Best Places to Go in August
Searching for the best places to go in August? Well, you are in the right place! August is one of the best times to soak up summer’s energy and explore some of the world’s most dazzling destinations.
This is exactly why I decided to share my favorite things in August so that you can use my guide as an inspiration to plan your own vacation. From my many trips across the U.S. our recent ten day road trip, here are some places I think you absolutely have to see in the summer.
Portland, Maine
Ready for a breezy New England adventure? Check out Portland, a true coastal standout in August. You can look forward to warm and sunny weather with refreshing ocean breezes. It was ideal for exploring the outdoors and enjoying its lively waterfront atmosphere.
What I love about visiting Portland, Maine is that it’s compact, easy to explore, and packed with character. It’s the kind of place where I can spend a full day walking around, and eating incredibly well. I recommend wearing your most comfortable walking shoes and starting your day early. Portland may be small, but there’s a lot to experience, from tasty eats to historic sights.
Getting to Portland is pretty straightforward. If you’re coming from Boston, I suggest taking the Amtrak Downeaster, which takes about 2.5 hours and drops you right in downtown Portland. Tickets usually start around $30 USD one way, and the ride is relaxing and scenic. Driving is also an option, but once you’re in the city, you won’t need a car much because downtown Portland is so very walkable.
If you make the trip out to Portland, I think you should start by exploring the Old Port. This historic waterfront area is full of cobblestone streets, working wharves, local boutiques, and some of the best restaurants in New England. Walking along the harbor is a must, especially if you want to watch the lobster boats come and go or catch the sunset over Casco Bay. Portland is also famous for its food scene, so plan on stopping often for fresh seafood, bakeries, and coffee shops.
One spot you absolutely shouldn’t miss is Portland Head Light, Maine’s most iconic lighthouse. It’s just a short drive (or rideshare!) away in Cape Elizabeth, and the coastal views alone make the trip worth it. Back in town, you can stroll along Commercial Street, visit local art galleries, check out the working fish piers, or relax with a craft beer. Locals bragged to me that Portland has more breweries per capita than almost anywhere in the country!
I will say that, it’s easy to wander aimlessly and lose track of time (especially if this is your first time). On our first visit, we found that taking a tour with a local guide helped us get oriented and make the most of our vacation. For me, the "Trolley City Tour with Portland Head Light Stop" is a standout because it covers all the most important stops in a short time without having to walk a lot.
- Average August temperature: 62°F – 75°F (17°C – 24°C)
We stayed at 3-star Inn at St John for four nights and explored "Forest City" from our comfortable King guest room.
What I loved best:
I especially enjoyed brunch at Hot Suppa, my favorite highlight. I had corned beef hash with poached eggs, crispy potatoes, and a Bloody Mary that tasted like summer in a glass. I sat outside under string lights, feeling like the day had already delivered its best.
Iceland
This place offers some of the most untouched landscapes I’ve ever experienced, and I honestly think it’s one of the absolute best destinations for nature lovers in late summer, especially in August. There are heaps of unique things to do here!
I found the weather to be mild, bright, and full of energy this month, perfect for exploring waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanic landscapes under nearly endless daylight.
I discovered there were also some incredible summer festivals and events this month such as the Reykjavík Culture Night (Menningarnótt) with street parties, art, and fireworks, the Reykjavík Pride Festival with colorful parades and concerts, and the magical Þjóðhátíð (National Festival) in the Westman Islands, famous for bonfires, live music, and fireworks. The whole country seemed alive with celebrations!
We flew into Keflavík International Airport, just 45 minutes from Reykjavík, and spent 10 days packed with adventures – soaking in the Blue Lagoon, hiking through Þingvellir National Park on the Golden Circle, chasing waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, spotting puffins at Dyrhólaey, taking a glacier hike on Vatnajökull, and relaxing in natural hot springs. We stayed at The Greenhouse Hotel for two relaxing nights.
