Summer Vacation Ideas

There's something so magical about summer vacations. Whether you're flying overseas or heading out on the open road, summer trips create memories that last a lifetime. Our summer vacation ideas are just the thing to get your creative planning juices flowing! There's no shortage of summer vacation ideas for 2023 available to you.

Best Vacation Spots in the U.S.

A country as large as the United States is home to an array of amazing destinations. Really, the challenge is narrowing down your options!

• There are many summer vacation ideas for 2023 in Texas. In fact, one of the best vacation spots in the U.S. that should be on your list is the city of Austin. There's a lot to see and do, from checking out the live music to visiting the state capitol building to eating your way through famous Texas dishes.
  
  
• If you’re looking for traditional summer vacation ideas in the USA, Delaware’s Rehoboth Beach needs to be on your list. It's not called “the Nation's Summer Capital” for nothing! Enjoy a day at the beach with an old-time small-town feel. There's even a bandstand that hosts free concerts throughout the summer.
  
  
• An elegant option if you’re searching “summer vacation ideas 2023 USA” is the world-famous Biltmore Estate located in Asheville, North Carolina. A visit to this grand hotel is like traveling back in time to the Gilded Age. If you are looking to be transformed during your summer holiday, this is the place for you.

Best Summer Vacation Spots in the World

The world truly is your oyster, and there are plenty of places to visit and explore. If you want to have a magical experience this summer, why not head abroad? There are amazing locales in Europe and Asia that help make this summer one that you’ll always remember.

• One of the best summer vacation spots in the world is the Canary Islands off the coast of Spain. You couldn't ask for better weather, and the landscapes are definitely something to write home about!
  
  And don't miss the Parque Nacional de Timanfaya for an experience that will leave you breathless. According to Lonely Planet, this park is “almost entirely bereft of life – apart from 200 species of lichen.” The travel guide site refers to the park as a “bare moonscape” and “an otherworldly vision in copper, black, and grey.”
  
  
• If you're searching phrases like “summer vacation ideas 2023 Europe,” visiting areas that enjoy the midnight sun should be at the top of your list! There are a number of different locations near the Arctic Circle, such as the Faroe Islands of Denmark, where you can experience the midnight sun each summer.
  
  
• If you have enough time to make the trip to Kyoto, Japan worthwhile, you definitely should! This city is known for its gardens and cosmopolitan atmosphere. If you are looking for a trip that makes you feel like you've been transported to another world, this is the destination for you.

Interested in traveling Japan? Discover how to cheaply travel Japan or get tips for traveling Japan for the first time. You can also download our free city guides for Fukuoka, Nagoya, Sapporo, Tokyo, and Yokohama.

Best Family Vacation Spots

Trying to come up with some summer vacation ideas for families in 2023? The best family vacation spots can be anything from traditional amusement parks to beaches or cultural meccas. Traveling with young children may take a bit more planning and patience, but the special time together as a family makes all the challenges worthwhile.

The best summer vacations for families are as unique as each family is. That's why reviewing multiple different family vacation ideas for summer 2023 is such an important part of planning. Consider a variety of different types of destinations, such as destinations with beaches, camping, hiking, and more. 

• Look into Islamorada in the Florida Keys if your family is interested in sun and sand. This beach destination is a bit more subdued than many of the other keys, and it offers a variety of different types of lodging.
  
  

• Always a classic, a family trip to Disneyland Paris (sometimes also referred to as EuroDisney) is an ideal destination for families with young children. There are a number of different hacks that can help you to keep costs low. And, bringing along your extended family can help to save money when you opt for a vacation home that allows you to eat in.
  
  
• There are some unique family vacations for USA travel such as the Badlands and Mount Rushmore in South Dakota. This is one of the best family vacation destinations in 2023, as there are many activities to do with your children.
  
  
• You may want to look into family summer vacation ideas on a budget if you don’t want to break the bank. Many family vacation packages offer budget-friendly travel, like the packages offered by Costco Travel. One useful trick is to travel to popular destinations during their off-season. For summer travelers looking to save some money, this can mean a trip to all-inclusive family resorts in Mexico and Costa Rica.
  
  
• Some family vacation ideas for 2023 include the best family resorts for 2023. Here are 13 budget-friendly family resorts to consider, including Dunes Village Resort in Myrtle Beach, Comfort Suites Paradise Island in the Bahamas, and Holiday Inn & Suites North Beach at Virginia Beach. These summer vacation packages for family and kids offer a lot of conveniences, like restaurants and activities that don’t require you to leave the safety and security of the resort.

