With warm temperatures, long days, and endless sunshine, I personally think the summer months are the perfect time to create unforgettable memories in this country! From my adventures during this month, here are my favorite spots…
1. Half Moon Bay, Northern California
I found this charming coastal town was a gem of a place to explore in August! I have to be admit, it wasn’t exceptionally hot, but the temperatures were mild and there was the absence of the heavy fog which usually shrouds the area earlier in the summer.
Also, it was humpback whale migration season, the flowers were blooming, and there was a lively atmosphere with events on such as the Pacific Coast Dream Machines Show, the popular Coastside Farmer’s Market, the Summer’s End Music Festival, and the free concerts at Mac Dutra Plaza.
On my trip, I relaxed on the beautiful Half Moon Bay State Beach, checked out the picturesque Pillar Point Harbor, discovered the tide pools at the scenic Fitzgerald Marine Reserve, watched the world-class surfers at Mavericks Beach, hiked the local coastal trails, and explored all the cute boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy restaurants!
- Visitor’s Center Address: Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
- Map Location
- Average temperatures – 16°C to 20°C
My favorite highlights…
- Dining at the farm-to-table Italian restaurant Pasta Moon – I adored the rustic-chic decor and the hearty servings of handmade, fresh pasta! Their tempura and the creative elderflower and raspberry cocktail ‘Bubbles and Berries’ were both delicious!
- Hiking for a 1.5 hours on the Devil’s Slide Trail which was a 2.6 miles paved round trip – I loved seeing the crashing ocean waves below the cliffs, the cute pelicans and watching harbor seals resting on the rocks below!
2. Mackinac Island, Michigan
I took an August vacation to this traffic-free resort island found warm and sunny weather (but with a few cool breezes) so it was perfect for outdoor activities and gazing at the colorful gardens which were in full bloom.
I also found fun events such as the Mackinac Island Fudge Festival and awesome sailing regattas to watch as well!
I explored the biking and hiking trails in Mackinac Island State Park (which actually takes up the majority of the island), went kayaking and paddle-boarding on beautiful Lake Huronor, visited historic Fort Mackinac and took a stroll down the historic downtown and admired the wooden Victorian buildings and browsed the interesting museums, cute fudge stores and quirky independent stores!
- Visitor’s Center Address: 7200 Lake Shore Dr, Mackinac Island, Michigan 49757
- Map Location
- Average daytime temperatures – 18°C to 24°C
My highlights…
- Visiting the historic Grand Hotel (dated from 1887) which had a huge grand dining with chandeliers – I loved sitting on the 660-foot-long white porch lined with pretty red geraniums and gazing out to the Straits of Mackinac!
- Hiking 45 minutes on the peaceful Bluff Trail to reach the stunning 146-foot Arch Rock- standing on the viewing platform and seeing views of Lake Huron’s turquoise waters was a very memorable experience!
3. Priest Lake, Idaho
I took a trip here to this peaceful beauty spot during this month and found it was the perfect weather for swimming, boating and camping (it was very warm, dry and sunny!).
It was also the prime time for huckleberry picking and wildlife watching and the wildlife such as the moose, beavers and elk were much more active!
I really enjoyed going boating, kayaking, canoeing, and paddle-boarding on the stunning lake, hiking the beautiful trails in Priest Lake State Park, picking wild huckleberries, picnicking on the sandy beaches and going on scenic drives around the lake.
- Visitor’s Center Address: ID-57, Priest River, Idaho 83856
- Map Location
- Average temperature – 24°C to 29°C
My highlights…
- Staying at the historic Elkins Resort (dates from 1932) – I loved my log cabin with its cozy stone fireplace and private deck overlooking the lake’s stunning views!
- Hiking the challenging 5.8 mile Fault Lake Trail which took five hours. The incredible views of the serene Fault Lake (which is nestled in the Selkirk Mountains) and the feeling of isolation when I got there made it a very special experience!
