Are you looking for the Best Places To Travel In August In The Us? SIXT.VN offers tailored travel solutions to make your summer vacation seamless. Discover incredible destinations with SIXT.VN’s convenient services, ensuring memorable experiences across the USA.
1. Half Moon Bay, Northern California
Scenic Half Moon Bay in the Summer with a vibrant coastal atmosphere
This charming coastal town is a gem to explore in August. The temperatures are mild, and the heavy fog typical of early summer is absent, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
It’s also humpback whale migration season, with flowers blooming and a lively atmosphere thanks to events like the Half Moon Bay Wine & Jazz Festival and the Summer’s End Music Festival.
I relaxed on Half Moon Bay State Beach, checked out Pillar Point Harbor, and explored the tide pools in Fitzgerald Marine Reserve. I also watched world-class surfers at Mavericks Beach and explored boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy restaurants.
- Visitor’s Center Address: Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
- Location: Northern California coast, western United States
- Map Location: Half Moon Bay, CA
- Vibe: Relaxed, coastal, and slightly upscale
- Average Temperatures: 16°C to 20°C
My favorite highlights…
- Dining at Pasta Moon, an Italian farm-to-table restaurant with rustic-chic décor and hearty servings of handmade pasta. The tempura and elderflower raspberry cocktail, ‘Bubbles and Berries,’ were delicious.
- Hiking the Devil’s Slide Trail, a 2.6-mile paved round trip. I loved seeing the ocean waves crashing below the cliffs, the cute pelicans, and harbor seals resting on the rocks below.
2. Mackinac Island, Michigan
Mackinac Island, Michigan, a traffic-free resort with colorful gardens
This traffic-free resort island offers warm, sunny weather with cool breezes, perfect for outdoor activities and gazing at the colorful gardens in full bloom. According to the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau, August is a prime time to visit due to the pleasant weather and numerous events.
Fun events like the Mackinac Island Fudge Festival and sailing regattas add to the appeal.
I took a 20-minute ferry ride from Mackinaw City and explored the biking and hiking trails in Mackinac Island State Park, which covers most of the island. I also kayaked on Lake Huron, visited historic Fort Mackinac, and strolled through the historic downtown, exploring Victorian buildings, museums, fudge stores, and quirky independent shops.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 7200 Lake Shore Dr, Mackinac Island, Michigan 49757
- Location: Northwestern United States
- Map Location: Mackinac Island, MI
- Vibe: Charming and nostalgic
- Average Daytime Temperatures: 18°C to 24°C
My highlights…
- Visiting the historic Grand Hotel (dated 1887) with its grand dining hall and chandeliers. I loved sitting on the 660-foot-long white porch lined with red geraniums, gazing out to the Straits of Mackinac.
- Hiking the Bluff Trail to reach the stunning 146-foot Arch Rock, offering views of Lake Huron’s turquoise waters.
3. Priest Lake, Idaho
Priest Lake Idaho, perfect for swimming, boating, and camping
This peaceful spot offers perfect weather for swimming, boating, and camping, with the scenic Selkirk Mountains and clear alpine waters at their peak. According to the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation, August is the ideal time to visit Priest Lake for water activities.
It’s also prime time for huckleberry picking and wildlife watching.
I stayed at Elkins Resort and enjoyed boating, kayaking, canoeing, and paddle-boarding on the lake, hiking in Priest Lake State Park, picking wild huckleberries, picnicking on the sandy beaches, and scenic drives around the lake.
- Visitor’s Center Address: ID-57, Priest River, Idaho 83856
- Location: Northwestern United States
- Map Location: Priest Lake, ID
- Vibe: Tranquil and unspoiled, with a rustic charm
- Average Temperature: 24°C to 29°C
My highlights…
- Staying at the historic Elkins Resort (dating from 1932) in a log cabin with a stone fireplace and private deck overlooking the lake.
- Hiking the Fault Lake Trail, offering views of the serene Fault Lake nestled in the Selkirk Mountains.
4. Cambria, California
Cambria Beach California, a charming coastal village with mild weather
This charming coastal village offers mild weather with sunny days and cool ocean breezes, along with less fog than earlier in the summer. Cambria is also the gateway to the Central Coast.
It’s whale-watching season, with summer events like the Cambria Farmer’s Market and outdoor lawn games.
