19 Amazing Places to Visit in August in the USA

1. Half Moon Bay, Northern California

This made a lovely August stop on my Highway One road trip. The weather was mild, the usual fog had lifted, and it happened to be humpback whale season with wildflowers still lingering. There was a buzzy feel too, with events such as the Friday Jazz Night at Moon Bay Lodge and the weekly Coastside Farmers Market.

I stayed three days at the boutique 4-star Oceano Hotel & Spa on the harbor, relaxed on the golden beaches, wandered the tide pools at Fitzgerald Marine Reserve, and watched surfers tackle the huge waves at Mavericks. I also enjoyed browsing the town’s small boutiques, galleries, and restaurants.

Location: northern California, western US | Vibe: relaxed, coastal, and slightly upscale | Avg temp: 16°C to 20°C 

My favorite highlights…

• Dining at the farm‑to‑table Italian restaurant Pasta Moon – I loved the rustic‑chic decor, the hearty bowls of handmade pasta and the inventive elderflower‑and‑raspberry cocktail, “Bubbles and Berries!”

2. Mackinac Island, Michigan

I took a week-long August break on this traffic-free island and loved the warm, sunny weather with light breezes, perfect for outdoor exploring and admiring the gardens in full bloom. There was a fun seasonal buzz too, with Shakespeare in the Park and sailing regattas.

After a quick 20-minute ferry from Mackinaw City, I checked into the romantic Inn at Stonecliffe for a week and I cycled and hiked through Mackinac Island State Park, kayaked on Lake Huron, toured historic Fort Mackinac, and browsed the charming Victorian-era downtown (and its tempting fudge shops).

Location: northern tip Michigan‘s Lower Peninsula, northwestern US | Vibe: charming and nostalgic | Avg temp: 18°C to 24°C

My highlights…

• Visiting the famous 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! 

3. Lake Tahoe, California

I loved the buzz in Lake Tahoe in August. The weather was dry, warm, and sunny, making it perfect for days on the water. There were also so many summer events, from the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival and Brews, Jazz & Funk Fest to free beach concerts and the lively Truckee Thursday food fair.

I drove two hours from Sacramento and spent ten adventure-filled days hiking Emerald Bay to Eagle Falls, kayaking and paddle-boarding, browsing the Tahoe City Farmers Market, sunbathing on Pope, Kiva, and Baldwin beaches and tucking into a smoky buffalo cauliflower and luscious Coconut Sorbetto in the waterside Boathouse on the Pier.

Location: eastern California, western US | Vibe: laid-back yet adventurous | Avg temp: 21°C to 27°C

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the unique and funky boutique Basecamp Tahoe South – I was totally charmed by the rooftop hot tub, cool outdoor fire pit my cozy themed guest room which had a tent over the bed, a fun faux campfire, and even an in-room picnic table!

4. Cannon Beach, Oregon

I thought this small coastal town was dreamy in August. The temperatures were mild, the usual fog had lifted, and the sunsets were gorgeous. It was also peak whale-watching season, with a fun summer buzz from the Cannon Beach Farmers Market, Rockwood Market, and Yoga in the Park.

I drove 90 minutes west of Portland and stayed for three days, exploring the quaint downtown, sandy beach, and tide pools around the iconic 72-meter Haystack Rock (where I spotted tufted puffins). I also hiked the scenic trails in Ecola State Park , soaked up those golden Pacific evenings and dined on veggie bichitas at Mi Corazón .

Location: northern Oregon Coast, western US | Vibe: romantic and artsy | Avg temp: 18°C to 21°C

My highlights…

• Staying at the funky Surfsand Resort. I especially liked my in-room huge soaking tub, the incredible views of Haystack Rock, the cool beach yoga classes and the concierge who even helped us set up a private beach bonfire! 

5. Portland, Oregon

I think Portland is at its best in summer. It’s peak tourist season, but I found the hot, sunny weather and city-wide energy worth it, with food trucks in full swing and tons of events – the Bridge Pedal, Hip Hop Week, and the fun Portland Adult Soapbox Derby all took place this month.

On my last summer trip, I flew into PDX and stayed four days at the quirky 4-star McMenamins Kennedy School. I wandered the fragrant International Rose Test Garden and nearby Portland Japanese Garden, browsed the lively Saturday Market, caught live music at McMenamins Crystal Ballroom, and ended evenings with Honeycomb Negronis on the rooftop at Departure.

