hotel.

Stay In A Real Old Town (Sorry, Scottsdale)

Scottsdale’s Old Town is a seemingly endless maze of turquoise trinkets and kitschy souvenirs, but after a while you notice it begins to feel like a textbook tourist trap, lacking authentic character.

The entirety of Jerome feels like a real Old Town and there’s no further proof beyond its classic hotels that have unapologetically kept the same creaks and crumbles for years and years.

The Jerome Grand Hotel is undoubtedly the most popular — and the rates show for it. It’s often triple digits given its historic status in a National Historic Landmark town and prime real estate steps from the heart of downtown.

We also recommend the Ghost City Inn, a name nodded to its moniker of previously mentioned ghost stories hence its Halloween popularity.

You might be a month late for Halloween ghost tours, but you’re not too late to see Jerome blanketed in snow for a postcard-worthy winter.

While Jerome remains green most of the year, it’s best to check the weather when road-tripping in January and February due to the slick winding roads.

Share The Article

Is Greece olds news? Hardly. But the Turkish Riviera has been on a tear in recent years largely due to the explosive popularity of Antalya.

What was formerly a cheap beach getaway as an alternative to pricier Mediterranean gems (ahem, Santorini…) is now in the same category given its newfound fame.

Don’t get us wrong — Antalya is still a gorgeous vacation spot, but you gotta double check your bank account after each expense nowadays.

How about a more affordable Turkish hideaway on the same stretch of pristine Aegean coastline instead?

Better yet, it boasts ancient ruins and spacious shores far overlooked by travelers magnetized by neighboring Greek islands and crowd-heavy Antalya.

Find A Peaceful Paradise On Sun-Drenched Shores

Winter sun is hard to come by in the States, which is why the term “winter sun” becomes a seasonal obsession the next few months.

While it’s easy to hop on a flight to Cancun, more and more travelers are determined to peel back the curtain on the lesser known.

And that’s where places like Kusadasi fit the bill.

Kusadasi is located on northern edge of the Turkish Riviera, yet so close to Greek islands you can see Samos in the distance.

While locals flock to Kusadasi during summer, wintertime is considered the off-season, which provides more space to sprawl on vibrant shores of crystal-clear water and colorful waterfront promenades .

Seeing mild temps hovering in the 60s (with occasional rainy days), there’s still plenty to do and enjoy if your Lady Luck isn’t on your side for a picture-perfect beach day.

Though, most often you’ll find an array of sun-kissed shores to kick back, relax, and take in a delightful culture that continues to embrace becoming a tourism powerhouse from hidden gems like Kusadasi to world-renowned Istanbul.

According to TripAdvisor, these are the top 3 beaches to scope out on a trip to Kusadasi this winter:

1. Ladies Beach (lined with pubs and seaside eats)
2. Uzan Plaj (a go-to swimming spot with clear turquoise waters)
3. Downtown Beach (easy access to the city center and unmatched views of Pigeon Island)

Timeless Marvels Are Kusadasi’s Biggest Surprise

We may all love the latest gizmos and gadgets, but there’s nothing comparable to visiting ancient wonders.

For example, nothing lives up to Athens’ ancient city perch, but Kusadasi’s UNESCO-protected ruins aren’t a bad alternative for travelers like us here at Travel Off Path who prefer to bypass lines of tourists in favor of under-hyped discoveries

Here in Kusadasi, you’ll find a pair of must-visit sites etched in time with virtually no crowds in winter:

Let’s start with the latter — Pigeon Island is truly unmissable, even if you don’t step foot on the island.

It serves as not only an alluring backdrop from various beaches, but is also a top attraction.

Originally built during the Byzantine era, this immaculate fortress ultimately served as a defense against pirates on the hunt for booty — kinda like me in college.

Nowadays, Pigeon Island is free to enter and offers visitors some of the best views of both the cityscape and open sea.

Ephesus, on the other hand, is one of Turkiye’s most wondrous ancient cities — a UNESCO World Heritage Site that once rivaled Rome’s grandeur.

Set an easy Uber ride away outside the city limits, Ephesus is a breeze to reach. You’ll find the site to be impressively preserved, offering one of the largest Roman amphitheaters in the world.

Just know getting an Uber back is questionable, so bring cash for a taxi or mini-bus for the ride to your hotel.

How Affordable Is Kusadasi?

Even though we’ve hyped Kusadasi as a great Antalya alternative, do yourself a favor and fly into nearby Izmir instead, or aforementioned Samos and hop aboard the ferry for about $40 one-way.

Once you’re here, you’ll find Kusadasi’s prices to be very reasonable no matter if its booking a luxe resort or savoring the little things in life like a glass of local wine and highly underrated Turkish pizza.

