Summer’s 14 Underrated Destinations

0 2 9 minutes read

In order to guarantee that the trip goes off without a hitch, it is possible that planning the ideal summer vacation would need many weeks of study, preparation, and organizing. But before you can go on to the phase of planning and booking, you will need to make a decision on where you want to travel. Despite the fact that there is nothing wrong with going to the same old area over and over again, there are times when you want to venture a bit off the beaten road and go somewhere you haven’t been before. There is a seemingly unlimited number of wonderful alternatives available to you. Whether you are in the mood for a nature getaway that has breathtaking panoramas, hiking trails, and quiet lodges, or whether you are searching for a large city adventure that is surrounded by fashionable restaurants, distinctive neighborhoods, and fantastic shopping, we have suggestions for you.

Here are fifteen undervalued summer vacation choices, ranging from islands to national parks, that are ideal for escaping the crowds while giving you the opportunity to discover a new location.

Table of Contents

Located in California, Catalina Island

In all seriousness, Santa Catalina Island is a true representation of paradise on earth, yet it is just a short distance away from Los Angeles. Eager tourists have the option of either taking the Catalina Express ferry, which travels to the island in a single hour and leaves daily from San Pedro, Long Beach, and Dana Point, or chartering a private boat to get at their destination in a luxurious manner. You may take a vacation from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles by visiting Catalina Island. Whether you want to go on a trek along the Trans Catalina Trail or just indulge in some delicious seafood while strolling around the charming town of Avalon, Catalina Island is a wonderful resort destination. In order to discover El Rancho Escondido, the renowned Arabian horse ranch that is also the location of Rusack Vineyards, you will need to go a little farther inland.

Finger Lakes, located in New York

The New York Finger Lakes are undeniably a picturesque destination, and they are a favorite among those who live in New York City. This area is home to some of the most stunning waterfronts, making it an ideal location for a vacation with the family, whether it be for a weeklong trip or a weekend getaway during the summer. In addition to being dotted with charming little villages, this region is comprised of eleven long, thin lakes, and it is the kind of place that any East Coast summerdream would be made of. Spend your vacation visiting the local state parks, going on hikes, riding, and exploring, and taking advantage of all that lake life has to offer, from jet skiing to swimming (and everything in between).

The state of Minnesota’s Voyageurs National Park

At Voyageurs National Park in Minnesota, you may completely immerse yourself in the natural environment. This breathtaking location is perfect for providing you with some of the most breathtaking views of the night sky you could ever want to see. This specific national park, along with hundreds of others, has been awarded the International Dark Sky Park accreditation, which indicates that it is a place that is especially suitable for observing the night sky and the stars and constellations. On the other hand, in contrast to the other national parks, Voyageurs is one of the least frequented national parks in the country. This means that you will have the opportunity to fully connect with nature and experience the benefit of solitude. The majority of the park is comprised of waterfronts and islands, making it an excellent location for swimming and boat trips. In fact, about forty percent of the park is comprised of water.

San Juan Islands, located in California

The collection of more than 400 islands located off the coast of Washington is an excellent choice for a weekend escape in the Pacific Northwest. It was awarded the Readers’ Choice Award in 2019, and it was also recognized as one of the top islands for gorgeous scenery. Orcas, San Juan, and Lopez are the three islands that are most often visited by tourists since they are the biggest and most readily accessible by boat. Guests may take advantage of a laid-back holiday with moderate temperatures and a laid-back attitude by doing things such as hopping on a bike and exploring the region, spending time sailing, hiking, and fishing, or going for a stroll to view all of the natural beauty that the islands have to offer, from the mountains to the lakes.

National Park of Isle Royal, located in Michigan

You need not go much farther than Isle Royal National Park if you are seeking for a summer vacation destination where you will have the opportunity to discover a region that has been virtually undisturbed by civilization. This park is a favorite of mine and my family since it is very difficult to get (the main island may be accessed by boat), and as a result, the only other tourists you will encounter here are those who are really adventurous and those who are well-informed about the area. Due to the fact that Lake Superior is rather chilly and foggy during the rest of the year, the ideal time to come is during the summer months. During the summer months, my family travels to this park with the intention of spending a few days there backpacking, canoeing, and trekking through the almost unspoiled environment, all the while appreciating the natural beauty and the species that can be seen along the route.

This is Crystal River, Florida.

Crystal River, which is located in Florida and is home to one of the state’s most beautiful beaches, stands apart from the majority of other communities in the Sunshine State for a significant reason: it is one of the few sites in the world where people may swim with manatees. This is the city to come if you have ever contemplated the possibility of getting a genuine close-up view of these gentle giants. After you have had your fill of the endangered species, make your way to the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, where you can also spend some time appreciating the natural beauty of the parks and springs that are located nearby.

