Los Angeles and San Francisco are two of the most celebrated cities on the planet. However, the 350 miles of stunning shoreline separating the two should not be overlooked. The central coast of California offers a dynamic slice of culture, wildlife, and topographic wonder best appreciated on a week-long road trip between its world-famous destinations. While names like Santa Barbara and Big Sur are widely known, they are just the beginning of the coastal adventure.

Catching island vibes doesn’t necessarily require a passport. With water views complemented by palm trees or pine trees, and outdoor activities ranging from swimming to hiking, every type of traveler is bound to find the island getaway they dream of right here in the United States — if they know where to look. Luckily, GoTravelDaily readers’ 2023 list of favorite U.S. islands can point them to pristine beaches and national parks, from Washington to Texas, and Florida up to Maine. The No. 1 spot on our domestic islands list this year went to the Golden Isles in Georgia, which climbed its way up from No. 5 in 2022.

For dedicated stargazers, Chile’s Atacama Desert is the ultimate destination. It consistently ranks at the top of any “world’s best stargazing” list due to its unique climate and environment. As the driest non-polar region on Earth, the lack of rainfall contributes to its barren landscape, offeringoptimal stargazing conditions.

There are countless breathtaking places to explore in Ireland. It is a nation rich in history and cultural heritage that you simply must experience. With spectacular landscapes stretching from the amazing hikes, the ancient east coast to the iconic castles that crown the verdant hills, Ireland offers an eclectic mix of exploration opportunities. Additionally, the country is dotted with charming villages and towns, each showcasing Ireland’s unique allure.