If you’re vacationing in Kusadasi this winter, you couldn’t have chose a better time to treat yourself.

For sample size, Charisma De Luxe Hotel is a 5-star stay with stunning Aegean views from your bedroom with rates as low as $89 per night this December.

With free attractions we’ve mentioned, cheap public transit and Uber to get around, plus only needing $23 max for daily epic meals, Kusadasi is one of the Med’s best value destinations this winter.

While pumpkin concoctions are still in full force, invading restaurant menus across the U.S., it’s not too early to dream of a sunny escape from the throes of winter, is it?

Here at Travel Off Path, we certainly don’t think so. We’re huge fans of traversing the globe each and every season, and even embrace winter wonderlands.

But there’s no denying most travelers are looking to escape scraping ice off their windshields and having to bundle up every day, and there’s no better place for a reliable sunny escape than The Bahamas.

So close, yet so far, this Caribbean island nation is the perfect vacation spot to make use of your passport come wintertime.

With the addition of a new flight to perhaps the Bahamas’ most underrated island this holiday season, Americans can now fly nonstop from 4 major U.S. cities.

100+ Miles Of Overlooked Coastline

When you hear friends or family say they’re jetting off to The Bahamas, chances are they haven’t mentioned Eleuthera.

More often, you hear of Nassau, the vibrant capital city and the most accessible gateway to this Caribbean country of over 700 individual islands.

Slowly but surely, Eleuthera is gaining steam. If more travelers knew it existed, it would become a success overnight faster than Twista could rap about it.

Located roughly 60 miles east of Nassau, it’s too far for a day trip, hence the “hidden gem” status.

But if you fly here directly, you won’t regret passing Nassau by. You’ll find a sliver of paradise with unbelievably pristine beaches ranging from gleaming white sand to seemingly untouched coves with a rush of turquoise waves.

Better yet, you won’t be sacrificing luxury. There are ample beachside stays lining the tip-top of this barrier known as North Eleuthera and more seclusion on the south side, where Cape Eleuthera Resort & Marina is the ultimate hideaway.

More Than Meets The Eye: Don’t Skip Harbour Island!

Not that lounging at glamorous resorts gets old, especially if you splurge on yourself, but adventure awaits no matter where you are in the Caribbean

If you do want to tap into your adventurous side, Eleuthera is also known for being an easy gateway by ferry to its pint-sized neighbor Harbour Island, where you’ll find pin sand beaches.

Perfect for a weekend getaway add-on or even an epic day trip, there are plenty of thrilling excursions to book while here, or you can opt to make your base here as there are even more resorts here than the island of Eleuthera.

We’ve all seen it, so it’s no surprise the famous swimming pigs are the top-rated must-do attraction on TripAdvisor‘s latest rankings.

As for the best place to stay, Harbour Island isn’t lacking luxury with nightly rates commonly touching 4 figures, whether it be the 5-star Dunmore Hotel, Pink Sands Resort, among others.

Bahamasair’s Launching New Flight To North Eleuthera (ELH)

If you’re looking for the best excuse to not make Thanksgiving dinner to hear your crazy uncle’s same recycled story again, let them know Bahamasair had other plans for you.

Set to launch November 23rd (4 days before Thanksgiving this year), the flagship carrier of The Bahamas is welcoming a new U.S. route for an easy hop across the Caribbean.

Fort Lauderdale (FLL) is the big winner for the new journey to Eleuthera, but Americans have a few other options as well.

Though since this is the latest route, Bahamasair is giving its passengers an early Christmas present with very reasonably priced promotional fares of just $316 (round-trip).

You’ll want to score these while you can, as this will be a seasonal route only offered every Wednesday and Sunday just past the turn of the calendar, ending January 4th.

According to FlightConnections, Americans can now fly nonstop to North Eleuthera (ELH) from 4 U.S. cities:

• Fort Lauderdale (FLL) – Bahamasair
• Atlanta (ATL) – Delta Air Lines
• Charlotte (CLT) – American Airlines
• Miami (MIA) – American Airlines

For what it’s worth, those unfamiliar with Bahamasair may like to know it’s a certified 3-star airline and holds a perfect 7/7 safety rating on AirlineRatings.

Beautiful white-sand beaches backed by luxurious condominiums, swathes of protected Atlantic forest that have somehow been left untouched amidst a fast-growing urban sprawl, and all the vibrant samba bars and kerbside boteco bars:

Everyone knows and loves Rio de Janeiro, and there’s definitely a reason why it’s been recently crowned the best beach city in South America.

Gorgeous as Rio may be, you’d be surprised to learn it’s not where Brazilians themselves flock to for vacations.

