Discover the Best Places to Travel to in June for a Perfect US Getaway

With long days, clear blue skies, and abundant sunshine, June consistently ranks as one of the most enjoyable months to explore the United States. Having spent several years living here and traveling extensively during this period, I’ve compiled a list of my top destinations – ranging from vibrant cities to picturesque coastal towns – that offer an unforgettable early summer experience. Whether you’re seeking the Best Beaches To Travel To In June or charming inland escapes, these spots provide ideal weather, fewer crowds than peak season, and a wealth of activities.

June presents a unique opportunity to enjoy popular destinations just before the major summer rush. The weather is typically warm and pleasant across much of the country, perfect for outdoor activities, while accommodation prices can still be more favorable compared to July and August. Many places also host early summer festivals and events, adding an extra layer of local flavor to your trip. If you’re planning your summer travel and want to maximize good weather and minimize crowds, June is the sweet spot, offering excellent opportunities for exploring coasts, lakes, mountains, and cities alike. Finding the Best Beaches To Travel To In June means clearer water, more space on the sand, and comfortable temperatures. For those considering air travel, navigating airports and potential regulations is key. You can find useful information on topics like air travel with cpap machine to ensure a smooth journey to your chosen destination.

Recommended US Destinations for a June Vacation

Here are some of my favorite places across the USA that truly shine in June, based on personal visits:

1. Mackinac Island, Michigan

Charming carriage rides on Mackinac Island in summer

Vibrant flowers and historic architecture on Mackinac Island during June

This charming, car-free island proved to be the perfect early summer escape. The weather was comfortably warm, the island was adorned with blooming lilacs and flower baskets, ferries were running smoothly, all businesses were open, and crucially, it was just before the peak summer crowds arrived. The lively holiday atmosphere was palpable, particularly during the stunning 10-day Lilac Festival, featuring parades, concerts, and garden tours. I stayed at the historic 4-star Lake View Hotel and filled my days with hiking and biking the beautiful trails in Mackinac Island State Park, kayaking along the coast, watching cannon and rifle demonstrations at the historic Fort Mackinac, browsing the unique shops and fudge stores (Murdick’s was a personal favorite), and visiting the Original Butterfly House.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 7200 Lake Shore Dr, Mackinac Island, MI 49757
• Location: Upper Midwest
• Location Map
• Vibe: Charming with a relaxed small-town feel
• Average June Temperatures: 18°C to 24°C

2. Bodega Bay, California

Scenic coastline view of Bodega Bay, CaliforniaBoats anchored in the harbor at Bodega Bay during summer

Visiting this small coastal town in June was an excellent choice. The cool, breezy weather and clear skies were ideal for outdoor activities, wildflowers lined the trails, it was prime whale watching season, and I got to appreciate the scenery before the summer crowds descended. Events like the Sonoma Wild Music Festival and the Bodega Bay Community Farmers Market added to the lively atmosphere. I drove 90 minutes north of San Francisco on Highway 101 for a peaceful long weekend. Activities included fog-kissed coastal hikes at Bodega Head, spotting migrating gray whales, dining at farm-to-table restaurants, wine tasting, and exploring the collection of independent shops and art galleries.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 913 CA-1, Bodega Bay, CA 94923
• Location: north coast of the USA
• Location Map
• Vibe: relaxed with touch of rustic charm
• Average Temperature: 13°C to 21°C

3. Put-in-Bay, Ohio

Lively waterfront scene at Put-in-Bay, Ohio in early summerView of the Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial from Put-in-Bay

This lively resort village on South Bass Island in Lake Erie truly came alive in June. Warm weather, open-air bars, live music, and lakefront fun were in full swing, yet without the peak-season crowds of July and August. Family-friendly events like the Ohio Islands Wine Festival and the quirky Pyrate Fest (a pirate-themed celebration) were highlights. A short 20-minute ferry from Port Clinton brought me here for a long weekend of kayaking at South Bass Island State Park, enjoying panoramic views from Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial, experiencing the lively waterfront nightlife, and tasting Pink Catawba wine at Heineman Winery. For more tips on managing travel finances, consider looking into options like bank of america travel rewards recon.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 440 Loraine Ave, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456
• Location: Midwest
• Location Map
• Vibe: laid-back but with a fun island party atmosphere
• Average Temperatures: 18°C to 24°C

