Image via Complex Original
Intro
Ah, spring. That beautiful moment between when the air is crisp, and the beaches aren't yet swarming with screaming kids. Sperry, makers of iconic shore-friendly footwear, suggest building your spring plans around the following destinations. Each one of these spots has the potential to clear your head and expand your mind, as you spend a little time without worries (or socks).
HONOLULU, HAWAII
Honolulu, Hawaii
Hawaii is best known for surf and sand, but there's more to America's Pacific Island paradise, and checking out the capital city of Honolulu is a great way to take in the region's diversity. The city is urban and vibrant, and has one of the busiest Chinatowns in the entire United States. Honolulu's Academy of Arts programs cool, cutting-edge stuff (current and upcoming exhibits focus on superhero iconography and tattoos), and the Pan-Asian food experience is not to be missed. And, of course, when you're craving the classic Hawaiin vacation, there's Waikiki, with amazing beaches, shopping, and nightlife
PORTLAND, OREGON
Portland, Oregon
Now that Portlandia is the hipster-indie-comedy hit of the decade, Portland jokes are pretty easy to come by. But the truth is, if Portland wasn't more or less awesome, it wouldn't be so easy to send up. This Pacific Northwest city sits at a confluence of rivers, and not on an ocean or lake, so it's a little bit of a break from the theme, but it's still got that nautical adventure vibe. With the perfect blend of outdoor ruggedness and urban style, Portland is the ideal getaway spot for people who are, well, cool. While there, be sure to imbibe both the locally brewed beer and locally cultivated wine.
MACKINAC ISLAND, MICHIGAN
Mackinac Island, Michigan
Mackinac Island is among this country's great escape destinations, perfect for those who need a break from the big city hustle. Mackinac Island has no honking horns or backfiring engines thanks to a strict no cars allowed policy. You reach this island in Lake Huron by ferry, and once there you get around on foot, by bicycle, or horse (we're talking old school). But everyone needs to regroup from time to time, and there's fishing, golf, and the traditional island pub crawl to enjoy.
NEWPORT, RHODE ISLAND
Newport, Rhode Island
The city of Newport could be the Museum of the American Baller, with its collection of colossal 19th Century mansions that once belonged to Vanderbilts and the like. The city still retains its ultra-premium vacation spot status, and sailing is one of the major draws, but you can still have an old fashioned good time at bars like the Atlantic Beach Club and the Clarke Cooke House.
NANTUCKET, MASSACHUSETTS
Nantucket, Massachusetts
If you're anywhere in the Northeast, and you want to experience the best vacation the region has to offer, you need to keep Nantucket high on your list of options. The location of summer homes belonging to everyone from Bill Belichick to Tommy Hilfiger, this island, whose Wampanoag Indian name translates as "Place of Peace," has long been a premium spot for maxing and relaxing. Take a stroll by Sayle's Seafood for a fresh-caught bite, and then head to the Chicken Box for a little local nightlife.