Long, golden days. The scent of sunscreen and sizzling barbecue. A cold drink in hand and nothing on the agenda but fun.
August is that magical stretch of summer where everything feels just a little more alive, from lakefront adventures and mountaintop sunsets to starlit dinners by the pool.
Whether you’re chasing cool breezes in the mountains or soaking up the desert sun, we’ve rounded up the best destinations to savor August in full.
Even better? Every spot on this list is home to stunning AvantStay vacation rentals, so your group getaway comes with luxurious memories and an unforgettable experience built right in.
Related Reads:
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1. Lake Tahoe, California
Lake Tahoe shines in August with long, sun-filled days perfect for boating, hiking, and lakeside lounging. The weather is warm but not scorching, making it ideal for enjoying the outdoors without the discomfort of peak summer heat. August also brings local festivals and farmers’ markets that add a fun, community vibe to your mountain escape.
Warm sunny days on the lake, hiking trails in full bloom, and mountainside festivals make Tahoe a summer favorite.
Top Activities: Paddleboarding on crystal-clear waters, hiking in Emerald Bay, or enjoying lakeside dining and lakeside views.
Where to Stay: Aster – a spacious cabin perfect for up to 8 guests, complete with cozy gathering spaces.
👉 Dreaming of a Tahoe getaway? Browse our 12 Cozy Lake Tahoe Airbnbs for Big Group Gatherings to find the perfect cabin for your crew.
2. Park City, Utah
August offers the perfect balance of sunny skies and cool mountain breezes in Park City. The ski slopes transform into scenic hiking and biking trails, and the town’s summer concerts and open-air events keep the energy high. With fewer tourists than winter, it’s a peaceful yet lively time to explore this mountain gem.
Summer brings cool mountain air, wildflower hikes, and adventure sports without the winter crowds.
Top Activities: Hiking, mountain biking, scenic gondola rides – plus hot air ballooning and fly fishing just outside town.
Where to Stay: Silver Strike – centrally located near Silver Strike Express Lift, with a hot tub and room for twelve.
👉 Ready to book your mountain escape? Check out our blog on 22 Park City Airbnbs That You Can Book for Any Time of the Year—perfect picks for summer hikes, winter slopes, and everything in between.
3. San Diego, California
Ideal beach weather and outdoor fun – from whale watching to beachfront eclectic neighborhoods. August is prime time to experience San Diego’s beaches, boardwalks, and laid-back SoCal lifestyle. The ocean is warm enough for swimming and surfing, and outdoor dining is in full swing throughout the city.
With minimal rain and endless coastal sunshine, it’s one of the best times to visit.
Top Activities: Surfing in La Jolla, visiting the zoo, cycling along Pacific Beach.
Where to Stay: Moonlight Modern – ocean-view home with a hot tub, sleeping up to 10 guests.
👉 Ready to scroll? Check out our Top 10 San Diego Airbnbs with the Best Ocean Views to find your dream beachside rental.
4. Austin, Texas
Despite the Texas heat, August in Austin brings high energy and plenty of ways to cool down— swimming holes, boat rentals, and riverside fun. The live music scene stays vibrant, with open-air shows and festivals lighting up the evenings. Early mornings and late nights are the sweet spot for exploring this creative capital.
Warm summer vibes, outdoor dining, live music, and lake activities converge in ATX.
Top Activities: Barton Springs, paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake, catching a live show at Zilker Park.
Where to Stay: Dawson – a lagoon-style home with views of Lake Travis, offering a private yard, pool, and space for groups up to 10.
👉 Need a place to kick back between BBQ joints and concert halls? Don’t miss our blog on 8 Austin Airbnbs for a Weekend of Music, BBQ, and Adventure, curated for unforgettable stays in the heart of Texas.
5. Nashville, Tennessee
Music fills the air in Nashville every summer, and August is no exception with festivals, rooftop concerts, and vibrant nightlife. The city stays warm, but there’s always a breeze along the river or inside a honky-tonk. It’s the perfect month to experience Nashville’s Southern charm with fewer crowds than peak season.
Hot summer nights, vibrant music festivals, and scenic escapes await along the Cumberland River.
Top Activities: Honky-tonk hopping in downtown, paddleboarding, and riverboat cruising.
Where to Stay: Waverly – a sleek and spacious home near downtown with room for 10 guests.
👉 Planning a honky-tonk weekend? Grab inspo from our 12 Trendy Nashville Airbnbs for Bachelorettes & Girls’ Night Outs to pick a stylish stay near Broadway
6. Palm Springs, California
While it’s hot in the desert, Palm Springs in August is all about chilled cocktails, private pools, and luxurious downtime. Many travelers take advantage of off-season pricing for high-end villas and spa escapes. Early mornings and evenings are ideal for exploring the city’s architecture, design shops, and art galleries.
Despite the heat, resorts that offer poolside luxury, spa escapes, and mid-century charm.
Top Activities: Pool lounging, Joshua Tree day trips, exploring design-centric downtown galleries.
Where to Stay: Villa Valentina – best desert home with a private pool, hot tub, and modern spaces for your group of 12.
👉 Seeking poolside perfection? Our 12 Best Palm Springs Airbnbs You’ll Wish You Lived In highlights sun-soaked homes built for indoor-outdoor living.
7. Indio, California
August brings peaceful desert vibes to Coachella Valley, making it a hidden gem for those seeking solitude and sunshine. It’s a perfect month to enjoy golf, private villas, and serene landscapes without the crowds. Plus, it’s a great time to score deals before the festival season kicks into gear.
Indeed, a prelude to festival season with warm desert days and cool desert nights.
Top Activities: Golfing, spa days, local dining, and early bird deals on fall getaway stays.
Where to Stay: Longfellow – a large home with a pool, outdoor lounge, tiki bar, and areas to relax for up to 14 guests.
👉 Planning ahead for your desert escape? Don’t miss our blog on The Best Coachella Valley Airbnbs to Book Before They Sell Out for snagging the perfect stay before the crowds roll in and homes get fully booked.
🧳 Seasonal Travel Tips for August
Choose between Hotels vs. Rentals
While hotels may offer seasonal discounts in August, group travelers often get more space, comfort, and value from short-term rentals. AvantStay homes feature private pools, chef-style kitchens, game rooms, and outdoor lounges—perfect for families or groups of friends planning a summer escape. For ideas on the best destinations with full-home buyouts, check out our roundup of Palm Springs homes and hotels available for a full buyout.
Pack Smart
August means sun-soaked days, but don’t forget to bring layers if you’re heading to the mountains or the desert, where evenings can cool down fast. Sunscreen, sunglasses, a reusable water bottle, and a pair of good walking shoes are must-haves. And if you’re heading to the desert, get inspired by tips for what to pack for a summer trip—yes, even the essentials can feel luxe.
Book Activities Ahead
Summer is still peak season in many places during this time, especially beach towns and lakefront destinations, so plan ahead. Book surf lessons in San Diego or off-roading adventures in Joshua Tree before your trip to avoid last-minute stress.
For more inspiration, don’t miss our best travel guides in the US.
Don’t Let Summer Slip Away!
August isn’t just the tail end of summer—it’s your last, best chance to turn up the sunshine before pumpkin spice takes over.
It offers the best of summer—mountain adventure, desert leisure, lakeside fun, and lively city escapes. And with AvantStay’s curated homes across these popular U.S. destinations, group getaways are easier, more stylish, and built for memories.
Ready to lock in your summer stay? Explore AvantStay and start planning your August getaway today!