4. Laguna Beach, Southern California

Iconic rock formations at Laguna Beach, Southern CaliforniaGolden light illuminates the coast at Laguna Beach

A June vacation to this picturesque coastal city was fantastic. The sun was shining, the ocean was warm enough for swimming and surfing (making it one of the best beaches to travel to in June on the West Coast), wildflowers adorned the coastal trails, and the town was alive with early summer energy, art events, and beachside dining – all without the full peak-season crowds. Awesome annual events included the Sawdust Art Festival and the Fete de la Musique. I spent time relaxing and watching surfers at Thousand Steps Beach, Victoria Beach, and Main Beach, explored local art galleries, hiked in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, and discovered charming streets lined with chic boutiques, trendy cafes, and excellent oceanfront dining.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 381 Forest Ave, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
• Location Map
• Average Temperatures: 17°C to 24°C

5. Chicago, Illinois

Millennium Park and the Chicago skyline in summerCrowded beach on Lake Michigan in Chicago during a warm June day

Chicago truly comes alive in June. Lakefront festivals, open-air concerts in Millennium Park, boat cruises on the Chicago River, and gorgeous weather make it perfect for exploring the city’s diverse neighborhoods, parks, and beaches, all before the peak summer crowds arrive and while accommodation is still readily available. The buzzing energy fills the parks, patios, and streets. Favorite events included the Chicago Blues Festival and the Lyrical Lemonade Summer Smash music festival. I flew into O’Hare International Airport (ORD) for a fun four-day trip. Highlights included al-fresco dining at incredible restaurants (Osteria Via Stato and Ema were standouts), relaxing at sandy North Avenue Beach, strolling along the scenic waterfronts, picnicking in Millennium Park, and exploring the cool entertainment destination, Navy Pier.

• Visitors Center Address: 77 E. Randolph St. Chicago
• Location Map
• Vibe: Vibrant and energetic
• Average Temperatures: 18°C to 29°C

6. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

Charming gingerbread cottages in Oak Bluffs, Martha's VineyardPeople relaxing on a beach at Martha's Vineyard in the summer

This picturesque vacation island offers a dreamy early summer getaway. June brings long, sunny days, warm weather, blooming hydrangeas and gardens, and a laid-back buzz that enhances the beaches and island charm. It’s just before the peak summer crowds arrive, but plenty of events are already in full swing, including the Juneteenth Jubilee Festival, the Inkwell Beach party, and the start of the Edgartown Village Market. A scenic hour-and-a-half drive from Boston to the Woods Hole ferry terminal led me to a dreamy week here. Activities included bike rides along the State Beach path, admiring the cute gingerbread cottages of Oak Bluffs, visiting the lighthouse at Aquinnah Cliffs, and dining on local cuisine at Menemsha Harbor, all with fewer crowds than later in the summer.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 29 Church St, Edgartown, MA 02539
• Location: Off the southern coast of Massachusetts in the Northeastern USA
• Location Map
• Vibe: Upscale, with a classic New England coastal feel
• Average Temperature: 15°C to 24°C

7. Camden, Maine

Sailboats in the harbor at Camden, MaineOverlook of Camden, Maine harbor and town

One of my first summer trips was to this picturesque harbor town, and June was delightful. The weather was mild and sunny, sailboats dotted the harbor, wildflowers lined the trails in Camden Hills State Park, and the shops, seafood spots, and waterfront paths were lively yet still peaceful before the peak summer rush. The town was also vibrant with local events like the Jazz in June music festival and various farmers markets. During my three-day stay after a 3 hour 40 minute drive from Boston, I hiked up Mount Battie in Camden Hills State Park, took a scenic schooner cruise from Camden Harbor, enjoyed local cuisine at the Camden Deli, and strolled through the gardens of Merryspring Nature Center.

