Summer vacation season is in full effect and that means if you haven't already started, now is the time to start planning that ultimate summer getaway with your girls. Long before last summer's hit movie, girls' trips were an annual celebration of sisterhood, memories, and turning up to full capacity.
If it's been a hectic six months and you're in desperate need of some rest and relaxation with all the members of your girl squad, we have some destination choices you're sure to love. There's a little something for everyone, including wine tasting, islands, beaches, and nightlife. Since many of us only take one to two vacations a year, it's important to make each experience a worthwhile collection of celebration, fun, and new adventures.
Check out our list of the best summer vacation destinations for you and your girls—and let us know where you plan to go this summer!
1.New Orleans
brown and gray 3-story buildingPhoto by Rosie Kerr on UnsplashThis was a no-brainer for a spot on our list! After the huge success of last year's hit film Girls Trip, groups of girlfriends galore were planning their next vacation to NOLA as soon as they left the theater. New Orleans has practically everything you need to have an amazing vacation experience with your girls. There's the NOLA nightlife, the rich cultural history, irresistible food, and knowing you're in one of the last places in the country that truly appreciates the beauty of jazz.
2.Turks and Caicos
green palm tree near seashorePhoto by Libby Giambrone on UnsplashThere are many island locales to visit where you're sure to have a great time, however there is something to be said for a place that's a little less popular. This sentiment is exactly why Turks and Caicos should be a strong contender for your next girls' trip experience. The beaches are literally breathtaking, with miles of crystal clear blue waters and gorgeous white sand. The fresh seafood is heavenly and the overall laid-back atmosphere is ideal for plenty of relaxing days and nights.
3.Napa Valley
Photo by Alexander Gamanyuk on UnsplashWe all have those friends in our group who claim to be the ultimate wine connoisseur, so a vacation to the vino-lover's paradise, Napa Valley, is the perfect destination. There is always time for wine, especially while on vacation, so deep-diving into the Napa vineyards is a win-win situation. From wine tours and unlimited tastings to exquisite cuisine and picturesque vineyard views, Napa is where the grown-ups go to get away from it all.
4.Las Vegas
bird's-eye view photography of concrete high-rise buildingsPhoto by Ken Yam on UnsplashWhen the turn-up is real and experiencing lituations is the ultimate goal, there's only one place to go and you already know what it is…Vegas baby! You and your girls are guaranteed to make memories, bad decisions, and have enough secrets between each other to last a lifetime after a Las Vegas vacation. In Vegas, partying is the main goal, so rest up, drink your water, and brace yourself for more fun than you can handle.
5.Cancun
dock during daytimePhoto by Andreas M on UnsplashHugely popular for spring break and honeymoons, Cancun is also one of the best places for a girlfriend getaway to rival many others. Most people who visit Cancun once likely return and it's obvious why. The sun, sand, culture, and food are enough to keep you pretty satisfied, but it's the nightlife activities where you and your girls will have the best time.
6.Jamaica
man peeling coconutPhoto by Kevin Sanon on UnsplashWhat's better than being surrounded by enough melanin to last a lifetime? Not much, which is why vacationing in Jamaica is an absolute must. Beautiful black people all around, coupled with an unlimited offering of Caribbean food and music, is the setting for a girls' trip that might actually have you staying longer than you anticipated.
7.Miami
body of water near of city high-rise buildingsPhoto by Muzammil Soorma on UnsplashWhen you want a quick and easily accessible summer beach experience, a girls' vacation to Miami is the way to go. Their weather is practically paradise and you might damage the strip on your debit card courtesy of all the shopping available.
8.Hilton Head
gray concrete pathway between green grass field under gray sky during daytimePhoto by Mitchell Hartley on UnsplashThis South Carolina island has the perfect combination of southern charm, gorgeous views, and a relaxing experience you likely won't expect, but will definitely embrace. If hard partying full of hangovers is not for you and your girlfriends, this vacation spot offers a nice change of pace—with peace of mind to match.
