Moon Handbooks

For more than 30 years, Moon Handbooks have appealed to an eclectic group of travelers, from backpacking students to solo adventurers to families on vacation (and a budget). With expert writers delivering a mix of honest insight, first-rate strategic advice, and an essential dose of humor, Moon Handbooks ensure that travelers have an uncommon and entirely satisfying experience—and a few new stories to tell.

Moon Handbooks

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P R S T U V W Y Z All

Moon Acadia National Park

Fourth Edition
Hilary Nangle

Journalist and Maine native Hilary Nangle knows the best ways to enjoy Acadia National Park, from biking through coastal forests and exploring iconic lighthouses to visiting quaint towns with great shopping and seafood. Nangle offers unique strategies that help organize trips around central themes, such as A Studio Tour: Artists and Artisans and The 3-Day Best of Acadia National Park. With details on hiking to ancient sea caves on Mount Desert Island, boarding a catamaran in Bar Harbor to observe whales and puffins, and enjoying fresh lobster at market price on the Schoodic Peninsula, Moon Acadia National Park gives travelers the tools they need to create a more personal and memorable experience.

Moon Alaska

Tenth Edition
Don Pitcher

Travel writer and nature photographer Don Pitcher covers the best of Alaska, from fine dining in Anchorage to backpacking in Denali National Park. Pitcher also includes various travel strategies such as The Best of Alaska and Along the AlCan. Complete with details on where to view wildlife at the Yukon Delta National Wildlife Refuge and the best spots to kayak in Prince William Sound, Moon Alaska gives travelers the tools they need to create a more personal and memorable experience.

Moon Alberta

Seventh Edition
Andrew Hempstead

Alberta resident and avid outdoorsperson Andrew Hempstead offers up his best advice on exploring Alberta—from dressing western at the Calgary Stampede to soaking in the hot springs in Jasper and hiking around Lake Louise. Hempstead includes unique trip ideas such as The Best of Alberta in One Week, A Wild Western Vacation, and Two Weeks on the Road. Complete with details on visiting the West Edmonton Mall and Dinosaur Valley, Moon Alberta gives travelers the tools they need to create a more personal and memorable experience.

Moon Angkor Wat

Tom Vater

A group of young monks, their robes a luminous orange, cross the causeway. A stone’s throw away, rice paddies and golden temple roofs of Angkor shimmer in the morning sun. Monkeys swing from the trees and elephants stand in the shade nearby, waiting for passengers.

This is the trip of a lifetime. It will leave you with a new sense of wonder — and some great stories to share. Expert traveler Tom Vater tells you everything youneed to know to make this trip possible in Moon Angkor Wat: Including Siem Reap & Phnom Penh:

• How to get there, how long it will take, and where to stop along the way — including information on the cities of Siem Riep, Battambang, and Phnom Penh as well as excursions to remote temples

• How to choose the best means of transportation, whether you’re traveling by tuk-tuk, taxi, motorbike, or bicycle

Moon Arches & Canyonlands National Parks

W. C. McRae and Judy Jewell

Seasoned travel guide authors W. C. McRae and Judy Jewell are back with an expanded look at Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. Packed with information on local recreation (including hiking, biking, rafting, and more), they provide detailed information on which sights should not be missed as well as how to best enjoy the scenery. From Island in the Sky District to Maze District, from Horseshoe Canyon Unit to the unrivaled beauty of Moab, Moon Arches & Canyonlands National Parks gives travelers the tools they need to create a more personal and memorable experience.

Moon Argentina

Third Edition
Wayne Bernhardson

South America expert Wayne Bernhardson gives readers his unique perspective on Argentina, from hiking in the Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego to viewing wildlife among the lagoons of Esteros del Iberá. Bernhardson provides suggestions for great trip strategies, such as the 21-Day Natural History Tour and 15 Days of Argentine Art and Architecture. Complete with tips on exploring historic sites like Plaza de Mayo and the pre-Columbian ruins of Quilmes, Moon Argentina gives travelers the tools they need to create a more personal and memorable experience.

