19 Amazing Places to Visit in August in the USA (My Recommendations)

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 I discovered there was a lively atmosphere with events on such as the popular Half Moon Bay Wine & Jazz Festival, the Summer’s End Music Festival, the Concerts in the Park and the fun Downtown Make it Main Street. 

I paused my Highway One road trip for a gorgeous three‑day getaway at the fine 4‑star boutique Oceano Hotel & Spa right on Half Moon Bay Harbor. I kicked back on Half Moon Bay’s golden sands, admired the fishing boats at Pillar Point Harbor, and clambered over rocks to the tide pools of Fitzgerald Marine Reserve.

I also watched in awe as world‑class surfers tackled the giant waves at Mavericks Beach, then spent hours browsing charming boutiques, vibrant art galleries, and inviting little restaurants.

• Visitor’s Center Address: Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
• Location: northern California coast, western United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: Relaxed, coastal, and slightly upscale
• Average temperatures – 16°C to 20°C 

My favorite highlights…

• Dining at the farm‑to‑table Italian restaurant Pasta Moon, I loved the rustic‑chic decor and the generous plates of handmade fresh pasta, and their crisp tempura and the inventive elderflower‑and‑raspberry cocktail, “Bubbles and Berries,” were both fantastic! 

2. Mackinac Island, Michigan

I took a week long 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!

After a quick 20‑minute ferry ride from Mackinaw City, I cycled and hiked through Mackinac Island State Park and spent a long weekend unwinding at the gorgeous and romantic Inn at Stonecliffe.

I spent my time kayaking on stunning Lake Huron, touring historic Fort Mackinac, and wandering the charming downtown filled with Victorian buildings, interesting museums, and tempting fudge shops! 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 7200 Lake Shore Dr, Mackinac Island, Michigan 49757
• Location: northwestern United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: Charming and nostalgic
• Average daytime temperatures – 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 just loved the buzz Lake Tahoe during the month of August! It’s a fun 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!

I discovered there were also some awesome summer events taking place this month such as the extraordinary Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, the fun Brews, Jazz & Funk Fest and the lively Free Summer Concert Series on the Beach, the Concerts at Commons Beach and the food fair Truckee Thursday. The list of events just went on and on!

I made the two‑hour drive from Sacramento International Airport and enjoyed 10 days packed with adventures – hiking Emerald Bay State Park’s trails to Eagle Falls, getting out on the water with boating, kayaking, and paddle‑boarding, browsing the Tahoe City Farmers Market, and soaking up the rays at Pope, Kiva, and Baldwin beaches.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 4114 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
• Location: western United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: laid-back yet adventurous 
• Average daytime temperatures – 21°C to 27°C

My 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!
• Dining at the cute waterside Boathouse on the Pier. I was won over by the nautical-theme, having the sense of floating above the water and my smoky buffalo cauliflower and luscious Coconut Sorbetto! 

4. 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 (which took 90 minutes) and stopped for three days. I went off exploring the quaint downtown, the beautiful sandy beach and its cute tide pools and its the iconic (and very Instagram-worthy!) 72-meter Haystack Rock, spotted tufted puffins and hiked a picturesque trail in Ecola State Park. 

• Visitor’s Center Address: Cannon Beach, OR 97110
• Location: northern Oregon Coast, western United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: romantic and artsy
• Average daytime temperatures – 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 direct beach access, the cool beach yoga classes and the concierge who even helped us set up a private beach bonfire! 
• Dining at the Latin cuisine restaurant Mi Corazón – I loved the rustic-chic decor, the intimate but upbeat vibe, and my freshly crafted handmade veggie bichitas which came with a zesty guacamole.

5. Portland, Oregon

I personally think 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 flew into Portland International Airport (PDX) and stayed for four days. 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 Honeycomb Negroni 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, northwestern United States 
• Map Location
• Vibe: quirky and eco-conscious
• Average daytime temperatures – 27°C to 29°C

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the quirky 4-star 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 hearty banana chunks, cinnamon and a peanut butter drizzle at the iconic Voodoo Doughnuts!

