Summer camp season is in full swing. While arts and crafts, s'mores under the stars, horseback riding, field games and recreation were once reserved for kiddos ages 5 - 18, adults now have the ability to channel their inner-child, sense of adventure and curiosity with resorts offering pickleball clinics, private surf camps, target shooting, snorkeling, guided experiences, and more.
Here is a roundup of hotels and resorts creating the summer camp experience for adults:
Ventana Big Sur | Big Sur, California (pictured)
Ventana Big Sur, an Alila Resort, is set on 160 acres of rolling meadows and redwood forests in the heart of the California Central Coast, perched overlooking the Pacific coastline. This iconic property offers a wide variety of activities for an elevated summertime experience reminiscent of your fondest memories at summer camp. Begin each day with a morning yoga class or perhaps a guided hike around the property. Then, partake in one of the workshops and activities offered through the Alila Experience Program—options include Falconry, Photography Hike Workshop, Exploration in Chalk-Pastel / Acrylics / Watercolor, Classic Car, Classic Highway, and much more.. At the end of a day full of activities, head to the Social House for s’mores –– a gourmet version from the executive pastry chef or opt for a nostalgic version ready to roast on an open fire while cheersing to the day’s adventures.
Carmel Valley Ranch | Carmel, CA
Carmel Valley Ranch has always been an escape with plenty of room to roam, explore, and discover. The Ranch's 500-acre playground offers endless activities, dining experiences, relaxation opportunities, wellness programming and more for the entire family. Outdoor adventures abound among the gardens, beehives, trails, and the wonders of Carmel Valley –– with workshops and activities led by the property’s artisans in residence. Enjoy outdoor activities like archery, falconry, naturalist workshops, hiking, tennis, bee workshops at the apiary and more along with Equine Experiences, offering guests therapeutic ways to embrace and celebrate the power of horses. Head to the artisan workbench to hand-churn ice cream, wine taste, learn more about cheese at the on-site creamery –– then finish the day fireside with s’mores (and perhaps a nightcap) to reflect on the day’s summertime adventures.
Hotel del Coronado | San Diego, CA
Set on one of America’s most iconic beaches, this seaside getaway is an unparalleled site for a summer camp-inspired fun, with its private sailing excursions, surf lessons, stand up paddle boarding, Painting by the Sea. Power Hula fitness classes, bike tours and more to stay busy and soak up the summer sunshine. At night, guests can gather round their private campfire to roast s’mores (complete with all of the adult-friendly fixings like wine, cheese, berries and more), as a roster of summer movies are projected right on the beach, with the Pacific Ocean and glowing stars as a backdrop.
The Jefferson | Washington, DC
A jewel among historic hotels, The Jefferson is a magnet for cultured locals and modern travelers looking to connect and discover this summer. The Summer of Discovery package offers exploration beyond borders, by granting guests access to the property’s educational amenities such as time with the hotel’s exclusive in-house historian, self-guided itineraries, a daily F&B credit for culinary adventure, as well as premium overnight accommodations, parking, and late check out. Travelers can explore their taste buds at the fresh, seasonally inspired, The Greenhouse, located inside The Jefferson. Whether you’re itching to explore the rich history of America or seek to indulge in the city’s culinary delights, when booking The Jefferson’s Summer of Discovery package from now until September 30, 2022, you create an adventure to satisfy your own taste in travel.
Twin Farms | Barnard, VT
With adventures for every type of traveler, the best of New England is brought to life at Twin Farms — the casually luxurious, exclusive retreat settled amongst lush Vermont mountains. Create your own itinerary and let the adventures take you on a deep exploration of the Farm (and nearby surroundings). Relive your summer camp years in Relais & Châteaux style with a range of new fun and immersive activities that will have you gallivanting across the Farm in style. From hiking the lush terrain with supplied hiking gear, to fly fishing at the serene Copper Pond, to a day on the fields with archery and axe throwing. Feeling like going off-site? Use the new mountain bikes to explore, or take to the streets and tour around the local town of Barnard. Twin Farms has expansively expanded its activity menu offerings and privatized experiences to allow for the ultimate Vermont adventure year-round.