• Visitor’s Center Address: Camden-Rockport-Lincolnville Chamber of Commerce, 2 Public Lndg, Camden, ME 04843
• Location: mid-coast of Maine in the Northeastern USA
• Location Map
• Vibe: Quaint, scenic, and quietly sophisticated
• Average Temperature: 21°C to 24°C

8. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Boats on Lake Geneva with historic mansions along the shoreFlowers blooming along the lakefront path at Lake Geneva

Visiting this charming lakeside resort town in June was a great decision. While it gets busy in peak summer, it was noticeably quieter this month with warm weather perfect for boating, hiking, and exploring the beautiful shoreline. The town was lush with greenery and offered lively music festivals and events like the Live at Lyon’s Street Dance and the Farmer’s Market. After an hour-and-a-half drive from Chicago, I stayed for a fun long weekend. Highlights included a boat tour on the lake, strolling along the flower-lined Geneva Lake Shore Path past impressive historic mansions, outdoor dining in the lively downtown, and a guided tour of the sprawling Black Point Estate and Gardens, where the perfectly preserved Victorian furnishings were awe-inspiring. When planning such trips, understanding what you can or cannot travel with is important; information on topics like can you travel with testosterone might be helpful depending on your needs.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 201 Wrigley Dr, Lake Geneva, WI 53147
• Location: Upper Midwest
• Location Map
• Vibe: fun, family-friendly with classic lake resort feel
• Average Temperature: 24°C to 27°C

9. Santa Barbara, California

Sunny beach scene in Santa Barbara, CaliforniaPanoramic view of Santa Barbara beach and coastline

Visiting this pristine coastal city during June felt just perfect! The weather was warm, dry, and sunny with clear coastal skies. The beach temperatures were ideal for sunbathing and surfing, offering some of the best beaches to travel to in June, and the vibe was wonderfully relaxed early-summer. There were far fewer crowds compared to visits in July and August. Gardens were in full bloom, and there was a fantastic calendar of events, festivals, and wine tastings, including the Summer Solstice Celebration, the Juneteenth Santa Barbara Block Party, the Santa Barbara Wine & Food Festival, and the free Santa Barbara Lavender Festival. After an hour and 40 minutes drive from Los Angeles, I stayed for a mini-break in the gorgeous boho boutique Palihouse and enjoyed lazy beach days at East Beach, wine tasting in the Funk Zone, scenic hikes in the Santa Ynez Mountains, and sunset strolls along Stearns Wharf.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 1 Garden Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
• Location Map
• Average Temperatures: 13°C to 24°C

10. Portland, Maine

Waterfront view of Portland, Maine on a sunny summer dayScenic lighthouse and rocky coast near Portland, Maine

Vacationing in “Vacationland” during June was a great experience. The days were long and sunny, perfect for exploring the waterfront and outdoor attractions. All the food shacks and breweries were buzzing, and there was plenty of waterfront dining to enjoy the weather. Fewer crowds than the main summer season meant a more relaxed atmosphere, yet there were still awesome festivals, including Portland Wine Week and an ethereal water lamp festival. After a two-hour drive north from Boston, I spent a charming week primarily relaxing on East End Beach. I also sampled Summer Ale at Shipyard Brewing Company, strolled the scenic Eastern Promenade, and explored the historic Old Port District with its cobblestone streets, unique shops, and excellent restaurants.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 14 Ocean Gateway Pier, Portland, ME 04101
• Location: Northeastern USA
• Location Map
• Vibe: Coastal, creative, and relaxed
• Average Temperature: 13°C to 24°C

11. Shasta Lake, California

Boats on the water at Shasta Lake, California

A trip to California’s largest reservoir in June offered hot and sunny weather. The lake was full from spring runoff, perfect for houseboating, swimming, and jet skiing. I could also enjoy peaceful hikes before the peak summer crowds arrived. After a 3.5-hour drive north from Sacramento, I spent an idyllic week camping at Antlers Campground. Activities included swimming in the clear coves, kayaking around the lake, exploring the interesting underground Shasta Caverns on a boat tour, and hiking the scenic Bailey Cove Trail with superb views of Mount Shasta. If you’re planning complex itineraries, perhaps using a tool like chatgpt prompt for travel itinerary could streamline your planning process.

