With balmy temperatures, long days, and endless hours of sunshine, I think the summer months in this country are the best time to create incredible memories! Here are my favorite spots from my time spent exploring during August…
1. Half Moon Bay, Northern California
I love this gem of a place located just south of San Francisco lies pretty Half Moon Bay! Like much of the California coast, it has a pleasant climate, although the nights can be cool and often foggy; this month has some of the best weather.
Many of North California’s best beaches, like Venice and Francis, are here. My favorite was Mavericks Beach, located just north of the town. I loved watching the surfers here and the waves that can reach 18m in height.
I also hiked and would recommend the Devil’s Slide Trail, a 2-kilometer trail with seriously incredible views of the dramatic coastline!
- Visitor’s Center Address: 235 Main Street Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
- Average temperatures – 19 degrees
My favorite highlights…
- Walking along the Coastside Trail, which stretches nearly 5 miles long and where I saw gorgeous views overlooking the ocean.
- Wandering along Main Street and discovering an array of shopping boutiques and fun dining options.
2. Mackinac Island, Michigan
Located in Lake Huron, this resort island has no cars, and the old buildings are beautifully maintained. I’m a massive fan of this gem because when I visit, I feel like I’m traveling back in time!
I recommend strolling down the town streets, admiring the Victorian buildings, and then stopping by one of the town’s 12 museums.
I loved the range of outdoor pursuit options, from sailing to strolling along the beaches. And if you have a sweet tooth, I suggest trying some local fudge. There is a 3-day event towards the end of this month that celebrates this local sweet treat!
- Visitor’s Center Address: 7200 Lake Shore Dr, Mackinac Island, MI 49757
- Average temperatures – 23 degrees
My highlights…
- Checking out the interesting Fort Mackinac which was founded in 1870.
- Discovering the incredible 146-foot tall Arch Rock!
3. Priest Lake, Idaho
I love this stunning beauty spot and the State Park that adjoins it! Located close to the Canadian border, it’s surrounded by high mountains and fir and cedar forests, the home of black bears, a few grizzlies, moose, and whitetail deer.
If you want to stay over, there are a few accommodation options, from resorts such as Hill’s and Elkin’s to do-it-yourself State camping grounds.
In my opinion, July and this month are great times to visit if you enjoy temperate weather (up to 29c) and want to hike, swim, or go boating.
I love the beauty and clarity of this lake, the rivers that feed it, and the breathtaking scenery; it’s a tranquil gem!
- Visitor’s Center Address: 174 Coolin, Idaho 83821
- Average temperature – 26 degrees
My highlights…
- Going hiking along the trails of the Selkirk Mountains and photographing the breathtaking views overlooking the lake.
- Hiring a kayak and exploring the waters.
4. Cambria, California 
I personally think there’s nothing better than a Californian summer road trip, and I love this relaxed and welcoming beach town located midway between San Francisco and Los Angeles. It’s ideally situated if you are traveling the iconic Highway One route, so I highly recommend stopping for a while.
In my experience, this month is a great time to visit. The weather is pleasant, with low rainfall, and it is perfect for hiking, cycling, and swimming. Moonstone Beach offers something for everyone, and I recommend beachcombing for moonstones or trying to spot otters or seals!
I also suggest strolling the mile-long boardwalk, visiting the nearby impressive Hearst Castle, hiking the Coastal Bluff Trail for beautiful coastline views, and visiting the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery.
While it is much quieter this month, this is when the bull seals finish their moulting, and I loved watching them relaxing on the beach. Cambria is also a foodie’s heaven, with many types of cuisine available and wineries just a fifteen-minute drive away.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 767 Main Street, Cambria, California 93428
- Average temperature – 17 degrees
My favorite highlights…
- Taking a stroll across the gorgeous Moonstone Beach, one of California’s most beautiful beaches.
- Walking through the historic downtown filled with shopping boutiques, restaurants and a cool micro-brewery.
- Hiking the very scenic Bluff Trail at Fiscalini Ranch Preserve.
5. San Juan Islands, Washington
I recommend heading north from Seattle to Anacortes for a fantastic summer trip to catch one of the Washington State Ferries. The ferry transported me to four of the 172 islands and islets of San Juan. The weather in the islands is pretty temperate all year round but at its best towards the end of summer.
One of my favorite activities here is whale watching. This is one of the regions where orcas and other whales can be seen year-round via the boat tours that set off from Friday Harbour on San Juan.
Each of the four main islands has its attractions, but I personally think Orcas and San Juan are the must-dos if you have limited time!
