10 of the Best Places To Visit in March – My Top March Travel Destinations
March is one of my very favorite months to travel. Depending on where you live, March is the tail-end of a very long stretch of cold winter months, when we are all feeling a little (OK VERY!) vitamin-D deficient and are aching for those longer and sunnier days. March is the calm before the summer tourist storm, and the shoulder season in many popular international destinations (aka, fewer people and better prices!!). Not only that, early spring is also the perfect time of year to visit some of the world’s best desert destinations, when the temperatures aren’t scalding like in the summer.
Whether it’s a weekend escape you’re looking for, or an easy destination to travel to during the pandemic, or you’re cashing in all the PTO days you didn’t get to use last year, these incredible destinations are at their pinnacle in the early spring! So get packing and get relaxing…
THE BEST PLACES TO TRAVEL TO IN MARCH
Hawaii
March is the tail end of the rainy season, the temperature is mid 70s to low 80s during the day and gets a bit chilly at night. This is the perfect time of year to visit the dryer regions of Hawaii like south Maui, the southern and southwestern regions of Oahu, and Kohala Coast on Big Island. Prices will be more reasonable and tourist destinations less crowded! Plus the flight prices right now are UNBEATABLE! The Four Seasons Maui is my all time favorite accommodation, but there are also some gorgeous private homes on Airbnb like this secluded bungalow on the east side of Maui or this private Villa on the Big Island if you’re going with a group/family. If you’re looking for the ultimate luxury experience and have a large group, this villa is everything I’ve ever dreamed of!
You’ll need a negative PCR test 72-hours prior to departure on the LAST LEG of trip, no test required to re-entry mainland U.S. more information on their tourism site here!
Morocco
Spring is prime time for visiting desert destinations before the summer heat waves begin to roll in. So why not visit one of the most notable deserts in the world… the Sahara. Just a few hours ride via 4×4 jeeps outside Marrakech, Morocco, sits the largest desert in the world. There is something so magical about the stillness you find in the desert, disturbed only by the shifting sand and the sun as it traverses across the cloudless sky. Go glamping in style, ride camels and get up close and personal with the milky way. When in Marrakesh make sure you stay at a traditional Raid like this one and get a Moroccoan “bath” at a local spa.
Negative PCR test required 72-hours prior to boarding, rapid/PCR test required for re-entry into the U.S. (find where to get tested in Morocco and updated travel restrictions here).
Costa Rica
Experience the Pura Vida magic that is Costa Rica. Located between Nicaragua and Panama, this gorgeous country offers everything from lush mountain rainforests and waterfalls to black volcanic beaches. This is the perfect spot if you like a little adventure mixed in with your relaxation. March is mid-dry season, so your activities are less likely to be rained out and you’re in for long sunny blue-sky days. Check out the Arenal Volcano, take a horseback riding tour to hidden waterfalls and hike through the cloud forests of Monteverde. For the true Jetset luxe experience stay at the Casa Chameleon at Las Catalinas.
Or for sweeping views in the surf town of Santa Teresa, stay at this modern beach front palace or for ultimate luxury go with this one!
No COVID test required for entry, but you will need travel insurance and a test to re-enter the U.S. on your way back home.
Vail, Colorado
If you’re not quite over getting cozy by the fire or gettin rowdy at the aprés ski, head to one of the most idyllic mountain villages the U.S. has to offer! With endless backbowls, fine dining and top of the line spa’s-it doesn’t take much convincing to get your S-O to agree to this one. Head to “Garfs” for the real aprés scene. When it comes to where to stay in Vail, you can’t go wrong with the Four Seasons Vail, or if you’re going with a big group have this incredible mountainside chalet all to yourselves! Check out my Ultimate Vail, Colorado Guide!
Indoor dining is available at half capacity, no curfew is in place.