I stayed at Cambria Beach Lodge and hiked coastal trails, cycled on Moonstone Beach Boardwalk, went wine tasting in Paso Robles, discovered moonstones and dolphins at Moonstone Beach, and explored the historic downtown filled with boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 2251 Center St, Cambria, CA 93428
- Location: Central Coast of the western United States
- Map Location: Cambria, CA
- Vibe: Relaxed, artistic, and quaint small-town vibe
- Average Daytime Temperature: 18°C to 24°C
My favorite highlights…
- Exploring Moonstone Beach and finding the tide pools.
- Discovering the unique art galleries in downtown Cambria.
5. San Juan Islands, Washington
San Juan Islands, Washington, with warm and sunny weather
The weather is warm, sunny, and mostly dry, with long days perfect for outdoor exploration, and the lavender fields are in full bloom. According to the San Juan Islands Visitors Bureau, August offers the best weather for outdoor activities.
It’s a great time for summer events like the Lopez Island Farmers Market and whale-watching, as orcas, humpback whales, and minke whales pass through the area.
I drove from Seattle to Anacortes Ferry Terminal and took a ferry ride, going kayaking, exploring Roche Harbor, biking on Lopez Island, sampling wine at Orcas Island Winery, discovering the Orcas Island Artists Studio Tour, and exploring Mount Finlayson Trail.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 165 First Street South Friday Harbor, WA 98250
- Location: Salish Sea in northwestern Washington State
- Map Location: San Juan Islands
- Vibe: Laid-back and nature-focused
- Average Temperature: 21°C to 24°C
My personal highlights…
- Kayaking in the Salish Sea.
- Visiting the Lavender Farms on the island.
6. Lake Tahoe, California
South Lake Tahoe, California, a family-friendly resort with warm weather
The weather is dry, warm, and sunny, perfect for water activities. According to the Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority, August is a popular time due to the pleasant weather and numerous events.
There are awesome summer events such as the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, Brews, Jazz & Funk Fest, and the Free Summer Concert Series on the Beach.
I hiked trails in Emerald Bay State Park, went boating, kayaking, paddle-boarding, discovered the Tahoe City Farmers Market, and relaxed on Pope Beach, Kiva Beach, and Baldwin Beach.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 4114 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
- Location: Western United States
- Map Location: South Lake Tahoe
- Vibe: Laid-back yet adventurous
- Average Daytime Temperatures: 21°C to 27°C
My highlights…
- Boating on Lake Tahoe.
- Hiking in Emerald Bay State Park.
7. Cannon Beach, Oregon
Cannon Beach, Oregon, a picturesque coastal town with mild temperatures
The temperatures are mild, and there is less fog than in earlier summer months, perfect for exploring the outdoors and seeing the sunsets. According to the Cannon Beach Chamber of Commerce, August is an excellent time to visit with fewer crowds than July.
It’s whale-watching season, with summer events such as the Cannon Beach Farmers Market, Rockwood community market, and Yoga in the Park.
I explored the downtown, the sandy beach, the tide pools, and Haystack Rock, spotted tufted puffins, and hiked in Ecola State Park.
- Visitor’s Center Address: Cannon Beach, OR 97110
- Location: Northern Oregon Coast, western United States
- Map Location: Cannon Beach, OR
- Vibe: Romantic and artsy
- Average Daytime Temperatures: 18°C to 21°C
My highlights…
- Visiting Haystack Rock.
- Hiking in Ecola State Park.
8. Stonington, Maine
Stonington, Maine, USA, a historic coastal town with warm temperatures
The temperatures are warm with a breeze, perfect for boating and hiking, and the local art galleries and cafés are in full swing. Stonington is a beautiful and friendly town in Maine.
I was a big fan of The Stonington Farmers’ Market, and there was a height of summer buzz.
I had a gorgeous time kayaking, going to a music concert at the historic opera house, taking a boat tour to Isle au Haut, hiking in Crockett Cove Woods Preserve, and discovering the gift shops and farm-to-table restaurants.
- 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: Stonington, ME
- Vibe: Artsy, off-the-beaten-path charm
- Average Daytime Temperatures: 18°C to 24°C
My highlights…
- Kayaking in the harbor.
- Visiting the Stonington Opera House.
9. Portland, Oregon
Portland Food Cart Pods, vibrant with summer events and food trucks
Portland is at its best in the summer. It’s hot and sunny, and the city has an incredible energy with lots of summer events and food trucks fully open. Portland has something for everyone.
I loved Bridge Pedal, Piano Push Play, Portland’s Hip Hop Week, and the Portland Adult Soapbox Derby.
