Ever wake up on vacation and think, “Why did I order another round last night?” You’re not alone. A recent survey by The Vacationer found that over 62 million adults regretted decisions they made under the influence while traveling.
But there’s a new wave of travelers choosing a different path: sober travel. This movement, fueled by the rise of wellness tourism and mindfulness, is reshaping the way people explore the world. Whether you’re sober, sober-curious, or simply looking for more mindful adventures, this guide is your ultimate resource for alcohol-free travel.
We’ll cover why sober travel is worth trying, highlight top destinations, and share tips for navigating social situations—mocktail in hand, of course.
Why sober travel is having a moment
Traveling sober doesn’t mean “missing out” on any fun. Here’s why:
- Feel good
Jet lag, long flights, and packed itineraries are easier to handle when you’re not fighting a hangover. Staying sober can keep you energized and fully present. - Stay safe, stay smart
Being alert means less chance of losing valuables, getting lost, or falling into tourist traps. It’s peace of mind while navigating new places. - Save big
Alcohol can quickly drain your travel budget. Skip the drinks and free up cash for memorable meals, unique experiences, or a little luxury. - Cultural sensitivity
Some destinations have cultural or religious norms around alcohol. Staying sober shows respect and helps you connect authentically with the local way of life.
Sober-friendly travel ideas
Wellness escapes
Prioritize health and well-being at retreats that champion mindfulness over martinis:
- Cold plunges: Reset your system at Deplar Farm in Iceland’s Troll Peninsula
- Sound baths: Experience soothing sound therapy at The Integratron in California
- Forest bathing: Try shinrin-yoku in Japan’s Hokkaido region, or Germany’s Black Forest
- Yoga retreats: Deepen your practice at Yoga Barn in Bali or the Pura Vida Retreat in Costa Rica
- Silent retreats: Reconnect with yourself at Vipassana Meditation Centers worldwide
Adventures without the buzz
Who says you need alcohol to fuel your adrenaline?
- Mountain climbing: Conquer Mount Kilimanjaro or trek to Mount Everest Base Camp
- Snow sports: Ski or snowboard in Colorado or the Alps, followed by hot cocoa
- Spelunking: Explore magical caves like Waitomo Caves in New Zealand, illuminated by glowworms
Social sober events
Travel is about connection. Here’s how to meet like-minded adventurers:
- Sober festivals: Check out alcohol-free events like The Sober Camping Festival in the UK
- Meetups: Search for sober meetups like group hikes, coffee gatherings, or wellness workshops
- Social media communities: Find sober travel groups on Instagram or Facebook to connect with locals
Top sober travel destinations
Utah, USA:
- Why go: Iconic national parks, stunning landscapes, and one of the states with the largest sober communities
- Don’t miss: Hike through Arches National Park or sip on a creative mocktail at The Rose Establishment in Salt Lake

Bali, Indonesia:
- Why go: A wellness haven with serene retreats and peaceful vibes
- Don’t miss: Join a yoga retreat or enjoy a handcrafted mocktail at Alchemy Café in Ubud.
Costa Rica
- Why go: Lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and endless adventure
- Don’t miss: Explore the Monteverde Cloud Forest or sample non-alcoholic drinks at Cafe de los Deseos in San José

New Zealand:
- Why go: Nature and adventure collide in this stunning destination
- Don’t miss: Stargaze in Aoraki/Mount Cook or hike through Fiordland National Park
London, UK:
- Why go: Thriving sober social scene and well-connected transit system
- Don’t miss: Events like open-mic poetry and zero-proof masterclasses at Club Soda or an afternoon high tea experience

Tips for navigating social situations while sober
Traveling sober doesn’t mean avoiding social scenes—it’s about redefining how you engage:
- Have your go-to script: Keep it simple: “No thanks, I’m not drinking tonight.” Confidence is key, and no explanation is required.
- Choose a fun substitute: Sparkling water, kombucha, or a mocktail keeps you in the spirit (without the spirits). Many bars now offer alcohol-free options.
- Find your people: Whether it’s a travel buddy or a local sober group, surrounding yourself with supportive people makes all the difference.
Why sober travel is worth it
Sober travel isn’t about saying “no” to fun—it’s about saying “yes” to mindfulness, clarity, and rich experiences. Whether you’re chasing adventure, connecting with nature, or trying something new, alcohol-free travel can transform the way you see the world.
Ready to start planning? With Faye in your corner, you’ll have peace of mind to embrace every sober moment.