Sedona, Arizona: Rejuvenate with Mother Nature and a Good Margarita

Sedona, Arizona is one of those places we always talked about visiting, yet somehow never managed to make it past the dreaming phase. We love hiking, we love the outdoors, and we love funky places. Besides, who could resist a long weekend in a place that brags about its amazing energy and vortices? We’re so there!

With our bags packed, gas tank full, sunscreen purchased, and GPS programmed, we embarked on an uneventful 8 hour car ride from San Diego to Sedona, AZ. There’s nothing like a drive through the Mojave Desert to make you thankful for AC and an iPod.

On our Sedona Bucket List:

• Hike, hike, and hike some more
• Visit a vortex
• Eat great food

Where we stayed: The King’s Ransom Sedona Hotel

We liked this hotel because of the ideal location, great value, free Continental Breakfast, hiking from the hotel, nice views, and swimming pool. Although the rooms are on the small side, we made good use of our balcony each evening while otherwise not spending much time in the room.

(Tip: there’s a convenience store located right next to the hotel – buy a case of local beer! Our room had a fridge.)

Sedona, Arizona is sizzlin’ and while certain months might be a bit hot for the average tourist to hit the Red Rock trails, there are plenty of cool things you can knock off of your Sedona Bucket List.

Here are a few Sedona Highlights:

Slide Rock

Enjoy the natural water slides…

Photo via hkdezigner

Cathedral Rock

This park is perfect for a picnic on a vortex by the river. Feel the good vibrations.

Margarita at Elote Café

Also known as one of the best restaurants in Sedona, El Nopal features the most amazing margarita of the day, so check the board when you arrive. We sipped on a Beet Margarita. Oh, and don’t skip the Elote appetizer made with fire roasted corn, spicy mayo, lime, and Cotija cheese. It’s delish. But really, order anything and you can’t go wrong… Ricardo loved his Chicken Enchiladas.

Take a hike

Get your hands on a map and choose a hike that’s suits both your interests and fitness level. All hikes are clearly marked: easy, moderate, difficult. Too hot to hike during the day? Consider a sunrise or sunset hike. Or, consider visiting anytime but summer.