Summer vacation destinations are the first thing that comes to many people’s minds as soon as the schools are out and the sun is shining. The beautiful weather is the perfect excuse to discover the best family summer vacation spots, and spend some quality time with your loved ones. Many places in the US and beyond are at their best in the summer, allowing for activities that would be impossible during other times of the year. From camping on warm summer nights to jumping in to the lake or ocean for a refreshing swim, the summer should be full of simple pleasures.

During the summer, the best warm travel destinations are plentiful. While during the winter it is essential to travel to the Caribbean, Florida, or Mexico to find warm temperatures, during the summer options are much wider. Some of the best summer vacation destinations will be close to home, such as the beaches of Nantucket, the coastline of New Jersey, and the beaches of Maine. Many people would consider the traditional beach holiday to be a top choice, and the research focuses on the best family summer vacation spots. The beaches of Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas can be hot but still enjoyable during the summer months. California continues to draw visitors during the summer, but if you’re looking for cooler temperatures, travel to the beaches of Maine.

Don’t forget about lakes as well for some of the best warm travel destinations. Lake Tahoe is a spectacular destination in the summer, and offers not only beaches and the lake for swimming, but also a variety of outdoor adventure activities including hiking, white water rafting, and mountain biking. Planning a trip to the lake can also include camping and fishing, and this is a popular golf destination in the summer as well. This type of trip will teach your kids skills that they won’t learn in the classroom. From the Adirondacks to the Rocky Mountains, you will find state parks, campsites, lakes, and luxurious mountain cabins to design your perfect summer vacation.

Some travelers think that the best summer vacation destinations are where affordable vacation rentals are located. An increase in the number of web sites that connect travelers directly with owners of vacation rentals has brought the cost of summer vacations down to a reasonable rate and uppsed the number of cheap vacation destinations. A summer vacation no longer has to break the bank when you can be in control of cooking some of your own meals and supplying some evening entertainment. From the Outer Banks in North Carolina to the vacation rentals along the Great Lakes, there are all sorts of cabins and condos that will be the perfect home base for a family summer vacation.

The best warm travel destinations are up to the individual traveler. If you’ve always wanted to see Niagara Falls or hike the Grand Canyon, the long summer days are the perfect time to do so. Cities are also home to great free entertainment in the summer, from concerts in parks to outdoor theater. Places that experience severe winters such as Chicago and New York City can be popular summer destinations as well. Whether your interest is history, culture, food, or just plain relaxing in the sun, you will find that the world is your oyster in the summer months.