12 of the Best Uncrowded Summer Vacation Spots in the USA This Year
Some of the best uncrowded vacation spots in the USA for summer trips include national parks, charming towns, and beaches from coast to coast.
Summer vacations in the USA mean long days at the beach, boat rides on the lake, and road trips to national parks. But nothing ruins the fun of a relaxing summer getaway like long lines, traffic and too many towels laid out on the sand.
If you’re looking for the least crowded summer getaways this year, with fewer people around to dampen your relaxation but plenty of activities to fill your schedule, check out these uncrowded vacation destinations recommended by travel experts. From a tiny island in Florida that says goodbye to most tourists after winter, to a remote park in Nevada with mountains and alpine lakes, these uncrowded summer vacation spots in the USA are ready to welcome you.
Looking for more quiet destinations for the summer holidays? We've rounded up 10 international summer vacation destinations to escape the crowds in Southeast Asia, the Caribbean, Europe and more!
Best Uncrowded Summer Vacation Spots in the USA
use this map of uncrowded summer vacations in the USA to find your perfect spot. Click on it open a Google map so you can save the destinations for later.
New Bern, North Carolina
Situated on the Neuse River along the central coast of North Carolina, New Bern is about 40 miles inland from Morehead City and the beaches of the Bogue Banks. It is a beautiful and historical town with a claim to fame as the birthplace of Pepsi. Since most people choose to go to Atlantic Beach or other nearby barrier islands, New Bern stays fairly peaceful year-round but offers plenty to see and do without the extra people and traffic.
The Neuse River here offers access to swimming, boating, fishing, ferry tours and so much more. There also is a scenic city park with a pier and benches to sit and enjoy the sunrise.
You will find many picturesque historical homes just walking through the streets, but history buffs might enjoy a visit to New Bern Battlefield Park and Fort Macon State Park, both free of charge. The North Carolina History Center and Tryon Palace also are a must.
Tryon Palace lets you take a step back in time to the 18th century when New Bern was North Carolina’s first capital. Actors in period clothes give tours and run exhibits and demonstrations, with a kitchen building, blacksmith shop and stables open for visitors. You may also wander freely through the elaborate gardens.
Whether you are taking the whole family or planning a romantic stay with your partner, there is something for everyone in New Bern. Plus, unlike many popular North Carolina destinations, New Bern is the perfect uncrowded summer vacation destination.
Tammy of Mid-Life Milestones
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Molokai, Hawaii
Have you ever wished you could visit a Hawaiian island that isn't packed with tourists and experience Hawaiian life before it became a popular travel destination? If you are an adventure seeker or someone who prefers solitude over the hustle and bustle, the Hawaiian island of Molokai is a perfect destination for an uncrowded summer vacation in the U.S.
Molokai is the fifth-largest Hawaiian island and boasts the tallest sea cliffs in the world. Many of the island's beaches sit empty with some of the most glorious sunsets of all the Hawaiian islands.
The majority of tourists dismiss Molokai as a vacation destination because of the limited accommodations and minimal restaurants to choose from. There are no luxury resorts or big shopping centers but there are adventures all over the island.
Spend the day road-tripping through the Halawa Valley and hike to Moaula Falls or take a guided mule ride down to Kalaupapa National Historical Park, a former leprosy colony on an isolated peninsula considered a sacred destination.
If rest and relaxation are your main focus, choose from beaches like Papohaku, Dixie Maru, Kepuhi or what locals call "bare buns beach" and you may even have it all to yourself.
The weather is perfect in the summer in Molokai, not too hot and cooled by the trade winds. So take the road less traveled, slow down and enjoy Molokai.
Casandra of Karpiak Caravan
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Yachats, Oregon
Are you someone who hates summer? The hot, muggy weather. The mosquitoes. THE CROWDS? Don't worry, you're not alone. But summer is still one of the best times of year to travel, so is there any destination in the United States that doesn't feel like summer during summer? Good news, there is — and it's Yachats, Oregon.
You see, the Pacific Northwest coastline has the unique characteristic of never having "summer weather." Yachats, located on the Oregon coast about 150 miles south of Portland, is no different. Even in the height of summer, the clouds are still gloomy, the wind is crisp, and the temperature rarely climbs above 70 degrees. It is hands down one of the most beautiful towns along the Oregon coast, and the moody atmosphere just adds to the scenery.
While there isn't much to do in this small town of 750 residents, there is a lot to see. The shoreline is made up of black basalt rocks formed from lava flows millions of years ago, and the brisk beaches are lined with deep chasms, tide pools, and breathtaking cliff views. Plus, Yachats is home to the nation's largest sea lion cave.
In town, the vibe is very relaxed and casual. Most of the shops and eateries are dog-friendly, and the restaurants take great pride in making sure all of their ingredients are locally, sustainably and ethically sourced, including the seafood. You really get a great sense of community in Yachats, and it is the perfect destination for anyone who wants an uncrowded summer vacation and something a little less steamy hot.