Moon Arizona

11th Edition
Tim Hull

Freelance writer and news reporter Tim Hull offers up the best of Arizona, from rafting down the Colorado River to exploring the art galleries of Sedona. Tim includes creative trip strategies, such as Driving the History of Arizona and Feel the Heat: A Romantic Summer Weekend in Phoenix. As an Arizona native, Tim guides travelers to the Grand Canyon State’s best-kept secrets, including “sky islands,” small woodlands found on mountain ranges in the Sonoran desert. Explore Red Rock Country, visit the Navajo Nation, and hike in the Grand Canyon—Moon Arizona gives travelers the tools they need to create a more personal and memorable experience.

Moon Atlanta

Second Edition
Tray Butler

Skilled writer and journalist Tray Butler offers up his best advice on Atlanta—from the bustling financial Downtown district to the historical draw of Sweet Auburn and the fabulous food and arts of Decatur. Butler includes unique trip strategies for a variety of travelers, such as The Two-Day Best of Atlanta and Food to Please the Soul. Including expert coverage of Centennial Olympic Park, the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, the World of Coca-Cola, and Zoo Atlanta, Moon Atlanta gives travelers the tools they need to create a more personal and memorable experience.

Corresponding Author QA: 

Moon Atlantic Canada

Sixth Edition
Andrew Hempstead

Travel writer and Canada expert Andrew Hempstead offers unique insight into this historic corner of the North American coast, from swimming in the warm waters of Northumberland Strait to exploring bustling downtown Moncton and its lively nightclubs. Hempstead includes unique trip strategies that connect with travelers’ specific interests, such as Rugged Atlantic Canada—an outdoors-oriented itinerary—and Atlantic Canada’s Best in One Week, for those who want to see all four provinces but only have a week to spare. With information on how to find the freshest seafood, where to hang out on America’s oldest street, and when to get the best views at Peggy’s Cove, Moon Atlantic Canada gives travelers the tools they need to create a more personal and memorable experience.

Moon Austin, San Antonio and the Hill Country

Third Edition
Justin Marler

Musician and freelance writer Justin Marler offers his insider's perspective on Austin, San Antonio, and Texas's Hill Country, including where to take a leisurely stroll, rock-climb in the great outdoors, or catch a live show. Marler shares unique travel strategies like Texas Pride, Family Fun in San Antonio, and Hill Country Road Trip—an itinerary that will take you on a whirlwind horseback-riding, antiques-hunting, and wine-tasting tour. With expert advice on exploring the region's most interesting historic sights and dining on the best Tex-Mex money can buy, Moon Austin, San Antonio & the Hill Country gives travelers the tools they need to create a more personal and memorable experience.

Corresponding Author QA: 

Moon Baja

Ninth Edition
Nikki Goth Itoi

Seasoned writer and Mexico enthusiast Nikki Goth Itoi knows the best way to experience Baja—from exploring Valle de Guadalupe, Baja's wine country, to riding the waves at the region's premiere surfing spots. Itoi offers a variety of suggested travel strategies, including Island Hopping, Around the Cape in Seven Days, and Seaside Romance. Complete with tips on fishing and kayaking in Loreto and information on evening Art Walks in San José del Cabo, Moon Baja gives travelers the tools they need to create a more personal and memorable experience.

Moon Baltimore

Geoff Brown

As the former managing editor of Baltimore magazine and a long-term resident of the city, Geoff Brown knows firsthand why so many publications are touting Baltimore as a “hidden treasure.” Brown leads travelers to both the famous destinations and the little-known secrets, from historic sights like Fort McHenry, the birthplace of The Star-Spangled Banner, to the music shows and galleries of the art collective Wham City. Brown also includes unique trip ideas tailored for different kinds of travelers, such as “A Cinematic Tour de Baltimore” and “The Locals-Only, Never-See-Another-Tourist Way.” With details on visiting the National Aquarium and finding the best Italian food in Little Italy, Moon Baltimore gives travelers the tools they need to create a more personal and memorable experience.

