My best friends and I recently escaped for a girls’ trip to Sedona, Arizona. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, luxurious spa treatments, or simply a chance to relax and unwind with your best friends, Sedona offers it all. With stunning red rock landscapes, unique experiences, and the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, Sedona was the perfect getaway to explore and slow down our place while being close to nature. Here’s everything you need for the perfect girls’ trip.
Where to Stay in Sedona.
Amara Resort & Spa
This is where we stayed! If you’re after a chic, boutique hotel with stunning views of the red rocks, Amara Resort & Spa is your place. It’s a short walk from the vibrant Uptown Sedona, making it easy to explore the town when you’re not enjoying the on-site spa or infinity pool. It was extremely convenient and made it easy to go out or explore between our activities.
We debated between Enchantment and Amara and ultimately went with Amara because of it’s proximity to town and lower price point. Enchantment looks absolutely stunning though and would be great if you are looking to truly escape and disconnect. It’s tucked away in Sedona’s breathtaking Boynton Canyon and is essentially where luxury meets nature. Enchantment offers a serene, unforgettable experience.
L’Auberge de Sedona
L’Auberge was right next to Amara and looked equally stunning. Truthfully, this had been on my personal list to visit for years. It’s right along the banks of Oak Creek, L’Auberge de Sedona is a serene retreat that combines luxury with nature. The creekside rooms are peaceful and perfect for morning coffee or evening wine. For an extra dose of relaxation, indulge in their spa services or take a guided meditation by the creek.
What to Do: Adventure, Wine, and Relaxation.
Pink Jeep Tours
For a adrenaline-pumping activity, hop on a Pink Jeep Tour. We loved ours! There are several types of tours to choose from depending on how “adventurous” you’d like to get. Our tour guide was very informative as well. It’s a fun way to see Sedona’s remote areas, and it’s perfect for a girls’ day out.
Verde Adventures’ Water to Wine Tour
This was my personal favorite and I’d never been kayaking before! It’s a self-guided tour which begins with a scenic float down the Verde River in an inflatable kayak, offering gentle rapids and breathtaking views. The tour concludes at Alcantara Vineyards, where we enjoyed a private wine tasting session amidst the vineyard’s picturesque setting. It lasted approximately 2.5 hour and included a $20 credit redeemable for wine, food, or gifts at the winery.
Hike the Red Rocks
No trip to Sedona is complete without hiking the famous red rock formations. Start your adventure with a sunrise hike on Cathedral Rock Trail—the views are absolutely worth the challenge. For something a little less strenuous, try Bell Rock or Airport Mesa, both offering fantastic panoramas of Sedona’s landscape.
Vortex Experiences
Sedona is famous for its vortexes—spots where the earth’s energy is said to be particularly strong. Boynton Canyon and Airport Mesa are two popular spots for experiencing these spiritual centers. Whether you’re into metaphysics or simply love a peaceful, grounding moment, it’s an experience you won’t forget. Our tour guide said that men typically feel the vortex energy in their hands and women typically feel it in their mouths which I found interesting. There are also male and female vortexes!
Where to Eat.
Sedona’s dining scene is as vibrant and diverse as its landscapes. Whether you’re craving a fine dining experience or a cozy spot to enjoy local flavors, these standout restaurants will satisfy every palate.
Broome & Orchard
This was my favorite meal! For something a little more unique, Broome & Orchard offers an eclectic menu of globally inspired dishes, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The atmosphere is laid-back and stylish, and the small plates allow for a fun, sharable dining experience. Whether you’re sipping cocktails or enjoying farm-to-table fare, it’s an unmissable spot for foodies.
Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill
I also loved this restaurant for dinner and we ended up ordering a bunch of everything to split for the table – the yuca fries were a highlight! For a taste of South America with jaw-dropping views, it’s is a must-visit. Mariposa is upscale and serves up bold, flavorful dishes like wood-fired steaks and fresh seafood, all while offering panoramic vistas of Sedona’s iconic red rocks. The ambiance is elegant yet welcoming, making it perfect for a special night out or a romantic dinner.
Red Rock Café
Casual yet full of charm, Red Rock Café is Sedona’s go-to for hearty, comfort food. We got this tip from our Pink Jeer tour guide about their 3lb cinnamon breakfast roll and it definitely did not disappoint. We ended up going here on our way to the airport Sunday morning since it was a little further from down. The local vibe and friendly service make it a favorite among both tourists and residents.
