26 Best Summer Vacation Ideas 2023 Fun Summer Getaways for the Family

These activities cater to thrill-seekers looking for unique challenges. Leena Kim is Town & Country’s Editor, covering the travel, jewelry, style, arts and culture, education, and weddings beats. She has no priors—she has been at the magazine for 11 years, having started her career at T&C as the assistant to the editor in chief. Visit in July or August to catch colorful festivals, night markets, and fireworks displays that light up the skyline.

• This laid-back region is less flashy than Napa but just as scenic, with vineyard views, biking trails, and charming towns like Healdsburg and Guerneville.
• By picking from the many summer vacation ideas, you can make memories that last a lifetime.
• Places like Santorini, Greece and the Costa del Sol, Spain are great for a chill summer.
• Immersed in the embrace of the Indian Ocean, Seychelles emerges as a captivating symphony of nature’s opulence, earning its place among the world’s premier summer destinations.
• Fourteen snow-capped peaks, including Peru’s highest in the Nevado Huascarán Sur, and 38 glacial lakes beckon adventurers and nature lovers into the wild.
• Accessible by small ship cruises or state ferry, this route winds through a maze of fjords and forested islands with regular sightings of whales, bears, and glaciers.

Mountain and Outdoor Adventure Gear

America’s first national park is also one of its most incredible for family adventures. Summer brings optimal conditions for wildlife sightings, geyser eruptions, and ranger-led programs for kids. With year-round pleasant weather, sandy beaches, and a world-class zoo, San Diego is a stress-free summer escape for families. Many attractions are within 30 minutes of each other, making it easy to maximize your time. Summer spots with milder weather like Alaska and the Pacific Northwest, are gaining popularity. In the vast expanse of the Pacific, Hawaii emerges as a summer symphony, a paradise where the sun orchestrates vibrant hues.
Bar Harbor in Maine is near Acadia National Park and has beautiful scenery. Leavenworth in Washington is a Bavarian-themed town surrounded by mountains. San Diego has a mild climate all year, perfect for summer. Enjoy outdoor activities like surfing or hiking, or just relax on the beach. Frequent flyer miles and airline credit card rewards can go a long way, especially during summer.

Best Summer Vacation Destinations for Foodies

The recently opened MEM Museum brings the story of Montreal to life with large areas free to visit. While a raft of apartment-style accommodations like the Werfy Apart-Hotel offer high-end budget-friendly stays for families. Around 3,000 years old, it’s Europe’s most ancient city – a port that has survived weather, wars, and civilizations. Surrounded by battered seawalls to defend against invaders, 100 watchtowers keep a weather eye on the horizon, including the stunning Torre Tavira.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

You can find sun-kissed beaches, vibrant cities, and new cultures to discover. Whether you want to relax on a beach or explore a new city, there’s a place for you. We offer three membership tiers tailored to different travel styles. The Limited plan gives you a taste of some of our best economy deals for continental US flights at no cost.
With epic hikes like Angels Landing and The Narrows, it’s a paradise for nature lovers. Kids can splash through canyons, explore hidden grottoes, and spot wildlife while parents soak up the desert views. While Ibiza is known for its nightlife, relaxation is paramount in Menorca, the quieter of Spain’s Balearic Islands. “Menorca is a wonderful destination for travelers seeking a natural rugged coastline, a sustainable food movement, and a wellness focus,” says Aimee Suthann, owner of Truly Connected Travel. It’s a great warm-weather alternative to crowded coastal destinations in California and stays cooler thanks to its 6,700-foot elevation. This charming Lowcountry island offers calm beaches, scenic bike paths, and world-class golf.

New York City’s Summer Energy

With its rich culinary traditions and vibrant food festivals, Oaxaca is a paradise for adventurous eaters. If you travel with your taste buds first, these destinations are full of unforgettable flavors and local dishes you’ll dream about long after you’re home. Spend your days practicing yoga in beachside studios, exploring ancient Mayan ruins, or swimming in crystal-clear cenotes.
Thanks to an abundance of natural thermal springs, a holiday here can be that perfect blend of wellness and Italian indulgence. Stay at the Mezzatore, a 16th-century terra-cotta jewel perched on the edge of the Gulf of Naples. The historic property began its life as a watchtower before seducing the Italian elite, including the legendary director Luchino Visconti, who owned a villa, La Colombaia, on the grounds. Along with sea views in most of its 56 rooms and restaurants that emphasize the freshest daily catch, its spa pools are fed by its own springs.

• Iceland’s unparalleled beauty in summer is a symphony of contrasts, captivating adventurers with its magical, untamed allure.
• Comprising more than 20 caves, it’s the definition of otherworldly.
• If the waves are up take to the surf, while youngsters can swim safely in the sea pool.
• Yellowstone is especially famous for its geysers and hot springs, as it’s located atop a volcanic hot spot.
• But look beyond Cusco and Machu Picchu and you’ll find lesser-known wonders to explore.

Europe’s summer charm extends from the cultural richness of Vienna, Austria, to the scenic beauty of Interlaken, Switzerland, promising an unforgettable holiday. Nestled in the embrace of the Aegean Sea, Santorini, Greece, stands as a beacon of summer allure. Its iconic whitewashed architecture adorned with blue-domed churches creates a postcard-perfect setting against the azure backdrop. Cliffside villages offer panoramic views of the caldera, a testament to the island’s volcanic history. Renowned for its dramatic sunsets, Santorini transforms into a canvas of warm hues, casting a spell on visitors.

Each destination is a sunlit canvas waiting to be painted with memories, promising a summer journey that transcends the ordinary and enchants the soul. From mountain biking to ziplining, there’s something for all ages. Plus, the summer weather is sunny and mild, perfect for adventuring. If you love being active outdoors, Colorado Springs is a high-altitude haven. Take the whole family hiking at Garden of the Gods, explore ancient cliff dwellings at Manitou Springs, or hop on a scenic train up %KEYWORD_VAR% Pikes Peak.