When you think of summer, many things come to mind, including vacation, the ocean, beaches, fun, retreats, and more. It is the perfect season to escape the routine, soak in breathtaking landscapes, and create unforgettable memories. However, finding a place that offers serene vibes, away from the hustle and bustle of city life, and a tranquil environment where you can explore different cultures and traditions can be challenging. From hidden gems to iconic vacation spots, this guide highlights some of the best summer destinations across the globe. Explore these remarkable places and find the perfect destination for your next solo adventure, family or friend vacation, or romantic escape.
Best Summer Destinations Around the Globe
1. Mauritius
A vibrant tropical island nation, Mauritius is located in the Indian Ocean. The island is situated around 2,000 km off the southeastern coast of Africa. The island is renowned for its stunning beaches, volcanic mountains, coral reefs, and a blend of diverse cultures. It is a perfect destination for visitors seeking luxury, relaxation, adventure, or all three. The peak summer season in Mauritius runs from November to April, with temperatures between 27 and 30 degrees Celsius, making it an ideal time to enjoy summer activities.
Things to do:
- Go on a boat tour to the west coast of the island and swim with the dolphins in their natural habitat.
- Give a day visit to the spectacular island of Ile aux Cerfs on the east coast, where you can enjoy the white sandy beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, and various water sports activities like parasailing.
- Explore over 50 varieties of coral and abundant marine life through snorkeling in the Blue Bay Marine Park.
- Hike or trek through the dense rainforest at the Black River Gorges National Park. It is also an amazing spot for panoramic viewpoints, spectacular waterfalls, and endemic birds.
- Enjoy the jungle safari, walk across the Nepalese bridge, and give yourself an adrenaline rush with ziplining at the Casela World of Adventures.
- Sample the local rum at the Chamarel Distillery and taste one of the world's most recognised teas at the Bois Cheri estate with spectacular views.
How to reach:
- You can land at one of the island's busiest airports, Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU) in Port Louis, which receives numerous direct and connecting flights from various parts of the world.
- Though a bit slow, one of the amazing ways to reach Mauritius is by sea. Various ocean regions around the world allow you to take a cruise or passenger ship from the country to the island, where you can enjoy a scenic and luxurious experience.
2. Vietnam Coast
The Vietnam coast is a breathtaking stretch that spans around 3,260 km, from Halong Bay's dramatic limestone karsts in the north to the south's tropical resort islands. The coastline offers a perfect blend of world-class beaches, ancient maritime culture, and highly affordable coastal cities. The summer months in the country span from June to August, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius, making the environment hot and humid. The refreshing sea breezes from the coastal regions provide a refreshing atmosphere.
Things to do:
- You can either give your mind and body a relaxing treat or immerse yourself in water-based adventure activities, such as parasailing and jet-skiing, at My Khe Beach.
- Enjoy your island-hopping ride at Nha Trang, and enjoy snorkeling and diving into the clear coral reefs midway to make your trip more adventurous.
- Explore hidden limestone caves on your multi-day cruise tour from Ha Long Bay to Kayak.
- Visit the theme park thrills at Ba Na Hills to ride the Ba Na Hills SunWorld cable car and walk across the iconic Golden Bridge.
- Go on guided diving and eco-tours at Con Dao, a protected island, where summer is the peak season for sea turtle nesting.
- Complete a boat trip down the Mekong River Delta, where you can savour the flavour of tropical fruits and explore the bustling floating markets.
How to reach:
- One of the fastest and most practical ways to reach the Vietnam Coast is by air. Although the country has several international airports along the coast, you can choose one based on your destination. A few of the major international airports for the Vietnam Coastal region include Da Nang International Airport (DAD), Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR), Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC), Phu Bai International Airport (HUI), and Cat Bi International Airport (HPH).
3. Bali
The Indonesian island and province of Bali is located at the westernmost front of the Lesser Sunda Islands. It is one of the best tropical summer getaways, which is also considered the peak season for tourists. The summer season in Bali runs from May to September, when the average temperature is between 28 and 32 degrees Celsius, creating ideal conditions for low humidity, sunny skies, and beach weather. Moreover, as Bali is experiencing bustling crowds at this time, transportation and accommodation prices are also at their peak.
