The Top 18 Hottest Summer Spots for 2023 – Get Ready to Pack Your Bags

Summer is coming soon, and even if your readers have been to many places, there’s always a new place to visit. Think about these fun summer vacation ideas, like flying in a plane, taking a train, visiting pretty towns, or going to tropical lagoons.

Bonaire – Summer Festivals

Discover the Caribbean’s hidden gem and the world’s first Blue Destination this summer. With no street lights, flamingo friends, and a population of just 22,000, the Dutch Caribbean island of Bonaire offers visitors and locals plenty of exciting activities this summer. 

With so much to do and look forward to, Bonaire makes the ultimate Caribbean summer destination. The unspoiled island’s appeal is found in its untouched nature, warm locals, and commitment to sustaining the beauty of Bonaire for years to come. It’s the ideal escape for those who enjoy getting off-the-beaten-island-path with natural charm and local culture around every corner.

Cavtat, Croatia – Croatia’s Hidden Gem

Cavtat, Croatia, located just south of Dubrovnik, offers a relaxed pace of life, resembling St Tropez before the crowds. The unique town on the Adriatic has a stunning waterfront promenade lined with palm trees, beaches, churches, monuments, and museums. It has picturesque outdoor restaurants and cafes, specialty boutiques, and gift shops.  

There are more than 5 miles of crystal clear water, beaches, and hotels of high and luxury class. Located in the heart of the charming historic center of Cavtat, Hotel Supetar Cavtat reopens on May 1 after seasonal closure. Food lovers savor Mediterranean fare with a focus on products from the sea, seasonal specialties, and fresh local ingredients, including the oranges from the hotel’s garden. Cavtat is just 10 minutes by bus or taxi from Dubrovnik Airport, which offers direct flights from New York.

Oslo, Norway – Culture Capital Perfect for Lovers of Heritage, Food, and Traditions

Oslo, the capital of Norway, sits on the country’s southern coast at the head of the Oslofjord. It’s known for its green spaces and museums, but specifically its deep roots of culture and heritage. Travelers can stroll in one of the many lively neighborhoods while exploring everything from innovative architecture and world-class museums to spirited bars and divine eateries. 

When looking for a place to stay, travelers can choose from A-One’s exclusive homes with hotel services like personal welcome, daily housekeeping, and round-the-clock concierge – all in complete privacy. Each property meets WELL criteria and emphasizes unique architecture, central location, distinctive neighborhoods, hand-picked furniture, and artwork. 

For those searching for guidance on planning a trip in Norway, sustainable luxury travel curator Up Norway has created journeys that start and end in Oslo while taking travelers to hidden gems all over the country. The Arctic Circle Express Train Journey allows travelers to see the best cultural highlights, eat local food, and cross the Arctic Circle. The Modern Luxury In the Realm of Norwegian Folklore journey deep dives into Oslo’s history through activities with local insiders, such as visits to the Snøhetta-designed opera House and futurist Deichman Library.

Curaçao – The Ultimate Caribbean Getaway

This summer, head to the Caribbean’s most trending island paradise. Boasting a unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and rich history – the Dutch Caribbean island of Curaçao features stunning beaches with crystal clear waters, perfect for snorkeling, swimming, and diving. 

Explore the island’s colorful architecture, which reflects its Dutch colonial past, and its diverse cultural influences from South America and Africa. Curaçao offers a wide range of dining options, from traditional Caribbean cuisine to international fare, as well as a lively nightlife scene and breathtaking overlooks. For those who prefer to spend their days lounging on the beach, the island is brimming with some of the most breathtaking shorelines in the Caribbean – with soft white sand, turquoise waters, and secluded coves, making it the ultimate paradise for beach lovers. 

Riviera Maya, Mexico – Family Favorite Vacation Destination

A true summer vacationer’s paradise, Riviera Maya consists of over a 100-mile stretch of beautiful beaches and a tropical oasis. Running along the Yucatan Peninsula, the world-renowned paradise is home to lagoons, mangroves, ancient Mayan cities, ecological reserves, and even the world’s second-largest coral reef. 

At Grand Velas Riviera Maya, Velas Resorts offer special services and activities for all ages to enjoy with their age group or as a family. Younger family members dive into an oasis of fun. Guests ages 4 to 12 can enjoy the ultimate kid’s club, complete with board games, Xbox and Wii consoles, arts and crafts activities, and daily storytelling at the Kids’ Club. Teens can enjoy the resort’s teens club featuring a game room, pool table, ping pong, air hockey, foosball, karaoke, and more. While the kids are supervised, parents can relax at the SE Spa, awarded 5 stars by Forbes Travel Guide, or dine at one of the resort’s 6 fine dining restaurants.

Aruba Marriott Resort – An Island of Natural Wonders

Tucked safely under the hurricane belt, Aruba is known for its year-round balmy weather and gentle Tradewinds breeze. While it makes for a perfect destination any time of year, guests of the Aruba Marriott Resort are invited to experience the resort’s desert bathing package this Summer. 