In fact, the Brazilian Northeast is the absolute leader in domestic reservations, with one city in particular, underrated Salvador de Bahia, being a major highlight:

The City Brazilians Themselves Love More Than Rio

According to a new survey by Decolar, a leading travel technology company in Latin America, Salvador de Bahia is one of the most rapidly growing destinations in Brazil, already ranking 13th and rising fast.

A bigger emphasis is placed on Bahia, the state, with 4 cities featuring in the top 20 most sought-after, but Salvador is the obvious gemstone here. As the local Secretary of Tourism pointed out, it is ‘one of Brazil’s most iconic destinations’, and we’re inclined to agree.

One of the first cities settled by the Portuguese upon making landfall in Brazil, Salvador (as it is commonly called in the short form) has a rich history spanning over five centuries, and both the cultural heritage and architectural charm to back it up.

A Picture-Perfect Colonial Center

Its main attraction, Pelourinho, is a typical Portuguese-style colonial townscape, with cobbled streets, Baroque churches, and colorful house facades dating as far back as the 17th century. Straddling a hill overlooking the harbor, it is also one of Brazil’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

There is a plethora of churches here, but the most visually striking is, without question, the Church & Convent of Saint Francis, covered in azulejos (the unmistakable blue-and-white Portuguese tiles) and lavishly decorated with gold leaf and wood carvings.

Other must-see sites include Salvador Cathedral, built in 1652 as part of a Jesuit complex, the historic Elevador Lacerda, an elevator in operation since 1906, connecting the hilltop Pelourinho to the Bay of All Saints, and the quaint Church of Our Lady of the Conception by the sea.

Beaches Galore

Rio’s greatest appeal is its mix of busy city life and laid-back coastal atmosphere, and that’s probably why millions of people fly there from all over the world. In Salvador, it’s no different, with plenty of gorgeous swimming spots within easy reach of the Old Town.

The most iconic, or the local ‘Copacabana’, if you will, is Farol da Barra, a peaceful stretch of golden sand in the vicinity of a 19th-century lighthouse, though Flamengo Beach is equally popular, with its surfing scene, beach bars, and youthful atmosphere.

A sandy strip shaded by tall coconut trees, Itapuã Beach is the classic Salvador postcard, whereas Stella Maris is more family-friendly—if we may add, the latter is the home to the Gran Hotel Stella Maris, boasting oceanfront pools and a lavish breakfast spread ($151-a-night).

Where To Stay In Salvador

Speaking of hotels, you’d be amazed at how far your hard-earned tourist dollars will stretch in Salvador de Bahia compared to an increasingly-expensive Rio.

Rio has developed a reputation for being a mid-range to luxury destination in recent years, but up in the Northeast, it’s all local Brazilian prices, and if you’re paying upwards of $150 per night in accommodation, you can expect in the very least a glitzy 4-star resort with ocean views.

Right on Itapua Beach, the rustic, boutique-style Iara Beach Hotel will set you back by a mere $85-a-night, and closer to town, in the well-frequented Santo Antonio district, Pousada Beija Flor is only a few blocks away from Pelourinho, and prices start from $62.

Delicious Baiana Food

From the cosmopolitan, beachfront Rio de Janeiro, to the mountain-traversed Minas Gerais, to the German-influenced south, Brazil is an incredibly diverse country playing host to a wide range of cultures.

In Salvador, it’s all about African-Brazilian culture and cuisine:

All around Pelourinho, you’ll find baianas (Afro-Brazilian women dressed in flowy white dresses) selling homemade acarajé, a black-eyed pea fritter deep fried in palm oil, filled with shrimp, hot pepper, and local spices ($1.10–⁠1.80).

Brazil as a whole is famous for its churrasco (slow-cooked meat on a rotisserie), and while you can definitely find great barbecue spots in downtown Salvador, if you’re here to sample traditional food, you should head to Restaurante Yemanjá and order their signature moqueca baiana.

It’s a seafood stew cooked in coconut milk, dendê (the local palm oil), onions and peppers, served with a side of white rice. It’s rich, fragrant, and probably the best thing you’ll try on your entire trip.

Staying Safe In Salvador

Similar to Rio, Sao Paulo, and other Brazilian urban centers, you must take certain precautions while visiting Salvador de Bahia.

Although undoubtedly beautiful, pickpocketing, petty crime, and scamming are rampant in the Pelourinho district, Farol da Barra, and other downtown districts. Violent crime is also an issue, but it generally affects a smaller percentage of (usually clueless) visitors veering off the main tourist path.