Moon Bangkok

Fifth Edition
Suzanne Nam

Moon Living Abroad in Thailand author and Bangkok resident Suzanne Nam covers the best of Bangkok, from exploring the Buddhist temples of The Old City to bargain shopping in Pratunam. Using her insider's knowledge, Nam also guides travelers through the historic buildings of Dusit and along the meandering Chao Phraya River. Including unique travel strategies, such as Art Lovers’ Bangkok and Bangkok’s Best Eats, Moon Bangkok gives travelers the tools they need to create a more personal and memorable experience.

Moon Beijing & Shanghai

Second Edition
Susie Gordon

Journalist Susie Gordon offers her insider's perspective on Beijing and Shanghai, from experiencing the grandeur of the Forbidden City and slurping noodles at the open-air night market in Wangfujing to shopping in People's Square and strolling through Old French Concession. Gordon also includes many unique travel strategies, including Essential Beijing, Whistle-Stop Shanghai, and City Contrasts—a 10-day itinerary for a tour of both cities. From Beijing's well-preserved old hutong alleys to Shanghai's ultra-modern Pudong district, Moon Beijing & Shanghai gives travelers the tools they need to create a more personal and memorable experience.

Moon Belize

Ninth Edition
Joshua Berman

Writer and former Belize resident Joshua Berman knows the best ways to experience Belize—from hiking the waterfall at Lubaantun to riding horseback to El Pilar. Berman offers a range of interesting activities for every traveler, such as visiting Monkey River, bird-watching in the wetlands, and reserving a barstool at the Lazy Lizard at sunset—as well as unique trip ideas like Surf and Turf and Diving in Belize. Packed with information on dining, transportation, and accommodations, Moon Belize gives travelers the tools they need to create a more personal and memorable experience.

Corresponding Author QA: 

Moon Bermuda

Third Edition
Rosemary Jones

Bermuda native Rosemary Jones provides her firsthand insight into the best this balmy island has to offer, from shopping for duty-free treasures in the capital of Hamilton to exploring St. George's, home of the island's first settlers. Jones also offers creative travel ideas, such as Vacation with the Kids, On the Wild Side, and A Romantic Retreat. With expert advice on lounging on pink-sand beaches, golfing at the famous Mid Ocean Club, and scuba-diving on shipwrecks, Moon Bermuda gives travelers the tools they need to create a more personal and memorable experience.

Moon Big Island of Hawai'i

Seventh Edition
Bree Kessler

Expert traveler Bree Kessler covers the best sights and adventures that the Big Island has to offer, from soaking up the sun on Kona's iconic white sand beaches to sampling local delicacies at Hilo's popular farmer's market. Kessler also offers one-of-a-kind trip ideas, including Eat Your Way Around the Island, Big Island on a Budget, and Just Leave Me at the Beach—an itinerary for travelers who want to spend their entire vacation relaxing on the sand. Brimming with details on checking out the sea turtles at Punalu’u Beach County Park, tidepooling in Pahoa, and venturing up Saddle Road for the spectacular views at the Mauna Kea observatory, Moon Big Island of Hawai'i gives travelers the tools they need to create a more personal and memorable experience.

Moon Blue Ridge & Smoky Mountains

Deborah Huso

Virginia native Deborah Huso offers her firsthand experience and advice on the Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains—including North Carolina High Country, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and the Cherokee Indian Reservation. Huso includes travel strategies, such as More Than a Drive: Top Hikes Off the BRP and The 3-Day Best of the Smokies. Complete with expert tips on scenic drives, horseback riding, hiking, and camping, Moon Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains gives travelers the tools they need to create a more personal and memorable experience.

Moon Brazil

Third Edition
Michael Sommers

Journalist Michael Sommers guides travelers to the best that Brazil has to offer, from surfing, hang gliding, and enjoying the sizzling nightlife in Rio to venturing into the Amazon to witness the Meeting of the Waters, where the Rio Negro and Rio Solimões join to form the world’s mightiest river: the Amazon. Sommers also includes unique trip strategies like A Tale of Two Amazon Cities—which provides details on exploring the rainforest between Manaus and Belém—and Gastronomic Brazil, a mouthwatering tour of Brazil’s cuisine. With expert advice on viewing popular attractions like Iguaçu Falls and Corcovado, as well as escaping the crowds in less frequented places, like Bahia's rustic fishing villages, Moon Brazil gives travelers the tools they need to create a more personal and memorable experience.