6. 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! 

After a three‑hour drive from Portland, Maine, I rolled over the picturesque Deer Isle–Sedgwick Bridge and settled in for four unforgettable days.

I filled my stay with kayaking adventures, a concert at the old opera house, a boat trip to wild Isle au Haut, hikes through Crockett Cove Woods’ enchanting old‑growth forest, and hours exploring one‑of‑a‑kind boutiques like the gorgeous Marlinespike Chandlery and savoring fresh farm‑to‑table meals.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 114 Little Deer Isle Road, Deer Isle, ME 04627
• Location: Deer Isle off the southeastern coast of Maine, northeastern United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: artsy, off-the-beaten-path charm
• Average daytime temperatures – 18°C to 24°C

My highlights…

• Staying at cozy 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! 
• 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 during this month, and I didn’t regret my choice because the Atlantic waters were at their warmest, the beaches were lively and sun-soaked, and the island is buzzing with classic summer fun.

I discovered the island was also alive with water-based fun, outdoor dining and seasonal events such as the fun National Night Out and the sociable Fire Pit Fridays.

After a quick two‑hour drive from New York City, I based myself here for a week of pure coastal fun – surfing and beach volleyball by day, boating and exploring Barnegat Lighthouse State Park, shopping farmers’ markets, reliving childhood thrills at Fantasy Island Amusement Park, and soaking up the charm of Beach Haven’s Victorian streets and boutique‑lined avenues.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 265 West 9th Street Ship Bottom NJ 08008
• Location: barrier island off the central coast of New Jersey, northeastern United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: laid-back and family-friendly
• Average daytime temperatures – 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

Although it’s one of the peak tourist months, I took a long weekend break here during August and I found the weather to be hot and sunny and perfect for taking dips in the relaxing, mineral-rich springs! All while escaping the worst of the southern humidity thanks to its elevated setting.

I also found out there were some cool late summer events going on such as fun The Queen Wilhelmina Rod Run and the popular Ouachita Expressions Show. 

I touched down at Little Rock National Airport, drove an easy hour, and spent the day riding the quirky National Park Duck Tour and soaking up the gorgeous blossoms at Garvan Woodland Gardens.

I also made time to visit Bathhouse Row, where I dipped into Quapaw Bathhouse’s steaming thermal pools and admired the old‑world charm of Buckstaff Bathhouse, before browsing downtown’s unique boutiques, creative galleries, and quirky museums.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 369 Central Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901
• Location: Ouachita Mountains, in Garland County in central Arkansas, south-central part of the USA
• Map Location
• Vibe: a blend of spa-town charm and natural beauty
• Average daytime temperatures – 32°C to 34°C

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the unique historic boutique 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 clawfoot bathtub!

9. 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 flew into Albany, took a quick hour’s drive, and settled in for five days of hiking to windswept Mount Greylock, boating on glassy Lake Garfield, and soaking up the charm of Lenox, Great Barrington, and Stockbridge with their creative galleries, quirky boutiques, and locally loved restaurants.

• Visitors Center Address: 66 Allen Street, Pittsfield, MA 01201
• Location: western Massachusetts, in the northeastern USA
• Map Location
• Vibe: peaceful and cultured countryside retreat
• Average daytime temperature – 24°C to 27°C

My 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, Le Labo toiletries and even how they served citrus water served in the lobby! 
• Dining at the trendy farm-t0-table restaurant Prairie Whale – I loved the historic farmhouse building, the mismatched table settings, and their zingy house-made pickles and golden‑baked plum tart! 

10. 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 I saw that there was fun summer events taking place such as the popular Cambria Farmer’s Market and 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, discovering moonstones, tide pools and dolphins on the beach, and losing hours in a downtown alive with one‑off boutiques, cozy cafés, and vibrant galleries.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 2251 Center St, Cambria, CA 93428
• Location: Central Coast of the western United States
• 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 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.
• Watching the elephant seals at Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery – the noisy bull seals had just finished moulting so they were sluggish and sprawled out! 

