If there is one day most American’s dread more than any other, it’s tax day. Let’s face it, even though we know it has to be done, it’s never very fun parting with your hard earned money every April.

So, while some people send their checks off to the government and call it a day, others love to use tax time as an excuse to plan their next vacation.

After all, what better time than after paying your taxes to reward yourself with a nice serene destination to enjoy for the rest of the year?

Sound like a plan? Let’s take a look at some hot spots that will help you relax and de-stress.

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Arch Rock, Mackinac Island, MINeed a place to relax? Why not head to an island that is so serene cars aren’t even allowed? You can find that at Michigan’s gem: Mackinac Island. For many, it feels like an “island suspended in time.” Stroll down the Victoria era streets, hop on a horse and carriage ride, and don’t forget to sample the fudge!

Fire Island, New York

Fire Island Lighthouse, Long Island New YorkWhen the hustle and bustle of New York City gets to be too much, most New Yorkers head to The Hamptons, which can provide its own traffic jam. But, instead of driving, take the ferry over to Fire Island. Here, you’ll find long expanses of sandy beaches, fun ramshackle bars, and delicious seafood to enjoy while watching the sunset.

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona, AZ Red Rocks

If nothing makes you feel more calm than natural beauty, be sure to consider a trip to Sedona. A two hour drive north of Phoenix, it offers not only amazing scenery with a desert landscape and red rocks, but also lots of stuff to do like jeep tours, hiking, and hot air balloon rides. It’s vibrant artist community also finds it to provide ample serenity for creativity.

Napa Valley, California

Napa ValleyRelaxation and wine? These two things go hand in hand and there are few better places in the world to enjoy a calming getaway than Napa Valley. Home to dozens of vineyards, you’ll never find a shortage of things to do here: wine tours, cycle tours, spa treatments, cooking classes, and the wine train are just a few examples.

Shenandoah Valley, Virginia

View From Skyline DriveTo say that the Shenandoah Valley is one of the more beautiful (and serene) destinations in the Eastern United States would be no exaggeration. The rolling hills, mountains, and spectacular natural beauty that you can find along the 105 miles of scenic byway will leave you relaxed and refreshed once you head back home.

As you can see, we’ve got a few destinations for everyone. if you love nothing more than relaxing on the beach, in nature, or with a nice glass of wine, you’ll find the perfect spot for your needs.

Just because you have to go through the stresses of tax season, it doesn’t mean you don’t deserve a little bit of relaxing vacation time! Now, what about you, what are some of your favorite serene destinations that you love to visit?