The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island | Amelia Island, FL
Nestled in the most North East corner of Florida, Amelia Island is a destination of unspoiled coastal beauty and Southern charm, exuding the feeling of a classic beach vacation. And with the property just unveiled new summer programming fitting for every type of traveler, now is the perfect time to get outside and explore Ameila Island! Spend your days outside with the property’s on-site Naturalist who has created various exciting new programming made to explore the island. Guests can participate in the property’s complimentary Daily Nature Walks where they’ll meet up with the Naturalist for a one-miles exploration of the barrier island’s dune habitat, go for the Shell and Shark Tooth Hunt, or explore the island by bike with the islands more than 40 bike paths. Or get on the water, with the property’s new private boat tours, Craigcat tours, and eco-kayak and paddleboard tours.
JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa | Phoenix, AZ
Set on 316 acres of sweeping Sonoran Desert, the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa embodies all things luxury, recreation and rejuvenation. Guests looking to get outside and relive their summer camp years can enjoy a round of championship golf at Wildfire Golf Club, featuring two 18-hole courses, the Nick Faldo Championship Course and the Arnold Palmer Signature Course boasting flashed bunkers and undulated putting greens which offer a unique challenge. Looking to play pickleball? The resort offers 17 new pickleball courts, a racquet center and certified pickleball instructors. Guests seeking endless pool fun can float down the adult-friendly Lazy River, dive down the 89-foot Serpentine Water Slide or stretch out in a private poolside cabana and enjoy upgraded F&B offerings at the exclusive Griffin Bay.
Epic Discovery at Vail Ski Resort and Breckenridge Ski Resort | Vail and Breckenridge, CO Adults seeking adrenaline-fueled, alpine adventure can head to Vail and Breckenridge in Colorado to try Epic Discovery. The Epic Discovery program encourages adventure-seekers to “learn through play,” promoting environmental education and forest stewardship with numerous fun experiential outdoor activities. In partnership with The Nature Conservancy and the U.S. Forest Service, Epic Discovery is a first-of-its-kind, comprehensive on-mountain summer adventure that features components such as alpine slides, mountain coasters, hiking/biking trails, summer tubing (Vail only), ropes course (Breck only), bungee trampolines, wildlife trail exploration and more.
JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa | Paradise Valley, AZ
Embodying the authentic spirit of the Southwest with its rich history, desert-inspired design and adobe-style architecture and nostalgic charm, JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa’s Camelback Golf Club features 36 holes across two 18-hole championship courses, the Jason Straka-designed 18-hole, 7,221-yard, par 72 Ambiente Course and the Arthur Hills-designed 6,903-yard, par 72 Padre Course. Set along rolling fairways and the Camelback foothills, natural beauty, native flora and fauna combine for a challenging round to sharpen your game alongside private golf lessons for guests of all ages. After morning tee time, delight in Sunday brunch at Rita’s Cantina & Bar.
Alila Marea Beach Resort | Encinitas, CA
Surfs up this summer at Alila Marea, located in Encinitas which was named among the 20 best surf towns in the world by National Geographic. Alila Marea features a quiver of surfboards available for hotel guests which include the complimentary Almond Surfboard Quivers and Fire Wire Quivers, which were selected in partnership with professional surfer and local resident Rob Machado. The property’s Beach Ambassadors can guide guests to the best waves and equipment for nearby breaks at Ponto, Grandview, or Alila, or sign up for lessons with the hotel’s local partner, Fulcrum Surf, a top-tier surf school.