Corresponding Author QA: 

Moon British Columbia

Ninth Edition
Andrew Hempstead

Canada resident and avid outdoorsman Andrew Hempstead gives you his unique perspective on British Columbia, from dining at the best of Vancouver’s 3,000 restaurants and cafés to skiing and snowboarding on the world-class slopes of Whistler/Blackcomb. Andrew offers unique trip ideas that utilize the region’s amazing outdoor options, such as Winter Fun and B.C. Road Trip. Packed with information on dining, transportation, and accommodations, Moon British Columbia has lots of options for a range of travel budgets. Complete with guidance on whale-watching near Telegraph Cove, hiking the Stanley Glacier Trail, and camping near Mount Robson, Moon British Columbia gives travelers the tools they need to create a more personal and memorable experience.

Moon Buenos Aires

Fourth Edition
Wayne Bernhardson

From exploring the museums and botanical gardens of Palermo and dancing in San Telmo's best tango bars to wandering the legendary Pampas, Moon Buenos Aires is the guide to the best that this popular South American destination has to offer, both on and off the beaten path. Complete with details for exploring Montevideo’s new Ruta del Vino (wine route), lounging on Uruguay's glamorous beaches, and taking in Argentina's burgeoning art scene, Moon Buenos Aires gives travelers the tools they need to create a more personal and memorable experience.

Moon Cabo

Eighth Edition
Nikki Goth Itoi

Mexico enthusiast Nikki Goth Itoi knows the best ways to experience Cabo—from hiking in the Sierra de la Laguna to visiting the amazing Pulmo Reef, the only coral reef system in the Sea of Cortez. Itoi draws on her extensive knowledge of Cabo to provide themed trip ideas, such as Surf and Dive Spots and Cabo Nightlife, plus in-depth coverage of the many activities available to travelers. With insightful advice on finding secluded beaches, diving shipwrecks, and grabbing a bite in La Paz, Moon Cabo gives travelers the tools they need to create a more personal and memorable experience.

Corresponding Author QA: 

Moon California

Second Edition
Liz Hamill Scott

Writer and native Californian Liz Scott covers the best that the Golden State has to offer, from day hikes through awe-inspiring Yosemite Valley to rest and relaxation at the resorts of Palm Springs. Liz offers many unique trip strategies, such as PCH Road Trip and a Food & Wine tour. Including expert advice on wine tasting in Napa Valley, exploring the Big Sur coast, and finding Gold Country ghost towns, Moon California gives travelers the tools they need to create a more personal and memorable experience.

Moon California Road Trip

Avalon Travel

The top destinations in the West are within a day’s drive of one another. See them all with Moon California Road Trip as your guide.

Detailed driving instructions tell you how far you’ll have to drive, how long it will take, and which highways you’ll need to follow—including information on alternate routes and the best places to stop along the way.

Day-by-day itinerary suggestions tell you the best ways to spend your time:
The 14-Day Best of the West
Three Days in San Francisco
Three Days in Los Angeles
Three Days in Las Vegas
One Day in Yosemite
One Day in the Grand Canyon
Day Trips to Wine Country

And 36 easy-to-use maps keep you oriented along the way.

Moon California Wine Country

Third Edition
Philip Goldsmith and Michael Cervin

Locals and wine lovers Philip Goldsmith and Michael Cervin have the inside scoop on how to best experience California's Wine Country, from swirling and sniffing lessons at Yountville's Goosecross Cellars to glider rides over scenic Santa Ynez Valley. Goldsmith and Cervin offer great trip ideas, including Weekend Wine Warriors, Understanding California through Wine, and Highway Hugging. Whether you're planning on doing some serious wine-tasting or simply taking a leisurely trip through some of California's most beautiful areas, Moon California Wine Country gives you the tools you need to create a more personal and memorable experience.