Canada’s province of Quebec

It is likely that the first thing that comes to mind when you think of summer vacation is either a trip to a remote island or a far-flung location that you have only ever read about in novels. Keep in mind, however, that our northern neighbor has a lot of beautiful things to offer as well. In spite of the fact that it takes an extraordinarily lengthy journey to get there, Quebec City is home to all of the same kind of charm that you’ll find in Europe. Devote part of your time to exploring Old Quebec City, which is home to some of the oldest streets in North America, and take in the rich history and culture that make this city deserving of its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You might also go to Montreal, where you can find a good number of museums, an open-air market, and a wide range of excellent dining alternatives. Do not overlook the opportunity to discover the French architecture and natural beauty that can be found across the country.

Kosovo

The breathtaking landscapes that can be seen in every nook and cranny of this nation are the source of this phenomenon. People who like being outside and who want to spend their time doing activities such as hiking and bicycling through unspoiled valleys, mountains, and countryside will be grateful for the opportunity to go to the newest European nation. Those tourists who are interested in getting a taste of the history of the fledgling country may go to the national museum. After that, they can stroll around the streets of Prizren and take in the architecture as well as the old mosques and churches.

City of Copenhagen, Denmark

The summer months are the best time to visit Copenhagen because the weather is warm, the days are especially long, and the views of the waterfront are spectacular. There is no other season that is better than the summer months. In addition to being recognized as one of the happiest nations in the world, tourists who are concerned about the environment will appreciate how eco-focused the area is. They will also love a trip to CopenHill, which is a multi-use waste-to-energy facility that has a climbing wall, a ski slope, and a café. Tivoli Gardens, Rosenborg Castle, and the scenic Nyhavn port are all places that should not be missed during your time in Copenhagen.

Sardinia, located in Italy

More than simply a stunning coastline and a number of fantastic beaches, Sardinia is home to a wide variety of attractions. Despite the fact that the long, sunny days are ideal for spending time by the azure seas of the Mediterranean Sea, vacationers who are looking for a bit more substance to their trip may venture inland to explore the picturesque villages, rustic food, and historic ruins that the island has to offer.

Budapest, located in Hungary

Forget about traveling to Western Europe and instead make your way to the stunning capital of Hungary. You may choose to spend your days touring the ancient Castle District, wandering along the Danube, and meandering through the streets of the city, or you can choose to relax in the mineral-rich warm spas that are located throughout the city. In order to have the most breathtaking perspective of the city, you may even go on a journey in a fake hot air balloon. There is a possibility that the Sziget Festival, which is one of the major music and cultural events in all of Europe, will overlap with your vacation if you arrange it for the month of August.

Mauritius

Mauritius, which is located around 1,200 miles east of Madagascar, is another destination that we have included on our list of the Best Places to Go in 2024. With its breathtaking coastlines and untouched beaches, as well as its luxurious lodgings and unrivaled natural beauty, this island resort is nothing short of heaven. To escape the rainy season, you should visit this location during the summer months in the Northern Hemisphere. All of your activities on Mauritius will revolve on the sea, from scuba diving and snorkeling to just lounging on the beach and taking in the breathtaking scenery of the coastline. If you feel like you need a break from resting, consider going on a trip to the Botanic Gardens, the Bel Ombre Nature Reserve, or even the city of Port Louis, which is the provincial capital.

City of Copenhagen, Denmark

Bora Bora

During your time in Bora Bora, there is nothing more romantic than staying in an overwater bungalow. In French Polynesia, the winter season coincides with the summer season in the Northern Hemisphere. This means that the months of June, July, and August are characterized by lower levels of humidity and temperatures that are more agreeable. This time period also occurs during Tahiti’s dry season, which means that you won’t have to worry about getting wet outside during this time period. Bora Bora is a perfect destination for snorkeling, scuba diving, and taking a boat or 4×4 island tour. You might easily spend your days just reclining in your bungalow and dipping into the crystal seas whenever you feel like it. However, Bora Bora is also an ideal destination for these activities.

Kyoto, located in Japan

It is recommended that you consider landing in Kyoto, which is considered to be one of the greatest locations in Japan to experience traditional Japanese culture, rather than going to the very popular city of Tokyo or the bright and bustling city of Osaka. Spend the day doing things like strolling around Gion, sometimes known as the “Geisha District,” or spending a few hours at the Kyoto National Museum. You may also spend the day touring the temples and shrines that are scattered throughout the city. At the very end or beginning of summer, when the season overlaps with spring and autumn, the greatest seasons to visit Japan are. Although it will surely be a little warmer during the peaks of summer, the country is not any less lovely during these periods.