9.Bahamas
seashore during daytimePhoto by Cristofer Jeschke on UnsplashYou can always count on the Bahamas to provide a good time, including a girls' trip. Soak up all the sun you can handle, as you and your girls make sunset memories while posing for the 'gram. When the drinks start flowing and the island vibes reach a fever pitch, that's when you know you're in paradise.
10. Hawaii
aerial photography of green mountain beside body of water under white skyPhoto by Braden Jarvis on UnsplashWidely known as the place for lovers, Hawaii is also a beautiful vacation spot for friends to experience together as well. The rich culture is apparent from the moment you land and it continues until you say goodbye. The cuisine is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but it's the overwhelming amount of beauty that surrounds you and your girls that makes it worthy.
Want more stories like this? Check out these xoNecole related reads:
5 "Friends" Who Need to Be Excluded From Your Next Girls Trip
How To Travel The World With A Full-Time Job
4 Affordable Bucket List Travel Destinations You Can Do On Any Budget
Featured image by Getty Images
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Danielle Jennings is an Atlanta-based Style Writer/Editor, Tastemaker, Girl About Town, Fashion & Music Obsessed Long-Lost Huxtable Kid who is coming for everything they told her she couldn't have...one article at a time. Twitter: @daniellej416 IG: @prettyaries16
Reset Your Relationship: How To Start 2025 Strong With Your Partner
As the calendar turns and a new year unfolds, many of us are laser-focused on our career goals, fitness resolutions, and vision boards that outline the journey to our best selves. But amidst all the planning and self-improvement, have you made room for another important part of your life? Your relationship.
It's easy for couples to fall into a routine, going through the motions and letting their connection sit on autopilot. While comfort is natural in a long-term relationship, it’s important to remember: that what you don’t nurture, eventually fades. So, why not make 2025 the year you reset your relationship? Here’s how to start the year with a renewed bond, reigniting the spark that brought you together.
Step 1: Schedule Your Reset Meeting
The first step to hitting the reset button is a State of the Union meeting with your partner. This is your chance to take a pulse on the relationship, discuss what's working, and identify areas that need attention. It’s all about creating space to reflect, without distractions.
Grab a pen and paper (or open a shared note on your phone) and come prepared to share your top 2-3 desires for your relationship.
What do you both want to feel more of in 2025? Maybe it’s feeling more appreciated, or perhaps you want to reignite the passion you had when you first started dating. Whatever it is, get clear about it, and make sure both of you are on the same page.
This isn’t just about listing your own wants, it’s also about discussing ways to nurture each other’s needs. Relationship goals should be focused on fostering deeper intimacy, trust, and mutual respect. Use this time to check in, not only with each other but with your individual feelings and expectations. Set the foundation for a fulfilling year ahead.
Step 2: Set A Date (Or Multiple!)
Having the meeting is only the first step. Now, it’s time to take action. One of the simplest ways to breathe new life into a relationship is by reintroducing consistent, intentional time spent together. For many couples, life gets busy, and date nights fall by the wayside. But dating doesn’t stop when you say "I do"—in fact, it’s even more essential.
During your reset meeting, lock in a regular date night that works for both of your schedules. This could be a weekly dinner date or an every-other-week adventure—whatever keeps things fresh. The goal is consistency. It’s easy to push date nights aside when life gets hectic, but if you set a specific date each week or month, you’re making your relationship a priority.
If you’re unsure what to do for your date nights, don’t worry! The key is creating new experiences together. This is what sparks excitement and brings you closer as a couple. Whether it’s cooking a new recipe together, trying a dance class, or exploring a nearby town, it’s about creating shared memories that build your connection.
Step 3: Find an Accountability Partner
Just like you might have a personal trainer to help you crush your fitness goals, an accountability partner for your relationship can do wonders for keeping both of you on track. Consider hiring a marriage coach or therapist—someone who can meet you where you are and guide you in strengthening your relationship.
When selecting a professional, it’s important to choose someone who truly wants the best for your marriage and can provide actionable advice.
Don’t be afraid to set high standards for your relationship, and seek guidance on how to keep it thriving for the long haul. In your reset meeting, discuss your commitment to growth, and be honest about areas where you may need support.
Marriage isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it endeavor—it’s an ongoing process. Regular check-ins with a professional can help keep your relationship in tip-top shape and “divorce-proof” by addressing issues before they become insurmountable.