4. Cambria, California 
I loved my short summer break in this charming coastal village! I stopped here when I was on a road trip up the Pacific Coast Highway during August and found the weather was mild with sunny days (with some cool ocean breezes) and there was less fog than the earlier summer months.
It was also whale-watching season and there was fun summer events taking place such as the popular Cambria Farmer’s Market and outdoor lawn games.
I stayed at the funky boutique Cambria Beach Lodge and hiked the scenic coastal trails, cycled on Moonstone Beach Boardwalk, went wine tasting in Paso Robles, discovered moonstones, tide pools and playful dolphins at Moonstone Beach, and spent time in the historic downtown which is filled with unique boutiques, cozy restaurants and local art galleries.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 2251 Center St, Cambria, CA 93428
- Map Location
- Vibe: relaxed, artistic, and quaint small-town vibe with a touch of bohemian charm!
- Average daytime temperature – 18°C to 24°C
My favorite highlights…
- Dining at Robins Restaurant – I really liked the trendy but rustic decor, the romantic outdoor patio garden with came with pretty lights and my divine and spicy dish of Khow Suey Burmese Curry.
- Watching the elephant seals at Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery – the noisy bull seals had just finished their moulting so they were very sluggish and I loved just watching them lounging around on the beach.
5. San Juan Islands, Washington
I came here on a unique summer vacation and during this month, I found the weather to be warm, sunny, and mostly dry, with long days perfect for outdoor exploration.
It was also a great time to catch summer events like the Lopez Island Farmers Market and I loved whale-watching as theorcas, humpback whales, and minke whales passed through this area during this time of year too!
I headed north from Seattle to Anacortes, and went kayaking, explored the quaint and historic Roche Harbor, biked on the flat quiet roads in Lopez Island, sampled wine at Orcas Island Winery, discovered the interesting Orcas Island Artists Studio Tour and explored beautiful hiking trails.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 165 First Street South Friday Harbor, WA 98250
- Location: Salish Sea in the northwestern part of Washington State (between the U.S. mainland and Vancouver Island, Canada).
- Map Location
- Average temperature – 21°C to 24°C
My personal highlights…
- Staying at the unique Lopez Farm Cottages & Tent Camping! I absolutely loved the quirky ‘Glamping’ experience of staying in a comfy double bed in a large luxury tent surrounded by nature (and meeting the owner’s cute kittens and cats)!
- Sampling delicious Lavender and Wild Rose liqueur at the award-winning San Juan Islands Gin Distillery.
6. Lake Tahoe, California
I just can’t get enough of Lake Tahoe during the month of August! It’s a great family-friendly resort all year round but at this time I found the weather to be dry, warm and sunny and perfect for messing around on the water!
There was also some awesome summer events such as the extraordinary Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, the fun Brews, Jazz & Funk Fest and the lively Free Summer Concert Series on the Beach.
I saw panoramic views from the Heavenly Gondola ride, hiked scenic trails in Emerald Bay State Park and saw Eagle Falls, went boating, kayaking, paddle-boarding, discovered the charming Tahoe City Farmers Market, and relaxed on my favorite sandy beaches – Pope Beach, Kiva Beach and Baldwin Beach.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 4114 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
- Map Location
- Average daytime temperatures – 21°C to 27°C
My highlights…
- Staying at the funky midrange boutique Basecamp Tahoe South – I was totally charmed by the rooftop hot tub, cool outdoor fire pit and cozy themed guest room which had a tent over the bed, a faux campfire, and a picnic table!
- Dining at the waterside New American restaurant the Boathouse on the Pier. I was really won over by the nautical-theme, having the sense of floating above the water and my tasty buffalo cauliflower and frozen Coconut Sorbetto topped with toasted pistachios.
7. Cannon Beach, Oregon
I thought this small, picturesque coastal town was seriously dreamy during August! I stopped here on a summer road trip and although the temperatures weren’t hot, they were mild and there was less fog compared to when I’ve visited before during earlier summer months.