The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee | Greensboro, GA
Set along 30 acres of shoreline and cradled by the Georgia pines, is a peaceful lakeside resort where adults can enjoy lakeside adventure and an endless summer. Adventure at Lake Oconee with endless land and lake activities such as mountain and water biking, canoeing, SUP, boating, fishing and much more. Resort guests can head over to the Sandy Creek Sporting Grounds for a day of sporting clays, archery and offroading; golf lovers can have a five championship golf course at their fingertips; and spa lovers can head to the spa for some lakeside indulgence. Every evening, guests can enjoy S’mores By The Lake at the rustic, lodge campfire. Life by the lake is timeless and is the perfect destination for all.
Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa | Kā’anapali (Maui), HI
Adults can kick-off summer with s’mores roasting at Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa’s beachside fire pits. Take in views of the sun setting over the Pacific, and neighbor islands Lanai and Molokai, while roasting s’mores with your kuuipo (love). The resort’s signature s’mores kit is $45 and comes with all the necessary s’mores fixings for two guests; guests can also upgrade their s’mores experience by adding on their favorite beverages!
Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows | Kā’anapali (Maui), HI
EFFECTIVE JUNE 13
Explore the many things to do, that make Royal Lahaina Resort and Bungalows uniquely yours. Three miles of sun-soaked sand. One of the world's best beaches. And gentle eaves and crystal clear water. Royal Lahaina is a destination with endless ways to discover and explore. And because there is so much to do, you get a vacation that's truly your own. One that delights at every turn and fine-tunes the art of traveling well.
-Pool and beach activities; kayak, paddleboard, snorkel or lounge poolside
-Wellness Activities daily: Yoga, zumba, polyfit, aqua aerobics, Alana spa
-Hawaiian Cultural experiences: Ukulele lessons, hula lessons and coconut husking and weaving demonstrations
Kā’anapali Beach Hotel | Kā’anapali (Maui), HI
At Kā’anapali Beach Hotel (KBH), adults get to not only experience the beauty of Maui, but also enrich themselves with classes, activities and experiences surrounding Hawaiian culture, from the moment they arrive until their Farewell Lei Kukui ceremony. From ocean activities center Moanaku’inamoku to cultural center Kawenaokeao to the recent $80M property-wide reimagination unveiled last July, guests can revel in the following complimentary cultural activities (the below is a mere sampling) designed to impact one of the five senses and fit for all ages:
-Pānānā: Learn about the various elements of nature utilized in traditional navigational techniques.
-Mele: Discover the development and history of Hawaiian music and songs. Learn a few chords on the ukulele and Hawaiian words in a mele.
-ʻOhe Kāpala: Learn how cloth was made and see the plants that were used. Guests will experience the process from beginning to end and decorate their own small piece of kapa to take home.
Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa | Kā’anapali (Maui), HI
Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa has launched several new activities on the property to give adults an authentic Hawaiian experience throughout their stay.
- Drums of the Pacific Luau: The resort has just revamped the Drums of the Pacific Luau as it celebrates over 40 years. In partnership with Tihati Productions, this nightly luau takes guests on a journey through the Pacific through authentic chants, songs and dances. A lei demonstration, a signature drum number and new costumes with a contemporary Hawaiian design into the show which bring elegance and education as well as high energy and excitement to welcome guests were recently added.
- Halona Kai Beer Garden: Guests can have both craft beer and a beautiful sunset at the Halona Kai Beer Garden. This pop-up venue serves locally made craft beer and seltzers from Maui Brewing Co. There’s also food, music, lawn games and plenty of outdoor seating.
- Tour of the Stars: Maui is the perfect place for astronomy, as it is just 20 degrees north of the equator which offers exceptional views of 80 of the 88 constellations. Known as the World's Top Hotel for Stargazing, Tour of the Stars allows guests to experience Maui’s crystal-clear skies from the rooftop of the Lahaina Tower. The tour is led by Edward J. Mahoney, the Director of Astronomy at the hotel and a NASA Solar System Ambassador.
