5 Girlfriend Getaways in Washington State (You too, Guys!)

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1. Unwind, Reconnect, and Soak Up Healing Vibes in Soap Lake

Escape the hustle and bustle of Seattle (or any city, for that matter) and visit the incredible landscape of Central Washington, carved out by the last ice age. There is a ton of sightseeing to do, including the Bavarian town of Leavenworth, Dry Falls (which used to be the planet’s largest waterfall), and apple country. Then when you need some pampering, head to Soap Lake, one of the best lakes in Washington State.

Soap Lake Resort and Spa

Known for its healing powers, the minerals in Soap Lake also have rejuvenating properties. It is so called due to these minerals occasionally creating bubbles in the water, resembling soap. Enjoy a spa treatment at any time, with mineral-rich mud near the shores. No reservation required!

While the above photo is not me, I have slathered on the mineral mud while giddy laughing ensued when it started drying and cracking like a lizard’s skin. We couldn’t stop giggling for 30 minutes, and to this day, it’s one of our favorite shared memories. Also — pro tip — bring dark-colored swimsuits. That mud stains.

Ready to soak in healing waters and reconnect with your favorite people? Book your pampering escape at Soap Lake Resort and Spa and feel the stress melt away — literally.

2. Escape to the North Cascades: Where Nature and Nostalgia Bond You

One of the best getaways in Washington State is of the North Cascade Loop. This scenic drive takes you deep into Washington’s remote forest land (think Twin Peaks – really beautiful, with just a hint of eerie). Here you will gain a new appreciation for “leaving the grid.” Put away that phone (yes, you CAN) and just be in the moment. Out here in the Pacific Northwest wilderness, the incredible beauty of the Cascades will inspire you like no Instagram photo ever can.

I once took the Cascade Loop solo to scout it for group trips — and when I stayed overnight in Winthrop, the power went out during a thunderstorm. Instead of panicking, the innkeeper handed out lanterns and wine to all the guests, and we had a spontaneous front porch wine night watching the storm roll over the mountains. It was pure Pacific Northwest magic.

The Cascade Loop Byway will take you 440 miles roundtrip and traverse the North Cascade Mountain range. There are also some of the best lake hikes in Washington along this road. Most people make the journey from Seattle and head east on Highway 20, but you can also start your journey in the east from Wenatchee. Leave civilization behind as your car gently gets swallowed up by the dense forest. It sort of feels like you are journeying into Narnia. Go with it.

You’ll need at least two days to fully explore this area. So you’ll need a place to stay the night. Picture cozy fires, mountain views, and wine-fueled laughs under the stars. Stay at Winthrop Mountain View Chalets and make the Cascades your home for the weekend.

3. Ferry Adventures and Whale Whispers in the San Juans

Let a ferry boat whisk you away to a cluster of islands in the middle of gorgeous Puget Sound. Dare to explore all of the islands: San Juan, Orcas, Lopez, Shaw, Stuart, Waldron, Decatur, and Blakely. However, the first four are the most visited, as these are the only islands that the state ferry system services.

Each island is very unique and each is definitely worth exploring. The largest town on these islands is Friday Harbor on San Juan Island and conveniently located right off the boat. You can make a great day trip by visiting just one of the islands, or take your car along (yes, they fit onto the ferry!) and fully explore them all.

Whale watch from your balcony with a glass of wine in hand. Book your stay at Friday Harbor House for front-row seats to ferry views, marine life, and girlfriend getaway magic

The rooms are well-appointed with gas fireplaces, and some have waterfront views so you can grab a glass of wine with your bestie and watch the ferries come and go. 

This is also prime whale watching territory, and the best months of the year to catch a glimpse of some killer whales, orcas, humpback and Minke whales is from May through October. Gray whales can also be spotted from March to May.

I surprised my sister with a weekend to Orcas Island once, and we booked a last-minute kayaking trip at sunset. About halfway through, a pod of orcas surfaced near our group — so close we could hear them exhale. We sat still in our kayaks, completely silent, just watching. It was surreal and emotional — something I never imagined witnessing up close.

4. Rainforest Adventures and Bear-Sighting Bonding in Olympic

I always wax philosophical about this incredible peninsula that holds America’s only temperate rainforest. My first trip was wonderful serendipity – I didn’t even plan it, but I got a good education about what to do (and especially what NOT to do). Then on my second trip, I was rewarded with a wonderful black bear sighting.

I also made it a mission to find the “Tree of Life” — the massive tree clinging to the cliffs above the beach at Kalaloch. We stood in awe on a rainy day, soaking wet and smiling like kids. That’s the thing about Olympic — it always rewards your persistence.

Whether you want a leisurely tour of the most popular spots along the perimeter of the park (Highway 101 runs all the way around) or you are a hardcore backpacker who wants to really dive in and explore the inner recesses of this incredible rainforest, Olympic National Park has got your back. Just don’t forget your bear spray!

Unplug, unwind, and listen to the rain fall in Washington’s magical rainforest. Stay at Lake Quinault Lodge — it’s the rustic-meets-luxury basecamp your soul didn’t know it needed. This property is a rare combination of indulgence and affordability.

It’s an easy 2.5-hour drive from Seattle.

5. Sip, Laugh, Repeat: Wine-Soaked Weekends in Washington’s Hidden Vineyards

What’s that, you say? Wine in Washington? Oh yes – very much so! In fact, the number of wineries in the central Yakima Valley region has grown over 400% in just the last 20 years! So come on down and get into some awesome wine tasting! Part of the reason why this area is fertile grape-growing farmland is because it shares the same latitude as the French regions of Bordeaux and Burgundy – and we all know that the French produce some of the best wines in the world.

Washington State Wine Tours

While grapes for wine are grown all throughout the state (even Puget Sound!) the highest concentration of wineries is located in the central and eastern regions. The leading varieties produced are Reds: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Franc, and Malbec. Whites: Chardonnay, White Riesling, Pino Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, and Gewűrztraminer.

At one vineyard in Yakima, the winemaker let us do a barrel tasting — straight from the source. He explained the difference between the same grape aged in American vs. French oak, and I was shocked how much it changed the flavor. It felt like we were getting a masterclass just for us. (Ask for barrel samples — many smaller wineries will offer them if you’re curious!)

Book The Lodge at Columbia Point and treat your girls trip crew to the wine country weekend you all deserve. They have great water views and a spa! Two of my favorite things in a hotel. 

Whatever your pleasure, there is certainly something in Washington State to celebrate by taking a vacation to this huge and varied Pacific Northwest region.