They were perfect for exploring the outdoors and seeing the gorgeous sunsets! It was also within the incredible whale-watching season and I found buzzy summer events such as the Cannon Beach Farmers Market, Rockwood community market and Yoga in the Park.
I drove 80 miles west of Portland on the Pacific Coast Highway and explored the quaint downtown, explored the beautiful sandy beach and its tide pools and its the iconic (and very Instagram-worthy!) 72-meter Haystack Rock, spotted tufted puffins and hiked the scenic trails in Ecola State Park.
- Visitor’s Center Address: Cannon Beach, OR 97110
- Location: northern Oregon Coast
- Map Location
- Average daytime temperatures – 18°C to 21°C
My highlights…
- Dining at the Latin cuisine restaurant Mi Corazón – I loved the rustic-chic decor, the intimate but upbeat vibe, and my exceptional handmade veggie bichitas which came with house-made guacamole.
- Staying at the funky mid-range Surfsand Resort. I especially liked my in-room huge soaking bath tub, the incredible views of Haystack Rock, the direct beach access, the beach yoga classes and the concierge who even helped us set up an awesome private beach bonfire!
8. Stonington, Maine
During this month I found the temperatures to be warm and fine (but with a breeze) in this small, historic coastal town.
The clear, sunny weather was just perfect for boating and hiking, the local art galleries and cafés were in full swing and I was a big fan of the beautifully presented summer The Stonington Farmers’ Market. There was a height of the summer buzz about the place which l couldn’t get enough of!
I had a gorgeous time kayaking, going to a music concert at the historic opera house, taking a boat tour to the nearby unspoilt Isle au Haut, hiking the trails in the mossy old-growth forest in Crockett Cove Woods Preserve, browsing the fabulous collection of unique gift shops (my favorite was the beautiful Marlinespike Chandlery) and dining in Farm-to-table restaurants.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 114 Little Deer Isle Road, Deer Isle, ME 04627
- Map Location
- Average daytime temperatures – 18°C to 24°C
My highlights…
- Dining at the harborside Stonecutter’s Kitchen – I really liked the casual, family-friendly vibe, the quaint harbor views, and their incredible waffle fries which came served with house-made salsa and jalapeños.
- Staying at The Eggemoggin Reach Inn – I loved the rustic wooden decor, my guest room balcony where I sat and gazed at the sea views, and the unique old century-old farmhouse building it was housed in – it had a lot of character!
9. Portland, Oregon
I truly believe Portland is at its best in the summer. Yes, it’s also peak tourist season, but I found it was hot and sunny and I thought the city has an incredible energy during this time, with lots of summer events and all the food trucks and food truck parks fully open.
I loved awesome Bridge Pedal, the fun Piano Push Play, Portland’s Hip Hop Week and my personal favorite, the very fun Portland Adult Soapbox Derby!
On my last summer city trip here I headed to the International Rose Test Garden in Washington Park to see the fragrant flowers out in full bloom and explored the nearby Portland Japanese Garden.
I also checked out the lively Saturday Market, took a stroll along Washington Park, caught live music at the cool McMenamins Crystal Ballroom and sipped on cocktails at the rooftop of the trendy Departure Lounge.
- Visitor’s Centre Address: 1132 SW Harvey Milk St #104, Portland, OR 97205
- Location: northwestern part of Oregon
- Map Location
- Average daytime temperatures – 27°C to 29°C
My favorite highlights…
- Staying at the quirky McMenamins Kennedy School – I was awe of the attention to detail here! It was once a real school and I spotted an original chalkboard (where I left a goodbye note!), repurposed school desks and the former Principal’s Office was the front desk!
- Gorging on a divine Memphis Mafia donut which came oozing with banana chunks, cinnamon and peanut butter drizzle at the iconic Voodoo Doughnuts!
10. Glacier National Park, Montana
This month was peak season in this much-loved protected wilderness, so yes I found it was busy, but the fine, sunny weather – which was perfect for outdoor activities – more than made up for it!