Location: northwestern Oregon, northwestern US | Vibe: alternative and eco-conscious | Avg temp: 27°C to 29°C

My favorite highlights…

• Gorging on a divine Memphis Mafia donut which came oozing with hearty banana chunks, cinnamon and a peanut butter drizzle at the iconic Voodoo Doughnuts!

6. Stonington, Maine

I found this small historic coastal town wonderfully warm in August, with clear, breezy days perfect for boating and hiking. The art galleries and cafés were lively, and I loved browsing the beautifully presented Stonington Farmers’ Market. There was a real summer buzz here!

After a three-hour drive from Portland, I crossed the Deer Isle–Sedgwick Bridge and spent four gorgeous days at the cozy The Eggemoggin Reach Inn, kayaking, taking a boat trip to wild Isle au Haut, hiking the old-growth forest at Crockett Cove Woods, browsing charming boutiques like Marlinespike Chandlery, and enjoying fresh farm-to-table meals throughout my stay.

Location: Deer Isle off the southeastern coast of Maine, northeastern US | Vibe: artsy, off-the-beaten-path charm| Avg temp: 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 rustic‑cut waffle fries topped with chunky house-made salsa and jalapeños.

7. Long Beach Island, New Jersey

I took a summer weekend break to this barrier island and loved it. The Atlantic was at its warmest, the beaches were lively and sun-soaked, and the whole place had that classic summer buzz, with water activities, outdoor dining, and seasonal events like National Night Out and Fire Pit Fridays.

After a two-hour drive from NYC, I stayed for a week of coastal fun: surfing and beach volleyball, boating and exploring Barnegat Lighthouse State Park, browsing farmers’ markets, riding the nostalgic rides at Fantasy Island Amusement Park, and wandering Beach Haven’s Victorian streets and boutique-lined avenues.

Location: off the central coast of New Jersey, northeastern US | Vibe: laid-back and family-friendly| Avg temp: 27°C to 29°C

My personal highlights…

• Staying at the grand 4-star Hotel LBI – I loved the panoramic views of Barnegat Bay, the trendy fire pits, the creative cocktails in the chic rooftop bar (especially their creamy Coconut Mojitos) and the indoor swimming pool which had a unique retractable roof! 

8. Hot Springs, Arkansas

I visited during August and found hot, sunny weather that was perfect for relaxing in the mineral-rich springs, with the town’s elevation helping soften the Southern humidity. There was a fun late-summer buzz too, with events like the Queen Wilhelmina Rod Run and the Ouachita Expressions Show.

I flew into Little Rock, drove an easy hour, and spent the weekend riding the quirky National Park Duck Tour, strolling Garvan Woodland Gardens, and exploring Bathhouse Row. I soaked in the thermal pools at Quapaw, admired the old-world charm of Buckstaff, and browsed downtown’s boutiques, galleries, and quirky museums.

Location: central Arkansas, south-central US | Vibe: spa-town charm | Avg temp: 32°C to 34°C

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the unique historic boutique The Gables Inn. The Victorian architecture, with its ornate woodwork, brass clawfoot bathtub, wrap-around porch and stained-glass windows made me feel like I was stepping back in time! 

9. Berkshires, Massachusetts

I took a break in this affluent, rural mountain region and loved the warm, dry August weather, which was perfect for exploring the countryside. Flowers were in full bloom, and the area had a lively summer buzz with festivals, farmers’ markets, and outdoor events.

I went to the spectacular Tanglewood Music Festival (the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra!), and the Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival was also on this month. I flew into Albany, drove an hour, and spent a week hiking windswept Mount Greylock, boating on Lake Garfield, and exploring Lenox, Great Barrington, and Stockbridge with their creative galleries, quirky boutiques, and fine restaurants – the golden‑baked plum tart at the farm-t0-table restaurant Prairie Whale was a highlight!

Location: western Massachusetts, northeastern USA | Vibe: cultured countryside retreat | Avg temp: 24°C to 27°C

My personal highlights…

• Staying at the Insta-worthy 4-star boutique Life House Hotel – I was in awe of the vintage-chic decor and unique botanical theme details like their wonderful herbal teas (the Wild Blueberry & Bee Balm Infusion was my favorite), Le Labo toiletries and even how they served citrus water served in the lobby! 