Things to do:
- Head to the West Coast and delve into water sports activities like surfing. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced surfer, the conditions for surfing are ideal for both.
- Go on an early morning hike on Mount Batur, an active volcano. You can catch the mesmerising sunrise view over the island from the summit and enjoy the breathtaking view.
- Delve into the Ubud culture of the island by wandering through the shady, rich Ubud Money Forest, taking a scenic walk at the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, and paying a visit to the holy water temple, Pura Tirta Empul (Tirta Empul Temple).
- World-famous beach clubs of Bali come alive during the summer. You can spend your afternoon by retreating alongside the pool in Seminyak or Nusa Dua with cocktails and mocktails and experience the jaw-dropping ocean sunsets.
- Enjoy a short boat ride on a day trip from the mainland, where you can explore the remarkable T-Rex-shaped cliff at Kelingking Beach and go swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Crystal Bay.
How to reach:
- One of the fastest and most convenient ways to reach Bali is by air. You can land at the city's international airport, i.e., I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), commonly known as Denpasar International Airport, Bali Airport, and Ngurah Rai Airport. It is the country's third-busiest and best airport, with many national and international flights operating there.
- Various Southeast Asian nations offer cruises that stop in Bali. Thus, whether you want to travel directly from Singapore, Sumatra, or Java, or plan to land in these countries, you can take a cruise service to reach Bali in a scenic setting.
4. Santorini
The spectacular and quintessential Greek island of Santorini, located in the Aegean Sea, is the perfect getaway for your summer vacation. The island was formed in the 16th century BCE after a massive volcanic eruption. It is known throughout the world for its dramatic volcanic caldera views, whitewashed villages, and blue-domed churches, and offers world-class wineries, luxury cliffside resorts, and iconic sunsets. The weather on the island from June to August is mostly bright, dry, and hot, with temperatures ranging from 28 to 34 degrees Celsius. Moreover, the summer is the peak tourist season; there will be heavy crowds, and accommodation and transportation costs will also be higher.
Things to do:
- Relax on the striking black sand of Perissa Beach, known for deep blue waters, a long shoreline, and the towering Mesa Vouno mountain providing a dramatic backdrop, or at Kamari Beach, lined with a bustling promenade of cafes, shops, and seafood taverns.
- Head down to Ammoudi Bay, a port below Oia, and enjoy the fresh seafood, swimming, and cliff jumping to gather some unforgettable memories during your vacation.
- Go on a spectacular 10-km-long trail from Fira to Oia, along the caldera rim. You can start your hike either early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the summer heat of the island.
- Enjoy a sample of local Assyrtiko wines at the estate vineyards, including Domaine Sigalas and Santo Wines, or indulge in a romantic rooftop dinner in Fira, Imerovigli, or Megalochori.
- If you are a history lover, you can explore the Greek Pompeii at the Akrotiri archaeological site, a Minoan Bronze Age settlement preserved beneath volcanic ash.
How to reach:
- You can first fly to the country's most famous international airport, Athens International Airport (ATH), and then connect with a domestic flight to Santorini (Thira) National Airport (JTR). Various carriers can help you complete your flight, based on the destination you are flying from.
- Flights from some European destinations to the island during the peak summer season may offer direct service to Santorini (Thira) National Airport (JTR) without a stopover in Athens.
- After your flight at the Athens International Airport (ATH), you can even opt to take a ferry ride from ports like the Port of Piraeus and Rafina. It would take you around 4.5 to 5 hours to reach Athinios Port in Santorini.
5. Coastal Spain
Spain has a diverse coastline of about 8,000 km to cater to the interests of its different travellers. Whether you are looking for world-class gastronomy, quiet fishing villages, or historic port cities, every search ends at the Spanish coast. Moreover, the country's coastline offers rugged cliffs, resort-heavy, luxurious places, and wild, windswept beaches, allowing you to enjoy the experience you desire. July and August are the peak summer season for your visit, allowing you to enjoy the rich Mediterranean beach parties and cooler Atlantic shores.