Kay of The Awkward Traveller
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Natural Bridges National Monument, Utah
A wonderful uncrowded summer destination in the USA is Natural Bridges National Monument in southeast Utah. This underrated destination may be smaller than Utah’s Mighty 5 national parks, but it’s also much less visited and deserves a spot on your Utah itinerary.
The first place to go is the Natural Bridges Visitor Center, where you can learn more about the park from a video presentation and exhibit. The natural bridges here were formed over thousands of years, as water flowed through the stream bed of the canyon, slowly eroding away the softer stone and creating the bridges.
Next, head to Bridge View Drive, a beautiful nine-mile loop with several lookouts where you can admire three natural bridges — Kachina, Owachomo, and Sipapu. The Hopi names of the bridges reflect the history of this part of Utah. Hiking trails lead to each of the bridges and a nearly 10-mile loop connects all three.
If you plan to stay at the Natural Bridges campground, be prepared for an amazing night of stargazing. There is very little light pollution in this area so you’ll be able to see countless twinkling stars. In fact, Natural Bridges has been certified as an International Dark Sky Park since 2007.
The monument is open year-round, but April to October are the best months to visit as winter is quite cold. It’s a perfect destination for anyone who loves beautiful nature.
Lotte of Gezond Weekmenu
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Chincoteague, Virginia
One of the best summer beach towns in the U.S. is Virginia’s Chincoteague Island. Located about two hours north of Virginia Beach, Chincoteague is a more affordable and less crowded summer destination, making it a relaxing oceanfront vacation in summer. You don’t have to worry about massive mobs of families or expensive bars along a boardwalk.
Chincoteague and its neighbor Assateague have a great mixture of nature and relaxing beaches. One of the best things to do in Chincoteague is to spot the wild ponies, who became famous due to the children’s book “Misty of Chincoteague.” The annual Pony Swim is typically held in July to raise funds to care for the herd and the local fire department.
There is plenty of nature to explore if you get tired of the beach. The Wildlife Loop Trail is a paved path for bikers or walkers where you can spot a variety of birds, plants and even ponies. While visiting Chincoteague, be sure to catch the sunrise over the water.
Pam of Directionally Challenged
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Mammoth Lakes, California
Mammoth Mountain is the “go-to” ski resort for Southern Californians. There are other ski areas located closer to Los Angeles but Mammoth is considered the real deal. In winter, all you hear at work is people making plans for the 300-mile drive to the mountain.
However, let me tell you a little secret — Mammoth is open for business all year round and it becomes a hiking, fishing, biking, and boating paradise during summer. Even better, you will not have to deal with traffic jams since it’s uncrowded in summer.
While there, you can visit the Basin area with easy access to five lakes: Twin, Mary, George, Mamie, and Horseshoe. Well-marked hiking trails lead to other lakes and mountain passes. The Minaret Vista, Agnew Meadows, Devils Postpile National Monument, Rainbow Falls, and Reds Meadow are reachable during summer too.
After a day enjoying the outdoors, you can stop by the town of Mammoth Lakes to dine, bowl, watch a movie or relax. If you are interested in day trips, make sure to check Mono Lake or Yosemite National Park.
Ruth of Tanama Tales
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Sanibel Island, Florida
Sanibel Island is a quiet and serene summer vacation destination. Since it’s located off the coast of southwest Florida near Fort Myers, you’d think that it would be incredibly busy during the summer, but it’s surprisingly quiet. Sanibel’s busy season is actually in the winter, which makes it the perfect uncrowded summer escape.
Sanibel is a small island (about 12 miles long), with no traffic lights and no high-rises, which makes it feel even more quaint. Due to its size, the best way to get around is by bike, and there are plenty of rental shops on the island if you can’t bring your own.
Although the island is small, there is no shortage of things to do. You can spend your time relaxing on the beach, searching for shells, watching the sunset over the ocean, exploring a nature preserve, perusing local shops, gliding through the water in a kayak or on a paddleboard, and so much more. And, perhaps best of all, there are tons of quirky restaurants that serve fantastic food.
So, skip the busy season and visit Sanibel in the summer. Not only do you get to enjoy summer-exclusive activities, but you don’t have to wait in long lines or be around too many people. Sanibel might just be the perfect quiet summer getaway in Florida!
Jennifer of Roads We Wander
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Ventura, California
About halfway between the popular tourist destinations of Santa Barbara and Malibu, California, lies the seaside city of Ventura. This is a great uncrowded summer vacation spot on the West Coast.
Strolling the charming Main Street downtown, you’ll find the San Buenaventura Mission, boutiques, art galleries, thrift stores and restaurants for every budget. It truly has something for everyone. Yet, one thing it doesn’t have is crowds, even in the summertime, thanks to more famous coastal neighbors.
