4 of the Best Destinations for Solo Travel

Nicaragua: Best for beach bumming and surfing

This up-and-coming, beautiful country is often overlooked for its well-known neighbor, Costa Rica. Not anymore! We'd argue that some of the best surf we've ever had was in Playa Maderas, Nicaragua. If the thought of sunbathing on a beautiful, quiet beach with a passionfruit mojito in hand, a surfboard by your side, and a few monkies in the trees sounds like absolute paradise, this is the spot for you. Solo travelers will find a bunch of options for eating, drinking, and relaxing in both Playa Maderas and the close downtown San Juan del Sur. There are big groups of other solo travelers in this area (as well as in Granada if a weekend trip there interests you), and locals are super friendly and always up for a chat. You really can't go wrong. 

Greece: Best for history and island vibes

With 227 islands and insane historical ruins that go back thousands and thousands of years (hello, Parthenon), Greece has a little bit of something for everyone. Not to mention the food, you better be a feta lover, and an up-and-coming beer scene (who knew?). Solo travelers who want to see the big, historical sights will find well-trodden tourist areas with friendly locals and easy-to-access accommodations. Island hopping is also pretty straightforward, with plenty of ferry routes and flight options. If you want to go a little off the beaten path, there are a bunch of more remote islands you can explore out of the 227 possibilities. One of our favorite stops is the gem Kea, off the coast of Athens. 

Iceland: Best for adventure and nature

If you're searching for a destination that will leave you fascinated at every turn, look no further. Iceland has really started to make a name for itself in the travel world over recent years, and solo travelers are finding everything they could have dreamed of here. Try to beat the black sand beaches, bubbling hot springs, and mini horses galore. You can't. It's an incredibly safe destination with one of the lowest crime rates in Europe and remote enough that you won't be overrun by college kids on their school break. Of course, we wouldn't leave you hanging without a few fitness recs. Runners take note: Iceland is where it's at. 

Mexico: Best for culture and nightlife 

While the hoards head down to Cancun or Cabo, you should break off and explore Sayulita, a little beach town just north of Puerto Vallarta. The downtown area is centrally located near the beach (it's all super walkable, or you can rent a golf cart), and the vibes are poppin' off every night. Solo travelers would have a hard time feeling lonely here. There's always something going on, whether it's fire dancers at a beach bar or happy hour at a downtown restaurant. Explore the downtown streets to find galleries of art made by locals, join a group booze cruise, or grab your sneakers for an intense but worth-it hike up Monkey Mountain with unreal panoramic views. 

Traveling solo doesn't have to mean you're alone. Some of our favorite stories come from putting ourselves out there in unusual situations, meeting new people, and experiencing life like we wouldn't in our bubble at home. There are whole networks of solo travelers with the same vibe and view on life that you can connect with, travel with, and make unforgettable memories with. Most people who join our group adventure trips come alone, and we encourage you to do the same. Not only will you find a place you can truly be yourself, but you will create friendships that last for years after the adventure ends. And the smiling, familiar faces are what make your second, third, or tenth trip even more special. So what are you waiting for? Pick your fav destination, pack your suitcase, and come make memories of a lifetime with your new SYB community.