Things to do:
- Give yourself a relaxing treat at the world's top-rated sands, such as Platja de ses Illetes in Formentera, Cala Turqueta in Menorca, or the bustling urban sands of Barceloneta in Barcelona.
- Delve into the water sports and wind adventure activities at Tarifa, where you can enjoy windsurfing, kitesurfing, or snorkeling in the crystalline waters of the Cap de Creus Natural Park in Catalonia.
- Complete a walk on Menorca's pine-shaded Cami de Cavalls, or go on a wind hike trail at the Cabo de Gata-Nijar Natural Park in Almería.
- Savour the world-class mouthwatering seafood dishes, like espetos, in Malaga, or head to San Sebastian to delve into the Michelin-starred pintxos.
- Take a tour of the city's historical sites, including the must-visit destinations: the Balcón de Europa in Nerja, the Moorish Alhambra in Granada, and the royal Magdalena Palace in Santander.
How to reach:
- You can fly to the coastal region of Spain. However, the airport you choose depends on the coastal region you wish to visit. A few of the major international airport options for Coastal Spain are Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN), Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport (ALC), Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP), Palma de Mallorca (PMI), Tenerife South (TFS), and Gran Canaria (LPA).
- To enjoy a scenic journey, you can even take a ferry ride. The rides are available from the UK and France to northern Spain. Choose the arrival and departure ports based on availability and your convenience.
6. Coastal Australia
Australia is a mesmerising island country with a coastline of over 25,000 km. The country is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, vibrant surf culture, and laid-back lifestyle. It is one of the most popular destinations for beating the intense heat and making vacations more memorable. The summer season in Coastal Australia runs from December to February, when temperatures range from 20 to 37 degrees Celsius. It would be your perfect escape from your hectic life if you are looking for scenic drives, a retreating coastal area, world-famous beaches, or secluded wildlife encounters.
Things to do:
- In New South Wales, you can delve into various water-related activities, including going surfing, even though you are a beginner, taking a coastal walk from Bondi to Bronte, or spotting pods of dolphins in the wild with a cruise either from Jervis Bay or Port Stephens. Moreover, you can also go on a hike on the coastal track of the Royal National Park and end your journey with a swim in the pristine waters of Figure Eight Pools.
- Victoria is a great place to delve into the iconic multi-day road trip, where you can drive along the Great Ocean Road and capture the spectacular sunset view over the dramatic Twelve Apostles limestone stacks, visit the Great Otway National Park to delve into the wild kangaroos and koalas, and hike through the lush, water-filled rainforests, and head to Phillip Island during dusk to explore the mesmerising view of hundreds of little penguins waddle ashore from the ocean.
- When you are in Western Australia, there are various wild options for you to delve into, such as heading to Jurien Bay and swimming with dolphins and wild sea lions. Take a one-day trip to Rottnest Island, which is a car-free island, allowing you to cycle around the island, take a selfie with the famous quokkas, and retreat to secluded turquoise coves.
- Get a mixed experience of wildlife and oceanic ecosystems in Queensland. Go snorkeling or diving at the Great Barrier Reef and relax on the white sands of Whitehaven Beach. Wander in the Noosa National Park, where you can go through the lush eucalyptus forests and explore the crystal-clear, protected bays.
- If you are a fan of mountains or hiking, you can visit Tasmania in Australia. Here, you can hike at Cradle Mountain, a pristine alpine landscape, allowing you to rest from the mainland heat. Moreover, you can also enjoy a scenic trek in Freycinet National Park, where the trek leads you to the stunning, curved white sands and deep blue waters of Wineglass Bay.
How to reach:
- You can fly to the coastal region of Australia. Based on the destination you want to visit, you can choose the convenient airport. A few major airports serving the coastal regions include Cairns (CNS), Maroochydore/Sunshine Coast (MCY), and Avalon (AVV).
- If you are not able to get a flight from your destination to the coastal region of Australia, you can first travel to a major airport on the mainland, such as Sydney (SYD) or Melbourne (MEL), and then take a road trip or a regional flight to your desired destination.