• Visitor’s Center Address: Shasta Dam Visitor Center, 16349 Shasta Dam Blvd, Lake Shasta, CA 96019
• Location Map
• Average Temperature: 27-32°C

12. Santa Cruz, California

View of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk from the waterHistoric Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk rides and buildings

This vibrant coastal city in June offered warm, sunny days and cooler evenings, great hotel deals, and fewer crowds before the July and August rush. It’s another excellent option for finding the best beaches to travel to in June on the California coast. Fun events included the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Summer Concert Series and the LGBTQ+ celebration, Santa Cruz Pride. A 1.5-hour drive south of San Francisco led me to a week here, indulging in sun-soaked fun at the Beach Boardwalk, hiking among redwoods in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, spotting tide pools and sea otters at Natural Bridges State Beach, and exploring the buzzing downtown with its unique shops, restaurants, and nightlife. Understanding travel restrictions is always wise; for instance, knowing can i travel with a warrant is critical before making travel plans.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 303 Water Street, Suite 100. Santa Cruz, CA
• Location: central coast of California in the western USA
• Location Map
• Vibe: Surfy, youthful, and laid-back
• Average Temperature: 18°C to 24°C

13. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Coastal view of a Cape Cod beach with dunes and grassHouses and coastline along Cape Cod, Massachusetts

This beautiful coastal peninsula provides a perfect June escape. The weather is warm but not humid, the beaches and bike paths are still peaceful (making it an ideal spot for finding the best beaches to travel to in June on the East Coast), great accommodation deals can be found, and the fragrant hydrangeas are in full bloom. The towns buzz with early summer events, including the popular Provincetown International Film Festival and the cultural Hands on the Arts Festival. After an hour and a half drive north from Boston, I enjoyed a beautiful short break, mostly relaxing on Coast Guard Beach. I also biked the scenic Cape Cod Rail Trail, went whale-watching in Provincetown, explored art galleries in Wellfleet, and indulged in fresh seafood at Sesuit Harbor Cafe.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 7025 Route 6, Eastbound. Barnstable, MA 02630
• Location: North Atlantic Coast of the Northeastern USA
• Location Map
• Vibe: Relaxed, nostalgic, and coastal with a classic New England feel
• Average June Temperature: 18°C to 24°C

14. Dillon, Colorado

Dillon Reservoir in Colorado with mountains in the backgroundMarina and boats on Dillon Reservoir on a sunny day

This picturesque mountain town was an awesome place to explore in June. The weather was mild and sunny, snowmelt filled Dillon Reservoir for kayaking, paddle-boarding, and boat tours, wildflowers brightened the trails, and the thinner crowds made it even better before peak summer hit. The town hosted lively concerts at the Dillon Amphitheater, and I loved attending the weekly Farmers Market, soaking up the welcoming small-town vibes. After a 70-mile (1 hour and 20 minutes) drive from Denver, I camped at Dillon Lake Campground for five days. Activities included exploring the charming Main Street of nearby Frisco, hiking along the Ptarmigan Trail, visiting Pug Ryan’s Brewery, and boating, biking, and kayaking on the lake.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 246-V Rainbow Dr, Silverthorne, CO 80498
• Location: western USA
• Location Map
• Vibe: Relaxed, outdoorsy, and family-friendly
• Average Temperature: 18°C to 24°C

15. Long Beach Island, New Jersey

Aerial view of Long Beach Island, New Jersey coastline and townsBarnegat Lighthouse ("Old Barney") at the northern tip of Long Beach Island

This barrier island was especially wonderful during June! The weather was warm and sunny, there were fewer crowds, and better accommodation deals compared to the peak summer months, making it an ideal spot if you’re looking for the best beaches to travel to in June on the Mid-Atlantic coast. Awesome festivals included the LBI Lighthouse International Film Festival and the fun HopSauce Festival celebrating craft beer. After a two-hour drive north from NYC, I visited ‘Old Barney,’ the iconic lighthouse in Barnegat Lighthouse State Park. I relaxed on the beaches, watched surfers at The Spot, toured the fishing docks in Viking Village, and explored the chic eateries and independent boutiques.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 6801 Long Beach Blvd, Brant Beach, NJ 08008
• Location: Northeastern United States
• Location Map
• Vibe: laid-back and family-oriented
• Average Temperature: 18°C to 24°C

16. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina

Lush green forest in Great Smoky Mountains National ParkBlack bear walking through the forest in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Visiting this beloved protected area in June was a decision I didn’t regret! The landscapes and forests were at their greenest, mountain laurel and rhododendrons were in full bloom, gorgeous fireflies lit up the forests at night, wildlife was more active, and the long days with perfect weather were ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting without the intense summer heat. After a two-hour drive from Asheville, I spent five wonderful days. Activities included wildflower hikes to Laurel Falls, scenic drives through Cades Cove, attending synchronous fireflies at Elkmont, and wildlife spotting along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.

