5 Places to See Before You're 30 ( Part 4 )

Seeing the world is a surefire way to enrich your life and learn, and some destinations are best visited while in your twenties. Amazing destinations around the world cater to the particular strengths and challenges of the twenty-something set. These spots might be more physically challenging or tougher on your schedule. They might be easier on the wallet, or a reveler's playground best appreciated while you can still stay up all night with ease. From urban hiking in South America to bar hopping in Europe, here are the 30 best destinations for young people and what they have to offer.




Lagos, Portugal

A lesser-known Portuguese city, Lagos is a high-energy beach destination that rivals even big-name Ibiza resorts. Take a speed-boat tour of coastal Portugal's grottos and caverns, relax on rocky beaches, and explore the surprising explosive bar scene that the tiny town totes. Be sure to stop by Cape St. Vincent—a cliff at the country's westernmost point where you can watch the sun set over an uninterrupted view of the sprawling Atlantic.


Costa Rica

Trek through the rainforest, swim under waterfalls, relax on the beach, and see some of the country's over 500,000 species. Costa Rica is known for its ziplining adventure tours, which take leaf-peeping nature tourism to a whole new level.


New Orleans, Louisiana

This family-unfriendly spot is a twenty-something playground: lined with crowded bars and void of open-container laws. Listen to jazz and eat incredible French and Creole food by day, and at night be ready for an exhausting bar spree.


The Grand Canyon, Arizona

Hike, whitewater raft, bike, and drive through America's most beloved and most breathtaking national park. If hiking isn't your thing, explore waterfalls and caverns at massive Havasupai Falls' bright blue pools. If hiking is your thing, this is the perfect place to cool off after an active day.


To Sua Ocean Trench, Samoa

A lesser-known destination, To Sua is Samoa's deep-ocean trench and a must-see while you're still up for a 100-foot jump into clear, turquoise water. The giant swimming hole is accessible only by a wooden ladder and the gorgeous salt-water pool is surrounded by other incredible natural wonders. It's joined to another massive swimming cavern via an ancient lava tunnel, and surrounded by thick gardens and wading pools.


By Shannon McMahon | Smarter Travel