WHERE TO GO IN JUNE | THE BEST PLACES TO TRAVEL THIS MONTH
June is the start of summer travel season, with the longest days of the year. Whether you want a classic East Coast summer or a bucket-list adventure, here's where I'd go.
Here are my top picks for June, plus a splurge and a save hotel for each one so you can choose what fits your budget.
1. The North Fork & Hamptons
Early summer on the East End is hard to beat: farm stands opening, lavender fields in bloom, rosé at the vineyards and beaches that haven't hit peak August crowds yet. The North Fork is laid-back and full of wineries, while the Hamptons bring the beach clubs and the scene. Do a little of both.
Splurge: Topping Rose House — A luxe farmhouse retreat in Bridgehampton with a great restaurant and a quieter, more grown-up feel.
Save: Sound View Greenport — Where I stayed on the North Fork: retro-modern rooms right on the Long Island Sound, with a private beach and sunsets over the water.
Read more: My guide to Greenport
2. Alaska
The season is short and June is a great time to go, with nearly endless daylight, glaciers and wildlife everywhere. You can do a cruise through the Inside Passage, a land trip to Denali and the Kenai Fjords, or both. Pack layers, because the weather changes quickly.
Splurge: Sheldon Chalet — An exclusive chalet on a nunatak near Denali, reached by helicopter. It's truly a once-in-a-lifetime stay.
Save: Hotel Captain Cook — A classic Anchorage base for exploring, with great views and easy access to tours and day trips.
3. Kauai, Hawaii
Calmer North Shore water in the summer makes this a great time for snorkeling, Nā Pali boat tours and beach days on the Garden Isle. Hike the Kalalau Trail, fly over the Nā Pali Coast in a helicopter and watch the sunset at Hanalei Pier. It's greener and slower than the other islands, in the best way.
Splurge: 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay — Stunning North Shore views over Hanalei Bay and a beautiful, nature-inspired design.
Save: Kauai Shores Hotel — Casual, colorful and right on the beach on the east side, a good central base for exploring the whole island.
Read more: My 7-day Kauai itinerary
4. Iceland
Midnight sun means you can sightsee late into the night, and summer is the easiest time to drive the Ring Road. Waterfalls, black-sand beaches, puffins and whale watching are all at their best. It's a completely different trip than winter, and just as magical.
Splurge: Hotel Rangá — A countryside hotel in South Iceland with outdoor hot tubs and easy access to the waterfalls and black-sand beaches.
Save: Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre — A fun, central base in Reykjavik that's great for a few nights of restaurants and day trips.
Read more: My 3-day Iceland itinerary
5. Copenhagen
Long, bright evenings, harbor swimming and outdoor dining everywhere. Rent a bike, walk Nyhavn, spend an evening at Tivoli Gardens and eat your way through the food halls. The city is at its happiest in early summer.
Splurge: Hotel d'Angleterre — Copenhagen's grand dame on Kongens Nytorv, with a gorgeous spa and pool and a prime location near Nyhavn.
Save: Hotel Ottilia — A converted brewery with a rooftop terrace in the fun Carlsberg City district, at a friendlier price.
Read more: 2 days in Copenhagen
6. Santorini & the Greek Islands
Warm water and sunny days, with June still a little calmer than July and August. Watch the sunset in Oia, sail around the caldera and add a second island like Mykonos or Milos for beaches. Book caldera-view rooms early.
Splurge: Canaves Oia Epitome — Private-pool suites with unforgettable sunset views in Oia.
Save: Astra Suites — Caldera views in quieter Imerovigli, with a beautiful pool and friendly service at a gentler price than Oia.
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 May · Where to go in July
Comments