San Juan is the busiest and most populated island, but it is still tranquil compared to the mainland. I suggest visiting the Whale Museum to learn more about these magnificent creatures, enjoying one of the local restaurants, and picking an outdoor activity ranging from hiking to kayaking!
If you want more peace, I suggest heading to Orcas Island. It is home to amazing hikes, like the 6 km hike up Mt Constitution. On a clear day, you can see Mt Rainier and even Vancouver!
- Visitor’s Center Address: 165 First Street South, Friday Harbor, WA 98250
- Average temperature – 20 degrees
My personal highlights…
- Renting a bike and exploring the islands.
- Going on an adrenaline-pumping 3-hour ziplining adventure.
- Sampling mouth-watering locally produced gin at the island’s distillery!
6. South Lake Tahoe, California
I’m a big fan of Lake Tahoe, and not just as a winter sports destination. In my opinion, it has a lot of fun and activities to offer all year round.
Many trails range from children—and dog-friendly paths to more challenging routes. I tried, and I recommend the flat and accessible Spooner Lake Hike or the day-long Mt.Tallac Trail, which is 5 miles and rises 3,000 feet.
For the intrepid, I recommend the 265-kilometer Tahoe Rim Trail, which you can travel on foot, mountain bike, or enter for the Tahoe Triathlon at the end of this month! If you still have excess energy, I suggest spending your nights hitting Tahoe’s nightclubs and casinos—it’s a buzzing spot!
I loved the summer concert performances at the Lake Tahoe Outdoor Arena, which attracted big names like Lady Gaga. Alternatively, you can try the free concerts at Lakeview Commons.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 1901 Lisa Maloff Way, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
- Average temperatures – 26 degrees
My highlights…
- Enjoying live music at the Free Summer Concert Series on the Beach.
- Cycling along the paved trails took me past stunning mountain scenery and the gorgeous beaches.
7. Cannon Beach, Oregon
This place is an Instagrammer’s dream! Cannon Beach takes its name from a cannon washed ashore from the US schooner Shark that ran aground in 1846. I personally think all of Oregon’s beaches are picturesque, but this beach stood out to me for the striking 72-meter Haystack, which juts out of the ocean.
The rock is home to many nesting seabirds, such as tufted puffins and murres and at low tide, I recommend exploring the tidal pools at the base of the rock.
Surfing is popular here, and wildlife-watching is on nearby Ecola State Park trails. Although I didn’t spot any on my trip, bald eagles and Roosevelt elk reside here.
I found that the best weather comes towards the end of this month.
- Visitor’s Center Address: Cannon Beach Chamber of Commerce, 207 N Spruce | PO Box 64, Cannon Beach OR 97110
- Average temperatures – 20 degrees
My highlights…
- Taking surfing lessons!
- Dining on tasty vegan enchiladas at the upbeat Latin cuisine restaurant Mi Corazón.
- Hiking the Indian Beach Trail, which took me past gorgeous coastal scenery and incredible ocean views.
8. Stonington, Maine
I loved this tranquil gem! It has a population of around 1040 and an average temperature of 19°C this month. Stonington is a small but beautiful waterside city which was perfect for my low-key, relaxed summer break.
Bridges link Stonington and Deer Isle’s coastal towns to the mainland. Stonington is a quaint, scenic, and charming place. This month offers a cooler-weather summer break, perfect for those trying to escape the searing summer heat in other states.
To immerse yourself in the lifestyle here, I recommend trying all the water activities, like boating, kayaking, and swimming, and also sampling locally sourced food, which is delicious!
I also suggest exploring the numerous art galleries, the charming local opera house, and the cute gift shops, I found plenty!
- Visitor’s Center Address: 13 Atlantic Ave, Stonington, ME 04681
- Average temperatures – 27 degrees
My highlights…
- Wandering around Main Street in Downtown where I found design shops, art galleries, and boutiques.
- Spending the day relaxing and swimming at DuBois Beach.
- I checked out the Mystic Seaport Museum, where I learned about the history of Stonington.
9. Portland, Oregon
I’ve spent a lot of time in Portland, and I honestly think it’s at its best in summer, which is also its peak tourist season. If you visit this month, you’ll also see the beautiful roses the city is famous for.
I recommend heading to the International Rose Test Garden in Washington Park to see them and exploring the nearby Portland Japanese Garden!
I also love that many fun events are taking place this month, like the Pickathon Music Festival and the Soapbox Derby. The city also prides itself on bike-ability, so make sure you get involved in the annual Bridge Pedal.
This is a fun, family-friendly event and one of the world’s largest group pedaling events. Here, you can pedal streets closed to motor traffic.