I also loved spotting the more active wildlife and seeing the beautiful yellow, purple, and blue wildflowers in bloom.
I drove stunning Going-to-the-Sun Road, stopping at the highest point, Logan Pass to gaze at stunning views, explored the breathtaking Many Glacier Valley, saw the unique glacial Iceberg Lake, went on a scenic boat tour of Lake McDonald, and hiked the thrilling Highline Trail which had sheer drop-offs!
- Visitor’s Center Address: West Glacier, MT 59936
- Location: northwestern corner of Montana, bordering Canada’s Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta
- Map Location
- Average temperatures – 17°C to 27°C (depending on elevation)
My highlights…
- Staying at the historic Many Glacier Hotel (which dates from 1915) – I loved its unique Swiss Chalet Design, huge fireplaces, timber beams and its incredible setting on the shore of Swiftcurrent Lake. Waking up to those lake views every morning was just idyllic!
- Hiking the challenging but manageable 7.6 mile round-trip Scenic Point Trail in the quieter Two Medicine Valley. It took me 5 hours and I loved the switchbacks, the panoramic views of Two Medicine Lake, and Rising Wolf Mountain and seeing a cute mountain goat!
11. Berkshires, Massachusetts
I took a break in this affluent rural, mountainous region during this month and found the weather was warm and dry (with the occasional cloudy day) and perfect for exploring the gorgeous surrounding countryside. I also saw colorful blooming flowers everywhere and a buzz about the area with festivals, farmers markets and events in full swing!
I went to the spectacular Tanglewood Music Festival (which was held at the home of the famous summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra!), Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival and the fabulous Berkshire Theatre Festival which took took place here during this month.
I also hiked to Massachusetts’ highest point, Mount Greylock, boated on the scenic Lake Garfield, and discovered charming art galleries, unique boutiques, and farm-to-table restaurants in the quaint New England towns of Lenox, Great Barrington, and Stockbridge.
- Visitors Center Address: 66 Allen Street, Pittsfield, MA 01201
- Map Location
- Average daytime temperature – 24°C to 27°C
My highlights…
- Dining at trendy farm-t0-table restaurant Prairie Whale – I loved the historic farmhouse building, the mismatched table settings, and their tasty house-made pickles and heavenly plum tart!
- Staying at the truly gorgeous boutique Life House – I was in awe of the vintage-chic decor and unique botanical theme details like their wonderful herbal teas, Le Labo toiletries and even citrus water served in the lobby!
12. Blue Lakes, Colorado
I really enjoyed hiking this series of stunning alpine lakes during this month as the weather was warm and dry and there was low humidity, although there were occasional afternoon thunderstorms.
The trails were also clear of snow, and the meadow’s pretty wildflowers were in full bloom. It was also perfect for camping and stargazing under the clear mountain skies.
I camped at a primitive campsite located around Lower Blue Lake, hiked the scenic trails, and eventually backpacked to Upper Blue Lake, the most remote and least visited of the three lakes – it took me a challenging 5 hours to get there!
- Nearest Visitor’s Center Address: Ouray Visitor Center Address, 1230 Main St, Ouray, CO 81427
- Map Location
- Average daytime temperatures – 18°C to 24°C
My favorite highlights…
- Hiking the 5 hour round-trip Blue Lakes Trail which took me on to Lower and Middle Blue Lakes – I saw striking blue lakes, colorful wildflowers including Indian Paintbrushes and beautiful aspen groves.
- The scenic drive to the Blue Lakes Trailhead via Dallas Creek Road. I was in awe of the gorgeous views which included beautiful forests, lush valleys and Mount Sneffels!
13. Beavers Bend Resort Park, Oklahoma
This is a stunning family (and dog-friendly!) natural beauty spot! Located at the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains in southeastern Oklahoma (near the town of Broken Bow), I really liked its laid-back, nature-focused vibe as well as its large clear lake, winding river, hardwood forests and rugged mountain scenery.