Moon Cambodia

Tom Vater

Author, journalist, screenwriter, and researcher Tom Vater leads you on an adventure through Cambodia, from the bustling markets in the capital Phnom Penh to the almost deserted tropical beaches around Sihanoukville and the lush jungles of Mondulkiri. Vater’s insider knowledge guides readers to the temple ruins of Angkor, traces of French colonial architecture, and Cambodia’s hardest road—from Sen Monorom/Mondulkiri to Ban Lung/Rattanakiri. With unique travel strategies such as The Wild North East and Seven-Day Tour from the Thai to the Vietnamese Border, Moon Cambodia gives travelers the tools they need to create a more personal and memorable experience.

Corresponding Author QA: 

Moon Canadian Rockies

Seventh Edition
Andrew Hempstead

Canada resident and avid outdoorsman Andrew Hempstead offers his firsthand advice on experiencing the Canadian Rockies—from rafting on the Bow River and hiking Lake O'Hara to staying in a remote log cabin. Hempstead includes unique trip ideas, such as A Week Under the Stars and Exploring the Canadian Rockies with Children. Complete with details on escaping the crowds at Lake Louise, viewing wildlife at Moraine, and dining in Banff, Moon Canadian Rockies gives travelers the tools they need to create a more personal and memorable experience.

Moon Cancún and Cozumel

Tenth Edition
Gary Chandler and Liza Prado

Experienced Mexico travelers Gary Chandler and Liza Prado know the best way to travel Cancún and Cozumel—from a relaxing getaway in Tulum to diving and snorkeling Islas Cozumel and Holbox. Chandler and Prado include engaging itinerary ideas for a variety of trip experiences, including The Best of the Riviera Maya and An Eco-Adventure Tour. Complete with details on the best beaches, recommendations for must-see attractions, and advice on where to stay, Moon Cancún and Cozumel gives travelers the tools they need to create a more personal and memorable experience.

Moon Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard, and Nantucket

Second Edition
Jeff Perk

Travel writer and photographer Jeff Perk offers his extensive knowledge on this classic New England destination, from friend clams and proper “chowda” to canoeing, windsurfing, and sailing. Jeff narrows in on the unique charm of the region, where travelers can sit on the beach alongside celebrities and then go eat friend clams on picnic tables and catch a drive-in movie. With details on accommodations, dining, and coverage of the lesser-known paths and waterways, Moon Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard & Nantucket gives travelers the tools they need to create a more personal and memorable experience.

Moon Charleston & Savannah

Fifth Edition
Jim Morekis

Connect Savannah Editor-in-Chief Jim Morekis shares the must-see sights and local secrets of Charleston and Savannah, from exploring the French Quarter to kayaking in the Golden Isles. Morekis includes unique trip strategies like Literary Lark—following the life and work of authors Robert Louis Stevenson, Edgar Allen Poe, and John Berendt—and his Kayaker’s Paradise tour. Including expert advice on walking the squares of Savannah’s Historic District and dining on she-crab soup in Beaufort, Moon Charleston & Savannah gives travelers the tools they need to create a more personal and memorable experience.

Corresponding Author QA: 
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P R S T U V W Y Z All

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For more Moon travel information, sign up for our monthly e-newsletter for updates on new travel guide releases, travel tips and trip ideas for those seeking adventure or relaxation, and expert advice from our on-the-go Moon travel authors.

Moon Travel Guides make independent travel and outdoor exploration fun and accessible. With expert and adventurous travel writers delivering a mix of honest insight, first-rate strategic travel advice, insider travel tips and an essential dose of humor, Moon Travel Guides ensure that travelers have an uncommon and entirely satisfying experience. Each travel book is filled with unique trip ideas, easy-to-use maps, and detailed information on sights, restaurants, and accommodations. Moon Travel Guides not only point you in the right direction, they inspire new ideas and adventure. Whether you are seeking a relaxing beach trip to Hawaii, or an adventure travel trip to the rainforests of Costa Rica, Moon guidebooks—and Moon.com—are with you every step of the way. Founded in 1973, the Moon Travel Guides series includes Moon Handbooks, Moon Outdoors, Moon Metro, Moon Living Abroad and Moon Spotlight travel books. Moon is based in Berkeley, California and is a proud member of the Perseus Books Group.