This Labor Day, leave the crowded streets and city heat to explore a more peaceful waterside paradise. Just a short detour from four major cities (and airports), the following destinations offer a chance to relax, cool off, and celebrate the conclusion of summer.
1. Sausalito, CA
Watch the evening fog spill over the iconic Golden Gate Bridge as you enjoy this city-escape without leaving the Bay Area. Enjoy a romantic getaway at the Cavallo Point Lodgelocated on the grounds of historic Fort Baker. Whether you want to hike and picnic among the tule elk and elephant seals of the Marin Headlands, or explore the charming seaside city of Sausalito, The Cavallo Point Lodge will make a fantastic home base. Fort Baker itself is worth an exploration, whether you are a history buff or just looking for some classic San Francisco photos. There’s also an extensive network of cycling routes with climbs by the sea and through enchanting eucalyptus forests. For an adventure inside, the lodge hosts many options: cooking classes, a new Well-Fit Outdoor Fitness program, and a Healing Arts Center and Spa.
2. Shelter Island, NY
You won’t be the only one leaving the sweltering concrete jungle of New York City behind on Labor Day, but leave the masses in the Hamptons and board the ferry for Shelter Island. With nearby access to Crescent Beach and Crescent Island public golf club, use the Seven Shelter Island Guest House as a hideout. This boutique B&B hosts a variety of lawn games and provides complimentary bikes guests to explore the island. For a fresh perspective, paddle the Peconic river by kayak or stand up paddleboard, then indulge your tastebuds in duck confit or filet mignon at the Vine Street Cafe.
3. Outside Chicago, IL
Yes, there are beach destinations near Chicago! White sand, great grub, and sunset dips exist all along the southern coast of Lake Michigan. Use New Buffalo, Benton, or St. Joseph as your jumping off points for a secluded adventure. Let the kids romp along the lake shore, or bring a beach towel and find your own sequestered corner of Warren Dunes State Park to watch the sunset. Bridgman’s Weko Beach hosts summer concerts, and Silver Beach Pizza celebrates the tastes of summer with a garlic greek pizza and schooner of beer.
4. Chincoteague Island, Virginia
Not far from the humidity of Washington, D.C. lie the breezy shores of Chincoteague Island. This oasis offers fun for the entire family — wild island horses at Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, crabbing and clamming adventure on the tidal shores. When you’ve had your fill of the salty Atlantic, return to the Island Resort for a dip in the pool or read a book out on the waterside deck. Just don’t forget to stop at local favorite Woody’s Beach BBQ for downhome surf and turf delights!
This post was posted by thehipmunk on Hipmunk’s Tailwind blog on August 13th, 2015.