50th Birthday Vacation Ideas That'll Top Every Birthday Yet!

Category: Our Resorts

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April 25th 2024Back to our Sandals Blog > > >

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One thing’s for sure �' it isn’t always easy to get a birthday just right. Even with hopes of ‘doing it big’ this year, sometimes we can end up doing the exact opposite because we haven’t put in the effort to make some real plans.

This year could be different! It is the Golden Jubilee Year after all. Whether you’re planning a 50th birthday celebration for yourself, your spouse, a family member, or a loved one, we’ve got tips to make this birthday one you’ll not soon forget. Keep reading to learn our list of the most amazing 50th birthday vacation ideas.

Get ready for the ultimate birthday inspiration!

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Vacation with family to celebrate your 50th birthday

Want to celebrate your 50th birthday in a big way with the ones you love? Why not go on a family vacation that includes children and grandchildren? If someone in your family is celebrating another milestone birthday you can combine the two! If this sounds like it’s right up your alley, here are some great ideas for you:

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1. All-inclusive family resort

Spending time at an all-inclusive hotel or resort might be just what you need to take your 50th birthday to the next level (or someone else’s!). Since the best all-inclusive family resorts tend to already have a celebratory ambiance and lots of activities, this experience can be great for making new memories with those you love.

Of course, we can’t speak of the all-inclusive experience without mentioning some of the many perks �' not the least of all being that your food, drinks, and entertainment are all included. At Beaches Turks & Caicos, for example, there is something for every member of the family to do, from spending time on the beach to indulging in some of the best gourmet restaurants around.

Beaches Resorts are also among the best Caribbean resorts with water parks, making make them a great choice if your 50th birthday celebrations are part of a multigenerational family vacation.

Expert tip: Planning on traveling to Turks & Caicos? Here are the 10 best places to snorkel in Turks & Caicos!

2. Theme park

Prepare to have a blast if you choose to go to a theme park with family and friends for your 50th birthday celebration. As part of the occasion, you’ll be able to completely let loose and let joy be the theme of your big day. Whether you choose to get on as many rollercoaster rides as possible for old time’s sake, stuff yourself silly with candy and tasty food, or just enjoy some of the more mellow rides and other fun attractions, you’re bound to have an amazing time with your family at a theme park for your 50th birthday!

3. Road trip

A 50th birthday can be the perfect excuse to check a few items off your bucket list. For some people, a road trip might be one of those must-do experiences. Of course, your 50th birthday road trip shouldn’t be like any average road trip! Pick multiple cities you’ve always wanted to visit and bring your family or friends along for the ride.

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As you choose your destinations, you can make things more interesting by letting your family and friends add some input. You can even consider going to places that you’ve visited previously but haven’t gone back to in a long time. The best thing about this road trip will be the new memories you’ll make and the old ones you can choose to relive along the way!

Celebrate your 50th birthday with ultimate relaxation

A mix of fun and relaxation will make for the perfect 50th birthday. Here are some of the things you can do if winding down is your ultimate birthday goal!

4. Head to a world-renowned beach

We can’t think of a better way to usher in your 50th year than with a beach blowout at one of the most spectacular beaches in the world! And by beach blowout, we mean indulging in a fabulous beach vacation on one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, like the Seven Mile Beach in Negril, Jamaica.

It’s sunny nearly all year round in Jamaica, so your birthday beach experience on the island can include as many sun-kissed days as you could possibly want, lots of cocktails, and heaps of relaxation.

If you choose to take your relaxation up a few notches by staying at an all-inclusive resort in Negril, you could have the additional advantage of themed parties, swim-up bars, gourmet restaurants, and lots of quality inclusions to make your 50th birthday the best one yet!

Good to know: Seven Mile Beach in Negril is loved by locals and visitors alike for its beauty, but also for the fun you can have while there, trying new watersports, diving, bathing in the crystal-clear waters, or just soaking in some sun!

