Gift guide 2024: Best gifts for travel

The gift of travel is a fantastic way to surprise friends or family this holiday season. We have plenty of ideas for you in this guide.

How about a stay at historical hotels like Hawaii’s Moana Surfrider or The Greenbrier in West Virginia? Or how about a cozy B&B like Pennsylvania’s Historic Smithton Inn or Kentucky’s bourbon-themed Bourbon Manor?

For family-friendly travel, all-inclusive gems like Woodloch Resort in the Poconos and Brooks Lake Lodge in Wyoming offer a wide array of activities for guests of all ages.

Or, if adventure is more their style, look at Western River Expeditions for guided rafting trips through stunning landscapes.

Moana Surfrider Hotel—Honolulu, HI

Built in 1901 as the Moana Hotel, the Moana Surfrider Hotel, A Westin Resort & Spa bears the distinction of being Hawaii’s first hotel. Much of its original grandeur and beachfront charm has been retained. The second floor houses a history museum, and guests can take complimentary tours and enjoy the time-honored traditions of afternoon tea and enjoying the view from a rocker on the front porch.

This is a special place and a wonderful spot to stay for newcomers and those who have been to Oahu in the past.

The Greenbrier—White Sulphur Springs, WV

Spanning 11,000 acres of breathtaking Allegheny mountainscape, The Greenbrier offers a luxury resort stay with plenty of adventure. It began in 1778 as a mineral-spring retreat and, with the railroad, expanded in 1913 to include its opulent hotel. Since before the Civil War, it has drawn presidents, dignitaries and celebrities. During the Cold War, a now-declassified fallout shelter to house Congress was constructed and can now be toured.

From guest rooms to estate homes to and private cottages, there’s a room for every budget.

Historic Smithton Inn—Ephrata, PA

A beautiful colonial house built in 1763, the Historic Smithton Inn is now home to a bed and breakfast in the heart of Lancaster County’s Amish Country. Its charming accommodations offer historic elegance without skimping on modern amenities like Wi-Fi, EV charging and whirlpool tubs.

Take a turn around the lovely garden before indulging in a delicious home-cooked breakfast each morning.

Head to the inn’s website to book a stay.

Bourbon Manor Bed & Breakfast—Bardstown, KY

The world’s first bourbon-themed B&B can be found housed in two pre–Civil War plantation houses in the heart of Kentucky’s Bourbon Country. The Federal House Cottage dates to around 1810, and the Greek Revival Oaklawn Plantation dates back to around 1823.

The inn offers a total of 10 luxurious rooms that blend antiques with modern amenities, a “country gourmet” breakfast with bourbon-infused pastries, and a spa.

You can book a stay through the B&B’s website.

Western River Expeditions

Since 1961, Western River Expedition has been making adventure easy. With rafting trips in multiple states, they move rafters through the best parts of the Western national parks with practiced efficiency. The overnight trips also include fun and memorable activities, such as hiking, camping and hummer rides, both before and after rafting.

For gift givers, note there are trips for first-timers, families and solo adventurers.

Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay–Half Moon Bay, CA

Situated on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay features first-class accommodations with coastal views. Dine on California cuisine in a refined setting or experience rejuvenating spa treatments using locally sourced ingredients.

You can reach San Francisco within half an hour thanks to the hotel’s Bay Area location.

To treat a friend or family member, book through the Ritz’s website.

Terranea Resort–Palos Verdes, CA

With 270-degree views of the Pacific Ocean and 102 acres of coastal setting, Terranea Resort offers a truly inspiring getaway on the Palos Verdes Peninsula.

Stay in a variety of accommodations including suites, bungalows and expansive casitas, and enjoy a range of dining experiences, from elegant al fresco dinners overlooking the coast to fireside cocktails and live music.

To book a stay, head to Terranea’s website.

Fairmont Orchid–Kona, HI

Surrounded by 32 oceanfront acres, this luxury hotel located on the Kohala Coast offers a tranquil retreat. With amenities like world-class golf, six restaurants, a 10-court tennis pavilion and a 10,000-square-foot oceanfront pool, you may not want to ever leave.

Explore the grounds filled with tropical gardens and waterfalls or participate in cultural activities offered by the Hui Holokai Beach Club.

You can book a stay through Fairmont’s website. Check for deals before you do.

Woodloch Resort – Hawley, PA

A family vacation paradise, this resort offers a wealth of activities like archery, a splash play park and game and escape rooms, plus scheduled events throughout the day. Participate in art classes, enjoy kid-friendly nightly entertainment or simply take in the scenery of the Poconos while you cruise Lake Teedyuskung.

If you don’t feel comfortable booking an entire stay, grab a gift certificate.

Brooks Lake Lodge and Spa–Dubois, WY

Built in 1922 as a stopover for guests heading to Yellowstone, this lakeside lodge has since become a destination, featuring luxury cabins just for families and fun year-round. Trail rides, hiking and canoeing are popular in the summer while skiing, snowmobiling and snowshoeing are available in the winter. Mealtime is also a special experience, with fresh game and locally sourced ingredients comprising several dishes.

Spots do fill up so book through the lodge’s website when you can.

Disney Dream

Make your dreams come true on this magical cruise ship offering fun for the whole family. With five specialized kids’ clubs, theatrical performances and an adults-only Quiet Cove pool and spa, there’s something for everyone aboard Disney Dream. Don’t miss a ride on the 765-foot AquaDuck water coaster or a memorable meal or treat in one of nine themed venues.

If you have a Disney fanatic in your life, a trip on the Disney Dream is sure to hit the mark.

Royal Caribbean–Odyssey of the Seas

Take a ride on the surf simulator, immerse yourself in the Virtual Adventure Zone or feel the rush of a free fall on the RipCord by iFLY simulator, all on Odyssey of the Seas. While the kids play, you can visit the two-story Lime and Coconut bar before lounging beside one of two resort-style pools.

If this sounds like a good fit for someone you know, you can purchase a gift card from Royal Caribbean online.