10. Cambria, California

I loved my short summer break in this charming coastal village. I stopped here on a Pacific Coast Highway road trip in August and found mild, sunny days with cool ocean breezes and far less fog than earlier in the season. It was also whale-watching season, with a fun summer buzz from the Cambria Farmer’s Market and casual outdoor lawn games.

I checked in for three nights at the funky Cambria Beach Lodge and spent my days hiking coastal bluffs, cycling the Moonstone Beach Boardwalk, wine-tasting in nearby Paso Robles, and discovering moonstones, tide pools, and dolphins along the shore. I also lost hours exploring the boutique-filled, café-dotted downtown and its vibrant galleries.

Location: Central California coast, western US | Vibe: relaxed, artistic, and quaint | Avg temp: 18°C to 24°C

My favorite highlights…

• Dining at Robin’s Restaurant, I loved the blend of trendy and rustic decor, the romantic outdoor patio garden strung with pretty lights, and my divine, spicy Khow Suey Burmese curry.

11. Glacier National Park, Montana

My highlights…

• Staying at the incredible Many Glacier Hotel (which dated from 1915) – I loved its unique Swiss Chalet Design, black‑and‑white photos of early park explorers in the lobby and waking up to incredible lake views every morning! 

12. Block Island, Rhode Island

This serene resort island made a beautiful summer getaway. When I visited in August, the weather was warm enough for swimming and beach days (with the occasional rain shower), and there was a fun seasonal buzz from the Saturday Farmers’ Market and live-music restaurants.

I took a high-speed ferry from Newport and spent a blissful few days unwinding on sandy shores. I toured the iconic Southeast Lighthouse, boated across the Great Salt Pond, wandered the Victorian-style Old Harbor with its waterfront shops and inns, and hiked the winding trails of the Block Island National Wildlife Refuge.

Location: off the mainland Rhode Island, northeastern US | Vibe: quaint New England charm | Avg temp: 24°C to 27°C

My personal highlights…

• I stayed at the super-lush boutique Block Island Beach House and admired its striking, coastal-themed styling and local art. I especially loved the Crescent Beach, the cool ‘Beach Bar,’ the folk‑rock live music on the outdoor patio, and the trendy fire pits! 

13. Blue Lakes, Colorado

I loved hiking this series of alpine lakes in August. The weather was warm and dry with clear blue skies, low humidity, and only the occasional afternoon storm. The high-elevation trails were snow-free, the turquoise glacial lakes were at their brightest, and the meadows were full of wildflowers. It was also perfect for camping and stargazing under clear mountain skies.

I flew into Telluride, stayed at trendy 4s-star The Hotel Telluride, then drove 1.5 hours into the backcountry to camp for three days near Lower Blue Lake, where sunrise over the turquoise water and snow-dusted ridges was unforgettable. I hiked the surrounding trails and made the five-hour backpacking push to Upper Blue Lake, the most secluded of the trio — the solitude and pristine beauty were absolutely worth it!

Location: southwestern Colorado, western US | Vibe: pristine, high-alpine escape | Avg temp: 18°C to 24°C

My favorite highlights….

• The scenic drive to the Blue Lakes Trailhead via Dallas Creek Road – the gravel stretch of Dallas Creek Road wound past old wooden ranch fences, wildflower‑lined meadows, and tiny weather‑beaten barns that looked straight out of a postcard! 

14. Priest Lake, Idaho

I took a summer trip here and found the warm, dry, sunny weather perfect for swimming, boating, and camping, with the Selkirk Mountains and the lake’s clear alpine water looking their absolute best. It was also peak huckleberry season and a great time for spotting moose, beavers, and elk, which were all much more active.

After a two-hour drive from Spokane, I spent an unforgettable week paddling across Priest Lake, hiking the scenic trails in Priest Lake State Park, foraging wild huckleberries, picnicking on the soft sandy beaches, and taking slow, scenic drives to soak in the views.

Location: Northern Idaho, Northwestern US | Vibe: tranquil and unspoiled | Avg temp: 24°C to 29°C

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the historic Elkins Resort, which has welcomed guests since 1932, I adored my rustic log cabin with its cosy stone fireplace, hand‑hewn beams, and the sipping a morning coffee on the private deck where while watching loons glide across the glassy lake!

