With long days, big blue skies, and hours of endless sunshine, I think June is one of the best months to explore the States. From hip city breaks to gorgeous coastal towns, here are my favorite spots to explore this summer month…
1. Mackinac Island, Michigan
This place was a delightful departure from the modern-day hustle and bustle. I loved the slow-paced atmosphere and its Victorian-style charm.
The best time to visit Mackinac Island is from this month through August, when the weather is warmest. Mornings are fresh with cooler temperatures, so I recommend packing warm and summer clothes.
I loved the fantastic range of outdoor recreation activities, from cruising and paddleboarding to paragliding and kayaking, the gorgeous lilac blooms this time of year, and the family-friendly attractions such as mini-golf and the informative Butterfly Conservatory. I recommend walking, riding a bike, sailing, or simply relaxing!
- Visitor’s Center Address: 7200 Lake Shore Dr, Mackinac Island, MI 49757
- Average temperature – 21 degrees
My favorite highlights…
- Checking out the historic Fort Mackinac which was founded in 1870.
- Discovering the gorgeous 146-foot tall Arch Rock, which features in many local legends!
- Playing a round at the Wawashkamo Golf Club, which featured many unique natural hazards to make the game more interesting.
2. Bodega Bay, California
A popular Sonoma County getaway, Bodega Bay is a gorgeous coastal gem home to an art gallery, fresh seafood, quirky shops, and plenty of outdoor activities. I love its peaceful and laid-back vibe.
This month, the Bay offers clear skies, rainless days, and not-too-hot temperatures.
Summers in Bodega Bay are full of wildflower-laden coastal bluffs. I loved participating in the water activities, tasting local wines, hiking the trails, taking in the beautiful views and dining at the farm-to-table resturants.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 913 CA-1, Bodega Bay, CA 94923
- Average temperature – 16 degrees
My highlights…
- Soaking up the picturesque views of Bodega Head and the beautiful seaside cliffs.
- Going on a private sailing tour with Bodega Bay Sailing.
- Tasting the award-winning Sonoma Rosé wine at Halleck Vineyard Estate.
- Dining on sustainably produced food at Drakes Sonoma Coast, including delicious homestyle potatoes and sauteed mushrooms.
3. Put-in-Bay, Ohio
This is a gorgeous gem of a place, perfect for a low-key summer vacation. Daily temperatures average around 25 degrees during this month.
This quaint resort village is located on one of the most popular bass islands in Lake Eerie (the South Bass Island), and you can access it from the Put in Bay Ferry.
I loved visiting the International Peace Memorial, the Lake Erie Islands Historical Museum, the lakeside South Bass Island State Park, which has a boat ramp and a stone beach, the Heineman Winery, and the Perry’s Cave Family Fun Center, which features a limestone cave and a butterfly house.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 470 Loraine Ave #267, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456
- Average temperatures – 25 degrees
My personal highlights…
- Kayaking on Lake Erie.
- Catching a live country music band called ‘The Warped’ at the fun Roundhouse Bar filled with vintage decor.
- Going for a picnic in the green landscaped DeRivera Park.
4. Laguna Beach, Southern California
The mild climate, rolling hills, and sandy shores make this lovely town accessible year-round, but I personally think the best time to visit is early June through mid-September. The annual daytime temperatures are pleasant enough, the waters are ideal for swimming, and the town is buzzing with the Summer Arts Festival.
I loved seeing the blooming wildflowers, lazing on the beach, trying surfing for the first time, and gazing at the scenic canyons.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 381 Forest Ave, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
- Average temperature – 24 degrees
My favorite highlights…
- Going for a beginner’s surfing lesson and relaxing along the golden sands at Crystal Cove State Park.
- Hopping on the Laguna Beach Trolley which took me around the area.
- Going on a self-guided walking tour where I experienced the beauty of Laguna Beach at my own pace.
5. Chicago, Illinois 
I have always thought Chicago is a fun city. I love its historical buildings, fantastic food, jaw-dropping waterfronts, and world-renowned museums!
The best time to experience the Windy City is in late spring and early summer. Early summers mark mild temperatures hovering around 25 degrees, sparse crowds with soft rains, and clear skies.
On my visit, I dined at reputed restaurants (my favourite was Boka), strolled along the waterfronts and picnicked at Millennium Park—the city offers many things to do!
- Visitors Center Address: 301 E Cermak Rd, IL 60616
- Average temperatures – 25 degrees
My favorite highlights…
- Hanging out at the Riverwalk filled with bars, shops, restaurants, and awesome spots to people-watch.
- Checking out the famous silver mirrored bean and capturing an Insta-worthy shot in Millennium Park.
- Visiting the trendy and stylish Cindy’s Rooftop Bar for breathtaking views and great cocktails overlooking the city.
6. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts 
I’m a big fan of Martha’s Vineyard, a beautiful and charming New England isolated island off the Massachusetts coast.
Martha’s Vineyard is a scenic natural retreat. I recommend exploring the eye-catching architecture, classic lighthouses, sandy beaches, and quaint gingerbread houses.
In my opinion, the best time to visit Martha’s Vineyard is from May to September, when the temperatures average around 23 degrees.
Early this month isn’t peak beach season yet, which means fewer crowds and cheaper rates. On average, summers are full of sunshine and stunning sunsets.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 24 Beach Street, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568
Average temperature – 23 degrees
My highlights…
- Wrapping up warmly for a stroll along one of the beaches and escaping the hustle and bustle of the town.
- Discovering Polly Hill Arboretum, an Island landmark filled with shrubs, trees, and flowers from all over the world.
- Going on a guided tour and exploring the historic sites including the Oldest House, The Old Mill, and Greater Light.
7. Camden, Maine
Camden is a charming New England coastal town in Maine. It’s a picturesque seaport with a rugged coastline, scenic drives, gourmet foods, outdoor adventures, and friendly locals.
I particularly love that the town’s harbor is full of sailboats, embodying Maine’s “Vacationland” reputation.
I personally think the best time to visit Camden is between this month and August. Most areas of Maine have pleasant weather in mid-late summer, with averages hovering around 28 degrees and a gorgeous display of pink and purple wildflowers.
There’s a ‘secret season’ between April and this month when the weather is relaxed and hotels are less crowded.
- Visitor’s Center Address: Camden-Rockport-Lincolnville Chamber of Commerce, 2 Public Lndg, Camden, ME 04843
- Average temperature – 28 degrees
My highlights…
- Hiring a boat and checking out the nearby islands.
- Hiking up Mount Battie (located within the State Park) and seeing the gorgeous views overlooking Camden.
- Dining on freshly caught seafood at The Waterfront Restaurant.
8. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
This beautiful lake and resort city in southeastern Wisconsin is not crowded and makes a wonderful early summer break. The temperatures are warm this month, around 27 degrees.
I love that the scenery is beautiful, and the vibe is peaceful. One of my favorite spots is a shore path lined with Gilded Age mansions, including the sprawling 19th-century Black Point Estate and Gardens.
It was once the fine summer home of the Chicago beer magnate Conrad Seipp and is now open to the public. I suggest taking the tour to wander around its perfectly preserved Victorian furnishings!
My other favorite highlights include the gorgeous beaches, the Big Foot Beach State Park, home to some great trails and picnic areas, the Geneva Lake Museum, and the large, sprawling lake. You can go boating, paddleboarding, hiking, or biking around it.
I would also suggest finding time to visit a winery or distillery!
- Visitor’s Center Address: 201 Wrigley Dr, Lake Geneva, WI 53147
- Average temperature – 27 degrees
My highlights…
- Going on an adrenaline-pumping zipline course.
- Having fun at Timber Ridge Lodge and Water Park.
- Going for a massage at the spa in the Adventure Center.
9. Santa Barbara, California
Nestled in the foothills of the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara has a Mediterranean-like climate throughout the year, and I love its dreamy, elegant vibe!
With about 300 days of sunshine, remarkably consistent weather, and warm currents, Santa Barbara offers a relaxing day at the beach with pristine Pacific Ocean waters and excellent dining and shopping.
June temperatures average around 22 degrees, and if you visit towards the beginning of this month, you’ll see fewer crowds alongside the stable weather conditions.
- Visitor’s Center Address: State Street Visitors Center 120 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
- Average temperature – 22 degrees
My favorite highlights…
- Exploring the gorgeous shoreline with a sunset kayak tour.
- Checking out the State Street Promenade Market filled with artisan stalls, performers, and non-profit organizations.
- Going on the fabulous Santa Ynez Wine Tour.
- Dining on tasty veggie tacos at La Super-Rica.
10. Portland, Maine 
I think this is a fabulous destination! Living up to its “Vacationland” nickname, the city of Portland embodies the charm of New England.
With its ornate mansions, quaint buildings, lively downtown, long sandy beaches, and tiny islands, I am enchanted every time I visit!
Portland’s temperate climate offers mild winters and breezy summers, and this month to August is a great time to plan your trip. Summers are warm and mild, with just a few random cool spells.
I recommend lazing around on the beaches, swimming in the ocean, hiking, camping, boating, checking out the cute independent stores and immersing yourself in the incredible foodie scene here.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 14 Ocean Gateway Pier, Portland, ME 04101
- Average temperature – 23 degrees
My favorite highlights…
- Hopping on the ferry to Peaks Island, dining on fresh seafood and relaxing on the beach.