- Astrophotography Workshop: Guests can head up to the rooftop for a stellar introduction to the world of astrophotography with NASA ambassador Eddie Mahoney. This special session is limited to a small number of guests to allow them to explore combining their camera with a brand-new Celestron Deluxe HD telescope to take photos of the night sky and deep space objects. Guests must provide their own DSLR or mirrorless camera.
The Residences at Aspen Valley Ranch | Aspen, CO
Aspen’s only amenitized and Les Clefs D'or serviced luxury private ranch community, The Residences at Aspen Valley Ranch features a small selection of fully furnished homes for rent (starting at $175k/month) on 813-acres and a land of activities to enjoy. Adventure leads the itinerary including horseback riding with a dedicated wrangler through the outdoor trails or in a riding arena, who will channel your inner cowboy/cowgirl and help become a horseback riding pro! In addition to the ranch’s Horse Barn, guests can also check out the Toy Garage, Gym/Pool House and more.
Four Seasons Resort Lanai | Lanai, HI
The sparkling island of Lanai is a secluded oasis across 90,000 where adults can embark on a nostalgic summer camp experience with the Holoholo Island Tour. Hop in a Jeep to explore the island with an expert tour guide who will share a wealth of knowledge about the rich culture and history of Lanai. Over four hours, cruise through the former plantation town Lanai City, see Shipwreck Beach, Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods) and more, and hear awesome stories about every spot!
Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort | Lanai, HI
Surrounded by lush foliage, pine-covered mountains and fresh tropical breezes, this adults-only wellness haven is set in the secluded highlands of Lanai offering the Guided Sensei Experience. Guests will receive a Daily Wellness Credit to use toward a one-on-one session and personal consultations; priority access to complimentary classes and lectures including yoga, meditation classes and guided hikes; spa hale treatments and island excursions; an optional orientation session with a Sensei Guide to review well being goals and collect baseline health markers such as blood pressure, body composition, hydration and a functional movement screen; and more.
Sheraton Phoenix Downtown | Phoenix, AZ
Get a one-on-one training session at Sheraton Phoenix Downtown’s renovated 3,200-square-foot Fitness Center featuring a partnership with Technogym, making it the first and only Sheraton property worldwide to fully outfit its Fitness Center with the technology-driven equipment. A Technogym trainer will be available upon request to personalize a workout fit to any guest’s needs using their driven smart-connected fitness equipment including Skillbikes, ellipticals, treadmills, and more.
Tides Inn | Irvington, VA
The Tides Inn 70-acre waterfront setting affords the luxury of space while feeling connected to the traditions that make getaways more memorable. With an array of accommodations, such as connecting guestrooms and the new Lancaster and Vista Hotel suites with separate bedroom and living space, this resort ensures there's plenty of comfort and room for all. Families can basque in a variety of programming, including hands-on learning activities such as the Chesapeake Gold oyster excursion, an experience as educational as it is tasty and fun that dives into the history and ecology of one of the most recognizable—and certainly most beneficial—underwater residents of the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Guided by the property’s ecologist, Will Smiley, shuck oysters like a pro alongside family members while learning how oysters are a keystone species. Additional amenities include signature restaurant Chesapeake Restaurant & Terrace, Fish Hawk Oyster Bar, as well as a pool, golf and spa available. The resort is pet-friendly so furry members are also welcome to join in on the fun.
INTERNATIONAL
Marquis Los Cabos | Baja California, Mexico
Located directly on the tip of Baja California Sur, Marquis Los Cabos sits beachfront where the desert mountains meet the Sea of Cortez. The adults-only, all-inclusive resort is a luxury take on summer camp for adults, with two infinity-edge sunset and sunrise pools and a roster of complementary activities to keep “campers” busy and enjoying the sunshine - from cooking classes, salsa dancing, tennis lessons, target shooting, beach soccer, archery, tequila tastings, mixology classes, and more. What’s more, after a day at play, the “dining hall” is actually five superb culinary options, with plenty of options to eat and drink while staring at the night stars.