If all that exercise has made you hungry, I recommend sampling food and craft beers at one of the many farmers’ markets or street fairs in the summer.
- Visitor’s Centre Address: 877 SW Taylor St. Portland, OR 97204
- Average temperatures – 27 degrees
My favorite highlights…
- Visiting the beautiful International Rose Test Garden.
- Taking a boat tour along the breathtaking Willamette River.
- Having fun at a summer music festival.
10. Glacier National Park, Montana
This one is for the nature lovers! This magnificent park is over 4000 square kilometers of forests and lakes and is traversed by sub-ranges of the Rockies. It is at its busiest this month, but in my opinion, the weather is ideal, making it a great time to visit.
It has been a resort area for over a century; the original hotels are now National Historic Landmarks. They were built to accommodate tourists coming to the Park via the Great Northern Railroad and the later “Going-to-the-Sun” road.
I recommend a night at the respected Many Glacier Hotel or Lake McDonald Lodge if you can afford it.
I also suggest going nature-watching, whether it is wildlife, birding or identifying some of the over 1100 floral species you’ll find here! If you are lucky, you’ll see the beargrass lilies in full bloom like I did!
- Visitor’s Center Address: West Glacier, MT 59936
- Average temperatures – 21 degrees
My highlights…
- Driving along the incredible Going-to-the-Sun Road, one of the park’s most scenic journeys.
- Catching a sunrise at the hidden Two Medicine landmark which was an unforgettable experience.
- Going paddleboarding at Lake McDonald.
11. Berkshires, Massachusetts
This well-heeled spot comes alive in the summer months, and on my trip, I discovered mountains, nature, and premier cultural events. I particularly loved Tanglewood, the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, where artists of every genre have appeared, from Yo-yo Ma to Earth, Wind, and Fire.
I also highly recommend visiting art museums, like the Clark in Williamsburg, which has works by Rodin, Renoir, and Degas and impressive silver and ceramic collections.
I also loved their scenic hiking trails, swimming in the numerous lakes, whitewater rafting and the fun ziplining!
- Visitors Center Address: 1Berkshire PO Box 4829. Pittsfield, MA 01202
- Average temperature – 27 degrees
My highlights…
- Watching a concert whilst enjoying a picnic under the stars at Tanglewood’s open-air venue.
- Hiking through Mount Greylock features the highest point in the state and great observation points.
- Going boating on Lake Onota.
12. Blue Lakes, Colorado
I came here for the gorgeous summer hiking and wildflowers and wasn’t disappointed! Colorado is famous for its scenic trails, mostly the 900-km-long Colorado Trail, but my personal favorite was the Blue Lakes Trail, which was a separate route in the Mt Sneffels Wilderness area in Uncompahgre National Forest.
In my experience, even the drive to the trailhead is a worthy detour and has some seriously incredible views. You can traverse the whole trail or try a short hike to Lower Lake, which is 5 km from the trailhead and has campsites.
I found trying to reach the other two lakes more challenging, but I was rewarded with outstanding views and pretty wildflowers. Species such as Indian paintbrushes, campions, columbines, larkspur, and lupins grow along the trail from July to mid-August, so you’ll be in for a treat!
- Visitor’s Center Address: Telluride, CO 81435
- Average temperatures – 19 degrees
My favorite highlights…
- Capturing Insta-worthy shots of the scenic views, flowers and lush surroundings.
- Soaking up the gorgeous sights overlooking the breathtaking turquoise lakes.
- Hiking the spectacular Blue Lakes Trail.
13. Beavers Bend Resort Park, Oklahoma
I think this is a great, family-friendly spot! Here, I went kayaking, hiking, and bike riding. I even went to arts and crafts classes and played bingo!
I was also impressed with their 18-hole golf course, volleyball courts, and water skiing on Broken Bow Lake, which was also an excellent spot for scuba divers (the water in this area rarely gets above a bracing 15C).
I loved the nature documentaries screened in the evenings and stargazing in the clear, unpolluted skies. Leashed pets are also welcome, and some chalets are pet-friendly, too.
- Visitor’s Center Address: Broken Bow, OK 74728
- Average temperature – 24 degrees
My highlights…
- Hiking the Friends Trail Loop and seeing incredible scenery.
- Renting a kayak on Broken Bow Lake.
14. Hot Springs, Arkansas
I loved spending a summer break in this Arkansas gem! This is an extraordinary place where 47 springs on Hot Springs Mountain provide the town below with 1 million gallons of water daily at a steaming 62c or 143F temperature.