Shorebird Sedona
If you’re in the mood for seafood with a side of spectacular views, Shorebird is the place to be. Located in the heart of Sedona’s thriving Village of Oak Creek, it serves fresh, seasonal seafood dishes, including oysters and fish tacos. With a relaxed, contemporary setting and a killer patio, it’s perfect for dining al fresco.
SaltRock Kitchen
We ate here on our first night because it was right inside the Amara Resort. Saltrock is a modern American eatery that embraces the bold flavors of the Southwest and you can see the red rocks right from your table. Think grilled meats, fresh vegetables, and handcrafted cocktails, all served in a sleek, rustic setting with sweeping views of the red rocks. It’s the perfect blend of fine dining and laid-back comfort.
Coffee Pot Restaurant
For a no-fuss, all-American breakfast or brunch, Coffee Pot Restaurant is a Sedona institution. Known for its legendary menu of omelets (there are 101 to choose from!), giant pancakes, and fresh coffee, it’s the spot to start your day before heading out to explore the outdoors. With a classic diner vibe and a loyal following, this place never disappoints.
The Hudson
For a laid-back but elevated dining experience, The Hudson is the perfect spot. Offering sweeping views of the red rocks and a delicious menu of contemporary American fare, it’s the perfect place to enjoy lunch with your girls. Their Short Rib Tacos and craft cocktails are must-tries.
No matter where you choose to eat in Sedona, you’re sure to enjoy a meal that’s as memorable as the scenery!
Where to Shop.
Uptown Sedona
Uptown Sedona is a great place to wander, with its mix of boutique shops and galleries. Whether you’re looking for Sedona-themed gifts, spiritual trinkets, or a new outfit, you’ll find it here. Our personal favorites were:
- Crystal Vortex where we stopped to pick up some crystals for ourselves and families.
- The Sedona Fudge Company which had freshly made Dubai chocolate amongst many other yummy treats.
- Sedona Permanent Jewelry which had those permanent bracelets I’ve seen everywhere lately. We all ended up getting “friendship bracelets” here so we could remember the trip and I love that we did this!
- Kokopelli Dreams had the cutest cactus totes and pouches with added embroidery for under $30.
Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village
This quaint, Spanish-style shopping village offers a variety of boutique stores, art galleries, and one-of-a-kind jewelry. Spend the afternoon browsing and picking up unique souvenirs like handcrafted pottery, local artwork, and gorgeous gems.
Where to Relax: Spas & Wellness.
Mii Amo Spa
For the ultimate indulgence, book a day at Mii Amo Spa. Nestled in the red rocks, this world-class spa offers everything from massages to wellness treatments. After a day of hiking or shopping, there’s no better place to unwind.
Sedona Healing Arts
If you’re looking for a more holistic experience, visit Sedona Healing Arts for a variety of wellness services. From energy healing to private yoga sessions, it’s a great way to recharge while experiencing Sedona’s unique spiritual energy.
When to Go.
The best time to visit Sedona is in the spring (March-May) or fall (September-November). The weather is perfect for outdoor activities—mild during the day with cool evenings—without the crowds of summer. If you’re after a quieter, more peaceful experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons when the crowds are thinner, and the hotel rates are lower. We went in June and it was over 100 degrees the first two days (but still worth it!).
Packing Tips.
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Comfy Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking and hiking, so bring comfortable shoes that can handle both outdoor trails and exploring Uptown Sedona. It’s a relatively casual scene so I didn’t pack any heels even for dinners.
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Layers: Temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day, so bring layers to stay comfortable. A lightweight jacket or sweater is perfect for chilly mornings and evenings.
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Sunscreen: The Arizona sun is strong, so be sure to pack sunscreen for all your outdoor adventures.
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Swimsuit: If your hotel has a pool or if you plan to visit a spa, don’t forget your swimsuit!
Sedona is the ultimate blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty—making it the perfect destination for our girls’ trip. Whether you’re hiking the red rocks, sipping wine, or indulging in a spa day, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, round up your besties, pack your bags, and get ready for a getaway you’ll never forget.
Have you been to Sedona? Let me know your favorite things to do and places to eat in the comments below!
Let me know what you think!