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 awesome events on such as the Half Moon Bay Farmers’ Market, the Plaza Concert Series and the community-focused Downtown Make it Main Street. 

I paused my Highway One road trip for a three‑day getaway at the 4‑star boutique Oceano Hotel & Spa located right on Half Moon Bay Harbor. I kicked back on Half Moon Bay’s golden sands, admired the fishing boats at Pillar Point Harbor, clambered over rocks to poke around the tide pools in Fitzgerald Marine Reserve and then spent hours checking out all the cute little art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.

Location: northern California coast Map Location | Vibe: slightly upscale but relaxed | Avg temp: 60°F to 68°F

My favorite highlights…

• Dining at the farm-to-table Italian restaurant Pasta Moon, I loved the generous plates of handmade pappardelle, the flickering candlelit tables, and their “Bubbles and Berries” elderflower-and-raspberry cocktail which was wonderfully light and floral!

2. Mackinac Island, Michigan

I took a week long August vacation to this traffic-free resort island and 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! 

Location: Upper Midwest | Vibe: Charming and nostalgic | Avg temp: 64°F to 75°F

My highlights…

• Visiting the famous historic Grand Hotel (dating from 1887) which had a huge, grand dining room with crystal chandeliers – I loved sitting on the 660-foot-long white porch lined with 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 right in the South Shore this month, such as the lively Live at Lakeview Summer Concert Series, the Heavenly Village Summer Concert Series, and the Valhalla Art, Music & Theatre Festival. The list of cool events went on and on!

I made the two‑hour drive from Sacramento International Airport and enjoyed 10 days packed with adventures – a sunset paddlewheeler cruise on the MS Dixie II, exploring the water on kayaks and paddle-boards, artisan-food shopping the Ski Run Farmers Market, tucking into Coconut Sorbetto at the waterside Boathouse on the Pier and catching rays on my favorite beaches Pope, Kiva, and Baldwin. 

Location: border of California and Nevada Map Location | Vibe: outdoorsy luxury | Avg temp: 70°F to 81°F

My highlights…

• Staying at the unique Basecamp Tahoe South – I loved soaking in the steamy rooftop hot tub in the fresh mountain air, the crackling fire pits, and my camping-themed room which featured cream canvas-covered bed, glowing faux campfire, and even a cute in-room picnic table!

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 iconic (and very Instagram-worthy!) 72-meter Haystack Rock, spotted tufted puffins, hiked a picturesque trail in Ecola State Park and dined on handmade veggie fajitas at the Latin inspired restaurant Mi Corazón.

Location: Pacific Northwest |Vibe: romantic and artsy | Avg temp: 64°F to 70°F

My highlights…

• Staying at the funky Surfsand Resort. The huge in-room soaking tub, the incredible views of Haystack Rock, the Slow Vinyasa Flow beach yoga classes and the awesome concierge who even helped us set up a private beach bonfire made my stay!

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, sipped on Honeycomb Negroni cocktails at the rooftop of the trendy Departure Lounge and gorged on a divine Memphis Mafia donut oozing with banana chunks, cinnamon and a peanut butter drizzle at the iconic Voodoo Doughnuts!

Location: northwestern United States |Vibe: quirky and eco-conscious | Avg temp: 80.6°F to 84.2°F

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the quirky 4-star McMenamins Kennedy School – I was charmed by all the nostalgic touches! The scent of old wood and chalk dust still lingered in the hallways, I spotted an original chalkboard where I left a goodbye note, and even the former Principal’s Office had been transformed into the front desk!

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 peak-summer buzz about the place which I thought was awesome!

After a three‑hour drive from Portland, Maine, I rolled over the picturesque Deer Isle–Sedgwick Bridge and settled in for four unforgettable days ending the evenings at the harborside Stonecutter’s Kitchen where I couldn’t get enough of the smoky charred street corn topped with fresh lime and chili spice.

My days were spent indulging in 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 checking out the one‑of‑a‑kind boutiques (like the intriguing Marlinespike Chandlery)!

Location: northeastern United States |Vibe: artsy, off-the-beaten-path charm | Avg temp: 64°F to 75°F

My highlights…

• Staying just down the road at the cozy The Eggemoggin Reach Inn on Little Deer Isle – I loved the weathered pine decor, creaky farmhouse floorboards, and my peaceful guest room balcony where I sat listening to the gulls while gazing out at the sea views. The century-old farmhouse building was full of character!

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.

Location: barrier island off New Jersey, northeast |Vibe: laid-back and family-friendly | Avg temp: 80°F to 84°F

My personal highlights…

• Staying at the grand 4-star Hotel LBI – I loved the panoramic views of Barnegat Bay, sipping creamy Coconut Mojitos in the chic rooftop bar and the indoor swimming pool which had a unique retractable roof! 

