If you've been selected to plan a bachelor party, there's probably one main question all members of the crew are likely asking you: "Where are we going!?" Before you choose your destination, though, you'll want to make sure you lock in a few details, like figuring out the guest list and the exact travel dates.
"When planning a bachelor party, it is important to plan in advance," explains Allison Odhner, founder and lead planner of Bach to Basic. "Typically, it takes a bit [of time] to rally a group to commit, submit funds, book flights, etc., so the more time the planner has to wrangle the group, the better," she explains. What's more, in terms of timing, Odhner says that six months ahead of the bachelor party is when planning should begin. "Of course, we can put together an event in a shorter amount of time, but if you are hoping to get first dibs on everything and the best experience with the least amount of stress, planning as far out as possible is incredibly helpful."
In addition to getting plans on the books months ahead of the trip, Odhner also emphasizes the importance of making sure logistics and expectations are discussed by the entire group. "Be upfront about costs and a general plan to get everyone on board and encourage guests to purchase flights in a timely manner so they are committed to the trip," she says.
Without further ado, whether you’re looking for an all-out party scene or a chill getaway, your destination bachelor party planning begins now! From warm and energetic cities like Miami to laid-back, outdoorsy spots like Alaska, here are the 19 best destinations for a bachelor party of a lifetime.
Meet the Expert
Allison Odhner is the founder and lead planner of Philadelphia-based Bach to Basic, an all-inclusive bachelor and bachelorette party planning business.
Miami, Florida
Where to stay: Arguably one of the hottest spots in Miami, W South Beach has become a go-to for grooms-to-be. Go all out for the E-WOW Penthouse or opt for one of the triplex bungalows with a private plunge pool. Regardless of choice, every room has ocean views, plus access to poolside cabanas, rooftop courts (tennis and basketball!), and a dedicated W Insider–available 24/7 for any request.
What to do: On the mainland, visit the Wynwood district for a vibrant street art scene. Make sure to book at least one dinner out at a top-tier restaurant like Osteria Morini Miami Beach or Giselle Miami.
Judd Lake, Alaska
Where to stay: Settle into Tordrillo Mountain Lodge, where a helicopter serves as your personal chauffeur to everything this magical terrain has to offer. Packages include round-trip floatplane flights, lodging, gourmet meals, guide services, fishing equipment, a fitness center, a copper hot tub overlooking the lake, and a wood-fired sauna.
What to do: Thrill-seeking groups will be enthralled by the expanse of untouched Alaskan wilderness surrounding Judd Lake and the chance to go water skiing, wakeboarding, glacier hiking, or wildlife spotting in the Tordrillo Mountain Range. In the summer, the famous Kings & Corn experience offers up heli-skiing over corn snow in the morning and catching king salmon in the afternoon.
Nassau, the Bahamas
Where to stay: Nassau’s Baha Mar houses three major players in the hospitality game: Rosewood, SLS, and Grand Hyatt, but it’s SLS Baha Mar that sets the tone for a larger-than-life bachelor experience with playful sophistication and spirited day-to-nightlife activities.
What to do: Baha Mar beats Vegas any day with more than 40 restaurants and lounges, the largest casino in the Caribbean, an 18-hole Jack Nicklaus golf course, a buzzy beach club, and a brand new waterpark—all set against a breathtaking Bahamian backdrop. You never need to leave the resort, but if you do, take a 25-minute boat ride to Sandy Toes Rose Island where you'll be soaking up the sun on the uninhabited private isle. Go for a dip with the world-famous swimming pigs, or snorkel in the sparkling turquoise waters.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Where to stay: Just northeast of the French Quarter, you’ll find Hotel Peter & Paul tucked away in the eclectic Marigny neighborhood. The church-turned-hotel is the perfect respite from a night of carousing and a solid home base for exploring the jazz scene on Frenchmen Street. Steeped in history, the hotel just launched a self-guided audio journey immersing guests in stories from locals who once lived, studied, and worshipped there.
What to do: Beyond the quintessential Bourbon Street bar-hopping, explore Louisiana’s wetlands with a swamp tour or spend the day on the water with a fishing boat charter. Pick up speed at NOLA Motorsports Park where you can race in a Ferrari (yes, you actually get to drive it!), and then slow things down with a hand-rolled stick at the Cigar Factory. When it comes to dining out, you should opt to do this at least once—and your crew won't be disappointed by Dooky Chase’s Restaurant, which opened its doors for business in 1941 (its storied history is just as good as its famous Creole Gumbo).
Las Vegas, Nevada
Where to stay: To no surprise, Las Vegas is a destination to consider if planning a trip that you and you're crew are sure to love. Specifically, when it comes to selecting the best place to stay for the weekend, the Wynn Las Vegas (and Encore, its sister property) is an absolute top choice. The property is home to over 25 restaurants—including the 1950s-inspired supper club, Delilah, and seafood restaurant Lakeside—in addition to several day and night clubs, like Encore Beach Club. The best part? You're located right on The Strip, so you and your guys can easily experience and explore the Las Vegas lifestyle.
