Summer is almost over in August, but there’s still time for one last trip before resuming the autumn routine.
I spoke with local experts and included some of my favorite destinations to curate this list of 16 of the best places to travel in August in the U.S. and around the world.
Whether you decide to enjoy August at your favorite local beach or some distant shore, we hope these destinations will provide some vacation inspiration.
New Orleans
Summers in New Orleans are hot and humid, but August is an excellent time for a family visit with plenty to do, hotel deals, and restaurant discounts thanks to the annual COOLinary program.
The Audubon Zoo features a real swamp in uptown New Orleans with elephants, bears, snakes, orangutans, and a rare white tiger.
The Audubon Aquarium has interactive exhibits with sharks, alligators, penguins, and fascinating insects. The Satchmo Summer Fest, on Aug. 3-4 at the New Orleans Jazz Museum, celebrates Louis Armstrong with music and food.
There’s live music everywhere, and during the Red Dress Run (Aug. 10), runners and walkers wear red dresses for charity.
During my recent visit, I enjoyed VUE Orleans, with fun for everyone and great views from the observation deck. Another must-see is the National World War II Museum.
Where to Stay: The Higgins Hotel New Orleans, adjacent to the National World War II Museum, is convenient and comfortable. The historic Eliza Jane, Kimpton Hotel Fontenot, and Ritz-Carlton New Orleans are also great places to stay.
San Francisco
August in San Francisco is warm and sunny, though fog can create a dreamy atmosphere. It’s a great time to walk or bike across the Golden Gate Bridge, visit Golden Gate Park for a free concert, explore The Walt Disney Family Museum, or take a boat ride to Alcatraz Island.
The Outside Lands Music & Arts festival, Aug. 9-11, takes place in Golden Gate Park, featuring food from the city’s best restaurants and food trucks.
Even non-baseball fans can appreciate Oracle Park with views of the Bay Bridge and marina.
Where to Stay: Hotel Zetta, Hotel Zeppelin, St. Regis San Francisco, Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco, and LUMA San Francisco are all excellent options. Nearby in Sausalito, Cavallo Point is a great choice.
Kentucky
For those who love lakes, forests, mountains, waterfalls, and culinary adventures, head to the Bluegrass State. Kentucky offers bourbon distilleries, horse farms, small towns, and exciting cities.
This year marks the 100th anniversary of Kentucky’s state parks, like Cumberland Falls State Resort Park with boating, fishing, wildlife, and Cumberland Falls, often called “Niagara of the South.”
Natural Bridge State Resort Park features a massive sandstone arch, fishing, kayaking, hiking, and a skylift for views of the arch. In Lexington, I enjoyed visiting a horse farm, the Distillery District, and the charming downtown. Whether it’s a road trip, camping, a Bourbon Trail tour, or an active outdoor visit, Kentucky is a great summer destination.
Where to Stay: In Lexington’s Distillery District, The Manchester offers comfort, superb dining, and Kentucky hospitality. Campsites in the state parks and Mammoth Cave National Park immerse you in nature.
The Island of Hawaiʻi
The Big Island, the largest and youngest of the Hawaiian Islands, offers a variety of microclimates and landscapes, from the dry Kona coast to the rainforests and waterfalls of Hilo.
The weather in August is warm and dry on the western coastline, perfect for beachgoers. There are hiking trails in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, historic sites, waterfalls, and stargazing opportunities.
Hawaiian cuisine is a highlight, with specialties like shave ice, loco moco, poke, and malasadas. The Mauna Lani Culinary Classic (Aug. 29-Sept. 2) brings chefs, sommeliers, mixologists, and visitors together for creative cuisine events.
Where to Stay: Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is a longtime favorite with a golf course and the new Miller & Lux Steakhouse. Mauna Kea Residences offers luxury condos, townhomes, and estates, perfect for groups. The beloved Kona Village, a Rosewood Resort, reopened in July 2023.
Chicago
Chicago’s August weather is warm. Judson Corrie, assistant director of guest experience and concierge services at Waldorf Astoria Chicago, recommends Riverwalk dining and the city’s beaches outside of landmark events like Northalsted Market Days, Lollapalooza, and the Chicago Air & Water Show.
Corrie suggests taking a river or lake cruise or visiting Navy Pier for family fun and fireworks on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Enjoy outdoor activities on Lake Michigan and the Chicago River with paddleboards or kayaks, or relax on the popular Architecture Center river cruise.
Chicago’s top museums, like the Chicago Children’s Museum, the Museum of Illusions, and the Field Museum of Natural History, are great for all ages.