The springs are mineral-rich and rumored to be restorative, and I found no less than eight historic spas in Bathhouse Row, which are maintained by the National Park Service and their gardens. My favorite was Garvan Woodland Gardens, which has a photogenic Japanese section.
The resort’s popularity created a building boom, even during the Great Depression, and Hot Springs is nearly as famous as Miami for its Art Deco buildings. I just loved kicking back and relaxing here; it’s a special place!
- Visitor’s Center Address: 369 Central Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901
- Average temperatures – 34 degrees
My favorite highlights…
- Hopping on the National Park Duck Tour which was a fun and unique way to explore Hot Springs.
- Checking out the entertainment-filled T-Rex Fun Spot.
- Going on a wine tour at The Winery of Hot Springs.
15. Seabrook, Washington
Located in the North Beach area along the central Washington coast, in my opinion, this is one of the best vacation destination cities in Washington!
The New Beach Town on the Washington Coast has about 450 newly built homes and 12 businesses; I love that it’s a small and pretty town without the bustle and rush of major city life.
The town is compact and walkable and was built to be a sustainable, urbanist community. I highly recommend parking your car and exploring the rest of the city on foot or a bicycle. The summer temperature averages 22°C, so this month’s weather is fine and comfortable.
I loved visiting the market, where I bought local crafts, Pacific Northwest food, and gift items, and visiting the numerous restaurants and bakeries for foodie treats.
- Visitor’s Center Address: WA-109, Pacific Beach, WA 98571
- Average temperature – 31 degrees
My favorite highlights…
- Exploring the unique shops at the Saturday market downtown.
- Going on a food tour and visiting the great restaurants, cafes and bars.
- Relaxing along the beach and enjoying picturesque views overlooking the coastline.
16. Long Beach Island, New Jersey
Part of a set of barrier islands in front of the New Jersey coastline, I thought this was a stunning spot! For those looking for a quieter and more relaxing holiday, I highly recommend Long Beach as it differs from its brash southern neighbor.
The island is about 30 km long and only accessible via Route 72 from the mainland. This route takes one through Ship Bottom, roughly at the island’s midpoint.
Only 10,000 people reside there permanently, but the population increases tenfold in the summer months. Although the weather during this month can be hot, I love that the cool ocean breezes reduce the heat and humidity in the afternoons.
I personally think all the beaches are welcoming and beautiful. My favorite was the Island Beach State Park near the Barnegat Lighthouse. I also loved visiting the historic maritime forests for bird-watching.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 265 West 9th Street Ship Bottom NJ 08008
- Average temperatures – 27 degrees
My favorite highlights…
- Paragliding over the Atlantic Ocean!
- Visiting the beautiful Barnegat Lighthouse, a landmark symbol of New Jersey.
- Having fun on a hot day at the Thundering Surf Water Park which featured many fun attractions.
17. Seneca, South Carolina
This is my choice for a budget-friendly break! Owing to its low cost of living and high quality of life, I personally think Seneca, South Carolina, is an excellent choice for an alternative summer vacation away from the crowds.
The city is situated in the northwestern corner of South Carolina and enjoys a gorgeous position in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It has a population of 8368 and a hot climate of 32°C in this month.
I love the large stunning lake where you can go kayaking and boating, the cycling and hiking trails, the museums, and even the casinos. In my opinion, this place would suit couples, families, and friends seeking a different kind of vacation for the summer!
- Visitor’s Center Address: 221 E North 1st St. Seneca, SC 29678
- Average temperature – 31 degrees
My favorite highlights…
- Going for a refreshing drink at The Spot on The Alley.
- Going boating on Lake Keowee.
- Exploring High Falls Country Park.
18. Block Island, Rhode Island
After I stepped off the ferry on Block Island, I felt all my tensions slipping away! Located South of Rhode Island, the island is predominantly a nature reserve, with only 1000 residents. Even at the height of summer, I love that the 25 km of beaches are still relatively uncrowded.
I loved sailing, swimming, and just lazing around on the beach. I would highly recommend visiting Cow Cove and the dramatic Mohegan Bluffs. I also suggest booking your ferry trip in advance, especially if you plan to take your car.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 4 Center Rd, New Shoreham, RI 02807
- Average temperatures – 25 degrees
My highlights…
- Hiking up to Mohegan Bluffs for a magnificent view overlooking the beautiful ocean and landscape.
- Checking out the Spring Street Art Gallery.
- Hiring an e-bike and heading out onto the scenic Clay Head Trail, the views of the scenic rocky beach and the bluffs were amazing!