I headed to the International Rose Test Garden in Washington Park to see the flowers in bloom and explored the Portland Japanese Garden. I also checked out the Saturday Market, strolled along Washington Park, caught live music at McMenamins Crystal Ballroom, and sipped cocktails at the 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: Portland, OR
- Vibe: Quirky and eco-conscious
- Average Daytime Temperatures: 27°C to 29°C
My favorite highlights…
- Visiting the International Rose Test Garden.
- Exploring the food truck scene.
10. Glacier National Park, Montana
Glacier National Park, Montana, for outdoor activities and wildlife spotting
This month is peak season in this protected wilderness, but the sunny weather and long daylight hours are perfect for outdoor activities. According to the National Park Service, August is the best time to visit Glacier National Park for hiking and scenic drives.
I also loved spotting the more active wildlife and seeing the wildflowers in bloom. The hiking trails and scenic drives were snow-free and accessible.
I drove Going-to-the-Sun Road, stopping at Logan Pass to gaze at views, explored Many Glacier Valley, saw Iceberg Lake, went on a boat tour of Lake McDonald, and hiked the Highline Trail.
- Visitor’s Center Address: West Glacier, MT 59936
- Location: Northwestern corner of Montana, bordering Canada’s Waterton Lakes National Park
- Map Location: Glacier National Park
- Vibe: Wild, rugged, and breathtaking
- Average Temperatures: 17°C to 27°C (depending on elevation)
My highlights…
- Staying at the historic Many Glacier Hotel (dating from 1915) with its Swiss Chalet Design and views of Swiftcurrent Lake.
- Hiking the Scenic Point Trail in Two Medicine Valley.
11. Berkshires, Massachusetts
Great Barrington, MA, a peaceful and cultured countryside retreat
The weather is warm and dry, perfect for exploring the countryside. According to the Berkshire Visitors Bureau, August is a popular time to visit due to the numerous cultural events.
I saw flowers blooming and a buzz with festivals, farmers’ markets, and events.
I went to the Tanglewood Music Festival, Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival, and the Berkshire Theatre Festival. I hiked to Mount Greylock, boated on Lake Garfield, and discovered art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants in Lenox, Great Barrington, and Stockbridge.
- Visitors Center Address: 66 Allen Street, Pittsfield, MA 01201
- Location: Western Massachusetts, in the northeastern USA
- Map Location: The Berkshires
- Vibe: Peaceful and cultured countryside retreat
- Average Daytime Temperature: 24°C to 27°C
My highlights…
- Attending the Tanglewood Music Festival.
- Hiking to the top of Mount Greylock.
12. Blue Lakes, Colorado
Blue Lakes, Colorado, a pristine high-alpine escape with warm weather
The weather is warm and dry with clear blue skies and low humidity, perfect for high-elevation hiking without snow. According to the Colorado Parks and Wildlife, August offers the best conditions for hiking in the Blue Lakes area.
The turquoise glacial lakes and meadow wildflowers are at their most vibrant. It was also perfect for camping and stargazing.
I camped at a primitive campsite around Lower Blue Lake, hiked the scenic trails, and backpacked to Upper Blue Lake.
- Nearest Visitor’s Center Address: Ouray Visitor Center Address, 1230 Main St, Ouray, CO 81427
- Location: Southwestern Colorado, western United States
- Map Location: Blue Lakes, Colorado
- Vibe: A pristine, high-alpine escape
- Average Daytime Temperatures: 18°C to 24°C
My favorite highlights…
- Hiking the Blue Lakes Trail to Lower and Middle Blue Lakes.
- Driving to the Blue Lakes Trailhead via Dallas Creek Road.
13. Beavers Bend Resort Park, Oklahoma
Beavers Bend Park Grandview Rim Overlook, a serene forested retreat
Even though it was peak visitor season, I loved boating and swimming in the hot, sunny weather. According to the Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department, August is a popular time to visit Beavers Bend for water activities and camping.
I found it was a bit too hot for 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.
I hiked the trails, experienced kayaking on Broken Bow Lake, went tubing on Mountain Fork River, rode the mini-train at Beavers Bend Depot, and went zip-lining on Hochatown.
- Address: 4350 OK-259A, Broken Bow, OK 74728
- Location: Southeastern Oklahoma, south-central region of USA
- Map Location: Beavers Bend Resort Park, Oklahoma
- Vibe: Serene, forested retreat
- Average Daytime Temperatures: 31°C to 33°C
My highlights…
- Hiking the Friends Trail Loop.
