Vacations do not have to be spent relaxing on a sunny beach or by the pool. In fact, for many travelers, this type of vacation just seems plain boring. So let’s replace the beach with a mountain, the pool with a parachute, and get our adrenaline pumping. Here are the best destinations for adventure seekers and adrenaline junkies.

South Island, New Zealand

The landscape of New Zealand is incredible. Everything there is larger, wilder, and more rugged than basically anywhere else on the planet. New Zealand’s South Island, in particular, is the perfect place for any outdoor lover. Queenstown should be renamed the adventure tourism capital of the world. There is an endless list of activities, but they are not for the faint of heart. Skydiving, bungee jumping, heli-biking, paragliding, jet boating, white-water rafting, and zip lining are all available to you here. For adventure seekers looking for something a little milder, do not worry, the region offers some incredible hiking and skiing as well.

Canadian Rockies

The Canadian Rockies lie between British Columbia and Alberta, and encompass a stunning 7,814 square miles of national parks. There is no question that the region’s monstrous white-capped mountains and sapphire-blue lakes are worth taking in for yourself by foot. That is why hiking is one of the most popular activities in the Rockies. Whether you plan to do an organized venture or trek through on your own, there a few places that you definitely need to see. Hike the shores of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in Banff, where you can witness the incredible Valley of the Ten Peaks. Looking for a break from hiking? Kick up your adventure with a rafting trip down the Kicking Horse River. The most adrenaline-pumping adventure, however, is the heli-hike to the base of Mount Assiniboine, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, standing nearly 12,000 feet high.

Kenai Peninsula, Alaska

Kenai Peninsula is often referred to as Alaska’s Playground because it offers travelers an impressive 15,000 square miles of unforgettable wilderness adventure. This playground has things that will appeal to any adrenaline junkie. Raft down the intense Six Mile Creek, one of Alaska’s most difficult rafting rivers. With torrents of class 4 and 5 waves flanked by rocky cliffs, your heart will be pumping the entire way. For those that are trying to see some wildlife, including brown and black bears, moose, lynx, wolves, and foxes.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica has more than just sunshine and beaches. There is plenty of opportunities for adventurers to take a trip on the wild side down in the Caribbean. From white-water rafting and world-class surfing to volcano tours and zip-lines through the jungle, Costa Rica has something for everyone. The white-water rapids are some of the world’s best: Reventazon River and the Pacuare River offer more than 20 class 3 and 4 rapids. The zip-line courses give you an interesting perspective of the jungle in a uniquely thrilling way.

For more great travel ideas, please check out my travel blog.

The Top Travel Destinations For 2016 from Mack Prioleau on Vimeo.

Surfing is an ancient pastime, originating among Polynesian islanders and first recorded by Europeans in the 18th century. Hawaii is the center of modern surf culture, with Hawaiian George Freeth being credited as the “Father of Modern Surfing”. And yes, while the waves of Hawaii are undoubtedly an excellent place for surfing, why limit yourself to one set of islands? Here are some of the best locations around the world.

Cape Town, South Africa (7/25 – 8/1). The past few weeks have been an extremely fun time in Cape Town, South Africa. Check out some of the most recent places that I have been, including a hike up Table Mountain, surfing in Muizenberg, cage diving off of Dyer Island, and exploring the prison on Robben Island.

I am currently studying abroad in Cape Town, South Africa. During my time in South Africa I have been able to visit Lion’s Head Mountain, Mzolis Meats, a Springboks rugby game, and the Cape of Good Hope. Check out some of the pictures from my journey thus far and learn a little about the places I have seen.