Step 4: Try Something New Together
Stale routines can easily make a relationship feel monotonous. Spice things up by trying something new! Couples that explore new activities and create new memories together have stronger, more fulfilling bonds.
My husband and I host one of the top luxury marriage retreats, A Weekend For Love, designed to help couples experience new things together. From couples' workshops to outdoor adventures, the retreat provides a platform to rediscover each other and reconnect on a deeper level.
The element of surprise can reignite your connection. It’s exciting, fresh, and shows your partner that you’re committed to growing together. This doesn’t have to be a huge commitment—it could be as simple as trying a new hobby or planning an impromptu weekend getaway.
Your Relationship Should Be A Priority
As you start the year with personal goals in mind, don’t forget the importance of nurturing your relationship. It’s easy to get caught up in work, fitness, and family obligations, but your bond with your partner deserves to be at the top of your list. Resetting your relationship offers an opportunity to reignite that spark and remind each other why you fell in love in the first place.
In 2025, make a commitment to prioritize your partnership, to nurture it daily, and to invest in its growth. Take time to celebrate each other’s victories, support one another’s dreams, and build a foundation of love and respect. When you start the year with a clear focus on your relationship, you’re setting it up for success.
So, before you start mapping out your new workout plan or work goals, do yourself a favor: put your relationship at the top of that list. Your love story deserves a fresh start, too.
Happy New Year, and here’s to a love-filled 2025!
Couples, if you are ready to do the work and invest in your relationship register for A Weekend For Love: Heart Retreat Feb 21-23, 2025.
Featured image by zamrznutitonovi/Getty Images
Since turning 30, three years ago, I have been on a journey of self-improvement and healing. During this time, I've adopted daily practices like meditation, journaling, and speaking affirmations over my life. I also began reading spiritual and self-help books like The Alchemist and The Mountain Is You.
These tools have changed my life drastically as I have become more self-confident and developed more self-love. Lately, one of my go-to's for a spiritual boost is listening to podcasts. There are so many podcasts to choose from nowadays, and they aren't created equally.
However, if you're looking for a podcast that speaks to your soul and helps you in your personal development, then check out the 10 podcasts below.
Balanced Black Girl
Balanced Black Girl is a podcast focusing on personal development, self-care, and more. Hosted by Les, adding this podcast to your list is a great start to developing better habits.
Take Back Your Mind
Take Back Your Mind is a podcast by Agape Church founder and pastor Michael B. Beckwith. This podcast touches on various topics like spirituality, purpose, mindfulness, and more.
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
On Purpose with Jay Shetty features many guests, from Big Sean to former First Lady Michelle Obama, as they open up about their tips for success and biggest life lessons.
Keep It Positive, Sweetie
Sistas actress Crystal Renee Hayslett created the Keep It Positive, Sweetie podcast, which hones in on discussions like family, second chances, and the art of submission.
Diary of A CEO
Diary of A CEO is more than a business podcast. It highlights many conversations like how to sleep better, the benefits of fasting, and how to reduce toxins in your body.
Being Her
Margarita Nazarenko has built a loyal fanbase on social media from her straight, no-chaser advice on dating, and recently, she launched a podcast called Being Her. The podcast digs a little deeper into feminine energy, manifestation, and, of course, dating.
Healed Girl Era
Gia Peppers hosts the Healed Girl Era podcast, and the name says it all. If you're in your healed girl era or want to get in your healed girl era, then this podcast is for you as Gia and guests tackle topics like self-love and finding your joy.
Super Soul
Oprah's Super Soul podcast features interviews from a wide range of thought leaders in health and wellness, spirituality, and entertainment.
Everybody's Crazy
Everybody's Crazy is hosted by best friends April McDaniel and Savannah James as they open up about their friendship and navigating life. However, their girl talk doesn't shy away from tough conversations like grief and mom guilt and how to overcome it all.
Therapy For Black Girls
Therapy For Black Girls is a mental health podcast hosted by psychologist Dr. Joy Harden Bradford. The podcast covers everything, from dealing with depression to superwoman syndrome.
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