14. Hot Springs, Arkansas
Hot Springs, Arkansas, with spa-town charm and natural beauty
The weather is hot and sunny, perfect for taking dips in the springs. The elevated setting helps escape the worst of the humidity. Hot Springs is one of the unique towns you can explore.
I also found out there were some cool late summer events going on such as The Queen Wilhelmina Rod Run and the Ouachita Expressions Show.
I went on the National Park Duck Tour, enjoyed the flowers at Garvan Woodland Gardens, visited the spas in Bathhouse Row, and browsed the shops, art galleries, and museums in downtown.
- 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: Hot Springs, AR
- Vibe: A blend of spa-town charm and natural beauty
- Average Daytime Temperatures: 32°C to 34°C
My favorite highlights…
- Visiting the historic spas on Bathhouse Row.
- Touring Garvan Woodland Gardens.
15. Seabrook, Washington
Seabrook, Washington, a charming and family-friendly coastal town
This coastal town made for a low-key summer break. The Pacific Northwest weather was at its sunniest and warmest, perfect for beach days, tide pools, hiking, beach bonfires, and sunset strolls.
I attended the town’s outdoor events and markets such as the Seabrook Saturday Markets, the Seabrook Sunset Concerts and the Gnome and Fairy Festival.
I relaxed on Seabrook Beach and in Pacific Beach State Park, hiked the trails, took a day trip to Olympic National Park, and strolled through the town 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: Seabrook, WA
- Vibe: Charming and family-friendly
- Average Daytime Temperature: 18°C to 24°C
My personal highlights…
- Staying at the “Otterly Relaxed” self-catering holiday home with a hot tub and fire-pit.
- Discovering the Seabrook Saturday Market.
16. Long Beach Island, New Jersey
Long Beach Island New Jersey, a lively barrier island with warm waters
The Atlantic waters were at their warmest, the beaches were lively and sun-soaked, and the island is buzzing with classic summer fun. Long Beach Island is one of the hottest spots in New Jersey.
I discovered the island was also alive with water-based fun, outdoor dining and seasonal events such as National Night Out and Fire Pit Fridays.
I tried surfing, enjoyed beach volleyball and boating, took walks in Barnegat Lighthouse State Park, discovered farmer’s markets, enjoyed beach fun at Fantasy Island Amusement Park, and explored the Victorian homes, shops, and eateries in the Beach Haven Historic District.
- 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: Long Beach Island
- Vibe: Laid-back and family-friendly
- Average Daytime Temperatures: 27°C to 29°C
My personal highlights…
- Surfing on the Atlantic.
- Visiting Barnegat Lighthouse State Park.
17. Seneca, South Carolina
Seneca, South Carolina, a charming city with lush summer temperatures
I found lush summer temperatures, not as many crowds as in the peak summer months (as it’s a hidden gem), and long sunny days which made it perfect for messing around on the lake. Seneca is also the gateway to exploring the beautiful state of South Carolina.
I also got to join in late summer events such as Jazz on the Alley and the Seneca Jeep Fest.
I enjoyed boating, swimming, and kayaking on Lake Keowee, exploring Ram Cat Alley lined with art galleries, antique shops, and eateries, dining on Southern cuisine, and hiking in South Cove County Park.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 221 E North 1st St. Seneca, SC 29678
- Location: Northwestern corner of South Carolina, Southeastern United States
- Map Location: Seneca, SC
- Vibe: Laid-back, small-town atmosphere with Southern charm
- Average Daytime Temperature: 29°C to 32°C
My favorite highlights…
- Boating on Lake Keowee.
- Exploring Ram Cat Alley.
18. Block Island, Rhode Island
Block Island, Rhode Island, a serene resort island with beaches
This serene resort island made for an idyllic summer getaway. Block Island is also one of the most popular vacation destinations in Rhode Island.
I found the weather was warm enough to swim and laze around on the beaches, and there were vibrant summer events such as the Saturday Farmer’s Market and live music at local restaurants.
I relaxed on the beaches.
I took a tour of the Southeast Lighthouse, went boating on The Great Salt Pond, explored the Old Harbor Historic District with Victorian-style inns, shops, and restaurants, and strolled the trails in 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: Block Island
- Vibe: Quaint, laid-back New England charm
- Average Daytime Temperatures: 24°C to 27°C
My highlights…
- Relaxing on the sandy beaches.
- Visiting the Southeast Lighthouse.
19. Ely, Minnesota