Where to Stay: Pendry Chicago is on Michigan Avenue, close to Lollapalooza and concerts at Millennium Park and Grant Park. Waldorf Astoria Chicago and Park Hyatt Chicago are also excellent choices.
Corinna Wenks, general manager at Park Hyatt Chicago, notes that “Chicago comes alive in the peak of summer with sun-filled beaches, bustling streets, and outdoor festivals.”
Orlando, Florida
Orlando offers plenty of family activities, from theme parks to water parks and nearby beaches for those who want to visit the shore.
Universal Orlando’s new family-focused section features a Kung Fu Panda play area, and Walt Disney World’s water parks help everyone cool off in August’s warm weather.
Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party debuts in August, too, for an early start to the spooky season. Save some money between theme park days by exploring the many free things to do in Orlando.
Lia Moretti, general manager of Bull & Bear at Waldorf Astoria Orlando, says, “August in Orlando offers a perfect blend of favorable conditions for travelers seeking to explore the city without the usual hustle and bustle.
The weather is still fantastic, and the vibe is more laid-back, making it the perfect time to soak up all Orlando has to offer.”
Where to Stay: Beyond the always-popular Disney World hotels, the Waldorf Astoria Orlando and the new Conrad Orlando are ideal choices for families and couples.
Maine
Wild blueberries, succulent lobsters, breezy beaches, rugged coastlines, and quaint towns make the Pine Tree State a great summer destination.
Acadia National Park offers 47,000 acres of forests, rocky beaches, granite peaks, and wildlife. Ogunquit, an idyllic seaside village, has a gorgeous three-mile sandy beach, the historic Ogunquit Playhouse for world-class summer theater, and the Ogunquit Museum of American Art.
Tim Harrington, chairman at Maine’s Atlantic Hospitality, says, “Ogunquit comes alive during the summer, and the main draw of visiting in August is the absolutely perfect weather.
The town is very walkable – you can park your car and not use it again. Travelers can explore the restaurants, bars, shops, art scene, and everything else Ogunquit has to offer primarily on foot. Grab a blueberry ice cream and head to Ogunquit Beach to enjoy a quintessential Maine summer day.”
Where to Stay: The Dunes on the Waterfront in Ogunquit is a collection of luxury one- to three-bedroom cottages on 12 oceanfront acres. In Bar Harbor, near Acadia National Park, cozy boutique Salt Cottages overlook Frenchman Bay, with a heated pool, hot tubs, and fire pits.
Bermuda
Bermuda, located about 600 miles east of North Carolina in the Atlantic Ocean, is just a two-hour flight from New York.
August weather is warm and humid, perfect for swimming and snorkeling among coral reefs. The annual cricket Cup Match on Aug. 1-2 is an island-wide event centered around the competition between St. George’s and Somerset.
Bermuda also offers family fun with biking, paddleboarding, and cave exploring. Climbing the 185 steps to the top of the Gibbs Hill Lighthouse provides a good workout and spectacular views.
During my visit a few years ago, I enjoyed touring Hamilton, driving a tiny car (keeping left!), and having my first dark and stormy at Goslings.
Where to Stay: The beautiful, historic Hamilton Princess & Beach Club, called the “Pink Palace,” was where I stayed. The St. Regis Bermuda and Rosewood Bermuda are other luxury options.
Switzerland
Switzerland, bordered by Austria, France, Germany, and Italy, is a lovely August destination for sunny weather, cool mountain air, or historic cities.
You’ll want to be there for Swiss National Day on Aug. 1, when the country celebrates the 1291 signing of the Swiss Federal Charter with fireworks, bonfires, lanterns, village markets, music, and brunches.
Switzerland also offers lakes, rivers, and thermal baths for those seeking beach time. Must-visit UNESCO World Heritage sites include prehistoric dwellings, glaciers, castles, ancient cities, and vineyards.
Where to Stay: In the mountains, Chasa Montana and The Lodge offer five-star service and gourmet dining. Kulm Hotel St. Moritz and Hotel Laudinella are convenient for August festivals in St. Moritz.
The Woodward in Geneva, Alex Lake Zurich, and Domaine de Châteauvieux in Switzerland’s wine country are more options.
Aruba
Aruba, known as “One Happy Island,” is a Caribbean destination with gorgeous beaches, caves, casinos, and golf courses.
August’s warm weather is ideal for relaxing by the pool, snorkeling among coral reefs, or sailing along the shoreline. Aruba, located about 15 miles from Venezuela’s coast, is a three-hour flight from Miami.