11. Glacier National Park, Montana

I also loved spotting the more active wildlife and seeing the beautiful yellow, purple, and blue wildflowers in bloom. The hiking trails and scenic drives were snow-free and accessible too! 

After a four‑hour drive from Spokane, I kicked back for an extraordinary week, winding along the iconic Going‑to‑the‑Sun Road, stopping at Logan Pass for breathtaking vistas, wandering through Many Glacier Valley, hiking to the surreal Iceberg Lake, gliding across Lake McDonald on a scenic boat tour, and testing my nerves on the Highline Trail’s dizzying ledges.

• Visitor’s Center Address: West Glacier, MT 59936
• Location: northwestern corner of Montana, bordering Canada’s Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta, northwestern USA.
• Map Location
• Vibe: Wild, rugged, and breathtaking
• Average temperatures – 17°C to 27°C (depending on elevation)

My highlights…

• Staying at the incredible Many Glacier Hotel (which dated from 1915) – I loved its unique Swiss Chalet Design, huge fireplaces, vintage 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 beautiful setting for an idyllic summer getaway! When I vacationed here during August, I found the weather was warm enough to swim and laze around on the beaches (with the occasional rain shower), there was vibrant summer events such as the Saturday Farmer’s Market and local restaurants offering live music.

I hopped on a high‑speed ferry from Newport, Rhode Island, and escaped to a blissful mini‑break spent unwinding on sandy beaches.

I also toured the iconic Southeast Lighthouse, boated across the Great Salt Pond, wandered the lively Old Harbor Historic District with its Victorian‑style inns, waterfront shops, and restaurants, and hiked the winding trails of the Block Island National Wildlife Refuge.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 4 Center Rd, New Shoreham, RI 02807
• Location: 12 miles south of mainland Rhode Island, northeastern United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: quaint, laid-back New England charm
• Average daytime temperatures – 24°C to 27°C

My 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

This month’s temperatures meant it was warm enough for high-elevation hiking without snow and I found the turquoise glacial lakes and and the meadow’s pretty wildflowers were at their most vibrant too. I loved how it was also perfect for camping and stargazing under the clear mountain skies. 

I touched down in Telluride stayed at 4-star The Hotel Telluride then drove 1.5 hours deep into the backcountry, and camped for three days at a primitive site near Lower Blue Lake, where sunrise over the turquoise lake and snow‑dusted ridges made every moment feel photo‑perfect.

I tackled the surrounding trails and pushed on for a five‑hour backpacking journey to Upper Blue Lake, the wildest and most secluded of the trio, and the sheer solitude and pristine beauty definitely made it all worthwhile! 

• Nearest Visitor’s Center Address: Ouray Visitor Center Address, 1230 Main St, Ouray, CO 81427
• Location: southwestern Colorado, western United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: a pristine, high-alpine escape
• Average daytime temperatures – 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 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!) and the scenic beauty of the Selkirk Mountains and clear alpine waters was at its peak.

It was also the prime time for huckleberry picking and wildlife watching and the wildlife like the moose, beavers and elk was much more active!

After a two‑hour drive from Spokane, I spent an unforgettable week paddling every way possible on the lake, hiking gorgeous trails in Priest Lake State Park, foraging for wild huckleberries, picnicking on soft sands, and taking in the lake views on breathtaking drives.

• Visitor’s Center Address: ID-57, Priest River, Idaho 83856
• Location: northwestern United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: Tranquil and unspoiled, with a rustic charm 
• Average temperature – 24°C to 29°C

My 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 beautiful destination on a unique summer getaway and found the weather warm, sunny, and mostly dry, with long days ideal for outdoor exploring – and it was a joy to see the lavender fields in full bloom.

It was also a great time to catch summer events like the Lopez Island Farmers Market and I loved whale-watching as the orcas, humpback whales, and minke whales passed through this area during this time of year too!

I headed two hours north from Seattle to Anacortes, caught the ferry for an hour and 25 minutes, and enjoyed a wonderful week away.