- Discovering the pictureque lighthouses.
- Going on a food tour and sampling the local food, including the tasty locally made pizzas!
- Dining on creative dishes like the tasty Hominy Succotash at UNION Restaurant.
11. Shasta Lake, California
This is a beautiful but relatively under-the-radar spot in California where you can have summer fun without the crazy crowds you’ll find elsewhere in the sunny state.
Located 10 miles north of Redding, it’s the largest man-made reservoir in California and offers around 360 miles of shoreline and a tranquil vibe.
This month, temperatures average around 31 degrees, making it perfect for a hot summer vacation. The area has plenty of accommodation options, ranging from log cabins to campsites.
I suggest getting involved in activities like water skiing, boating, swimming (always keep safety in mind though), house boating, or taking a cruise up the Sacramento River arm of the lake for a beautiful and hot summer getaway!
- Visitor’s Center Address: 16349 Shasta Dam Blvd, Shasta Lake, CA 96019
- Average temperature – 31 degrees
My favorite highlights…
- Exploring the cool underground landscapes on a hot day at Shasta Caverns.
- Trying paddleboarding, kayaking and going swimming in the lake.
- Visiting the Shasta Dam, which inspired Woody Guthrie’s song ‘This Land is Your Land. ‘
12. Santa Cruz, California
I’m a huge fan of this cool Californian beach town filled with sun and summer fun. I love its long sandy beaches, deep blue waters, and pristine marine environment!
I personally think the best time to visit Santa Cruz is this month when the weather is fine and dry (but with cooler evenings), but there are still plenty of hotel discounts to be found before the madness of the peak summer months (July and August).
I recommend hiking the breathtaking trails, surfing the crashing waves, biking, riding the historic wooden roller coaster, and exploring the vibey downtown!
- Visitor’s Center Address: 303 Water Street, Suite 100, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Average temperature – 23 degrees
My favorite highlights…
- Wandering along the beach boardwalk and discovering the fun historic amusement park.
- Shopping in Downtown Santa Cruz, which features over 100 unique shops.
- Admiring the beautiful plants and flowers at The Arboretum and Botanic Garden.
13. Cape Cod, Massachusetts 
Tucked away along the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Cod is a favorite of mine. I love its unique, rustic architecture, windswept beaches, glorious dunes, and pretty lighthouses.
The most popular time to visit the Cape is during the summer. Though everything is at its peak from this month to August, the weather tends to be slightly cooler on the Cape.
Temperatures are pleasant this month; there are fewer crowds, reasonable room rates, and the hydrangeas are in full bloom.
- Visitor’s Center Address: Barnstable, MA 02630
- Average temperature – 22 degrees
My favorite highlights…
- Visiting the Chatham Farmers Market which was filled with local vendors, tasty produce, and food trucks.
- Checking out an uninhabited island in the middle of Chatham Harbor by a boat tour with Blue Claw.
- Exploring the 41-kilometer-long rail trail.
14. Dillon, Colorado
This small town in Colorado packs a punch despite its size! It is located around a 70-mile drive from Denver and close to popular ski resorts.
There are plenty of fun things to do here in the summer, though. The area is home to Dillon Reservoir, Denver’s largest water storage facility.
I would highly recommend exploring the cute Main Street of nearby downtown Frisco, checking out the Frisco Historic Park and Museum, hiking along the Ptarmigan Trail, visiting a microbrewery, taking a day trip to Breckenridge, checking out the great restaurants in Dillon, and of course just messing around on the lake!
If you’re an outdoor lover, I suggest boating, sailing, walking, biking, picnicking, paddleboarding, or kayaking. Camping is also a popular option.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 195 I-95, Hamer, SC 29547
- Average temperature – 20 degrees
My favorite highlights…
- Discovering the scenic Dillon Reservoir Rec Path Loop bike trail.
- Hiring a paddleboard and having fun on the gorgeous lake.
- Wandering down Main Street and checking out the cute independent boutiques and restaurants my favorite was Everything Colorado which sold lots of unique gifts.
15. Long Beach Island, New Jersey
I love this beauty spot, which is commonly referred to as “LBI” by the locals! It has gorgeous white sandy beaches, a family-friendly vibe, local boutiques, and chic eateries.
One of the best beaches along the East Coast, Long Beach Island has 345 days of sunshine. Summer is always the best time to visit the city, and I think it offers the perfect weather for outdoor and water activities.
You can expect primarily beach-warm days with balmy temperatures averaging around 25 degrees and a cool breeze from the Atlantic Ocean.
Whether you’re looking for a short break or a weekend family trip, this beautiful barrier island offers enough activities to entertain everyone.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 265 West 9th Street Ship Bottom NJ 08008
- Average temperature – 25 degrees
My 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, I loved tubing down the lazy river!