5. Spa break

A spa break will certainly be a treat for your senses - and just in time to celebrate your 50th birthday milestone! This is one of those birthday activities that you can either do alone or with a few of the people who make you smile most. To plan a spa celebration, seek out a spa location that preferably includes both a pool and sauna. Sift through the list of treatments they offer to find the ones your body is most craving. If you want to make things more exciting, you can even think about going to an all-inclusive resort with spa services so you can look and feel your best on your birthday!

6. Foodie tour

There’s no judgment whatsoever (at least not from us!) if all you want to do for your birthday is eat as much delicious food as possible. For your 50th birthday, why not do this as part of a food tour that you can book well ahead of your big day? Options for birthday food tours can include pre-booked tasting tours that require moving around or even a visit to a particular city where you can enjoy a range of delectable options at local restaurants. You can decide whether you want to enjoy this activity solo or invite some friends and loved ones along. Whatever your decision, be open to trying new things and indulging to your heart’s content!

7. Wine tasting

There’s always a touch of romance, elegance, and sophistication to a wine tasting tour. These elements can come together perfectly to create a 50th birthday experience that’s all about appreciating the finer things in life.

California’s Napa Valley is quite popular for its wine tasting tours, so you won’t necessarily have to travel outside of the U.S. for this experience. You can invite one or more special people in your life to come along and sip on delicious wines with you. If you like the idea of a wine-tasting birthday adventure but you prefer to head overseas, consider Europe where you’ll find quite a few vineyards that are perfect for some birthday fun!

For a little adventure on your 50th birthday

Turning 50 is a great reason to add another adventure to your memory bank. Here are some activities you can plan to make your milestone birthday super exciting:

8. Water sports vacation

The best birthdays are those spent doing what you love. If being out on the water is what makes you happy, then a water sports vacation could be a great idea. You can combine an amazing water sports adventure with a beach or all-inclusive vacation.

Some of the water activities worth trying out on your 50th birthday include waterskiing, windsurfing, kayaking, sailing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Beaches all-inclusive resorts offer water sports as part of their vacation packages, so you won’t need to pay extra to enjoy these activities. That means more fun for you as part of your ultimate birthday getaway!

9. Hiking vacation

If ever there was a day of the year where you should just do what makes you happy, what you love, or what you haven’t found time to do in a while, it would be your birthday. For nature lovers, one of these fun-filled and wholesome activities could very well be hiking. If this idea appeals to you, why not throw on some hiking boots, pack some gear, and head on a hiking adventure for your 50th birthday?

Your birthday hiking adventure can involve a few of the trails you’ve always wanted to try. You could even consider staying in a log cabin to make the most of the experience. From forests to more mountainous terrain, you and your most adventurous friends and family members can have fun celebrating you and making new memories together.

10. National parks

Another option for anyone who loves the outdoors is a birthday getaway that includes visiting a national park or two. There are lots of national parks in the United States, from the sand dune variety to the tropical rainforest type, so it won’t be difficult to find some good ones to visit. One of the most popular national parks in the U.S. is Yellowstone National Park, but you should choose where to go based on the sort of experience you want to have.

If you have your heart set on some birthday fun that involves a national park, it will do you well to invite some close friends or family members along. As you all explore together, spend time in log cabins, take mountain walks and see wildlife in their natural habitat, you’ll be able to press the reset button just in time to start a new decade of life.

Once-in-a-lifetime sights for your 50th birthday

You’ll only turn 50 once. That’s enough reason to see some once-in-a-lifetime sights as you celebrate. Here are some of the best ones:

11. Northern lights

There are no ifs, ands, or buts about it: a 50th birthday is a milestone. That’s exactly why you should do something milestone-worthy, like finding a fun and cozy spot to gaze upon the Northern Lights!

Some of the top destinations in the world to see the Northern Lights include Iceland, Norway, Finland, Fairbanks, Alaska, and others. Where you go and the time of year will determine how nice of a view you get. Plan it just right and this could form part of an incredible 50th birthday vacation!