7. Cape Town
South Africa's port city, Cape Town, is located on the southwest coast of the country. The town is the ultimate escape from the summer heat, offering a perfect blend of pristine beaches, dramatic mountain landscapes, and a world-class food scene. As the oldest city and legislative capital of South Africa, Cape Town offers a fusion of rugged African wilderness and a cosmopolitan metropolis, allowing its travellers to experience history with modern luxury. The summer season in the town runs from November to March, with average temperatures between 25 and 35 degrees Celsius, making it an ideal atmosphere for both outdoor adventures and relaxed coastal living.
Things to do:
- Head to the kelp forests to join the ocean safari at Hout Bay, while enjoying animal ocean seal snorkeling to swim with Cape Fur seals.
- Ride on the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway to reach the summit or hike at Lion's Head during dusk and get picturesque sunset views.
- Take a mesmerising view of the coastal region by either going on a scenic drive or renting a classic vintage Cobra.
- Visit the Oranjezicht City Farm Market, located at the V&A Waterfront. It is one of the best places in the town for artisan foods, fresh produce, and a harbour-side view.
- Catch the African indie performers and explore Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA), Africa's largest contemporary art museum, at the V&A Waterfront,
How to reach:
- You can fly directly to Cape Town International Airport (CPT), located about 20 km from the city center. After reaching the airport, you can use the local transportation in the town to reach your desired destination.
8. Colorado
Colorado is a western US state that offers visitors a varied landscape, including rugged mountain towns, rivers, canyons, arid desert, iconic national parks, and vibrant cities. Based on your interest, you can choose your desired landscape. For a summer experience, you can visit the place from June through August, with temperatures ranging between 21 and 31 degrees Celsius, depending on the landscape you choose. Summers in Colorado offer an ideal environment for visitors to enjoy endless outdoor recreation in low-humidity surroundings.
Things to do:
- Take in breathtaking alpine views with a drive on the high-altitude Trail Ridge Road in RMNP (the highest continuous paved road in the US) or on the Million Dollar Highway between Ouray and Silverton.
- Enjoy mountain biking and other adventurous activities by visiting resort towns such as Aspen or Breckenridge.
- Soak in the hot springs in the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool and give yourself a retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
- Explore different wildlife and wildflower views in Estes Park. July and August offer some of the most vibrant wildflower displays, with flowers blooming at their peak.
- Delve into the ride on the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, offering you a historic railway experience and providing you with spectacular views of the San Juan Mountains.
How to reach:
- Based on the town you want to visit in Colorado, you can choose your desired airport. For example, you can fly to Colorado Springs Airport (COS) when you want to visit southern Colorado, Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) for skiing destinations, and Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) for mountain regions.
- If you are unable to find a direct flight to your desired destination, you can first fly to the major hub near Colorado, Denver International Airport (DEN), and then take a regional flight or local transportation to reach your destination.
Tips to Consider
There are certain things you should take care of when visiting the best summer destinations to ensure a smooth trip without any hiccups. Thus, you can refer to the following section, where some crucial tips are provided that help you to complete your trip serenely:
- Research the destination thoroughly and ensure the experience in the city aligns with your interests.
- Check the local weather carefully, and make sure that you don't visit the destination during the rainy season. It can ruin your trip.
- Summer is generally the peak season for travelling; thus, you can book your flight 4 to 6 months in advance to fly to your desired destination at a reasonable price.
- Due to the high peak season, it would be difficult to book accommodations at the last moment. Thus, you have to book your accommodations in advance when visiting the destination during the summer.
- Check the destination's rules on modesty, especially when visiting the area's temples and churches.
- The weather in the coastal regions can sometimes be a bit cold at night. Thus, ensure to pack a light jacket during your visit.
Conclusion
Beaches, oceans, and mountains are the best places to escape the intense heat and create long-lasting memories with your loved ones. Thus, if you are looking for some of the world's beautiful and mesmerising summer destinations, they will mostly be coastal areas, islands, or hilly regions. Similarly, you can find the above post, where you can fully explore the destination and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. The post also helps you discover what amazing things to explore and uncover during your visit, so you can choose a destination that aligns with your desires and makes your journey truly delightful.