Its position below the hurricane belt makes it a safe Caribbean vacation spot in late summer. Shopping enthusiasts will enjoy Oranjestad or San Nicolas for boutiques, designer shops, art galleries, and restaurants.
Jennifer Healy, vice president of marketing for the Aruba Tourism Authority, suggests visiting Arikok National Park for local flora, fauna, and caves. “Aruba is one of the most revisited destinations in the Caribbean, thanks to its stunning scenery, rich history, safety, and the warmth of our people,” she says.
Where to Stay: Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa offers an all-inclusive option. The new Embassy Suites by Hilton Aruba Resort in Eagle Beach, Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort, and Divi & Tamarijn Aruba are great family choices.
South Africa
August is a winter month in South Africa but a great time to visit for safaris. Wildlife is easier to spot as the foliage thins, and Cape Town is warm enough for sightseeing and sampling delicious cuisine.
Whale watching is possible in Hermanus, two hours from Cape Town, or along the Garden Route. “In August, many tourists are drawn to the beautiful Western Cape province,” says Jonathan Epstein, CEO of Celebrated Experiences, “with the town of Hermanus as a popular destination due to the annual Hermanus Whale Festival.
The combination of the scenic coastal landscape and the spectacular sight of southern right whales migrating through the region makes it a top choice.”
Where to Stay: Southern Africa specialist Ashlee Bailey recommends Babylonstoren, a historic Dutch Cape farm with elegant accommodations and a spa. Kwandwe Great Fish River Lodge and Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge offer memorable safari experiences with luxurious lodging.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Scotland’s beautiful capital city, Edinburgh, is a charming blend of modern amenities and ancient traditions.
In August, the Edinburgh International Festival brings theater, dance, and musical performances, while the Edinburgh Festival Fringe showcases a variety of arts.
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, a dramatic display of military music, is also held in August. Historic attractions like Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse offer glimpses into Scotland’s past.
Where to Stay: The Balmoral Hotel, Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian, and Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel provide luxurious accommodations in the heart of the city.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen, Denmark’s capital, is a vibrant city with a rich history and modern design.
August weather is perfect for exploring the city’s many attractions, such as Tivoli Gardens, Nyhavn Harbor, and the Little Mermaid statue.
The city’s food scene, from traditional Danish smørrebrød to New Nordic cuisine, is a culinary delight. The Copenhagen Jazz Festival and the Copenhagen Pride Parade are also held in August.
Where to Stay: Hotel d’Angleterre, Nimb Hotel, and Hotel Sanders offer luxurious and stylish accommodations in Copenhagen’s city center.
Montreal, Canada
Montreal, the largest city in Canada’s Quebec province, is a blend of European charm and North American energy. In August, the city hosts several festivals, including the Montreal International Tango Festival and the Montreal Pride Parade.
The historic Old Montreal, with its cobblestone streets and colonial architecture, offers a glimpse into the city’s past, while the Plateau neighborhood is known for its vibrant street art and trendy shops.
Where to Stay: Hotel William Gray, The Ritz-Carlton Montreal, and Hotel Nelligan offer comfortable and stylish accommodations in the heart of Montreal.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires, Argentina’s vibrant capital, is known for its rich cultural scene, historic architecture, and lively nightlife.
August is winter in Buenos Aires, but the weather is mild, making it a great time to explore the city’s attractions, such as the historic neighborhoods of San Telmo and La Boca, the elegant Recoleta Cemetery, and the bustling Avenida Corrientes. The city’s food scene, from traditional Argentine steak to innovative fusion cuisine, is a culinary delight.
Where to Stay: Alvear Palace Hotel, Four Seasons Hotel Buenos Aires, and Faena Hotel Buenos Aires offer luxurious accommodations in the heart of the city.
Queenstown, New Zealand
Queenstown, known as the “Adventure Capital of the World,” is a stunning destination in New Zealand’s South Island.
August is winter in Queenstown, offering opportunities for skiing and snowboarding in nearby resorts like Coronet Peak and The Remarkables.
The town itself offers a range of activities, from bungee jumping and skydiving to wine tasting and spa treatments. The breathtaking scenery, with mountains, lakes, and rivers, makes Queenstown a perfect destination for nature lovers.
Where to Stay: Eichardt’s Private Hotel, The Rees Hotel, and Matakauri Lodge offer luxurious accommodations with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
As you can see, there is no shortage of amazing places to visit in August, whether you are looking for sun and sand, culture and history, or adventure and nature. Enjoy your travels!