After a long period of winter nights and indoor activities August has to be one of our fave months of the year. So whether you’re swimming in Greece’s crystalline waters, or snowboarding down slopes in NZ…read on for the best places to visit in August.
1. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
One of the best places to visit in August is undoubtedly Yellowstone’s National Park. Get ready for some stunning waterfalls, abundant wildlife and gorgeous canyons. (Have you camera ready to snap iconic pics for your insta).
You can take hikes ranging from easy to epic and be blown away by Yellowstone’s beautiful volcanic features and glaciers. But if you’re a person who prefers to chill and admire nature then make sure to pack your swimsuit and take a dip in Yellowstone’s Mammoths hot-springs. It’s an experience you wouldn’t want to miss!
Image source:Meina Yin – Unsplash
2. The Grand Tetons, Wyoming
Looking to keep the active vibes going? Why not take a journey to the Grand Tetons National Park? You’ll be overwhelmed by all of the exciting outdoor activities you can do there, from horseback riding, kayaking, rock climbing and white water rafting.
And this place ain’t just about the adrenaline. Visually, the Grand Tetons will leave you in awe. Gawk at their striking mountains or take a stroll to the gorgeous Jenny lake and try and spot some wildlife.
Image source:Josh Gordon – Unsplash
3. Namib Desert, Namibia
You’ll defo need to pack sunscreen as you travel to Namibia’s oldest desert, with heat increasing to 50 and 60 °F (10 and 16 °C). During August there will be clear bright skies, and sun rays hot enough to cook eggs with on the ground! No wonder it’s known to be one of the driest deserts in the whole world.
Despite this, this desert landscape provides much to enjoy. Travel past sand dunes on quad bikes, sandboard on the slopes and take a tour of the epic Sossusvlei dunes as you journey across this spellbinding, and utterly unique, landscape.
Image source:Alan J. Hendry – Unsplash
4. The Whistler Blackcomb, Canada
From one extreme weather to the other, now it’s time to adventure to the snowy mountains of Whistler Blackcomb. If you’re an adrenaline junkie then this is the place to be. From snowboarding and skiing down slopes to hiking up and biking up mountains, there’s plenty to do here in August.
I recommend jumping on the car cable, too, to truly appreciate the Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. (Fun fact: this cable car ride won a Guinness world record, as it offers breathtaking view of the volcanic peaks, rainforest and glaciers!)
Image source:Max Brinton – Unsplash
5. Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
Sometimes active is good, but well all need a lil’ bit of rest sometimes, too. Well I have one of the best places to visit in August if you’re looking for some R&R: the hot-springs in Arkansas!
Take a trip to Arkansas National Park and you’ll experience stunning forests, creeks, mountains and, of course, the hot springs. Check out the Quapaw Bathhouse, which provides a more modern experience with thermal pools, private baths, and a steam cave. Stick a few cucumber slices on your eyelids, sit back and relax. Who’s gonna stop you? It’s your summer holiday after all.
Image source: Samantha Beaty – Unsplash
6. Outer Banks, Wyoming
Time to take a trip to Outer Banks! No, not the tv-series… the iconic attraction in Wyoming. Did you know that the feared pirate Blackbeard fought his last and most gruesome battle there?
And this place doesn’t just have epic history; it has epic activities, too. Such as snorkelling at the famous ‘Graveyard Atlantic’ (a part of the sea where up to 3,000 discoverable shipwrecks can be seen), or sunbathing on the sandy beaches (naturally).
Image source: Cam Bradford – Unsplash
7. Curaçao, South America
Curaçao is 100% one of the best places to visit in August . As you journey to this beautiful Caribbean island you’ll discover many activities and sights to enjoy – but I recommend jumping straight into the crystal-clear waters and spotting sea turtles as you gawp at the kaleidoscopic coral reef.
Image source:Den Harrson – Unsplash
8. Vancouver Island, Canada
If you come to Vancouver this summer then it’s prime time to be greeted by their friendly giants: the whales! This time of year is great for spotting humpbacks, grays, and of course the incredible orcas (which are technically dolphins, but that’s a convo for another time). With the sun beating down and with water hitting your skin this is the ideal place to be this summer, and if whale-watching wasn’t already on your to do list this August then it definitely should be now.
Image source:Todd Cravens – Unsplash
9. Edinburgh, Scotland
August is the BEST time of the year to go to Edinburgh. A place full of vibrant people and activities, in August, you’ll not only avoid Scotland’s usually frigid weather, but you’ll also find amazing culture (and food) to feast on. Events such as the annual Edinburgh Fringe is packed with dancers, actors, magicians and musicians to keep you entertained throughout the month.
Image source:Jörg Angeli – Unsplash
10. Tenerife, Canary Islands
Are you a beach bum looking for one of the best places to visit in August? Tenerife is a location full of sunny beaches and incredible food. There are endless water sports to enjoy, too, such as jet skiing, kayaking and snorkelling with turtles.
Also make sure to take a visit to Teide National Park, the world’s third-tallest volcanic structure. You can get a panoramic view of the volcano by hopping on a Buggy Tour ride or visit the site at night to have an ultimate stargazing experience under the spotless sky.
Image source:Contiki
11. The Adirondacks, New York
The Adirondacks are New York’s most expansive natural landmarks. Whether it’s fishing, chasing waterfalls, or cruising on lakes, there’s plenty here for lovers of mother nature. If you’re after a more chilled vibe, you can take a stroll around Saranac Lake, a small town full tasty food and great museums.
Image source:Balazs Busznyak – Unsplash
12. Queenstown, New Zealand
If you’re into skiing and snowboarding but live in the west, you don’t have to wait til’ January to carve up your next run. New Zealand is one of the best places to visit in August for some snowy and sporty activities, when it becomes a winter wonderland with runs to suit every skill level.
But if you would rather watch than partake, then head to the Audi Quattro Winter Games in Queenstown to watch the pros do it. (And better yet, it’s completely free!).
Image source:Jörg Angeli – Unsplash
13. Roger Williams Zoo, Rhode Island
This one’s for all my animal lovers! Visit the Roger Williams Zoo and be greeted by exotic and gorgeous animals, elephants, sloths, and red pandas! Once you finish here take a look at the Rhode Island School of Design Museum of Art. It conserves artwork from the 12th and 18th and has some epic treasures from across the globe.
Image source:Contiki
14. Fort Sumter and Charleston Harbor, South Carolina
It’s time to transport you back through time by taking a journey to Fort Sumter and Charleston Harbour. Jump on a guided boat tour and enjoy epic views of preserved ruins of the fort.
Another iconic landmark of South Carolina is Congaree National Park. Marvel at the beauty of its unspoilt habitat and incredible wildlife in one of the US South’s most beautiful nature reserves.
Image source:Leslie Cross – Unsplash
15. Montréal, Canada
Going Montreal in August is a must! Make sure you take a trip to the open-air Jean-Talon Market, one of Montréal’s oldest public markets. They have a diverse array of shopkeepers able to serve food of every cuisine.
August is also Montreal’s celebration of Pride! So join in on the parade, dance, sing and show unity with the LGBTQ community.
Image source:Moise M – Unsplash
