Pasta picture frames don’t quite make the grade as a Mother’s Day gift once darling daughter’s grown, but time together—especially when it takes the form of a weekend getaway —is something Mom will always treasure. Here are a few ideas for trips for mother and daughters, from luxury spa retreats to scuba diving adventures, each with plenty of opportunities to raise a glass (or tea cup) to your mom.
Two for Tea: The Umstead Hotel and Spa (Cary, N.C.) has all the makings of a classic mother-daughter day combining spa treatments with the hotel’s coveted Afternoon Tea. Unwind and bond in the Umstead Spa’s two-story relaxation lounges, complete with heated open-roof current pool and indoor Jacuzzi. After a rejuvenating treatment, it’s a short stroll to the hotel’s art-adorned lobby lounge for Afternoon Tea. There, guests enjoy a traditional presentation of teas and treats, from tea sandwiches to scones, accompanied by live harp music. Visit www.theumstead.com or call 866-877-4141.
Pampering in Lake Placid: The 98-suite Whiteface Lodge (Lake Placid, N.Y.) has everything daughters need to treat mom to a luxury getaway surrounded by the beauty of the Adirondacks. The Pamper Yourself Spa Package for Two includes two 50-minute massages plus access to health and wellness classes, cedar wood saunas, eucalyptus-infused steam room, indoor/outdoor pool and hot tub. Also included are breakfast and suite accommodations with cast-iron gas fireplace, jetted spa tub and private balcony. Package rates start at $410; book at www.thewhitefacelodge.com or call 888-582-0505.
Palm Beach Spa Retreat: With the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Intracoastal Waterway on the other, the all-suite beachfront Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa in Florida offers sweeping views and palm-fringed sands. The resort’s Ultimate Spa Retreat pampers mothers and daughters with a 50-minute spa treatment at SiSpa and access to all spa facilities, including steam room, heated marble beds, relaxation room with hot tea bar, private whirlpool, and waterfall showers. Rates start at $504; make reservations online or call 561-340-1700.
Pompano Beach Diving Adventure: One of Florida’s finest diving destinations, Pompano Beach is the perfect place to bond with an adventure-seeking mom. Fort Lauderdale Marriott Pompano Beach Resort & Spa is offering a Discover Scuba Package that includes beachfront accommodations and all of the scuba diving basics mom and daughter duos need in the resort pool, before they head out to sea to experience two ocean dives (rental equipment provided). The package begins at $339; book online or call 855-954-4683.
Martinis and Mountain Hikes: Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain, one of Scottsdale, Arizona’s premier resorts, provides the perfect backdrop for a sun-soaked mother-daughter luxury adventure. The BFF Retreat package includes three nights’ accommodations; a martini kit in-room upon arrival; daily breakfast; a guided hike up Camelback Mountain; and a Bento box lunch to be enjoyed by the sparkling infinity pool. To reserve, visit www.sanctuaryaz.com or call 855-245-2051.
A Thousand Thanks: Treat Mom to an epicurean Thousand Islands getaway at AAA Four Diamond-rated 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel on the St. Lawrence riverfront in Clayton, N.Y. The hotel’s Wine Tasting package offers tastings at two nearby vineyards, including the award-winning Coyote Moon; a selection of locally made River Rat Cheese; and breakfast for two in the hotel’s restaurant, Seaway Grille. Visit www.1000islandsharborhotel.com or call 315-686-1100.
Pink & Green Spring Fling: Martha Vineyard’s historic Harbor View Hotel is a timeless choice for moms and daughters taking part in Pink & Green – the island’s annual celebration of spring and Mother’s Day, May 6-8. The iconic hotel’s Lighthouse Spa Package features breakfast in the signature Lighthouse Grill and a relaxing in-room spa treatment at the hands of an expert masseuse. Book at www.harbor-view.com or call 508-627-7000.
Classic Vineyard Vacation: Kelley House, a quaint retreat in the heart of Edgartown on Martha’s Vineyard, offers prime access to shops and restaurants, the town’s harbor and lighthouse. The inn’s historic Newes of America Pub is the perfect place to toast Mom with a pint of craft beer paired with classic pub-style fare, while the outdoor Wave Bar serves creative cocktails and small plates by the pool. Active mothers and daughters can hop on the Kelley House’s branded bikes to explore the island’s trails and streets. For reservations, visit www.kelley-house.com or call 508-627-7900.
Double (or Triple) the Fun on the Cape: Make it a three-generational mother-daughter retreat, or add a sister or two by booking the three-bed, three-bath cottage at Sea Crest Beach Hotel (North Falmouth, Mass.). This quintessential Cape Cod retreat on the private sands of Old Silver Beach is home to Red’s restaurant, an indoor pool, and water-view rooms decorated in classic Cape style. The hotel’s private cottage features a private deck and back yard, fire pit, kitchenette, and large fireplace, perfect for family bonding. Reserve at www.seacrestbeachhotel.com or call 508-540-9400.
A Carefree Cottage in Nantucket: Harborview Nantucket’s charming compound of 11 luxurious vacation cottages – each utterly distinct, offers rare harborfront access just steps from the attractions of Main Street. A range of cottage sizes, from one to four bedrooms, accommodate everyone from mothers and daughters to grandmothers and girlfriends. Cottage amenities include a full kitchen, spacious living and dining areas, a washer and dryer, and complimentary Cisco Brewery assorted beers and local wine upon arrival. Exceptional guest services and an attentive staff make planning the ultimate Mother’ Day celebration a worry-free treat. Visit www.harborviewnantucket.com or call 508-228-4423.