The resort has taken forest bathing (yawn), and put a fun twist on the concept, introducing Aruba to the game with its natural backdrop of the desert. This wellness experience allows travelers to slow down and become immersed in the natural environment, helping them to clear their mind while boosting mood and immunity this Memorial Day Weekend. 

The experience consists of a private roundtrip transfer to either the historic Alto Vista Chapel – surrounded by cacti and tranquil peace labyrinth – or Arikok National park, as well as yoga mats and a picnic basket including healthy snacks and beverages. Following the toes-in-the-(desert)-sand experience, guests can keep the wellness theme going back at the resort, as the experience also includes a massage for two and locally sourced Aruba Aloe products to replenish sun-kissed skin. This experience invites guests to disconnect and make the most of their Summer vacation on the “One Happy Island!”

Rome, Italy – For The Trip of a Lifetime

Will Rome ever go out of style? A simple answer – no. Rome will remain a coveted destination this summer due to its fashion scene and the perfect mix of art, history, and culture. Travelers looking to enjoy the Eternal City from a new perspective will delight in a stay at Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese. 

Travelers visiting Rome even can explore the Eternal City’s secret sites with ArcheoRunning during a  Hidden Rome Tour. Participants will immerse themselves in the narrow streets of Rome while hearing unique stories during a two-hour tour with Isabella Calidonna, an art historian, certified tour guide, and coach for Fidal (Italian Athletics Federation) and Coni (Italian National Olympic Committee). 

Mendoza, Argentina – Cool Break

For travelers looking for a cool break to escape the summer heat, winter in Mendoza, Argentina, is the ultimate time of year to explore its vast wonders. The cool days are illuminated by warm sunshine, allowing travelers to enjoy every activity available in Malbec. In Mendoza, the temperature ranges from 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit during this time of year, making it the perfect destination for outdoor activities during the day and also ideal for relaxing and unwind during the night. 

Travelers can choose to stay at the new SB Winemaker’s House & Spa Suites, from pioneer Argentine winemaker Susana Balbo, where the in-house experience coordinator can help guests choose from various activities such as horseback riding, trekking, air safari aboard a private seaplane, heli wine tour, and even a hot air balloon over the vineyards.

Puerto Escondido, Mexico – Surfing

Located 260 kilometers from Oaxaca City, Puerto Escondido has been one of Mexico’s best-hidden beach towns. This is partly referenced by its name, which translates to “Hidden Port.” But while it’s only opening up to the typical tourist, this bohemian fishing village has been a hotspot for the surfing community since the late 1950s. The offshore winds that blow from the north-northeast help maintain uniform climatic conditions for surfing year-round. 

Summer- late April through September- is the peak surfing season in Puerto Escondido. This season sees 8ft-10ft+ swells with 90% to 95% consistency. To stay in action at Zicatela, head to Selina Puerto Escondido Hotel. This property is located barely two minutes from the beach, making it the best place to stay in Puerto Escondido for surfers who don’t want to walk too far to ride the waves.

Stevenson, Washington – Get Away in the Woods

Elevated above the forest ground and nestled inside the tall Douglas Fir trees of the Columbia River Gorge, the Tree Houses at Skamania Lodge in Stevenson, Washington, connects guests with the  beauty of nature, allowing them to immerse themselves in their surroundings and reconnect with their inner child. 

Travelers can unplug and recharge, surrounded by breathtaking views of the Cascade Mountains, making s’mores, playing board games, and taking walks amongst the trees. The lodge setting offers visitors the perfect location to enjoy a digital detox from the outside world.

Tirana, Albania – Upcoming Digital Nomad Hotspot

Take a sabbatical or bring a remote work job with you. Tirana is an emerging digital nomad hotspot in the midst of a reinvention, offering a vibrant, quirky art scene and a strong entrepreneurial spirit. Travelers with Remote Year will find a destination full of complex history and stunning nature, whether they’re exploring the city’s art or spending the weekend on the beaches of the Ionian Sea. Both mountains and beach are within 30-minutes, offering plenty to explore during downtime. 

Group experiences for Remote Year travelers include bathing in the therapeutic thermal waters of Bilaj Thermal Springs, which emerge from the deposits of the Ishëm Valley; a trip to Kotor, the UNESCO World Heritage site in Montenegro that is steeped in history and epic bay views; a boat ride on the Shala River to Komani Lake for great hiking and swimming; a food tour around Tirana to discover Albania’s culinary heritage through traditional treats like Byrek pie and the dhalle yogurt drink; and guided exploration of the ancient Greek, Roman and medieval ruins at the Apollonia Archaeological Park and the town of Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Kahuku, Hawaii – Hawaiian Cowboy Heritage

Turtle Bay Resort (Kahuku, Hawaii) proudly presents dinner AND a show for guests during their Hawaiian summer vacations. Paniolov, A Hawaiian Cowboy Lūʻau pays homage to the Hawaiian cowboy heritage with roasted pig, delicious eats including vegetarian options, welcome cocktails, live entertainment, and a cash bar made from vintage horse trailers. Plus, fun activities for the kids include a pony meet and greet and hula lessons.

