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Summer is in full swing; If you haven’t already, it’s time to start planning your trip in August. So you still get the best deals on accommodation and flights.
Whether you want to take advantage of the good weather and go camping, or enjoy some alone time at the beach, this list is packed with epic destinations to visit in the US in August 2024.
Mackinac Island, Michigan
Looking for a tranquil seaside retreat to relax and recharge? Between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas you’ll find a hidden gem called Mackinac Island.
The streets are car-free, which is one of the reasons why this place is so relaxed. The island is relatively small and you can explore it by bicycle, horse and cart and even on foot. You can also take a nice boat trip.
For adventure seekers, there’s Mackinac Island State Park, where you can bike, kayak, observe local nature and wildlife, or enjoy mesmerizing views from Arch Rock.
Boulder, Colo
Can’t choose between spending time in nature versus festivals and summer concerts in the open air? Enjoy both in Boulder, as it offers the perfect mix of outdoor fun and cultural experiences.
Numerous events are held in August, including the Boulder International Fringe Festival, Bands on the Bricks and Boulder Craft Beer Fest.
It’s surrounded by beautiful mountains and there are excellent hiking trails in Boulder’s backyard. Newcomers can try an easier hike at Enchanted Mesa or the Flatirons. For a bit of a challenge, head to Royal Arch.
Glacier National Park, Montana
Summers are relatively short Glacier National Parkso take the opportunity and enjoy this fantastic wilderness opportunity this August. Daytime temperatures usually hover around 70 degrees, making the park ideal for hiking, rafting, camping, kayaking and mountain biking.
Please note that August is peak season in Glacier National Park. At other times of the year, many trails and businesses are closed. We recommend that you book your accommodation, including camping pitches, well in advance.
Kiawah Island, South Carolina
The US coastline can be extremely busy in the summer and finding a destination for a relaxing beach holiday can become a real treasure hunt. Luckily for you, we know places that are less crowded than others. One of them is Kiawah Island in South Carolina.
This tranquil island near Charleston is home to some of the most pristine beaches, pristine maritime forests, sand dunes and an abundance of wildlife. Soak up the sun and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere or see what has to offer on a paddleboard or kayak. There is a good chance that you will encounter dolphins and turtles.
Acadia National Park, Maine
Are you looking for the summer adventure of a lifetime? Acadia National Park features 47,000 acres of wild forests, rugged coastal landscapes and granite peaks with breathtaking vistas. And while August is the peak month, the trails are relatively spread out, so you’re unlikely to experience crowds.
Treat yourself to scenic drives, hike the iconic trails, such as the Beehive Trail or Gorham Mountain Trail, or get your heart pumping while rock climbing. If you can, take a small basket with you on your walks. August is blueberry season in Maine, so you can harvest a few along the way.
Seattle, Washington
Do you prefer city trips, but are you afraid that it will be too hot for them in August? If you want to avoid the boiling concrete, we recommend visiting Seattle. It offers mild weather and very little rainfall, making it ideal for both urban activities and hiking in the surrounding mountains.
Visit Seattle’s museums, have a picnic in a park or tantalize your taste buds in one of the renowned cafes and restaurants. Nature lovers can head into the mountains or explore the waters on a cruise, kayak or whale watching tour.
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
For an idyllic lakeside summer vacation, camp at Lake Tahoe. This beautiful mountain lake is located on the border of California and Nevada and offers a variety of activities in a beautiful natural setting.
The crystal clear waters are perfect for swimming, paddle boarding, sailing and fishing. Or you can just laze on one of the beaches, such as Kings Beach or Zephyr Cove. Theater enthusiasts will appreciate the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, which offers spectacular outdoor performances in Sand Harbor. There are also some hiking and biking options nearby, including Tahoe Rim Trail and Emerald Bay State Park.
Providence, Rhode Island
Do you live in the Big Apple and are looking for an inspiring escape close to home? Providence is a charming town in Rhode Island known for hip neighborhoods, top-notch dining options, and a vibrant arts scene. And the streets are most lively in August.
View the RISD Museum’s impressive collection of Picasso and Monet, take a stroll in Roger Williams Park, or enjoy tasty cocktails by the river. August is also the month of Rhode Island International Film Festival where independent films from all over the world are shown.
Orlando, FL
Kids aren’t back to school yet in August, so why not enjoy some family activities in Orlando? Despite the warm weather, it has its advantages. Theme parks generally have fewer crowds than in June and July, which means you have to wait less for the attractions. If your kids love Halloween, they can start the season with Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party.
And there is no shortage of places to cool off. That’s possible The water parks of Disney World or take a day trip to nearby beaches, such as Cocoa Beach, Daytona or New Smyrna Beach. They are all only about an hour away.
Big Island, Hawaii
This list wouldn’t be complete without at least one Hawaiian island. The reason why we recommend visiting the Big Island – a paradise for hikers and snorkelers – in August more than any other time is that it is one of the driest months there.
You can look forward to balmy temperatures and a very small chance of hurricanes. Thanks to the clear skies, it is also a fantastic season for stargazing. Stay a night at a remote campsite instead of a resort. It’s absolutely worth it.