Remember, this is South America, and the less you look like a naive gringo, the better:

• Do not display signs of wealth while in public—these include wearing expensive watches, jewelry, and even getting your flashy new iPhone out
• Beware of your surroundings, particularly in Pelourinho, public markets, and beach areas, as pickpockets are known to operate in these areas
• If withdrawing cash from an ATM, make sure you do so in a discreet manner, and preferably inside an agency
• In the (unlikely) event of an armed robbery, never attempt to resist it or fight back: hand over your items slowly and calmly, and walk away as instructed

We at Travel Off Path nearly broke the internet last year by revealing San Diego indeed has a second airport back in business for commercial air travel.

Many of our readers chimed in with their excitement (and concerns) regarding American Airlines’ groundbreaking flight to/from Phoenix.

Taking my Journalist hat off for a moment, as a San Diegan myself, I questioned if a secondary airport would be feasible long-term as many SoCal travelers have discovered the Tijuana loophole.

But, I, as well as many others, stand corrected today as it was just announced United Airlines is set to be the second commercial airline taking off from McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD) in Carlsbad, and there are some undeniable plusses now that 2 major airlines are anchoring the sole airport of San Diego’s North County.

2 Major Airlines Now Serve California’s Strangest Airport

Carlsbad’s McClellan-Palomar Airport, easily accessible from I-5, holds an undeniably bizarre history.

What’s been mostly an airport for private use, there have been spurts of success in its oddball timeline that have been quite useful for travelers, though it never seems to stick…

Since it’s been well over a year from the time we revealed Carlsbad’s comeback, recent news that this underrated beach town has surged to the point of being on United’s radar is the biggest promise in years its here to stay.

United hasn’t operated from CLD in a little over a decade, last serving a direct route to LAX for those us preferring the fly over gridlock traffic to reach one of America’s busiest airports in Spring 2015.

Since then, the airport has been more of a circus than a reliable source for travelers.

One local billionaire failed to keep little-known California Pacific Airlines off the tarmac, and the only other attempt has been JSX and Advanced Air, both charters that are still going strong by all accounts.

In summary: charter carriers JSX and Advanced Air (seasonally), and major carriers, American, and now United, all serve CLD.

Call It A Comeback: United Returns After Decade-Long Absence

American serves Phoenix a major hub in their network, and the same can be said for Denver in regard to United as it’s actually the airline’s fastest growing hub.

Denver is the big winner for United’s exciting return to San Diego County’s paradisal beach towns. As such, this makes United California’s most connected airline in the entire state.

Tickets are already on sale for the first-ever nonstop route from Denver to Carlsbad. The schedule is currently slated for twice-daily service beginning March 30, 2026, which just so happens to be one of the best times of the year to visit.

No, not because of Spring Break, but because one of California’s most photo-worthy attractions will be in full bloom.

That’s right — as gorgeous as Carlsbad’s (and neighboring towns’) beaches may be, the top attraction for Carlsbad is actually the kaleidoscopic Flower Fields.

Does CLD Expansion Help Avoid LA & Tijuana?

When Tijuana opened up an exclusive border crossing (CBX) for airport use, it was a lot more beneficial back then than it is now from a costs perspective.

Back when the CBX was a barren lot with no parking fees and seasonal upcharges, travelers didn’t have to think twice about whether to fly out of San Diego or LA as the next best options to vacation south of the border.

Nowadays, you can easily spend triple digits before passing customs.

It’s been well-documented that San Diego International Airport (SAN) just opened a brand new Terminal 1 after a long awaited debut.

Though the space is much nicer and traffic seems to flow better, one issue not addressed is the lack of international flights.

There are only 5 international airlines operating out of San Diego:

Hence many San Diegans are forced to brave the snail’s pace drive to LAX, or head to the border, depending on your final destination.

With the addition of 2 major airlines serving CLD now connecting to a pair of popular hubs (Phoenix and Denver), those who live closer to Carlsbad now have more options to vacation internationally with just one layover.

For example, Denver welcomed 2 awesome international routes via United this year:

• Frankfurt, Germany (FRA)
• Rome, Italy (FCO)

Why Visit Carlsbad?

Most visitors who plan a trip to San Diego don’t make it all the way up to Carlsbad, which lies roughly 35 minutes north of the downtown if you beat rush hour.

But Carlsbad is no snoozefest like some other hidden gems along the coast. Home to one of my favorite resorts for a staycation Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & Spa and on-site restaurant Ember & Rye, a mouthwatering steakhouse ‘of sorts’ backed by celebrity chef Richard Blais, if you can swing the price, I can’t recommend it enough.

For the kiddos, a great Disneyland alternative is LegoLand, an amusement park and hotel perfect for a weekend getaway.

One of my favorite places to visit along the beach is Carlsbad Village. Here, you’ll find seaside cafes, more resorts, vibrant murals, and seafood shacks — and it’s often less crowded than San Diego proper, including lagoons and beautiful beaches stretching for 7 miles.