8. Hot Springs, Arkansas

August is hot and sunny here and perfect for messing around on the three beautiful lakes here, but I should warn you: even with the elevation, the Southern humidity is very real! There was also late summer events on such as 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 enjoyed checking out the historic Bathhouse Row, dipping in the thermal waters indoors in the climate-controlled historic building Quapaw to escape the August heat and admiring the old‑world charm of Buckstaff Bathhouse, before checking out the interesting boutiques, creative galleries, and quirky museums.

Location: central Arkansas, south-central |Vibe: spa-town charm and natural beauty | Avg temp: 89°F to 93°F

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the historic boutique The Gables Inn – the creaking polished oak floorboards, ornate dark mahogany woodwork, stained-glass windows, my cast-iron clawfoot bathtub gave the whole place an enchanting old-world feel!

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 great restaurants – I loved the golden‑baked plum tart at Prairie Whale which was housed in an old farmhouse building.

Location: northeast |Vibe: cultured countryside retreat | Avg temp: 75°F to 80°F

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-themed details like their soothing chamomile and lavender herbal teas, Le Labo toiletries, and even the citrus-infused water served in the lobby!

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.

Location: Central Coast West US |Vibe: arty small-town | Avg temp: 64°F to 75°F

My favorite highlights…

• Dining at Robin’s Restaurant – I loved the trendy-rustic decor, the romantic patio garden glowing with fairy lights, and my spicy Khow Suey Burmese curry with creamy coconut, fresh lime, garlic, and ginger flavors.

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.

Location: northwestern Montana, bordering Canada |Vibe: wild, rugged, and breathtaking | Avg temp: 63°F to 81°F (depending on elevation)

My highlights…

• Staying at the incredible Many Glacier Hotel (which dated from 1915) – I loved the quaint Swiss chalet design, crackling stone fireplaces, vintage black-and-white explorer photos in the lobby, and waking up to misty lake and mountain 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.

Location: island off Rhode Island coast |Vibe: quaint New England charm | Avg temp: 75°F to 80°F 

My highlights…

• I stayed at the super-lush boutique Block Island Beach House and admired its coastal-inspired styling, driftwood decor, and local seascape artwork. My favorite highlights were the pretty Crescent Beach and their passionfruit margaritas!

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 flew into Montrose Airport, 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! 

Location: southwestern Colorado, western US |Vibe: pristine, high-alpine escape | Avg temp: 64°F to 75°F 

My favorite highlights….

• The scenic drive to the Blue Lakes Trailhead via Dallas Creek Road which wound past old wooden ranch fences, meadows filled with lupines and Indian paintbrush wildflowers, and tiny weathered 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.

Location: Idaho northwestern US |Vibe: Tranquil with a rustic charm | Avg temp: 75°F to 84°F 

My highlights…

• Staying at the historic Elkins Resort which has welcomed guests since 1932, I adored my rustic log cabin with its cozy stone fireplace, hand-hewn beams, and sipping Evans Brothers Coffee on the private deck 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 just non-stop charm and adventure! 

Location: Pacific Northwest |Vibe: nature-focused | Avg temp: 69°F to 75°F.

My personal highlights…

• Staying at the unique Lopez Farm Cottages & Tent Camping! I loved the quirky glamping experience of sleeping in a comfy luxury tent surrounded by nature and meeting the owner’s adorable ginger kittens, Marmalade and Pumpkin!

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 bustling Seabrook Saturday Markets (I loved the lavender-scented and local honey products from Little Miss Bee’s Candle Co), 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.

Location: Pacific Northwest |Vibe: charming and family-friendly | Avg temp: 64°F to 75°F.

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.

Location: SouthEast |Vibe: small-town with Southern charm | Avg temp: 84°F to 89°F.

My favorite highlights…

• Dining on hearty American dishes at the Copper River Grill, I was completely won over by the rustic-chic decor, bourbon peach smash cocktails, my creamy baked potato soup and the velvety white-chocolate banana pudding.

18. Ely, Minnesota 

I stayed at this small city which I found was the ultimate gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) in the height of summer. I found the days were beautifully warm and the “Northwoods” air was fresh and faintly scented with pine.

I also loved joining in the live music and community events like the Ely Blueberry/Art Festival, Fest du Nord, and soaking up the laid-back summer vibe of the welcoming small 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.

Location: Upper Midwest |Vibe: rustic and adventurous| Avg temp: 70°F to 75°F.

My favorite highlights…

• Browsing the quirky shelves at Piragis Northwoods Company, there was a scent of cedar candles and freshly brewed hazelnut coffee drifting through the store while I was chatting to friendly locals stocking up on Boundary Waters gear!

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)!

Location: south-central |Vibe: serene, forested retreat | Avg temp: 88°F to 91°F.

My highlights…

• I hiked the 1.5-mile Friends Trail Loop in about an hour, winding through towering pines and shady oaks scented with warm cedar and sun-baked earth, and loved the rushing Mountain Fork River, the tiny wooden lookout points, and the misty waterfall at the end!