These family summer vacation ideas with kids of all ages should help you to narrow down the mountain of choices that are in front of you! Some of the best summer vacations in the U.S. for families that don't want to travel too far are a lot closer to home. Consider looking into an affordable hotel with a pool that won't take too much time or money to get to.

Visit our “Ultimate Guide to Safe and Healthy Family Travel” for tons of tips on choosing a family-friendly destination, getting the best value from your trip, and keeping your little ones safe and healthy on your next vacation. You can also check out 20 safe travel destinations the kiddos will love or get tips on how to fly with kids.

Best Summer Vacations for Couples

Traveling as a couple is a wonderful way to deepen an already close relationship, or recharge one that is feeling tired. A couple's getaway is a perfect way to remember just what is truly important in life.

• It may be off-season in the islands, but one of the very best summer vacations for couples is Turks and Caicos. Whether you want to go sailing, try snorkeling, or simply spend time together on the beach, this destination oozes romance!
  
  
• Another one of the best summer vacation spots for couples is Valencia, Spain. This gorgeous city has something for everyone. Follow this 3-day vacation guide to hit all of the highlights. Or, simply wander around this charming medieval city and soak up all of the romance.
  
  
• And, if you're still looking for summer vacation ideas in 2023 for couples in love, add Lake Louise, Canada to your list. If you really want to knock your significant other's socks off, book a night or two at the uber-charming Baker Creek Mountain Resort. This is the perfect place to get away from it all and fall in love all over again.

Best Places to Travel for Outdoor Adventure

If you're hardly the type to sit poolside during your vacation, check out these more adventurous destination options. You'll never have a dull moment when you visit one of these spots!

• Jackson Hole, Wyoming is definitely one of the best places to travel for outdoor adventure. Although it is best known for its ski area in the Teton Mountains, Jackson Hole is also a fantastic summer destination. There's everything from mountain biking to fly fishing and horseback riding to keep you occupied. The stargazing in this area of the country is truly out of this world!
  
  
• Patagonia, a geographical region in South America, is sure to scratch even the hardiest adventurer's itch. Most, if not all, adventurers have a trek through this region right at the top of their travel wish lists. There is absolutely no lack of outdoor adventures to be had! From mountain climbing to kayaking, you will want to soak up every vista. Remember that due to its South American location, North America’s summer is their winter season.
  
  
• As far as outdoor summer vacation ideas go, Morocco is a unique and fascinating destination. From the city to camel rides in the desert, Morocco is a majestic destination sure to create a lasting impression. If you want to experience something different than a typical vacation, it's time to visit this North African gem.

Summer Vacation Ideas 2023 on a Budget

Not every vacation needs to break the bank. If you want to get away but want to keep to a reasonable budget, there are plenty of options available. Take a look at these destinations and travel sites.

• If you are looking for summer vacation ideas for 2023 on a budget, you're in luck. Flying during the off-season can help you save money. And one tactic to score an ideal vacation is by booking a last-minute deal. There are lots of sites that can help you find valuable deals for all-inclusive resorts or for cheap air travel. If you have the flexibility to take this kind of trip, it can be a great way to see some amazing places while sticking to your budget.
  
  
• There are a lot of cheap summer vacation ideas for 2023. One of the easiest ways to keep your budget manageable is to travel to off-season destinations. For example, travel to Florida in its off seasons of spring or fall for reduced rates and fewer crowds.  
  
  
• If you are feeling adventurous, a camping trip is one method to save some money. There are some beautiful campsites located throughout Europe that will allow you to see some new locations while staying within your budget. Try a hybrid site like Domaine Larlapean that feels more like a hotel (but is not nearly as expensive) for some middle ground.

Luxury Summer Vacation Ideas

There's nothing wrong with spoiling yourself every now and then. If you need some pampering, these two spots certainly fit the bill. Whether you are looking for complete indulgence or a total reset, we've got you covered.

• Those looking for luxury summer vacation ideas should be sure to add Mardaval to their list of considerations. This St. Regis-affiliated property is situated on a cliff over the Mediterranean on the tiny island of Mallorca, so views are never-ending. The Arabella spa offers a full range of services and there is an on-site suite of saunas, ice caves, and swimming pools.
  
  
• The Golden Door Spa in Escondido, California offers luxury, pampering, and enough outdoor activities to keep everyone busy. Each room is single occupancy only as the resort is set up as a retreat. A wonderful range of wellness treatments are offered, and many people find the experience so transformative that they return year after year.

No matter which destination you choose, make this summer one to remember!