Rancho La Puerta | Tecate, Mexico
Set on 4,000 private acres of gardens, mountains and meadows, Rancho La Puerta, the original “fitness resort” and spa, is the ultimate adult summer getaway. Providing a luxurious experience that offers a unique reawakening and spiritual mental escape ideal for the adult looking for a transformative wellness experience this summer, this primarily adults-only resort is complete with over 80 fitness classes, exhilarating hiking trails, rejuvenating spa treatments, therapeutic sessions, cooking classes, renowned speaker series and exciting water programming in the pool. A truly perfect adult playground, guests are sure to leave The Ranch feeling revitalized after customizing their dream wellness itinerary for either a 3, 4, 7 or enhanced 21-day stay.
Necker Island | British Virgin Islands
The world's most exclusive private island resort– and also, the ultimate all-inclusive Adult's Summer Camp! Available for exclusive buyouts only (except for a few select ‘Celebration Weeks’ of the year) travelers seeking a fully customizable adventure-packed holiday will have Sir Richard Branson’s private island to themselves, where they can spend the days kitesurfing, paddle boarding and kayaking over the crystal Caribbean waters or swimming with the sea turtles. On land, an array of action-packed activities awaits - from spending that day roaming the island and hanging out with any of the eight Giant Tortoises that graze the island freely, or in the Lemur and bird enclosures, to playing chess on an oversized outdoor chess board overlooking the unspoiled ocean surroundings. Or perhaps a tennis tournament at the famous Necker Island courts (home to the Necker Cup!) with the island’s tennis pro, or a beach Olympics set up across Turtle Beach. To round out the days, sneak up to the Crowsnest at night for stargazing as the shooting stars glisten over the Caribbean waters.
The Shore Club | Turks & Caicos
Creating the perfect adult-getaway, The Shore Club offers six-bedroom oceanfront luxury villas, perfect for a group of friends reliving the glory days. Do not forget about the four pools, a locally-inspired spa, three delicious restaurants including Sushi Night at the property’s signature Sui-Ren, and 2.5 miles of private beach and endless water activities including kayaks, hobie cats, paddle boards and kite surfing, there are endless activities for adult summer camp at The Shore Club.
The Palms | Turks & Caicos
The Palms, located on the award-winning Grace Bay beach, and known for its infinity pool with beach views and 25,000 sq ft. The Spa at the Palms, with its own dreamy water features and only-found-here treatments, has endless activities for adults to escape to paradise. Adult summer camp activities: The property offers Hobie Cat sailboats, snorkeling equipment, and kayaks for adults to enjoy exploring in and on the water. A fitness center and floodlit tennis court can be enjoyed by adults looking for friendly-competition. Not to miss, The Palms Turks and Caicos offers delicious boxed lunches to go. Head off on an exciting adventure of discovery around Providenciales and let us provide you with a nutritious and satisfying meal that will have adults reliving their school days.
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi | Malé, Maldives
Adults looking to adventure again like their younger summer camp selves but with the luxuries of being an adult offers - can head to crown jewel of the Maldives, the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi’s island paradise. With an idyllic backdrop of turquoise waters, white sandy beaches and Maldivian air the stage is set for adventure and exploration to unlock local treasures from resort offered sandbar excursions, to diving with manta rays, kayaking, fishing, sailing and so much more (full activity brochure here). Those looking to pick up a new skill or cross off a bucket list item can opt in group and private lessons like wakeboarding, kneeboarding, and surfing available for all levels. The resort will unlock the inner summer camper within guests with its endless menu of activities made of dreams. Explore the waters with trained scuba divers or snorkel the coral reefs and swim with turtles and dolphins - then retreat back to your “camp cabin” whether it be an overwater villa or maybe Ithaafushi - The Private Island to gather a summer camp crew and take over an island!