What to do: While there are hundreds of activities to enjoy during your time in "Sin City," it wouldn't be a bachelor party without spending a night out at some of the most popular clubs. XS Nightclub, in particular, is known for having the biggest events, hosted by some of the most famous DJs around the world (including Marshmello, Diplo, The Chainsmokers, and more!). Want to do something a bit more adventurous? Consider zip lining on Fremont Street in Downtown Las Vegas.
Lexington, Kentucky
Where to stay: Whether spending the weekend touring the bustling food scene, sampling bourbon flights, or seeking outdoor adventure from bike trails and nearby hiking areas, 21c Museum Hotel is the perfect place to retire from all the action. Located downtown at the intersection of quaint southern charm and big-city style, it’s the ideal home base for exploring the city.
What to do: Adventurers can rent canoes, hike the Kentucky River Palisades, or zipline 185 feet over the Boone Creek Gorge. Artistic types will enjoy the art scene in the hotel museum or downtown, and lovers of fine liquor will be in paradise among 14 of the state’s largest distilleries along the Bourbon Trail.
Necker Island, British Virgin Islands
Where to stay: Extravagantly tailored for the affluent island hopper and his crew, Sir Richard Branson’s Necker Island is the most over-the-top of bachelor party destinations. Opt for the island's partnership with evoJets, where you’ll travel in style with round-trip flights on a six-passenger jet that delivers you to the luxuries of The Bali Lo complex where a spacious two-story suite and private pool await your entourage.
What to do: The evoJets package also includes complimentary water sports equipment, so you can spend your days kite-surfing, wakeboarding, paddleboarding, or sailing—and a disco DJ is included for one night during your stay for a memorable beachside party.
Ashland, Oregon
Where to stay: Nestled in the downtown area of the Rogue River Valley, Ashland Springs Hotel is perfectly central to an exciting local food scene, a diverse wine region, and the endless outdoor recreation that Oregon has to offer.
What to do: For a diverse group of groomsmen, Southern Oregon is home to a host of crowd-pleasing activities from daring adventures to open-air performance art. Enjoy white water rafting by day, then take the crew on a little wine-tasting tour around any (or all!) of the seven wineries and tasting rooms in the area. End the day with an indulgent dinner at MÄS with Oregon’s noted celebrity chef Josh Dorcak.
Punta de Mita, Mexico
Where to stay: W Punta de Mita offers a surf-inspired escape for the groom seeking a laid-back getaway filled with sun, surf, and plenty of tequila. The property is situated on one of Mexico’s best surf breaks and features an adults-only oceanfront pool. Check out the Mezcal Lab for a private tequila-tasting experience that can be arranged for small groups.
What to do: Venture to the nearby village of Sayulita to embark on a whale-watching tour, go for a private catamaran party, or catch local surfers in action while sipping a cold drink on the southern shores of Riviera Nayarit.
London, England
Where to stay: Nobu Hotel London Shoreditch offers the ultimate accommodation for a destination bachelor party. The Nobu Penthouse Suite is exclusively accessed via a private elevator and features a separate lounge, dining space, kitchen, bar area, and private balcony.
What to do: In London's edgy East End, Shoreditch is home to an eclectic mix of boutiques, restaurants, bars, and underground clubs. For the debonair, the West End welcomes you to browse the city’s famous department stores: Harrods, Selfridge's, and Liberty London. For sightseeing in style, tap the experts from Humphrey’s of Henley and hire your own skipper to cruise the Thames River. And if you’re looking for gourmet gastronomy, dine on signature dishes such as black miso cod at Nobu Restaurant Shoreditch.
Hella, Iceland
Where to stay: Head south in the land of fire and ice and stay at the Hotel Rangá for a lodge-like retreat in the island’s adventure capital. Under Iceland’s clear skies, the resort is one of the best places to see the famous Aurora Borealis while you soak in a geothermal hot tub.
What to do: Explore the country's black sand beaches, glaciers, and geysers for an otherworldly outing with the crew. Take an ATV to an ice cave, chase the Northern Lights in a Super Jeep, hike to the hot springs, or rent a car for the famous Golden Circle road trip. At the end of the day, take in some stargazing with Hotel Ranga’s resident astronomer at the Ranga Observatory. Note that even the dining is venturesome here; at Restaurant Rangá, the fare includes reindeer carpaccio, smoked puffin, and Icelandic lamb.
Bluefields Bay, Jamaica
Where to stay: Bluefields Bay is the perfect destination for the bachelor who wants to party on a desert island while still being close to the action. At the newly renovated Bluefields Bay Villas, groups can reserve an entire villa that boasts sprawling sea and mountain views, a personal chef, a 24-hour butler, and a private pool.
What to do: The six-bedroom San Michele villa comes with its own private island reached by footbridge where you can have a drink, take a nap, or enjoy the turquoise views. Gather the guys to enjoy cigars and rum tasting at Appleton Estate, have a nature-centric day at YS Falls, or embark on a boat excursion to Floyd’s Pelican Bar—a thatched-roof watering hole in the middle of the Caribbean Sea.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Where to stay: Located in the heart of Jackson Hole, Hotel Jackson is the best base camp for the bachelor who wants to live out his Wild West fantasy.
