When summer just begins, there is a charming scent in the air. Everyone gets excited about going out without a jacket and the sun hits your skin like magic. Then July arrives and you find yourself looking forward to fall, and by the time you get into August, the novelty has completely worn off and you prefer your air conditioner to the outside world. If you're wondering where the weather is cooler in August, these are the vacation spots you should consider. These places will provide you with the perfect rest and allow you to completely relax.
Sometimes all you need is a break from August to be able to come back and fall in love all over again with all its sultry, sweaty goodness. To enjoy the last few weeks of summer, you need to hit the town GTFO and hang out somewhere that has the right humidity and doesn't make you sweat so much that you need to change clothes in the middle of the day because you step outside. You don't have to go all the way to the North Pole to get some rest in the summer, but no one would blame you if you did. Here are some less muggy places to escape the summer heat in August:
Aspen, Colorado
The best time to go to Aspen is, but if you're looking for cooler temperatures without wearing snow boots, Aspen in August is ideal. Enjoy hiking without melting, cool freshwater swimming holes, and outdoor dining and shopping without the risk of turning into a puddle. That means it’s a place where you can be active outdoors without having to battle the heat.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh in August is green, lush and crowded – but generally good. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe takes place throughout August, so the streets will be buzzing with creative people, and if castle tours and horse riding in the countryside aren't your thing, there are plenty of cultural opportunities. If you like crowds, there's also the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and the Killeen Highland Games.
Alaska Inside Passage
Whether you're traveling on a large cruise ship, a small boat, or just hiking, Alaska's Inside Passage in August is beautiful, cool, clear, and refreshing AF. The state thrives in late summer, showcasing all of its best colors and providing a brief opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors regardless of the weather.
Iceland trip
If you’ve been dreaming of traveling to Iceland but heard summer is too crowded and unbearable, here’s an insider tip: The end of August is the end of high season. Iceland is stunning in August and is less crowded and busy than other times of summer, making it undoubtedly the best and most sustainable time to visit.
new zealand mountains
Hate summer so much that you dream about skiing? August is a prime month for skiing in New Zealand, so head to the mountain town of your choice and enjoy fresh snow, clear skies and as much cold as you can handle.
oregon coast
Oregon in the last months of summer is a living postcard. Travel along the coast and enjoy breezy weather, cool waters and deep shade, with giant evergreens keeping things cozy. While I would probably say this state is worth visiting any time of year, August is a quiet special month when you can take a leisurely trip along the coast without too much traffic or tourist inflation.
vancouver british columbia
Vancouver is a great city year-round, but if you extend your trip further afield to British Columbia’s rural and coastal towns, you can enjoy perfect temperatures for kayaking, rafting, whale watching, and travel by walking. August temperatures are expected to be a comfortable 70 degrees with minimal humidity.
Maine/Nova Scotia, Canada
Head to Maine in August for lobster tasting, stunning sunsets, deserted beaches, and then take the ferry to Nova Scotia because it’s something you can do and it’s awesome. Check two trips and two countries off your bucket list, all on the same day. The trip only takes 3.5 hours, a one-day round trip, and offers panoramic views of the beautiful scenery along the way.
Caribbean/Mexico
Technically, summer is hurricane season in the tropics. But early August may actually bring some good weather. But the best part about traveling to the Caribbean in August is that it’s the quietest time of the year. You'll get great flight and hotel deals without having to deal with crowded beaches or tourist traps.
Berkshire family
While August temperatures may be just a few degrees cooler than New York, the Berkshires' state parks, reservations, and lakes are breezy and pleasant. There are countless rivers and pools to splash around in, so you'll be able to enjoy the great outdoors without overheating. And if you don’t want to break a sweat, you can spend your time admiring the blooms at the Berkshire Botanic Gardens, exhibits at MASS MoCA, exhibits on the Tanglewood Main Stage, and more. The Berkshires in August are a cultural explosion and the stunning natural surroundings take a back seat, which is hard to do.
