WHERE TO GO IN JULY | THE BEST PLACES TO TRAVEL THIS MONTH
July is peak summer, so plan ahead. These are the places that are truly at their best this month and worth booking early for.
Here are my top picks for July, plus a splurge and a save hotel for each one so you can choose what fits your budget.
1. Cape Cod & the Islands
Lobster rolls, sandy beaches and long sunset dinners. Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard are both perfect for a classic New England summer, and Cape Cod is an easy drive for a weekend. Rent bikes, ride the ferry and plan for clam shacks and ice cream every day.
Splurge: White Elephant Nantucket — A Nantucket classic right on the harbor, steps from town, with that polished New England summer feel.
Save: Pelham House Resort — Where I stayed on Cape Cod: a relaxed resort right on the water with its own beach and a family-friendly vibe.
Read more: My guide to Nantucket
2. Newport, Rhode Island
Sailing season, the Cliff Walk and the Gilded Age mansions make Newport an easy, beautiful summer weekend. Take a sunset sail around the harbor, tour The Breakers and grab oysters on the waterfront. It's charming, walkable and great for couples.
Splurge: The Chanler at Cliff Walk — A boutique hotel right on the Cliff Walk with ocean views and individually designed rooms.
Save: Newport Harbor Hotel & Marina — Right on the harbor, steps from the restaurants and shops on Thames Street, at a friendlier summer price.
Read more: Sailing in Newport
3. Banff & Lake Louise
The lakes are at their most turquoise in summer, and July brings the best hiking weather in the Canadian Rockies. Canoe on Lake Louise, catch Moraine Lake at sunrise and drive the Icefields Parkway. Check access rules for Moraine Lake before you go, since private cars are restricted.
Splurge: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise — Wake up to the view of Lake Louise and be on the water before the day-trippers arrive.
Save: Banff Aspen Lodge — Comfortable, well-priced and walkable to downtown Banff's restaurants and shops.
4. Kenya & Tanzania
The Great Migration's river crossings usually happen from about July through October, and watching thousands of wildebeest cross the Mara River is unforgettable. Add a hot air balloon ride over the plains for the full experience. Safari camps book up a year or more in advance, so plan early.
Splurge: Angama Mara — Sweeping views over the Mara Triangle from a lodge perched on the edge of the Great Rift Valley.
Save: Governors' Camp — A classic tented camp right on the Mara River in the heart of the reserve, with excellent game viewing.
5. Aruba
Outside the hurricane belt, sunny and breezy even in the middle of summer. It's a reliable Caribbean pick when other islands are less certain, and summer rates are often lower than winter. Snorkel, take a catamaran or ATV tour and plan a sunset dinner by the California Lighthouse.
Splurge: Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort — Adults-only and right on Eagle Beach, perfect for a romantic summer getaway.
Save: Hyatt Regency Aruba — A classic Palm Beach resort with a great pool scene, close to restaurants and nightlife. Summer rates make it especially good value.
Read more: My favorite Aruba restaurants
Not sure where to go?
Take my Trip Finder quiz. Answer a few quick questions about when you're traveling, your travel style and your budget, and I'll match you with a destination plus three places to stay.
Or skip the research entirely. I plan trips for readers, from long weekends to honeymoons, and I'll build an itinerary around your dates, budget and style. Here's how planning a trip with me works.
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 June · Where to go in August
Comments