According to a 2024 article from Fortune, adults spend nearly seven hours a day on screens. In the US, that number increased to just over seven hours daily. This alarming statistic takes into account that many people have desk jobs, which is a significant contributing factor, as well as the fact that our social lives have also shifted into the digital sphere. Think you’re the exception to the statistic? Go into your phone’s wellness settings and see how much time you spend on it on average each day. I can easily spend 10+ hours on my computer alone if it’s a hectic week at the office. There’s plenty we can do to limit our screen time, but sometimes a digital detox is necessary to recalibrate and separate ourselves from the constantly connected digital world.

Tech-free travel, or digital detoxing, has seen a rise in demand recently. The New York Times named it one of the top travel predictions for 2025, and Travel + Leisure recently explored the trend, explaining why people are finding it necessary to take advantage of tech-free retreats. Digital burnout is on the rise, and it has been linked to everything from productivity drops at the office to fatigue, mental health concerns like increased levels of anxiety and depression, sleep disruption (thanks, blue light), and so much more. It’s no secret why we’d want to toss the phone in a lockbox and trade our time staring at screens for staring at mountains or waves rolling in. We’re hungry to get back to spending more time in nature than cooped up scrolling through emails. We’re desperate to step away from digital hyper-connectivity and reconnect with the sounds of wildlife in their natural habitat. We’re seeking meaningful connections through conversation with a stranger in a distant town. Perhaps get a little lost and not worry about where we need to be.

With this in mind, we’ve put together a list of destinations perfect for a digital detox. Whether you’re planning your first trip of this kind or you’ve made a habit of taking these regularly, there’s a destination on here for everyone. Some of them are truly remote, meaning that disconnecting digitally due to a lack of cell or internet service will be unavoidable. While for some, that can bring immense relief, others might find it too anxiety-inducing, and that’s ok. The purpose of a digital detox is to create space for relaxation and calm the mind and nervous system. If having service available to disconnect digitally on your terms is a better option, there are plenty of spots on this list that are perfect for that, too.

Acadia National Park – Maine, USA

The US East Coast is renowned for its large cities, like New York, Boston, and Washington, D.C. The national parks and more remote areas of the East Coast aren’t necessarily overlooked or unknown, but they certainly don’t receive as much attention as the urban areas. Acadia National Park should be on every bucket list, whether a digital detox is on your radar or not. Located in Maine, Acadia is renowned for its hiking trails, lakes and ponds, lush forests, diverse wildlife population, spectacular ocean views, and mountains, including the highest point on the Atlantic coast. Rent a cabin, take in the views, and let your mind breathe without the distractions of technology.

Berkshires – Massachusetts, USA

The Berkshires are a rural mountain range in Massachusetts and Connecticut with a unique blend of outdoor recreation and lively culture. Located near several major cities, including Boston and NYC, the Berkshires are a great option for a long weekend getaway, although anyone looking for something a little longer will find plenty to keep themselves occupied. This region is known for its historic New England towns, Gilded Age Mansions called “cottages”, art and theater, and farm-to-table dining. The Berkshires are particularly beautiful in fall when the trees turn their colors for the season, but it’s an equally delightful destination no matter when you plan a trip.

Big Sur – California, USA

With some of the most beautiful views in the country, Big Sur, California, checks a range of boxes. Breathtaking ocean views? Check. Mountain hikes? Check. Intermittent service? Check. Locally-sourced, delicious food? Double check. The Big Sur region along California’s central coast boasts dozens of delightful and charming small towns, perfect for slowing down and disconnecting. For those who prefer to be surrounded by people, Monterrey and Carmel-by-the-Sea have the perfect balance of foot traffic and sleepy coastal town going for them. Those seeking a more secluded escape can find numerous options that are a bit more remote, such as Big Sur Lodge. Big Sur is the ideal destination for disconnecting from technology, reconnecting with nature, and spending valuable time with yourself.

Çeşme Peninsula, Turkey

Featured in the Netflix Turkish film, Chasing the Wind, the Çeşme Peninsula in Turkey has become a more popular vacation destination in the last decade, and for good reason. It’s beautiful and remote, offering the opportunity to slow down and disconnect while still filling the day with culture and adventure. There are many different places to stay on the Peninsula to fit whatever vibe you’re chasing. For example, Çeşme is a quieter option compared to Alaçatı, which has a more vibrant nightlife. Take up windsurfing lessons, something the peninsula’s coast is known for, take in the spectacular rock formations along the water, explore Çeşme castle, and indulge in the region’s rich culinary scene. The Çeşme Peninsula is renowned for its wine region, which dates back to ancient Roman times. While it's known for citrusy, sweet whites, Çeşme has plenty of rosés and reds to explore as well.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica entered my radar after watching Zac Efron’s Netflix docuseries Down to Earth. Costa Rica has become a popular vacation destination, but its numerous natural escapes make it an ideal spot to reconnect with yourself and Mother Earth. With two distinct coasts to choose from, Costa Rica offers a diverse range of experiences, from remote wellness retreats to luxurious resorts. Pick whichever fits your budget and the vibe you’re looking for. Enjoy coffee in its native habitat, visit the Nicoya Peninsula Blue Zone (and perhaps take home a few tips for a longer, healthier life), zipline through the rainforest, volunteer at an animal sanctuary, and taste your way through the rich culinary scene.

