For brides seeking a memorable last hurrah before their wedding, three destinations top the list for bachelorette trips: Napa Valley, Nashville and Cabo San Lucas.
Each spot has a different personality. If you’re into vineyard tastings and Michelin-starred restaurants, Napa is the answer. Nashville (unofficially dubbed the bachelorette capital of the US) serves up late-night live music on lively Broadway, plus the city’s legendary southern hospitality. Combining glamour and beach resorts, Cabo San Lucas is ideal for friends who want both relaxation and celebration. Whichever destination you choose, here are some tips for how to make the most of your celebration, from hotels and activities to when to visit and what to wear.
Need to know
Currency: Aside from Nashville and Napa, you’ll need Mexican Pesos (MXN) for Cabo (though the US Dollar is often accepted). Credit cards can be used across these destinations, but you may want to have some cash on hand for tipping and smaller vendors.
Languages and key phrases: While English is widely spoken in Cabo, learning basic key phrases will go a long way. “Hola” (Hello), “Gracias” (Thank you), “Buenos dias/tardes/noche” (Good morning/afternoon/evening), “Por favor” (Please).Airports
Napa Valley: The two major gateways are San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Oakland International Airport (OAK). Both offer direct domestic and international flights from major cities. Napa Valley is about a 90 minute drive north. Nashville: Nashville International Airport (BNA) offers direct flights from major US cities, located about a 15-minute drive away from the city.Cabo San Lucas: Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) is the main airport about 30–60 minutes away from major resorts, depending on their location.
Transportation
- Napa Valley: Private transfers, rideshare and even shuttle services are all readily available to get from the airports and to get around the area. Renting a car is also a convenient option to explore Napa Valley, but please drink responsibly.
- Nashville: Rideshare and private transfers are convenient ways to get downtown, which is fairly walkable once there. If you’re looking to see the surrounding countryside, consider renting a car.
- Cabo San Lucas: Many resorts offer private and shared transfers from the airport. They can also help arrange transportation if you’re looking to see the city.
Best time to visit
All of these destinations offer things to see and enjoy year-round. It will ultimately come down to the pre-wedding experience your group is hoping to have.
Napa Valley: For smaller crowds and mild weather, February to April is ideal. For harvest season, visit during September and October. Nashville: Temperate weather and outdoor events make March to May a great time for a pre-wedding trip. Fall, and especially Winter months, mean fewer tourists to enjoy iconic attractions and seasonal events.Cabo San Lucas: March to May is one of the best times to visit for fewer crowds, warm weather and sunny skies. June through August can be really hot, but cools off into hurricane season from September to November. Be aware that winter months of December to February are peak tourist time.
Ideal length of stay: Bachelorette trips can range from weekend to weeklong getaways. A 2–3 day trip is great for quick celebrations with spa days, yoga or a night out, while 4–7 days offer more time for relaxation, adventure and quality time.
What to wear
- Napa Valley: Opt for stylish yet comfortable outfits like maxi dresses or jumpsuits with layers for cooler evenings.
- Nashville: Playful and trendy attire such as denim with statement tops and cowboy boots are perfect.
- Cabo San Lucas: Go for beachy chic with flowy dresses, resort wear and stylish swim cover-ups.
Where to stay
When planning a group trip, it’s always helpful to appoint one person as the main contact so all necessary confirmations, tickets and receipts are in one place. Another tip is to get a headcount early because most hotels offer group rates if booking more than eight or so rooms.
Napa Valley
Alila Napa Valley: This sophisticated retreat is perfect for bachelorette groups seeking a stylish, relaxing wine country escape in downtown St. Helena.
Fora’s Hyatt Privé partner perks include a hotel credit, welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection: Featuring a relaxed, versatile vibe, this is ideal for bachelorette groups seeking a design-forward retreat.
Fora Reserve perks include a $100 hotel credit, welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Andaz Napa: A fun, energetic hotel perfect for bachelorette groups seeking a trendy, boutique-style getaway on a budget.
Fora’s Hyatt Privé partner perks include a hotel credit, welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Nashville
1 Hotel Nashville: A chic, design-forward escape perfect for bachelorette groups seeking easy access to the city’s best nightlife.
- Fora Perks include a $100 food and beverage credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Thompson Nashville: A hip, modern hotel great for bachelorette groups looking for a trendy, stylish stay in the heart of The Gulch.
