WHERE TO GO IN AUGUST | THE BEST PLACES TO TRAVEL THIS MONTH
August is the last stretch of summer. Soak it up at the beach close to home, or head somewhere it's dry season while much of the world is hot and humid.
Here are my top picks for August, plus a splurge and a save hotel for each one so you can choose what fits your budget.
1. The Hamptons
August is peak season out east: long beach days, outdoor dinners and every farm stand overflowing with corn and tomatoes. Visit the wineries, rent bikes in Sag Harbor and spend at least one evening watching the sunset over the bay. Book restaurants ahead.
Splurge: Topping Rose House — A luxe farmhouse retreat in Bridgehampton with a beautiful pool and an excellent restaurant.
Save: Hampton Maid — A family-run, classic Hamptons motel in Hampton Bays with a pool and a fun, nostalgic feel at a much better price.
Read more: Summer fun in the Hamptons
2. Bali
August falls in Bali's dry season, so it's a great time for rice terraces, temples, beach clubs and wellness retreats. Split your trip between Ubud for culture and jungle views and the coast for sunsets and surf. Bali is very popular in August, so book ahead.
Splurge: Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan — Villas in the Ayung River valley surrounded by jungle. It's peaceful and absolutely stunning.
Save: Alaya Resort Ubud — A peaceful resort in central Ubud with rice paddy views, walkable to cafés, shops and the Monkey Forest.
3. Peru & Machu Picchu
Dry season in the Andes means clearer views of Machu Picchu. Spend a couple of days in Cusco to adjust to the altitude, explore the Sacred Valley and then take the train to the ruins. Entry tickets and trail permits are limited, so book well ahead.
Splurge: Belmond Sanctuary Lodge — The only hotel at the entrance to Machu Picchu, so you can visit early and late when the crowds are gone.
Save: Casa Andina Premium Cusco — A comfortable, central base in Cusco that makes it easy to explore the city and acclimate before the trek.
4. Québec City
Summer festivals, cobblestone streets, outdoor terraces and European charm, all just a short flight from the East Coast. Wander the Old Town, take the funicular down to Petit Champlain and day-trip to Montmorency Falls. It feels like Europe without the long flight.
Splurge: Fairmont Le Château Frontenac — The castle-like icon of the city, right in the heart of the Old Town with views over the St. Lawrence River.
Save: Hôtel Le Priori — A boutique hotel in the Old Port with stone walls and a cozy feel, steps from the shops and restaurants.
5. Swiss Alps
Wildflowers, mountain trains and hikes with glacier views. The Alps are just as beautiful in summer as they are in ski season, and the cable cars make big views easy for everyone. Zermatt and the Bernese Oberland are both perfect bases.
Splurge: Badrutt's Palace Hotel — St. Moritz's legendary grand hotel, with lake views and old-school Alpine glamour.
Save: The Cambrian — Mountain views and a stunning outdoor infinity pool in Adelboden, at a more approachable price.
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Every trip is different, and weather, events and hotel availability can change from year to year, so double-check dates before you book.
More months: Where to go in July · Where to go in September
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