Dolomites, Italy

Located in the Italian Alps, the Dolomites have become increasingly popular for their numerous luxury travel opportunities. However, there are many ways to visit this picturesque region on a budget. It will take a little extra research and planning, but it will be worth it in the long run. The Dolomites lack what many popular cities in Italy have - fewer people. Because the region is more remote and spread out, travelers can enjoy northern Italian culture and cuisine without the dense foot traffic of places like Rome and Florence. For first-timers to the Dolomites, Where and Wander has a fantastic guide to planning your first trip.

Isle of Skye – Scotland, UK

Scotland’s Isle of Skye offers the perfect blend of history, nature, and magic. Lose yourself in thought as you take in the rugged coastline and dramatic seascapes. Discover Scottish history at Dunvegan Castle, a medieval fortress situated on Loch Dunvegan, offering a glimpse into the past. Chase myth and legend, and see if you can spot a fairy at one of the many Fairy Pools, Glens, or Bridges. Regardless of where you go and what you do, there’s not one bad site on the Isle of Skye. The scenery is unbeatable and just what you're looking for as you seek to slow down and disconnect from everyday life.

Jasper National Park – Alberta, Canada

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jasper National Park is located in Alberta, Canada, Northwest of Calgary in the Canadian Rockies. Banff, approximately two hours southeast of Jasper, is its more popular sibling. For those working on a budget, Jasper is a bit more wallet-friendly compared to Banff, and it’s also a smaller, slower town with fewer tourists. Those looking to fully immerse themselves in nature and disconnect digitally – and from people too – will find peace and quiet with showstopping views in Jasper National Park. Explore mountain peaks, wildlife such as bighorn sheep, glaciers, waterfalls, canyons, and much more in this destination full of natural wonders.

Lombok, Indonesia

Inspired by one of our favorite books, Eat, Pray, Love, Lombok is the ideal alternative destination to Bali, offering a slower and less crowded experience. With some of the most beautiful spots in the world, reconnect with nature by hiking volcanoes, swimming under waterfalls, or learning to surf in crystal clear waters. Connect with the local people to learn about their culture, enjoy delicious meals with produce picked fresh that morning, and soak in the silence at one of the many Hindu temples. Set your phone aside, leave the laptop at home, and slowly move your way through this Indonesian island.

Merida, Mexico

Located on the Yucatan Peninsula, you might be more familiar with Merida’s neighboring destinations, Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen. While still a fairly popular city, Merida is not as heavily visited as the other three. The capital of the Yucatan region, Mérida, is a cultural hub with vibrant city streets, a historic old town, boutique hotels with an abundance of character, delicious food made with fresh ingredients, and much more. The city has a significant French influence, most notably evident in its architecture and cuisine. The Champs-Élysées inspired the Paseo de Montejo, and influence from the French Renaissance and Art Nouveau is built into many of the buildings. Probably the most urban location on this list, Mérida is a fantastic option for a digital detox while still surrounded by a vibrant energy and friendly people.

North Cascades – Washington, USA

High on our bucket list, North Cascades National Park in Washington offers a level of scenic beauty that is truly unmatched. From glaciers to lakes, hiking trails galore to scenic drives, ample wildlife, and more, the North Cascades is the ultimate nature getaway. Its proximity to Seattle makes it ideal for anyone looking to escape the metro area or for visitors flying in from other parts of the world. The North Cascades are known for beautiful waterfalls, the largest number of glaciers in any other US national park outside of Alaska, and diverse wildlife like mountain goats. The lakes feature vibrant hues of blues and greens with crystal clear waters, and the mountains provide stunning rock formations throughout the park that you can’t experience anywhere else.

Provence, France

If “joie de vivre” were a destination, it would be Provence. If you haven’t been to the Provence area in France, you might already be familiar thanks to famous works of art. The southeastern region inspired paintings by celebrated artists such as Cézanne, van Gogh, Picasso, and Matisse. Renowned for its vibrant lavender fields, fairytale villages, and stunning Mediterranean coast, Provence is arguably one of the most beautiful regions in France. And if there is one thing the French truly appreciate, it’s slowing down and enjoying the simple luxuries of life. What job? The French do not live to work. They want to experience the beautiful things life has to offer and value face-to-face connections with friends and family. Conversation is a significant part of French culture, and that’s something that can't be adequately done behind a screen.

Head to our Instagram page and comment or shoot us a DM to share if you’ve been on a digital detox trip and where you went.

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