I camped here during this month on a 3-day break and even though it was peak visitor season, I loved boating and swimming in the hot, sunny weather! I found it was a bit too hot warm for very long hikes, but with an early start, plenty of water, and some preparation, I was still able to hit the trails!
I camped at the secluded Buckeye Campground (there were also cabin rentals), hiked the picturesque trails, went kayaking on Broken Bow Lake, went tubing on Mountain Fork River, rode a mini-train through the woods at Beavers Bend Depot, went zip-lining on Hochatown, saw intricate woodcarvings at Forest Heritage Center Museum and attended arts and crafts classes, bingo and nature documentaries at the Nature Center!
- Address: 4350 OK-259A, Broken Bow, OK 74728
- Map Location
- Average daytime temperatures – 31°C to 33°C
My highlights…
- I hiked the 1.5-mile Friends Trail Loop, which took me about an hour to complete. It was a bit challenging with some rocky sections, but the stunning views of the Mountain Fork River, mini lookout points over the water, and a small waterfall made it absolutely worthwhile!
14. Hot Springs, Arkansas
I’m always charmed by this Arkansas gem! It’s nestled within the Ouachita Mountains, in Garland County in central Arkansas (the nearest city is Little Rock) and I loved its quirky charm and nostalgic feel! It also had a unique blend of lush mountain landscapes and historic bathhouses, art deco buildings, and quaint Victorian architecture.
It also boasted an impressive 47 springs that pump out over 700,000 gallons of water every day, which bubbled up at steamy temperatures and flowed right down to the heart of town! The springs were mineral-rich and are renowned for being restorative.
Although it’s one of the peak tourist months, I took a weekend break here during August and I found the weather to be warm and sunny and perfect for exploring the scenic trails. Afterwards I soaked my limbs in the relaxing, mineral-rich springs!
I also went on the fun National Park Duck Tour, visited the two historic spas located in Bathhouse Row – the Quapaw Bathhouse which has open thermal pools and the quaint Buckstaff Bathhouse – discovered the modern spas and wellness centers and browsed the cute independent shops, art galleries and museums in downtown.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 369 Central Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901
- Map Location
- Average daytime temperatures – 32°C to 34°C
My favorite highlights…
- Staying at the very unique historic boutique bed and breakfast The Gables Inn. The Victorian architecture, with its ornate woodwork, wrap-around porch and stained-glass windows made me feel like I was stepping back in time! I also loved my romantic guest room which came with a unique canopy bed and a clawfoot bathtub!
15. Seabrook, Washington
I thought this picturesque coastal town was a wonderful hidden gem! I found it located on the central Washington coast in Grays Harbor County, overlooking the Pacific Ocean (around 2.5 hours southwest of Seattle).
I discovered stunning ocean views, long sandy beaches, coastal forests, charming New England-style cottages, quaint shops, cozy cafes, and a welcoming, seaside village vibe!
I visited during this month for a low key, summer vacation and I found the weather was pleasant and perfect for lazy beach days and beautiful Pacific sunsets! I also attended all the town’s outdoor events and markets such as the lively Seabrook Saturday Markets, the incredible Seabrook Sunset Concerts and the very quirky Gnome and Fairy Festival!
I also relaxed on Seabrook Beach and in nearby Pacific Beach State Park, hiked the surrounding forest trails, took a day trip to Olympic National Park (it took 2 hours by car) and strolled through the New England-Inspired town center. When here I stopped by Red Velvet Bakery for home-made cupcakes, dined on freshly caught food at the Rising Tide Tavern and browsed the boutique shops for handmade souvenirs.
- Visitor’s Center Address: WA-109, Pacific Beach, WA 98571
- Map Location
- Average daytime temperature – 18°C to 24°C
My personal highlights…
- Discovering the local produce and unique products at Seabrook Saturday Market. I loved the fun family-friendly yard games, the live music. I bought gorgeous lavender honey skincare products from Little Miss Bee’s Candle Co. and artisan-made treats from Nutty’s Granola!