12. Seven Wonders of the World

Seeing the Seven Wonders of the World is on many people’s bucket lists. Unfortunately, not everyone can afford to see all of these in a lifetime, much less as a part of a single vacation. If you’re looking to do something out of the norm for your 50th birthday, consider exploring Chichén Itzá in Mexico, one of these phenomenal wonders that isn’t too far off from the U.S. This is archeological site was once was a pre-Columbian city built by the Mayans. A visit here comes with a blast of historical insight and information.

Another option to consider, if you don’t mind traveling further off, is the Great Wall of China. Either location certainly stands a chance of topping every other birthday celebration yet!

50th birthday ideas that are closer to home

If you don’t really want to travel too far for your 50th birthday, here are some celebration-worthy places within the U.S.:

13. Las Vegas

Birthdays and Las Vegas are almost synonymous. If you haven’t had this type of celebration at least once, your 50th birthday might be just the right opportunity. During your Las Vegas birthday vacation, you’ll have no short supply of entertainment. You can choose to try your luck at the casino, go to music concerts or shows, sightsee, or just take in the endless entertainment around. Even if you’ve been to Las Vegas before, you can relive some of the old memories and create new ones amid the bright lights.

14. New York

New York will let you do it all for your birthday. You can try the best dining, splurge on great shopping, or check out some of the most popular attractions in the city. A birthday celebration in New York works for those who want to take it easy, as well as those who want a bit more excitement for their big day. While there, it’ll be worth your while to visit places like the Metropolitan Museum, the Statue of Liberty, and the Empire State building as well!

15. Hawaii

Hawaii will definitely be an exciting place to celebrate your 50th birthday. Even thinking about it now, we can hear the traditional Hawaiian folk music playing and see the bonfires, leis, and hula girls! In Hawaii, you’ll find plenty of beaches to lounge on, and you can also do a bit of island hopping while there. By day, the lush landscapes will have you hypnotized, and by night, you’ll be able to enjoy the freshly caught seafood at the most happening dining spots on the islands!

16. Hollywood

Celebrate your 50th birthday with glitz and glamor like the Hollywood star you are! In Hollywood, California, you can enjoy going to the theaters, seeing the stars on the Walk of Fame, and even visiting Madame Tussauds Wax Museum where you’ll be able to get photos with the actual "stars". Keep your cocktail glass filled while indulging in the best restaurants and bars on the west coast, and keep your eyes peeled �' you never know which celebrity you might run into!

Celebrate to the fullest with these 50th birthday vacation ideas

Birthdays should really be all about making that celebrating person feel special, and there’s no limit to what you can do to celebrate a 50th birthday. With the birthday vacation suggestions above and some real effort, we’re confident you’ll be able to find the best place to go for a birthday vacation, whether you’re planning for yourself or for someone special!

Tip: What more can you wish for than unlimited drinks and food on the best Caribbean beaches, within a two-hour flight from U.S. shores? Now that would be a 50th birthday to remember! Check out the following family-friendly all-inclusive resorts and couples-only resorts, and pick your dream destination.

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Sandals Resorts Wedding Packages

Your next great adventure begins here. Whether you prefer an intimate elopement or a grand affair, every wedding deserves a week-long celebration with a little something extra. Sandals and Beaches wedding packages offer the best of everything from pre-wedding events to unique wedding day and honeymoon experiences.

Click to read more articles about Sandals Weddings: Sandals Resort Wedding Planning

TWO LOVE BIRDS PACKAGE

Applicable for 2 people.

Before You Arrive
• Wedding planning team
• Gift registry service and wedding website templates
• Preparation of documents for marriage license

Pre-Wedding Events
• Scents of Love Couples massage*

During Your Stay
• Onsite wedding event team: event coordination, setup & breakdown

On Your Wedding Day
• Bridal attendant*
• 10 digital images

At Your Ceremony
• Picturesque ceremony location*
• Pre-recorded musical accompaniment
• Rose bouquet
• Rose boutonniere
• Witnesses

At Your Wedding Reception
• Private one-hour cocktail reception
- Chef-inspired hors d'oeuvres
- Sparkling wine
- Reception table with white linen and white cushioned Chiavari chairs
• Two-tiered white fondant wedding cake with rose topper
• Private candlelight dinner with four-course menu and prosecco*

