Late summer getaways coast to coast
As each morning is darker and darker when we awake here in the Northern Hemisphere, it may feel like summer is quickly coming to an end. And while we are indeed into the last month of the sunniest of seasons, there’s still plenty of summer left. With Labor Day weekend just around the corner, we have one last long summer weekend before autumn arrives, and we’ll all be looking to make the most of it.
For those wanting to stay close to home, consider a short road trip to a new town or area, explore a nearby state park or national park (if you’re lucky enough to have one close by), or just make the most of evenings in the backyard, visits to the local farmers markets, and floating in whatever pool, river, or lake you can reach!
But if you’re looking for one last summer getaway, whether for a weekend or two weeks, here are ten destinations, from coast to coast and beyond, that are the perfect places to close out summer. We have local photographers at all of them and those summer specials are still running to insure you memorialize the end of summer 2020!
Photo by: Ruben & Miriam in San Diego
Photo by: Ruben & Miriam in San Diego
Photo by: Ruben & Miriam in San Diego
Maui, Hawaii
Whether you want to get in some last minute beach time and water sports or need a tropical adventure complete with waterfalls and lush landscapes before autumn arrives, the Valley Isle of the Hawaiian Islands delivers. Relax to swaying palm trees, enjoy a traditional luau, and explore the island by car, foot or helicopter! Consider island hopping to Oahu if you have time.
Sonoma, California
It doesn’t matter if you’re visiting just the city of Sonoma, or the entire County of Sonoma, you’re sure of Bacchanalian days with over 425 wineries, from rustic to grand, to visit, and the start of harvest throughout the area. The town itself has a charming square with boutique shops and amazing restaurants. And nearby are redwoods, the Pacific coastline, and the lights of San Francisco.
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Cape Cod may very well be a picture postcard of what many of us think late summer should look like: the sun setting beyond sandy bluffs, topped with quaint villages and lighthouses. This is a place to get your final fill of seafood and stunning beaches, especially with 40 miles of coastline along the Cape Cod National Seashore on offer. But make time for mini-golf, a drive-in movie, and the wildlife refuge!
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
If summer looks like beaches, boardwalks and golf, you’ll be spoiled for choice at Myrtle Beach, famous amongst golfers for its 90 golf courses, a pearl in a 60-mile string of beaches, and home to one of the country’s tallest ferris wheels. Families will enjoy dawn-to-dusk fun on the boardwalk, where the SkyWheel twinkles all the colors of the rainbows, while couples chill under multi-colored umbrellas by the waves.
Santa Monica, California
This is the place to come for true California dreaming, with everything from surfing to sunsets. There’s Palisades Park, Muscle Beach and the iconic Santa Monica Pier. Nearby is the offbeat and legendary Venice Beach. And if the sands and sun of Santa Monica aren’t enough, just travel either direction up and down the gorgeous California coast, from Malibu to Laguna Beach, for more.
Newport, Rhode Island
Set on Aquidneck Island, this New England town is the perfect place to say good-bye to summer in luxurious style. Its harbor sparkles with deep blue waters and gleaming white yachts, while the sun is captured in the windows of historic, gilded mansions along the cliffs. Visit museums, take scenic walks, try some sailing, or be treated to legendary drink mixology and views from a rooftop bar.
West Palm Beach, Florida
There are beaches and bars, zoos and safaris, marinas and museums. No matter what your summer craving, this South Florida destination delivers on sunshine, tropical weather, and relaxation. Not to mention a great after-dark scene. And if you have the time, it offers the perfect opportunity for a road trip further south with stops in Ft. Lauderdale, Hollywood and even Miami to cap off your last summer trip.
San Diego, California
The balmy, warm weather of San Diego makes its parks and beaches appealing year round! There’s a little something here for everyone, such as visiting the renowned zoo and museums inside sprawling Balboa Park, exploring the USS Midway aircraft carrier in the harbor, and enjoying the clubs and cocktail lounges in the Gaslamp Quarter. If you’re feeling really adventurous, you can take the blue bus line to Tijuana, Mexico, just across the border.
Big Island, Hawaii
The Big Island of the Hawaiian Islands is a perfect destination for one last summer adventure. There are two active volcanoes, beaches that range in color from green to balck, rainforests and waterfalls. Go for scenic drives, hike to amazing lookouts, or chill in cities like Kona or Hilo, depending which vibe you’re after. The Big Island offers countless ways to lose yourself in nature and the last throngs of summer in a tropical paradise.
Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
When New Englanders think of summer, this is one of the iconic spots that come to mind. It’s quintessential harbors and lighthouses, sandy beaches and cottages, recall a less complicated time. You won’t actually find vineyards on this small island, but you will find multi-colored clay cliffs, alpacas, and the country’s oldest operating carousel, the Flying Horses Carousel. You’ll also find a whole lot of peace, fresh air, and a perfect way to bid summer good-bye.