Aruba
Aruba is great at any time of year, but there’s something especially nice about the warmer temps when you’re coming from farther north in March. Take a road trip around the island, stopping for fruity drinks every chance you get, hang with the flamingos at the Renaissance Hotel and Casino’s private island (I’d recommend staying at the Ritz, but going there for the day!), and do a sunset sail through the crystal clear waters!! For more check out my Ultimate Guide to Aruba!
For entry you’ll need a negative PCR test within 72 hours (if your results are outside that window there is an option for testing upon arrival with quarantine until your results are back), you’ll also be required to complete The online ED Card.
The Maldives
Snorkeling, island-hopping and the turquoise Indian Ocean lapping against the most beautiful beaches you’ve ever seen… when it comes to the Maldives, the epic views are as frequent as the ice-cold cocktails. While the island nation is idyllic year-round, March is a great time to spot manta rays and sharks or simply relish the temperate days in the beach cabana. You guys already know you’ve got to experience my two favorite resorts – the Six-Senses Lamau or the St. Regis overwater bungalows.
You’ll need a negative PCR test 96-hours prior to your flight, a health declaration form 24 hours before departure, and pre-booked accommodation. To re-enter the U.S. you’ll need a negative test 72-hours prior to departure, many hotels are doing these tests on-site for guests.
Sayulita, Mexico / Punta Mita, Mexico
You’ll probably be surprised that Sayulita / Punta Mita is only 40 minutes away from the Puerta Vallarta Airport. While close in proximity, the vibe of Sayulita is unlike Puerto Vallarta or Cabo. In Punta Mita, you’ll find luxe, tropical resorts with all the best vibes, and in Sayulita, you’ll find yogi’s, surf bums, green smoothie drinkers and holistic health practitioners. If you’re looking to take some surfing lesions, try lots of different mezcals and enjoy authentic coastal cuisine, this might just be the spot for you! This laid back destination is ideal for Airbnb’s — for groups that want to go all out on a beach front villa check out like this one or this one! If you’re looking for something for 2-4 people this one is gorgeous!
Currently you do not need a COVID-test to enter Mexico, however you will need one to get back into the United States which you can get at a local health clinic/lab for $60-$180 depending on if you get a rapid test or a PCR (The U.S. will accept either)
Death Valley, California
The wildflowers have begun to bloom and the temperatures get up to the low 70s. This is the best time of year to visit Death Valley National park, seeing as how you might actually enjoy the weather outside rather than roasting. Hike through the salt-flats and then relax in the oasis that is the Inn at Death Valley -A tropical pal oasis in the middle of an unforgiving san strewn landscape. For an architectural experience stay in this modern desert airbnb.
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Joshua Tree
If desert-chic vacay is your vibe this spring like it is mine, this the BEST time of year to visit desert destinations!! Joshua Tree is home to some of the most unique airbnbs and VRBOs out there, from luxury desert penthouses with infinity pools, to rustic chic Airstreams, making it the perfect destination to get away from it all. Stargaze from your private hot tub, explore the eclectic cafes, hike around the natural rock formations and maybe do some thrift shopping! For an epic group trip check out this Airbnb, for something a bit more romantic go with this one, for classic Airstream “instagrammability” choose this one, and for modern boho vibes try this one!
Check out this article on all the best luxury airbnbs in Joshua Tree here
Bolivia
From Amazon lowlands to icy cold mountain peaks, Bolivia is like no other! This destination is definitely geared towards the more adventurous traveler, but the affordability and the natural wonders are well worth it. Take a 4×4 tour of the salt flats, experience the geysers and flamingos in the Rea National reserve and then unwind in the 5-star luxury surroundings of the Atix Hotel. Bolivia is also becoming an emerging wine-destination, many Michelin star restaurants have begun choosing Bolivian varietals over the traditionally favored Cabernet and Pino.
You’ll need a negative PCR test 72-hours prior to departure for entry, and another test 72 hours prior to re-entry to the U.S. Updated travel restrictions here.