On Your Honeymoon
• Honeymoon dinner with sparkling wine at a resort specialty restaurant
• Honeymoon Package
- Chilled sparkling wine and sweet treat
- Romantic turn-down service on wedding night
- Breakfast in bed any morning of choice

For Your Anniversary
• One free anniversary night on a future stay with 7 paid nights in a Club or Butler category

SWEETHEART WEDDING PACKAGE

Applicable for up to 10 people

Before You Arrive
• Wedding planning team
• Gift registry service and wedding website templates
• Preparation of documents for marriage license During Your Stay
• Onsite wedding event team: event coordination, setup & breakdown
• 15% off select Red Lane Spa services for the bride and groom (not applicable to retail items)

On Your Wedding Day
• $200 credit towards select photography packages
• $200 credit towards select videography packages

At Your Ceremony
• Picturesque ceremony location*
• Pre-recorded musical accompaniment
• White or magenta dendrobium orchid bouquet
• White or magenta dendrobium orchid boutonniere
• White-cushioned Chiavari chairs

At Your Wedding Reception
• Private one-hour cocktail reception
- Chef-inspired hors d' oeuvres
- Sparkling wine toast, signature cocktail, and non-alcoholic beverages
- Reception table with white linen
• Two-tiered white fondant wedding cake with white or magenta dendrobium topper
• Reception table with white linen and white cushioned Chiavari chairs

On Your Honeymoon
• Honeymoon dinner with sparkling wine at a resort specialty restaurant
• Honeymoon Package

- Chilled sparkling wine and sweet treat
- Romantic turn-down service on wedding night
- Breakfast in bed any morning of your choice
• $100 credit towards either a private candlelight dinner, scuba, snuba, beach or pool cabana

For Your Anniversary
• One free anniversary night on a future stay with 7 paid nights in a Club or Butler category

This package is complimentary when Bride and Groom stay for 7 nights or longer in Club or Butler categories. This offer is available Monday through Friday, 9am-2pm and is applicable only to 10 persons. This offer does not apply to ReTie the Knot ceremonies. Certain restrictions apply. See terms and conditions

BLISS WEDDING PACKAGE

Applicable for 12 people or more

Before You Arrive
• Wedding planning team
• Gift registry service and wedding website templates
• Preparation of documents for marriage license
• 6th Room Free* when traveling with 5 paid double rooms between Sept. 1 - Dec. 20 (up to 5 complimentary rooms)
• 12th Room Free* when 11 paid double rooms travel between Jan. 2 - Aug. 31. (up to 5 complimentary rooms)

Pre-Wedding Events
• One-hour private welcome cocktail
- Heavy hors d'oeuvres
- Premium bar
- Cocktail tables with white linen

During Your Stay
• Onsite wedding team: event coordination, setup & breakdown
• 15% off select Red Lane Spa services for the entire group (not applicable to retail items)

On Your Wedding Day
• 20 digital images
• $200 credit towards select videography packages

At Your Ceremony
• Picturesque ceremony location*
• Pre-recorded musical accompaniment
• One speaker and one microphone
• Rose bouquet
• Rose boutonniere
• Rose bouquet for 1 member of wedding party
• Rose boutonniere for 1 member of wedding party
• White-cushioned Chiavari chairs

At Your Wedding Reception
• Private one-hour cocktail reception
- Passed hors d'oeuvres
- Premium bar, sparkling wine toast, signature cocktail, and non-alcoholic beverages
- Cocktail tables with white linen
• Two-tiered white fondant wedding cake with rose topper
• Reception table with white linen & white cushioned Chiavari chairs
• Private two-hour dinner reception with selection from the plated menus and a premium bar, non-alcoholic beverages including freshly brewed coffee and a selection of herbal teas

On Your Honeymoon
• Honeymoon dinner with sparkling wine at a resort specialty restaurant
• Honeymoon Package
- Chilled sparkling wine and sweet treat
- Romantic turn-down service on wedding night
- Breakfast in bed any morning of your choice
• $100 credit towards either a Private candlelight dinner, scuba, snuba, beach or pool cabana