- Average August temperature: 50°F – 59°F (10°C – 15°C)
The only drawback? The scenery was breathtaking, but August was peak season. Accommodations were expensive, and some spots felt overrun with tourists.
Altoona, Pennsylvania
I personally think this place is at its best in August! Yes, it’s also when more visitors come through, but I found it warm, green, and full of energy with plenty of community festivals.
First thing, one of my favorite moments was walking through Lakemont Park surrounded by gentle lake views.
Downtown Altoona has historic buildings, murals, and local cafés where you can stop for snacks.
We grabbed lunch at a cozy local spot, and enjoyed great comfort food. After, enjoy browsing the small local shops and antique stores.
A hidden highlight was visiting the Railroaders Memorial Museum.
- Average August temperature (Altoona, PA): 57°F – 79°F (14°C – 26°C)
We stayed at 2-star Wingate by Wyndham Altoona Downtown two stress-free nights.
Watching the sun dip behind the mountains near Horseshoe Curve was my favorite moment.
Cape Cod
Chris and I both absolutely love Cape Cod, and have been many times. This is one of my favorite places to visit in August on a road trip when I moved to the East Coast. It has that perfect mix of sunny beach days, cool coastal breezes plus it's incredibly easy to reach from Boston, even on a day trip.
Need a good hotel recommendation? I've been staying at 5-star Chatham Bars Inn for decades - I love its outdoor pool and location on the water.
- Average August temperature (Cape Cod, MA): 61°F – 78°F (16°C – 26°C)
What I loved best:
We also carved out time for a ferry over to Martha’s Vineyard, which added even more adventure to our summer vacation.
Richland, Washington
This is one of my favorite places to visit in August and I instantly thought our journey was worth it!
We started the day early with a walk near the river. The trail was still cool from the night before. It smelled like ripening fruit from nearby orchards. I kept walking until the sun crested fully over the trees.
Later, visit the REACH Museum. Not just for the air conditioning, but for the mix of natural history and Hanford legacy that completely won me over.
For dinner, we sat out on a patio with a view of the Yakima River. I ordered grilled salmon with lemon and herbs. It came with roasted carrots and a wild rice pilaf.
We drove 3 hours and 15 minutes from Seattle, and spent the night at Richland Riverfront Hotel. I cooled off in the outdoor pool which was wonderful in August.
- Average August temperature (Richland, WA): 56°F – 88°F (13°C – 31°C)
The only drawback? I enjoyed the Columbia River views, but August heat made outdoor activities tough in the middle of the day. Shade and water breaks became essential.
Geneva, Switzerland
If you’re craving a getaway that blends European sophistication with stunning natural beauty, this place is a standout in August.
You'll find Geneva alive with water-based activities, open-air dining, and seasonal highlights. My favorite was the Fêtes de Genève, a spectacular festival with fireworks and concerts.
You can swim in the lake, stroll down the Old Town’s cobbled lanes, browse Sunday flea markets, and explore iconic landmarks like the Jet d’Eau and the flower-lined Jardin Anglais.
- Average August temperature (Geneva, Switzerland): 57°F – 78°F (14°C – 26°C)
After flying in from NYC, we stayed at Ruby Claire Hotel Geneva for two days.
A downside? I have to warn you, though, that parking can be a challenge in August! Also, prices were sky-high. From hotels to simple meals, we ended up spending more than expected.
Guerneville, California
This is one of the most enchanting landscapes I’ve explored in Northern California, and I genuinely think it’s one of the best under-the-radar summer getaways in August. Why? You can take advantage of miles of forest trails, quiet river beaches, and a laid-back vibe.
Now, first things first, my favorite spots here are along the Russian River. August here is hot, perfect for relaxing in the shade under the redwoods.
Since Guerneville is just under a two-hour drive from San Francisco, you can visit on a day trip too. But you if you are looking forward to exploring Sonoma wineries nearby, staying a night or two is the way to go. It will also give you a chance to enjoy local farm-to-table fare.