From kayaking and strolling through historic Roche Harbor to biking Lopez Island’s calm roads, sampling wines on Orcas, touring local artists’ studios, sipping on an aromatic Lavender and Wild Rose liqueur at the award-winning San Juan Islands Gin Distillery and hiking the scenic Mount Finlayson Trail – I loved how it was nonstop charm and adventure! 

• 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
• Vibe: Laid-back and nature-focused, with a strong sense of community
• 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 little ginger kittens and cats)! 

16. Seabrook, Washington

I thought this picturesque coastal town made wonderful low key summer break! I found that this is when the Pacific Northwest weather was as its sunniest and warmest, and perfect for lazy beach days, searching for tide pools, hiking, beach bonfires, beautiful Pacific sunset strolls!

I 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!

Just 2.5 hours from Seattle, I spent a long weekend based in Seabrook—treating myself to Salted Caramel Pretzel Cupcakes at Red Velvet Bakery, dining on the day’s catch at Rising Tide Tavern, and picking up artisan finds in the local boutiques.

I also unwound on Seabrook Beach and at Pacific Beach State Park, hiked forest trails, took a two‑hour drive to Olympic National Park, and strolled the town’s New England‑style center.

• Visitor’s Center Address: WA-109, Pacific Beach, WA 98571
• Location: central coast of Washington State’s Olympic Peninsula, northwestern United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: charming and family-friendly
• Average daytime temperature – 18°C to 24°C

My personal highlights…

17. Seneca, South Carolina

I also got to join in buzzing late summer events such as the awesome Jazz on the Alley and the fun Seneca Jeep Fest.

I flew into Greenville‑Spartanburg Airport, drove an hour, and based myself for a week at the modern 4-star Lakefront Getaway, spending my days on Lake Keowee’s waters, wandering art‑packed Ram Cat Alley, enjoying soulful Southern dishes, and hiking South Cove’s beautiful trails.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 221 E North 1st St. Seneca, SC 29678
• Location: northwestern corner of South Carolina, Southeastern United States
• Map Location
• Vibe: laid-back, small-town atmosphere with Southern charm
• Average daytime temperature – 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 at the small city, gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), at the height of the summer and found warm, sunny days (with a little breeze) which were perfect for enjoying the sunny lake days on the sparkling waters of Lake Keowee, and exploring scenic hiking trails. 

I also loved joining in the live music and community events like the toe-tapping Jazz on the Alley, the Ely Blueberry/Art Festival, Fest du Nord, and soaking up the laid-back summer vibe of the welcoming southern town.

I arrived via Duluth International Airport, drove two hours, and based myself at the picturesque Grand Ely Lodge, where I kayaked glassy Boundary Waters lakes, hiked Superior National Forest, and dropped by the unique Dorothy Molter Museum.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 1600 E. Sheridan Street, Ely, MN 55731
• Location: northeastern part of Minnesota, Upper Midwest
• Map Location
• Vibe: rustic and adventurous
• Average August temperatures – 20°C to 25°C

19. Beavers Bend Resort Park, Oklahoma

I camped at this scenic park for a three‑day break during this month, and even though it was peak season, I loved boating and swimming in the hot, sunny weather – it was the perfect, refreshing escape from the heat.

I did find it was a little too hot warm for very long hikes, but with an early start, plenty of water, and sticking to the shady forest trails, they were still manageable! I found it was an ideal time to enjoy campfires, stargazing, and spotting wildlife as well all without the chill that comes with early spring or the rain of late fall.

Three hours out of Dallas, I escaped to Buckeye Campground, a peaceful spot with both campsites and cabins, and filled my days with hikes through stunning woodland trails, kayaking on Broken Bow Lake, tubing wild stretches of the Mountain Fork River, riding the charming Beavers Bend Depot train, and zip‑lining across Hochatown’s treetops (which was only just a little hair-raising)!

• Address: 4350 OK-259A, Broken Bow, OK 74728
• Location: southeastern Oklahoma, south-central region of USA
• Map Location
• Vibe: serene, forested retreat
• Average daytime temperatures – 31°C to 33°C

My 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!