For Your Anniversary
• One free anniversary night on a future stay with 7 paid nights in a Club or Butler category

EPIC WEDDING PACKAGE

Applicable for 52 people or more

Before You Arrive
• Wedding planning team
• Gift registry service and wedding website templates
• Preparation of documents for marriage license
• 6th Room Free* when traveling with 5 paid double rooms between Sept. 1 - Dec. 20 (up to 5 complimentary rooms)
• 12th Room Free* when 11 paid double rooms travel between Jan. 2 - Aug. 31. (up to 5 complimentary rooms)

Pre-Wedding Events
• One-hour private welcome cocktail
- Heavy hors d'oeuvres
- Premium bar
- Cocktail tables with white linen
• 2-hour private pre-wedding celebration dinner
• Wedding day treats : frozen fruit kabobs & small bites with sparkling wine for bride and groom (in-room while getting ready on day of wedding)

During Your Stay
• Onsite wedding event team: event coordination, setup & breakdown
• 15% off select Red Lane Spa services for the entire group (not applicable to retail items)

On Your Wedding Day
• $500 credit towards the Royal Romance photography package
• $500 credit towards the Ultimate videography package

At Your Ceremony
• Picturesque ceremony location*
• Pre-recorded musical accompaniment
• One speaker and one microphone
• Rose bouquet
• Rose boutonniere
• Rose bouquet for up to 2 members of wedding party
• Rose boutonniere for up to 2 members of wedding party
• White-cushioned Chiavari chairs

At Your Wedding Reception
• Private one-hour cocktail reception
- Passed hors d'oeuvres
- Premium bar, sparkling wine toast, signature cocktail, and non-alcoholic beverages
- Cocktail tables with white linen
• Three-tiered white fondant wedding cake with rose topper
• Reception table with white linen and whitecushioned Chiavari chairs
• Private two-hour dinner reception with selection from the plated or buffet menus and a premium bar, non-alcoholic beverages including freshly brewed coffee and a selection of herbal teas
• One sweetheart table to include white linen, standard place setting & 2 white-cushioned Chiavari chairs
• Two-hour DJ entertainment

On Your Honeymoon
• Honeymoon dinner with sparkling wine in resort specialty restaurant
• Honeymoon package
- Chilled sparkling wine and sweet treat
- Romantic turn-down service on wedding night
- Breakfast in bed any morning of choice
• $100 Credit towards either a private candlelight dinner, scuba, snuba, beach or pool cabana

For Your Anniversary
• One free anniversary night on a future stay with 7 paid nights in a Club or Butler category

RETIE THE KNOT PACKAGE

Applicable for up to 10 people.

Before You Arrive
• ReTie the Knot planning team
• Celebration gift registry and website templates
During Your Stay
• Onsite ReTie the Knot team: event coordination, setup & breakdown
• 15% off select Red Lane Spa services for bride and groom (not applicable to retail items)
• One 5x7 photo print
• One keepsake gift
At Your Ceremony
• Picturesque ceremony location*
• Pre-recorded musical accompaniment
• White or magenta dendrobium orchid bouquet
• White or magenta dendrobium orchid boutonniere
• White-cushioned Chiavari chairs
• ReTie the Knot commemorative certificate
At Your Wedding Reception
• Private one-hour cocktail reception
- Passed hors d' oeuvres
- Sparkling wine toast, signature cocktail, and non-alcoholic beverages
• Single-tiered white fondant cake with dendrobium topper
• Reception table with white linen & white-cushioned Chiavari chairs
On Your Honeymoon
• Honeymoon dinner with sparkling wine at a resort specialty restaurant
• Honeymoon Package
- Chilled sparkling wine and sweet treat
- Romantic turn-down service on wedding night
- Breakfast in bed any morning of choice
For Your Anniversary
• One free anniversary night on a future stay with 7 paid nights in a Club or Butler category

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