Families will love the small-town charm of Beaufort and the wild horses on Shackleford Banks, not to mention the soft sands and warm surf of the Southern Outer Banks. Sorpresa is a dream dive – a 35-meter tower of marine life with crystal-clear visibility. In the shallows, coral reefs offer equally epic snorkeling. To the north a boat ride away you’ll find Witch’s Rock, one of the world’s most remote and spectacular surfing waves. Powdery white sand fringes glowing blue Indian Ocean seas. Sunbathers sizzle while snorkelers patrol coral-rich shallows.
At Allas Pool, you can take a dip in the cold seawater in between sauna sessions. And you’ll need to hop on a quick ferry to get to Lonna’s seaside saunas and terrace. Gorgeous beaches, old towns, and fewer crowds—for a fraction of the price. Saranda serves up turquoise seas and laid-back vibes, while Gjirokaster charms with stone rooftops and Ottoman architecture. These spots are kind to your wallet and packed with beauty, food, and fun.
Top Europe Destinations
If you’re near Ithaca, don’t forget to take a picture at the lookout in the iconic Taughannock Falls State Park, pictured above. With spectacular trails to one of the state’s highest waterfalls, the prize for staying here is the view. Part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Huascarán National Park, Chacas is the entry point to huge landscapes.
It’s undoubtedly among the best places to visit in the summer for those who love canyoneering and wading hikes. There are lots of options for wandering between narrow canyon walls with your legs submerged in cool waters. Since the 2011 Japanese earthquake and tsunami, Honshu Island’s east coast has seen a significant drop in tourism. That’s a great shame because it remains one of the country’s most historic and enticing regions. My pick is the beach at Nungwi Village on Zanzibar’s northern tip, where modern amenities mix with ukrabet games local life.
- Mr Gamb Casino stands out due to its memorable mascot—a well-dressed cat in a top hat.
- From bungee jumping off Kawarau Bridge to jet boating through canyons or skydiving over Lake Wakatipu — there’s no shortage of heart-pumping fun.
- Stroll through the Old City, visit centuries-old temples like Wat Phra Singh, or take a Thai cooking class.
- Milos’s dramatic volcanic landscapes lend it a lunar-like feel.
- Whether you want to relax or have an adventure, there’s a perfect summer vacation spot for you.
- During the shoulder seasons (May and June) you can find better deals, as rates tend to drop when the crowds thin out.
- The City of Light shines especially bright in the summer months.
Watch boat builders and fishermen launch traditional dhows from the beach. And end every day on the beach with a stay at Nungwi Beach Resort. Along the coast, wild beaches and atmospheric villages brimming with folklore beg to be explored. Fly into Bristol airport a few hours’ drive from Bude, rent a car, and hit the road.
Acadia National Park, Maine
- Discover the history of America by visiting Ellis Island and the symbol of freedom by looking up at the Statue of Liberty.
- From San Francisco down to LA, 450-ish miles of winding tarmac snakes its way through the California’s prime territory.
- Cool off along the shady River Walk, explore Spanish missions by bike, or dive into the food scene, from street tacos to elevated Tex-Mex.
- Mosques, markets, and museums — where East meets West in the most delicious way.
- Historic missions (including the Alamo), colorful neighborhoods, and Tex-Mex cuisine make it a great summer destination.
- However, its tropical climate means you’ll still experience hot weather year-round.
Summer escapes to Positano are a rite of passage for the European well-to-do and have become a beacon for US visitors too. Raise a Negroni from your lounger on Spiaggia Grande beach, sun shimmering over the Atlantic, and you too will see the light. In addition to lots of hiking trails along winding rivers, canyons, and ancient forests, you can spot wildlife like the American bison. Yellowstone is especially famous for its geysers and hot springs, as it’s located atop a volcanic hot spot. The most famous of these, of course, is Old Faithful, known for its regular eruptions since the 1870s. Nowhere is that truer than in Big Sur, where the St Lucia mountains crash into the Pacific Ocean.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Wander through ancient ruins, enjoy family-friendly activities in Chapultepec Park, and indulge in some of the best street food on the planet. Escape the European summer to explore the exotic wonders beyond. Bali, Indonesia, beckons with lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and pristine beaches. Discover the serenity of the Maldives, boasting overwater bungalows and coral reefs. Embrace the spirit of adventure in Costa Rica, where rainforests and pristine coastlines await exploration. The Amalfi Coast, Italy, invites you to its dramatic cliffs, charming villages, and delectable cuisine.
Planning Your Perfect Summer Getaway
It’s essential to book ahead for any popular attractions this summer, from cultural experiences to theme park tickets. We’re sharing a range of destinations to suit every budget and appetite, with activities to suit travelers of all ages. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, a family vacation, or solo travel, these 21 destinations are some of the most popular for summer 2025. From California’s sun-kissed beaches to New England’s charming towns, America’s coasts are great for summer.
One of the South’s best cities, Charleston has long had a thriving, dynamic culinary scene. Italian restaurant Legami opened in October 2024, and Seahorse, a cocktail bar from the Chubby Fish team, served its first drinks this past December. Grab a strong iced coffee and work from one of the many coworking cafés, then explore bustling markets or take a day trip to the Mekong Delta. For those who love museums, history, and old-world charm—these cities are filled with stories, traditions, and timeless beauty.
Despite its growing popularity, Bali remains one of the most affordable international getaways. The Jersey Shore isn’t just boardwalks and beaches—it’s a cultural institution for many East Coasters. From family-friendly Cape May to the nightlife of Asbury Park, the shore offers a range of experiences. Travel midweek in June or late August to enjoy lower hotel prices and fewer crowds. Current trends also shape where and how people choose to travel in summer. Eco-tourism is on the rise, with travelers seeking national parks, wildlife reserves, and destinations that prioritize sustainability.
Best Summer Vacation Destinations for Culture Junkies
Fourteen snow-capped peaks, including Peru’s highest in the Nevado Huascarán Sur, and 38 glacial lakes beckon adventurers and nature lovers into the wild. An atmospheric and historic town, it’s filled with wonderful Andean architecture and culture. For something different, don’t miss the raucous non-fatal bullfights, hosted at Ugo de Censi square. Nearby lie the pre-Inca archaeological remains of the Antash, Chagastunán, Huaraspampa, and Pirushtu. Summer is the height of the dry season in central Vietnam. Good thing too, as tiny Tân Hoá village is famed for its wet season flooding to the point where it gets completely submerged.
Consider a stay at Gundari, a luxury boutique hotel set on a cliffside with 30 bioclimatic villas, a solar-powered infinity pool, and unparalleled views of the Aegean Sea. She recommends Brush Creek Ranch and The Green O, both of which have all-inclusive packages for guests. In the summer, you can take in the beauty of Wyoming and Montana by horseback riding, fly fishing, hiking, rafting, and ATV rides through the Wild West. Castles, cobblestones, and cafes in a city dripping with history. Explore Prague Castle, catch a classical concert, or relax with a cold pilsner by the Vltava River.