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1. Epic Girlfriend Spa Getaways in Soap Lake 

Escape the hustle and bustle of Seattle (or any city, for that matter) and visit the incredible landscape of Central Washington, carved out by the last ice age. There is a ton of sightseeing to do, including the Bavarian town of Leavenworth, Dry Falls (which used to be the planet’s largest waterfall), and apple country. Then when you need some pampering, head to Soap Lake, one of the best lakes in Washington State.

Soap Lake Resort and Spa

There is no better way to experience the majesty of this great state than to lounge in rugged luxury when you book a stay at Soap Lake Resort and Spa. Known for its healing powers, the minerals in Soap Lake also have rejuvenating properties. It is so called due to these minerals occasionally creating bubbles in the water, resembling soap. Enjoy a spa treatment at any time, with mineral-rich mud near the shores. No reservation required!

2. Weekend Getaways in the North Cascades

One of the best getaways in Washington State is of the North Cascade Loop. This scenic drive takes you deep into Washington’s remote forest land (think Twin Peaks – really beautiful, with just a hint of eerie). Here you will gain a new appreciation for “leaving the grid.” Put away that phone (yes, you CAN) and just be in the moment. Out here in the Pacific Northwest wilderness, the incredible beauty of the Cascades will inspire you like no Instagram photo ever can.

Let your instincts lead the way.

The Cascade Loop Byway will take you 440 miles roundtrip and traverse the North Cascade Mountain range. There are also some of the best lake hikes in Washington along this road. Most people make the journey from Seattle and head east on Highway 20, but you can also start your journey in the east from Wenatchee. Leave civilization behind as your car gently gets swallowed up by the dense forest. It sort of feels like you are journeying into Narnia. Go with it.

You’ll need at least two days to fully explore this area, so I recommend you book the Winthrop Mountain View Chalets in the charming town of Winthrop, Washington. They offer cozy cabins with lots of amenities at affordable prices.

3. The San Juan Islands

Let a ferry boat whisk you away to a cluster of islands in the middle of gorgeous Puget Sound. Dare to explore all of the islands: San Juan, Orcas, Lopez, Shaw, Stuart, Waldron, Decatur, and Blakely. However, the first four are the most visited, as these are the only islands that the state ferry system services.

Each island is very unique and each is definitely worth exploring. The largest town on these islands is Friday Harbor on San Juan Island and conveniently located right off the boat. You can make a great day trip by visiting just one of the islands, or take your car along (yes, they fit onto the ferry!) and fully explore them all.

Book your stay at Friday Harbor House, which is right on the water. The rooms are well-appointed with gas fireplaces, and some have waterfront views so you can grab a glass of wine with your bestie and watch the ferries come and go. 

This is also prime whale watching territory, and the best months of the year to catch a glimpse of some killer whales, orcas, humpback and Minke whales is from May through October. Gray whales can also be spotted from March to May.

4. Olympic National Park

I always wax philosophical about this incredible peninsula that holds America’s only temperate rainforest. My first trip was wonderful serendipity – I didn’t even plan it, but I got a good education about what to do (and especially what NOT to do). Then on my second trip, I was rewarded with a wonderful black bear sighting.

Whether you want a leisurely tour of the most popular spots along the perimeter of the park (Highway 101 runs all the way around) or you are a hardcore backpacker who wants to really dive in and explore the inner recesses of this incredible rainforest, Olympic National Park has got your back. Just don’t forget your bear spray!

I highly recommend booking a stay at Lake Quinault Lodge, which is centrally located within the park and makes a fantastic home base for your adventures. This property is a rare combination of indulgence and affordability.

To get here, it’s an easy 2.5-hour drive from Seattle.

5. Washington Wine Country

What’s that, you say? Wine in Washington? Oh yes – very much so! In fact, the number of wineries in the central Yakima Valley region has grown over 400% in just the last 20 years! So come on down and get into some awesome wine tasting! Part of the reason why this area is fertile grape-growing farmland is because it shares the same latitude as the French regions of Bordeaux and Burgundy – and we all know that the French produce some of the best wines in the world.

Washington State Wine Tours

While grapes for wine are grown all throughout the state (even Puget Sound!) the highest concentration of wineries is located in the central and eastern regions. The leading varieties produced are Reds: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Franc, and Malbec. Whites: Chardonnay, White Riesling, Pino Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, and Gewűrztraminer.

Be sure to book The Lodge at Columbia Point as your home base for Washington wince Country. They have great water views and a spa! Two of my favorite things in a hotel. 

Whatever your pleasure, there is certainly something in Washington State to celebrate by taking a vacation to this huge and varied Pacific Northwest region.