Here at Travel Off Path, we believe it’s never too early to plan for summer.
While most will venture south to Cancun or Cabo, or leave their passport at home for the same old Florida destinations rehashed by every travel publication, our expert team dug up some lesser-known gems that not only offer a welcome surprise, but also cooler temps than your typical summer vacay.
Don’t worry — we’re not sending you off to some far-flung ski resort. Instead, we’re keeping the summer vibes alive with gorgeous lakes and beach towns where you’ll still need to pack sunblock, but won’t be begging for A/C.
These are the 5 most underrated U.S. getaways for a cooler summer escape:
5) Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Hiking goes out the window in many places come summer, unless you’re willing to wake up at the crack of dawn and potentially deal with critter run-ins on the trail.
But Jackson Hole is a rare exception with rather mild temps throughout summer, providing ample ways to enjoy the outdoors.
Grand Teton National Park’s busiest season is May through September, but given its sheer size it doesn’t feel overly crowded like Zion, for example.
Jackson Hole’s tourism board leans heavy into summer activities like rafting, hiking, wildlife tours, mountain biking, climbing, fishing, and of course, rootin’ tootin’ western-style experiences in this rustic cowboy town.
Better yet, the entire state of Wyoming is known to be super safe. Jackson Hole has earned a score of 90/100 on our safety index.
4) Del Mar, California
Just north of San Diego beyond the famous seals of La Jolla Cove lies the elegant coastal village of Del Mar, where it doesn’t matter fi you have 2 legs or 4 legs, Vacation Mode is activated.
Home to the San Diego County Fair (beginning June 10th), multiple beachside parks, and even prettier blue-water beaches, Del Mar is perhaps SoCal’s dreamiest small town.
Whether you’re spending time at the fair, baking under the California sun, or scoring a patio seat at a trendy wine bar, Del Mar is a far cry from more northern getaways such as the LA Region in terms of better weather.
Not that San Diego is deemed unsafe at all for tourists, but there’s no place you’ll blend in like a local than Del Mar, where everyone’s rockin’ flip-flops and casual attire no matter if you’re making a McDonald’s coffee run or staying at one of the town’s many posh beachfront hotels.
3) Cannon Beach, Oregon
Oregon may be on the wrong side of headlines a lot of times thanks to the madness (and weirdness) of Portland.
That said, since California takes up such a massive swath of the West Coast, Oregon is left in the dust.
Dotted with textbook “hidden gems” up and down the coast, the most notable for a bonafide vacation is Cannon Beach.
Straddling largely crowd-free shores along the Pacific’s blue waters, you’ll find otherworldly sea stacks, common wildlife sightings, and cozy inns perfectly suited for a relaxing getaway.
What makes the wild Oregon Coast truly unique though are their giant waves known as King Tides. Don’t worry, though — they’re predictable and even have their own calendar so you won’t get swept away and become the next laughingstock of TikTok.
This town is perfect for a summer escape to beat the heat and spend endless days seaside with weather rarely topping 70 degrees during any point of the year..
2) Lake Jocassee, South Carolina
We’re not saying Charleston shouldn’t be your next trip, but we all know it’s not just tourists invade South Carolina’s most famous city — you’ll have some ‘Stage 5 Clinger’ friends too. 🦟
Lake Jocassee is a stunning alternative for those who prefer immersing in nature rather than a sea of crowds, and the perfect way to cool off from SC’s notorious humidity in clear, spring-fed waters
This practically unheard-of lake commonly accessed via Devils Fork State Park is reported to have the “clearest most pristine water in the state”.
Boasting calm lakeshore beaches and ample kayak rentals, no matter if you want to kick back and work on your tan, go for a swim, or glide across the vibrant waters, there’s something for everyone to savor the sun on not-too-hot 80-degree days.
1) Summersville, West Virginia
A simple Google search of “Appalachia” sends you down a rabbit hole with tin-foil theories and some of America’s best kept secret hideaways.
Summersville being the latter, rather than the former. No crazy feral people mysteries to solve here…
Dubbed the “Little Bahamas of the East”, this hidden lake oasis only locals seem to hold dear is out top pick for the most underrated summer retreat, and here’s why:
- Its West Virginia’s largest lake, with roughly 60 miles of shoreline and crystalline water perfect for swimming, boating, and lazy lake days
- Its striking scenery — think massive sandstone cliffs, rock formations, and lush forestry that make it feel far more unique than your average Appalachian lake
- Its tempting lineup of warm-weather fun, from kayaking and paddle-boarding to fishing, snorkeling, and even scuba diving
- It feel like it should be named Springville with mild temps with highs of 80s in the peak of summer
Now take this quiz to find your perfect match!