- Average August temperature (Guerneville, CA): 53.4°F – 81°F (11.9°C – 27.2°C)
The mornings start cool and misty. I stayed in a little cabin tucked beneath the trees. The air smelled like cedar and damp earth. By noon, the sun had burned through and people were lining up at Johnson’s Beach with coolers.
What I loved best:
Hiking in Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve was my personal highlight.
Provence, France
Ready for a romantic road trip abroad? Provence in August is one of the best places we’ve ever been: romantic and full of unforgettable experience. I based myself here for a week in an affordable vacation rental.
You can enjoy the lavender fields outside Valensole, visit the lovely hill towns near Aix-en-Provence, and visit the vineyards near Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
- Average August temperature (Provence, France): 64°F – 82°F (18°C – 28°C)
You'll find hotels for every budget in Provence.
A downside? Lavender fields in full bloom were unforgettable, but August was blazing hot. Walking through villages at midday left me searching constantly for shade.
Gilford, New Hampshire
There’s something about this place that instantly made me feel like I’d found a quiet New England treasure. When I lived in NYC for 10 years, a few cherished days in New Hampshire in August were always such a treat.
I spent hours sitting at the edge of Lake Winnipesaukee in Gilford with my feet in the water and nowhere else to be.
I loved that the mornings were cool, with that perfect hint of dew in the air.
I caught a lakeside concert, and discovered the Gilford Old Home Day Parade and Fair. We also rode the Gunstock Mountain chairlift for panoramic views of the lake and White Mountains.
- Average August temperature: 56.1°F – 77.4°F (13.4°C – 25.2°C)
We flew into Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, drove a relaxed 1.5 hours north, and spent a week in a vacation rental.
What I loved best:
Exploring Ellacoya State Park, the sandy beach and picnicked right by the water.
Mammoth Lakes, California
I think this is one of the most breathtaking mountain destinations in California, especially in August. In fact, I didn’t realize how much I’d been craving mountain air until I stepped out of the car and took that first deep breath.
In fact, thanks to Mammoth’s high elevation, the air stayed refreshingly crisp compared to California’s valleys, making it the ideal alpine escape.
We also stumbled upon some cool late-summer happenings like the Mammoth Festival of Beers & Bluesapalooza and the Mammoth Margarita Festival.
Once you are acclimated to the altitude, you can hike to Devil's Postpile National Monument and the Rainbow Falls. Another highlight was taking the gondola up Mammoth Mountain. The 360 degree views of the Sierra Nevada peaks and valleys stretched out endlessly beneath me.
- Average August temperature: 46.8 °F – 72.1 °F (8.2 °C – 22.3 °C)
We flew into Mammoth Yosemite Airport (or you can drive about 5 hours from Los Angeles), and I enjoyed staying at the affordable Mammoth Mountain Inn for two days.
What I loved best:
Exploring the Village at Mammoth, full of cozy restaurants and craft breweries.
Chesapeake, Virginia
This is one of the most naturally diverse areas I’ve explored in coastal Virginia, and it’s honestly one of the best outdoor August places on the East Coast.
I have to warn you that August is one of the peak summer months here so there are lots of people around. However, the daytime warmth made it ideal for paddling and exploring, while the evenings brought just enough coolness to enjoy dinners outdoors.
I also discovered some lively late-summer happenings, like the Chesapeake Farmers’ Market, full of fresh local produce and crafts.
We flew into Norfolk International Airport, a quick 25-minute drive away, and began our trip with a stop at the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. Another highlight was wandering through Northwest River Park where you'll find shaded trails.
- Average August temperature (Chesapeake, VA): 73°F – 85°F (23°C – 29°C)
What I loved best:
For me, Chesapeake is one of the best places to go in August because it's peaceful and relaxing!
Enjoying a short drive to nearby Virginia Beach for oceanfront vibes, then returned to Chesapeake for its quieter, more peaceful pace was my personal highlight.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, we've found that buying the America the Beautiful Pass is cost effective.