- Staying at the wonderful “Otterly Relaxed” self-catering holiday home. With its chic, modern but cozy decor, well-equipped kitchenette and the large deck area which came with a private hot tub and cool firepit, it was a gem of a find!
16. Long Beach Island, New Jersey
This is a great summer destination for both families and couples! It’s a narrow, 18-mile-long barrier island located along the Jersey Shore in Ocean County in the eastern coast of New Jersey. The long sandy beaches, turquoise waves, and quaint seaside neighborhoods with cute beach cottages, historic lighthouses and classic beach town charm stole my heart!
I took a summer weekend break during this month, and found both the air and ocean temperatures were very warm so it was perfect for lazing around on the beach and swimming. The island was also always alive with water-based fun, outdoor dining and seasonal events such as the fun National Night Out.
I tried surfing, enjoyed beach volleyball, kayaked, went paddle-boarding and boating, took scenic walks in Barnegat Lighthouse State Park, discovered farmer’s markets, enjoyed classic beach fun at Fantasy Island Amusement Park and explored the beautiful Victorian homes, boutique shops, and local eateries in the Beach Haven Historic District.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 265 West 9th Street Ship Bottom NJ 08008
- Map Location
- Average daytime temperatures – 27°C to 29°C
My personal highlights…
17. Seneca, South Carolina
This lake resort town made a relaxed, budget-friendly summer break! Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Oconee County, in the northwestern part of South Carolina, I loved its small-town charm. It also had serene lake views, striking mountain landscapes and tree-lined streets featuring a mix of early 20th-century storefronts and Victorian-style homes.
I spent a five day vacation here during this month and I found lush summer temperatures, not so many crowds (as it’s a relatively hidden gem) and long sunny days which made it perfect for messing around on the lake.
When here, I really enjoyed boating, swimming, and kayaking on the sprawling Lake Keowee, exploring the lively Ram Cat Alley located in heart of historic Seneca, which had colorful storefronts, art galleries, antique shops, and cozy eateries, dining on hearty Southern cuisine, hiking scenic trails in South Cove County Park and seeing cool art at Blue Ridge Arts Center!
- Visitor’s Center Address: 221 E North 1st St. Seneca, SC 29678
- Map Location
- Average daytime temperature – 29°C to 32°C
My favorite highlights…
- Dining on hearty US dishes at the Copper River Grill – I was totally won over by the cozy rustic-chic decor, their super friendly staff, the Southern-inspired cocktail menu and my dishes of ‘Baked Potato Soup’ and divine white chocolate banana pudding!
18. Block Island, Rhode Island
This serene resort island made beautiful setting for an idyllic summer getaway! It’s nestled around 12 miles off the southern coast of Rhode Island in Washington County. I was completely drawn in to its laid-back, nostalgic vibe and dreamy blend of Victorian-style inns, quaint cottages, and iconic lighthouses, picturesque trails, and sandy beaches.
I vacationed here during this month and I found the weather was warm enough to swim and laze around on the beaches (with the occasional rain shower) and there was vibrant summer events such as the Saturday Farmer’s Market.
I relaxed on the beaches, took a tour of the Southeast Lighthouse, went boating on The Great Salt Pond, explored the Old Harbor Historic District (which is the main hub of activity) with Victorian-style inns, shops, and restaurants along the waterfront, gazed at gorgeous photography at the Spring Street Art Gallery and strolled the interesting trails in Block Island National Wildlife Refuge.
- Visitor’s Center Address:4 Center Rd, New Shoreham, RI 02807
- Map Location
- Average daytime temperatures – 24°C to 27°C
My highlights…
- I stayed at the super-lush boutique Block Island Beach House and loved its striking, coastal-themed styling and local art. The immediate access to Crescent Beach was a highlight, along with the cool ‘Beach Bar,’ live music on the outdoor patio, and the trendy fire pits where I could sit around and get to know other guests!
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