What to do: Endless expeditions await in the summer season where you can round up the boys for horseback riding, kayaking, hiking, or exploring the nearby Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. If you’re planning a pre-wedding party in winter, this powder playground serves up some of the most challenging routes for snowsports.
Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Where to stay: Situated on the northwest coast, El Mangroove is all about location as the closest beach resort to an airport in all of Costa Rica (20 minutes from landing to the sand!). The all-inclusive hotel is complemented by environmentally-friendly design and values—twice a week, guests of El Mangroove are invited to plant native mangrove trees nearby.
What to do: In a town abounding with exotic wildlife, scenic waterfalls, and breathtaking coastlines, you don’t necessarily need to do anything here. But for the movers and shakers, there’s the Rincon de la Vieja Volcano National Park, fishing, beach hopping, and some of the best surfing in the world, of course.
Placencia, Belize
Where to stay: Belize is the place to be for the aquatic adventurer. Sirenian Bay Resort & Villas will feel like a home away from home in one of the beachfront bungalows, villas, or apartments, and the resort features a swim-up bar, hot tubs, complimentary kayaks, and paddleboards. Not to mention, it's located near some of the world’s best spots for snorkeling and scuba diving.
What to do: Among the most popular diving sites are the Belize Barrier Reef, Silk Caye, Laughing Bird Caye, and Glover’s Reef Atoll. Captain Jak’s can take your party on private boat excursions to a different location each day so you can fit them all in. On land, fly through the jungle on a zip line, spot exotic wildlife in the jungle, or explore nearby ancient Maya Temples.
Tucson, Arizona
Where to stay: Tucson's dude ranches are the quintessential place to immerse in the authentic Southwest scene. Try your hand at archery or enjoy sunset horseback rides at Tanque Verde Ranch. If rodeos and fireside entertainment are more your thing, settle in at White Stallion Ranch.
What to do: Tucson's downtown has been the city's hub of activity for well over a century, but the past several years have seen a rebirth. New shops, bars, breweries, and some of Tucson's hottest restaurants are proud to call downtown home. There’s a buzzing nightlife scene where you can find everything from saloons to sports bars to LGBTQ+ clubs. Of course, you can’t visit Tucson without venturing out to the cacti-dotted desert where you can climb Finger Rock or stroll along the Rillito riverbed. As a UNESCO-listed capital of gastronomy, you’ll want to try as much local fare as possible. Try the Fry Bread at Cafe Santa Rosa, get a chimichanga from El Charro, or snag a seat on the West Patio at The Grill.
Manchester, Vermont
Where to stay: The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa is the ideal destination for the discerning outdoorsman. Located in the heart of Vermont’s Green Mountains, The Equinox is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes no matter the season, and this perennial playground has much to offer year-round.
What to do: Go off-road with the Land Rover Driving School, learn English Churchill technique while shooting clays at the Orvis Shooting School, handle a trained hawk with a falconry master, or take up fly fishing on Vermont’s Battenkill River. Alternatively, unwind with a spa day or take a last swing before the ring at The Golf Club.
Palm Springs, California
Where to stay: With an average of 350 days of sunshine, an endless number of pools, and a classically cool culture, Palm Springs is a no-brainer for a beachless bachelor party destination. As a well-known LGBTQ-friendly destination, bachelor groups of all varieties will feel welcome here. Set up camp at Kimpton The Rowan Palm Springs, centrally located in the redeveloped downtown area. Here, urban enchantments meet epic scenery with contemporary suites boasting floor-to-ceiling windows and hiking trails from the hotel’s backyard.
What to do: The springs, the weather, the people—everything is hot in Palm Springs. Chill out in the city’s only rooftop pool at The Rowan, ogle the world’s largest collection of mid-century designs, or take a breezy Red Jeep tour through the Indian Canyons. Do dinner at Mr. Lyons, a favorite of legends like Frank Sinatra and Marilyn Monroe, brunch at Cheeky’s and order the bacon flight, or grab the Five Spice Crispy Chicken and a craft beer for lunch at Rooster and the Pig.
Austin, Texas
Where to stay: For a small-town vibe with metropolitan energy, Austin is the perfect party town for a varied group of groomsmen. City slickers will feel at home downtown at Hotel ZaZa, while rustic gents will enjoy lounging in the landscaped courtyards at Lone Star Court.
What to do: Golf at one of the famed courses of Hill Country, watch the bats’ nightly flight from the Congress Avenue Bridge, stroll the quirky stretch that is Sixth Street, or escape the urban scene and venture to West Austin for more of a local vibe and lakeside lazing. Barbecue and Tex-Mex are essential in Austin. For the former, Franklin Barbecue is legendary for its ultra-tender brisket. For the latter, try the nopalitos tacos at El Alma.