15. San Juan Islands, Washington

I visited this area on a summer escape and found warm, sunny, mostly dry days perfect for exploring, with the lavender fields in full bloom. It was also a great time for the Lopez Island Farmers Market and whale-watching, with orcas, humpbacks, and minke whales moving through the waters.

I drove two hours from Seattle to Anacortes, took the 1 hour 25 minute ferry, and spent a wonderful week kayaking quiet coves, strolling historic Roche Harbor, biking Lopez Island’s calm roads, sampling wines on Orcas, touring local studios, hiking Mount Finlayson, and sipping a Lavender and Wild Rose liqueur at the San Juan Islands Gin Distillery.

Location: off northwestern Washington State, Pacific Northwest, near border of Canada| Vibe: tranquil and nature-focused | Avg temp: 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 little ginger stripy kittens and cats)! 

16. Seabrook, Washington

I thought this picturesque coastal town made a wonderfully low-key summer break, with the Pacific Northwest at its sunniest — perfect for beach days, tide-pooling, hiking, bonfires, and long sunset walks. I also enjoyed the Seabrook Saturday Markets, the Seabrook Sunset Concerts, and the quirky Gnome and Fairy Festival.

Just 2.5 hours from Seattle, I based myself in Seabrook for a long weekend, indulged in Salted Caramel Pretzel Cupcakes at Red Velvet Bakery, ate fresh seafood at Rising Tide Tavern, browsed local boutiques, relaxed on Seabrook Beach and Pacific Beach State Park, hiked forest trails, and took a scenic drive to Olympic National Park.

Location: central coast of Washington, northwestern US | Vibe: charming and family-friendly | Avg temp: 18°C to 24°C

My personal highlights…

17. Seneca, South Carolina

I spent five days in this charming city and loved the warm late-summer weather, fewer crowds (it still feels like a hidden gem), and long sunny days perfect for lake time. I also enjoyed lively seasonal events like Jazz on the Alley and the Seneca Jeep Fest.

I flew into Greenville-Spartanburg Airport, drove an hour, and based myself at a modern 4-star lakefront stay, spending my days on Lake Keowee, browsing the galleries and cafés along Ram Cat Alley, savoring soulful Southern dishes, and hiking the scenic trails at South Cove.

Location: northwestern South Carolina, Southeastern US | Vibe: small-town atmosphere with Southern charm | Avg temp: 29°C to 32°C

My favorite highlights…

• Dining on hearty American dishes at the Copper River Grill, I was completely won over by the cozy rustic‑chic décor, the exceptionally friendly staff, the Southern‑inspired cocktail menu, and my soul‑warming baked potato soup followed by an indulgent white‑chocolate banana pudding.

18. Ely, Minnesota 

I stayed in this small northern Minnesota city, gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, and enjoyed warm, sunny, breezy summer days perfect for paddling the clear lakes and hiking forest trails. I also loved the laid-back community vibe and the Ely Blueberry/Art Festival, and Fest du Nord also took place this month!

I flew into Duluth International Airport, drove two hours, and based myself at the picturesque Grand Ely Lodge, spending my days kayaking glassy Boundary Waters lakes, hiking Superior National Forest, and visiting the Dorothy Molter Museum.

Location: northeastern Minnesota, Upper Midwest | Vibe: rustic and adventurous | Avg temp: 20°C to 25°C

My personal highlights…

• Being able to step actual log cabins where Dorothy lived at the Dorothy Molter Museum and they still had their original furniture, wood stove, and hand‑written notes inside!

19. Beavers Bend Resort Park, Oklahoma

I camped at this scenic park for a three-day summer break and found the hot, sunny weather perfect for swimming and boating — a refreshing escape from the heat. It was a bit warm for long hikes, but with early starts and shady forest trails, they were still enjoyable, and the evenings were ideal for campfires, stargazing, and wildlife watching.

Three hours from Dallas, I based myself at Buckeye Campground (which had campsites and cabins) and spent my days hiking woodland trails, kayaking on Broken Bow Lake, tubing the Mountain Fork River, riding the Beavers Bend Depot train, and zip-lining through Hochatown’s treetops.

Location: southeastern Oklahoma, south-central US | Vibe: serene, forested retreat | Avg temp: 31°C to 33°C

My favorite highlights…

• I hiked the 1.5‑mile Friends Trail Loop in about an hour, winding through towering pines and shady oaks with a cedar scent in the warm morning air, and loved the views of the Mountain Fork River, the little lookout points, and the waterfall at the end!