Within walking distance from downtown Ventura, the long Ventura Pier extends from the main sandy beach into the Pacific Ocean. Stroll to the end and enjoy the city view on your return. If you follow the paved promenade path north along the beach, you’ll pass Surfers Point and the Ventura River Estuary on the way back into town.
With its harbor less than 5 miles from downtown, Ventura boasts all of the activities of any respectable beach town including swimming, surfing, windsurfing, kayaking, stand-up paddling and fishing. A trip to Ventura Harbor Village also offers shopping, galleries and fresh seafood at the local restaurants. Or, take a 40-mile boat ride to Channel Islands National Park and keep an eye out for marine life like seals, sea lions and dolphins.
Denise from Chef Denise
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Hudson Valley, New York
The Hudson Valley in upstate New York is a quiet alternative to the hustle and bustle of the big city. It is comprised of the communities surrounding the Hudson River and stretches from Westchester to Albany.
A variety of small towns here, such as New Paltz and High Falls, offer an incredibly peaceful getaway. Summer is an ideal time to visit since the weather is warm and the local college students have mostly headed home.
If you want to relax, the rolling hills covered in wildflowers make the perfect backdrop, but the area also offers a lot to do, including a variety of outdoor activities. There are many options for hiking, biking, kayaking in the Hudson River, and even horseback riding. One highlight is the Storm King Art Center, a massive outdoor art and sculpture museum. It’s a great place for a picnic and to take in the beautiful surroundings and art.
There are also renowned restaurants to try in the Hudson Valley, such as Blue Hill at Stone Barns which has been featured on the Netflix series “Chef’s Table.” Overall if you’re looking for a quiet spot to enjoy nature and some great food in summer, you won’t be sorry with the Hudson Valley.
Dorothy of Oz and Other Places
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Great Basin National Park, Nevada
Great Basin National Park is a literal slice of paradise in the middle of nowhere Nevada desert. And I mean the middle of nowhere as in along a stretch of highway known as “The Loneliest Road in America.” When you think of Nevada, you think of Las Vegas and the desert. Well, Great Basin is in the desert, but it’s also in a mountain range, making it a totally different Nevada experience of alpine lakes and the oldest living trees, bristlecone pines.
Great Basin is one of the least visited national parks in the US, with less than 170,000 visitors in recent years. Once you see where it is on a map, it makes total sense. It isn’t close to anything, but it is 100% worth the journey. Just outside of the park, the sleepy little town of Baker has a few options for dining and accommodations, or you can stay in the park at one of five campgrounds, which I would highly recommend.
Spend some time here hiking to the alpine lakes and bristlecone pines and see the only glacier in Nevada. You can also take a tour of Lehman Caves or head into the backcountry for an even more secluded experience.
Megan of Red Around the World
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Salem, Massachusetts
If you are looking for some of the best uncrowded summer destinations, the northeast is for you. The weather is beautiful and prices are slightly cheaper since sightseeing picks up once the fall foliage begins to bloom. In summer, the sun-drenched beaches draw the masses, so head inland to find quieter towns and a history buff’s dream come true.
As a native New Englander, one of my favorite quiet spots to visit in the summer months is Salem, Massachusetts. As you can imagine, Salem floods with paranormal-entranced tourists around Halloween. However, witches, ghosts, and pirates haunt year-round, as the city is home to a plethora of Salem Witch Trial stories.
The House of the Seven Gables, the Salem Witch Museum, and the Salem Witch House are musts. Old cemeteries greet brave tourists. A ghost tour is essential for both history and fun. Victorian B&Bs may be haunted (we found out the hard way…).
Salem has something for everyone, including the Friendship of Salem ship, a newer creepy jail, endless funky-themed cafes, local beer with dancing blueberries, and tchotchke shopping. If you love Asian art, check out the Peabody Essex Museum.
Christine of The Uncorked Librarian
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Memphis, Tennessee
While everyone else is heading to Nashville in central Tennessee or to Great Smoky Mountains National Park on the east end of the state, consider a trip to Memphis this summer, instead. While it gets a bit steamy in this Mississippi River town (think highs in the 90s in July and August), there are lots of incredible museums you can escape indoors to during the hottest time of the day.
The National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel should be high on your list. Located at the site where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968, the museum traces five centuries of history, starting with slavery in America. The interactive experience includes visual displays, films and artifacts telling stories from the Jim Crow era, the Montgomery Bus Boycotts, the Freedom Rides, and other pivotal moments.
To tap into the music legend of Memphis, head to spots like the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, Sun Studio, the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, and Graceland, the famous home of Elvis. Beale Street awakens at night with live music venues and clubs.
When you want to spend a little time outdoors, hop over to Mud Island for the Mississippi River Walk and a giant Memphis sign and to the Memphis Botanic Garden to see what’s in bloom. You can also book sightseeing riverboat excursions or evening sunset and booze cruises on the Mississippi.
Memphis has a cheap downtown trolley and shared bikes and scooters that make it easy to get around without a car.
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