Naturno, Italy – Preidlhof’s Award-Winning Wellness

Preidlhof (Naturno, Italy) boasts more than 10 swimming pools (including three infinity pools) and a jacuzzi across the expansive mountainside property in northern Italy’s South Tyrol region. 

With an Aperol Spritz in hand and the sun shining overhead, this award-winning wellness resort is where one goes for a little R&R or complete rejuvenation (offering nine wellness retreats). Guests can also immerse themselves in Italy with native olive and orange oil massages.

Cappadocia, Turkey – Argos In Cappadocia

Spend your summer vacation in one of the most unusual landscapes in the world in the historical region of Cappadocia. Cappadocia is among Turkey’s most popular tourism destinations, largely due to the infamous hot air balloon rides but also for its ancient underground churches, tunnels, and even entire cities, all carved into soft volcanic rock. Perched on a hill in the ancient village of Uçhisar, 

Argos in Cappadocia is an ancient monastery turned boutique hotel that offers travelers a relaxing summer getaway. Each of the 51 rooms are uniquely designed guest room made of cave dwellings and blend in the volcanic landscape, boasting en-suite pools, fireplaces, and terraces overlooking Pigeon Valley, Mount Erciyes, and fairy chimneys.

St. Maarten – Relaxation and Adventure

The charismatic Caribbean island nation of St. Maarten welcomes you with one of the region’s most diverse menu of experiences where every traveler — from the snorkeler to the shopper, the surfer to the foodie, or the thrill seeker to the history enthusiast — can find their place under the sun this summer. 

To start the trip with a bang and get a glimpse of all the fun activities available on the island, visit Rockland Estate, which is home to the world’s steepest zip-line: The Flying Dutchman. While zipping 2,800 feet down the mountain, take in the best views of St. Maarten while admiring the mountain-meets-ocean landscape full of adventure opportunities. On-land are 37 sundry, diverse beaches; while some are perfect for kitesurfing, sailing, and snorkeling, others are quiet and ideal for sunbathing. 

Napa, California – Girls Summer Getaway at The Meritage Resort & Spa

Catch up on all the tea with a glass of wine in hand with a trip to The Meritage Resort & Spa this summer. Explore all the sun-drenched Napa Valley, from its hot air balloon rides and luxury shopping to biking tours and culinary experiences with your besties. At the resort, gal pals will find on-site tasting rooms, dining options, a six-lane bowling alley, and Spa Terra, nested in a 22,000-square-foot Napa Estate Cave.

Book the Gossip Girls getaway and enjoy keepsake satin robes, a hand-selected personal skincare system from Eminence Skincare, and your choice of a pool cabana with sparkling wine or bowling and a $100 food credit at Crush. Plus, access to thousands of fashion, beauty, and gossip magazines via Press Reader to top off the ladies’ weekend of wines. Pro tip: Book during one of a slew of on-property summer events at the resort, such as the Chardonnay and Pinot Noir Classic in June.  

Castle Hot Springs, Arizona – A Wellness Destination for Solo Female Travelers 

For solo female travelers looking to disconnect, recharge, and rejuvenate after an entirely stressful year, Arizona’s enchanting luxury desert oasis Castle Hot Springs boasts world-class mineral hot springs dating back to 13,000 years. With a slate of new wellness offerings, including a revamped wellness spa menu, Arizona’s award-winning luxury desert oasis is helping travelers actualize their self-care resolutions through a myriad of customized, one-on-one experiences for solo female travelers. 

From stretching one’s legs for a wild west adventure on horseback or guided tours through remote slot canyons to revitalizing soaks in the majestic thermal hot springs, these new experiences encourage guests to disconnect from their everyday stresses as they nourish the mind, body, and soul. 

Angkor Wat, Cambodia – Land of Ancient Wonders

Combining an action-packed Angkor Wat adventure with a three-night stay at a top-tier hotel near Cambodia’s most sacred site, the new ‘Angkor Ultra Luxury Package’ from Anantara Angkor Resort aims to maximize the enjoyment of bespoke travel by adding a ‘travel with ease’ element to the experience, with cultural excursions, visa arrangements, dining, and spa all included.

While centered on Angkor Wat discoveries, the ‘Angkor Ultra Luxury Package’ also features a host of experiences beyond the ruins: scenic countryside rides by bicycle, quad, Vespa, or vintage jeep; kayaking through the floating villages of Tonle Sap lake; cooking classes with Anantara’s signature Spice Spoons experience; healing Khmer massage therapies; and much more.

This article is produced by Spark Nomad and syndicated by Radical FIRE.