Summer means long days spent basking in the sweet, sweet sunshine with family and friends. It’s also the perfect time to get away for awhile. And whether your ideal trip involves a big city, a sandy beach, or a national park, the United States has a little bit of everything. But deciding where to take your next stateside summer vacation? That's the tricky part. It all depends on what you're looking for!
To help you plan your next getaway, we’re breaking down our top vacation spots for summer. Let’s get into it!
1. Glacier National Park, Montana
Located on the border of Canada and Montana, Glacier National Park is often referred to as the Crown of the Continent. And indeed, it is – especially, might we add, in the summertime. A favorite place for hikers and nature enthusiasts, this national park boasts more than 700 lakes, dozens of waterfalls, and more than 1 million acres to explore.
Not looking to hike your days away? A scenic, 52-mile drive through the park is also an option. That way, you'll still see the historic Going-to-the-Sun-Road, along with several other geographical marvels. Because Glacier is located so far north, summer really is the best time to make a visit, or else you’re bound to run into some inclement weather.
2. San Diego, California
San Diego is a beach town through and through and offers many different shorelines, each with its own fun and flair. And if you’re not in the mood for sand and sun, the city has plenty of other activities too, including the world-renowned San Diego Zoo.
While San Diego is a great family destination, it’s also the perfect place for an adults-only getaway. With over 140 craft breweries, 70 miles of gorgeous coastline, mouthwatering cuisine (especially its Mexican fare!), and a thriving nightlife, San Diego is truly a summertime oasis. So, grab your bikinis, cover-ups, and sun hats – it's time to hit the beachside city of San Diego.
3. Hilton Head, South Carolina
Whether you're on the hunt for an upscale resort or a beach bungalow vibe, Hilton Head's got it all. Here, summer travelers can try all sorts of activities, from biking and kayaking to fishing, hiking, bird watching, and taking in the sunset. With no shortage of fun things to do, Hilton Head is the perfect place for families. It’s also a great destination for nature lovers, as it’s home to the Coastal Discovery Museum and Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge, as well as 12 miles of gorgeous sandy beaches.
4. Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Hiking, horseback riding, and just plain old hangin’ out? Sounds like a great summer getaway to us. Named for its famous hot springs, Steamboat Springs is the perfect place for solo adventures and family vacations alike. This Colorado city provides endless opportunities for outdoor fun, making it a great destination for anyone who's ready to get outside and enjoy that mile-high fresh air. And if you’re not a seasoned outdoorsman, the downtown area has more than 100 bars and restaurants, galleries, and various museums, too!
5. Kennebunkport, Maine
Affectionately referred to as Kennebunk, this coastal town is a must if you’re taking your summer vacation plans east this year. Kennebunkport is a quaint and relaxing New England locale perfect for family-oriented folks and solo vacationers alike. There’s no shortage of lobster roll spots, nor beaches, and no matter where you go in Kennebunkport, you'll see plenty of surfers and seals (yes, seals!).
We love Kennebunkport for so many reasons, one being that this town was truly built for beachgoers. With that in mind, be sure to pack your Cabana Life tunic for the trip – it’ll take you from the beach to a cute dinner spot in no time!
6. Destin, Florida
Destin has fast become one of the most popular summer vacation spots in the Florida Panhandle. But be forewarned – this Florida destination is hot, hot, hot in the summer! Destin is famous for its postcard-perfect white sandy beaches and crystal blue water. It’s also home to expansive golf courses, high-energy water parks, and plenty of opportunities for deep-sea fishing. These activities and more make Destin the perfect family-friendly destination.
7. Outer Banks (OBX), North Carolina
You've probably seen an OBX bumper sticker or five in your day, and for good reason. Once you've taken a trip to the Outer Banks, you’ll want to remember it forever – and go back as soon as you can! OBX is full of history, secluded beaches, lighthouses, beach shops, eateries, more mini-golf courses than you can count, and so much more. It's a truly unique seaside destination that caters to lively groups as well as those seeking solitude.
8. Martha's Vineyard, MA
There’s nothing quite like New England in the summer. And Martha’s Vineyard is the poster child for a classic Northeast getaway. This quaint island features six townships, including Oak Bluffs, Edgartown, Chilmark, and Aquinnah. Each offers its own vibe, not to mention white sandy beaches, clear blue water, and remote stretches of coastline. Be sure to pack your Cabana Life suits on this trip – the bright colors and beautiful patterns are very Vineyard-approved!
We suggest penciling in a pit stop at the gingerbread cottages in Oak Bluffs during your Vineyard getaway, especially if you have the kids in tow. While there, head over to the nation's oldest continually-operating carousel downtown and take a ride on one of the world-famous Flying Horses.
9. Chicago, Illinois
Foodies, prepare yourselves! Chicago made our list for a few reasons, but the incredible food is certainly one of them. Chicago is as full of life as ever, with a thriving arts scene, plenty of shopping opportunities, and a wide array of eateries throughout. Not to mention the skyscrapers – those alone will keep your eyes busy for a good portion of your visit!
There's so much to see and do in Chicago, we suggest carving out a week and then some for your visit. On the top of our must-do list? A boat tour. That way, you get to enjoy the views, the lake, and the weather, all while getting the inside scoop on the best food in the city. The Chicago sun is strong though, especially if you're spending time on the water – so don't forget to wear a hat! That lakeside reflection is no joke.
10. The Florida Keys
If you want to feel like you’ve ventured to a remote, tropical destination while still remaining stateside, the Florida Keys are your best option. This string of tropical archipelago stretches 120 miles off of Florida’s southern tip and includes about 1700 islands. While that number can make choosing a destination a bit overwhelming, don’t worry. You can narrow your options to the five most well-known – Key Largo, Big Pine Key, Islamorada, Marathon, and Key West (the southernmost island that sits just 90 miles from Cuba).
The Florida Keys have something for everyone, from shopping and exciting nightlife to scuba diving, snorkeling, and hiking. Our recommendation? Rent a car in Miami and drive to Key West. That way, you’ll see a handful of the islands, along with a sweeping view of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico.
No matter which of our top summer vacation spots you’ll be headed to this season, be sure to pack a suitcase full of sun-safe essentials from Cabana Life. That way, you can enjoy your vacation while looking stylish and keeping your skin protected. It’s a win-win!