- Fora’s Hyatt Privé partner perks include a hotel credit, welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Graduate Nashville: A colorful, Instagram-worthy hotspot ideal for bachelorette groups looking for a fun, budget-friendly getaway.
Cabo San Lucas
Esperanza, Auberge Resorts Collection: This luxurious beachfront escape is perfect for bachelorette groups seeking resort-level amenities and a private swimmable beach.
- Fora Reserve perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
The Cape, A Thompson Hotel: This stylish and lively retreat is perfect for bachelorette groups looking for a fun, elevated beachfront escape.
- Fora’s Hyatt Privé partner perks include a hotel credit, welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Paradisus Los Cabos: This vibrant, adults-only escape is perfect for bachelorette groups seeking a budget-friendly, all-inclusive beachfront getaway.
Activities
Make sure to plan ahead for going out, as large groups are more difficult to accommodate at the last minute at restaurants and activities. A shared calendar and transparent budgeting information is also helpful. In addition to planning activities, don’t forget to allow for some down time.
Napa Valley
- Wine tasting: Visit family-owned boutique wineries or world-renowned vineyards for group tastings and incredible landscapes.
- Hot air balloon: Soar above the valley in a hot air balloon at sunrise for an unforgettable experience.
- Bike tour: Take a bike tour and explore Napa Valley at your own pace, stopping at wineries and local landmarks along the way.
- Hiking: Hike scenic trails like Skyline Wilderness Park for fresh air and panoramic views.
- Cooking class: Dive into gourmet cuisine with a hands-on cooking class, using fresh, local ingredients.
- Art galleries: Discover Napa Valley’s vibrant galleries and installations, featuring local and international artists.
- Spas: Indulge in group treatments or full-day wellness packages at one of Napa Valley’s luxury spas.
- Train tour: Take a scenic ride on the Napa Valley Wine Train for a vintage journey through the valley.
Nashville
- Country music: Dive into country music history at the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Grand Ole Opry — maybe even catch a show.
- Bluebird Cafe: Head to the intimate Bluebird Cafe to watch up-and-coming and seasoned songwriters perform.
- Shopping: Shop for southern-inspired fashion and unique accessories in The Gulch or on 12 South, at boutiques like Uncommon James and Draper James.
- Nightlife: Hit the bars on Broadway for live music and dancing. Experience the energy of Nashville’s nightlife and the local music scene.
- Music Row: Go behind the scenes with a tour of Music Row to explore legendary recording studios where famous country hits were recorded.
Cabo San Lucas
- Water fun: Take a boat trip to see the stunning coastline, including the iconic Arch of Cabo San Lucas and Lover’s Beach. You can swim, snorkel or do a sunset cruise.
- ATV adventure: Go on an ATV adventure through the desert and along the beach.
- Beach club: Reserve a spot at a beach club to chill out for the day. Get waited on with drinks and food, alongside amazing ocean views.
- Spas: Pamper yourselves with a day at one of Cabo’s many luxurious spas. It’s the perfect way to relax before a wedding.
- Cooking class: Learn to cook like a local with a cooking class featuring authentic Mexican dishes.
- Tequila tasting: Savor mezcal and tequila on a tasting tour.
- Golfing: Golf on world-class courses with stunning ocean vistas.
Alternate destinations
Lively party scenes, relaxing beach getaways and even city explorations — if you need more inspiration, check out these other destinations.
Miami, Florida: Soak up the sun on sandy beaches, sip cocktails at rooftop pools or even dance the night away at clubs in South Beach. Don’t miss Little Havana for Cuban-inspired dining and live music.
Charleston, South Carolina: Stroll through charming historic streets, shop at trendy King Street boutiques and unwind with a day at the beach at Sullivan’s Island or Folly Beach.
Scottsdale, Arizona: Embrace the luxe desert vibe with world-class spas, private poolside cabanas and vibrant nightlife in Old Town Scottsdale.
New Orleans, Louisiana: Live jazz music, Creole cuisine and bar-hopping on Bourbon Street are part of the lively NOLA experience.
Las Vegas, Nevada: Go all out with pool parties, casino nights and dazzling shows. High-end dining and dancing make Vegas a classic bachelorette playground.
Email: italia.dutton@fora.travel
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