• Visitors Centre Address: 1420 Fighting Creek Gap Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
• Location: southeastern United States.
• Location Map
• Vibe: Tranquil, nature-rich, and family-friendly.
• Average June Temperatures: 15 to 29°C

17. Taos, New Mexico

Historic adobe buildings along a street in Taos, New MexicoMountain trail leading to a lake near Taos, New Mexico

This historic town proved to be a unique place to explore in June. The weather was warm, dry, and sunny, wildflowers lined the high-desert trails, and art festivals and farmers’ markets brought a burst of local color. I could enjoy it all without the peak summer crowds. Festivals galore this month included “Music on the Mesa” and the “Toast of Taos Wine Festival,” along with cultural events like the “San Antonio Feast Day” and “San Juan Feast Day” at Taos Pueblo. A 2.5-hour drive from Albuquerque led to an extraordinary three-day visit. Activities included scenic drives along the Enchanted Circle, hiking in Carson National Forest, visiting the ancient Taos Pueblo, and art walks through the historic Taos Plaza and Harwood Museum of Art.

• Visitors Centre Address: 1139 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos, NM 87571
• Location: southwestern USA
• Location Map
• Vibe: Artistic, earthy, and spiritual
• Average June Temperatures: 26–29°C

18. Hood River, Oregon

View of the Columbia River Gorge and Hood River town in summerRows of blooming lavender with Mount Hood in the background

Visiting this charming small town in June was a delight. Long, warm, and breezy days were perfect for watching windsurfers on the Columbia River and hiking to waterfalls. The lavender fields started to bloom, and the orchards and wineries along the scenic Hood River Fruit Loop were bursting with color, all without the peak summer crowds. Buzzed events included the Mt. Hood Scramble, live music, Morel Mushroom Dinners, and summer music nights. A 75-minute drive from Portland, Oregon, led to a very relaxing three-day stay. I drove the scenic Hood River Fruit Loop, hiked to gorgeous waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge, and strolled through the Insta-worthy lavender fields at Hood River Lavender Farms with stunning views of Mount Hood behind me.

• Visitors Centre Address: Hood River Visitor Center, 720 E Port Marina Dr, Hood River, OR 9703
• Location: Pacific Northwest region of the western United States
• Location Map
• Vibe: creative, small-town feel
• Average June Temperatures: 20 – 24°C

19. Yosemite National Park (California)

Panoramic view of Yosemite Valley with El Capitan and Half DomeBridalveil Fall cascading in Yosemite National Park

Visiting this much-loved protected park in early summer is fantastic. Long, warm, sunny days (with a few cool evenings) coincide with roaring waterfalls from snowmelt. High-country roads and trails like Glacier Point and Tioga Pass are fully open, wildflowers bloom in Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne Meadows, and peaceful hikes are possible before the midsummer crowds arrive. It’s also an excellent time for wildlife viewing, as black bears and deer are more active, and stargazing in the clear night skies is incredible. After a three-and-a-half-hour drive from San Francisco, I spent four incredible days. Highlights included seeing Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Fall at their fullest, hiking the Mist Trail and Sentinel Dome, and rafting on the Merced River.

• Visitors Centre Address: 9035 Village Dr, Yosemite National Park, CA
• Location: east-central California, western United States
• Location Map
• Vibe: Serene and majestic
• Average June Temperatures: 24–29°C

These destinations offer a diverse range of experiences, from relaxing on the best beaches to travel to in June to exploring mountain trails and vibrant cities. Choosing June for your US travels allows you to enjoy favorable weather and local events with fewer people, making for a more pleasant and memorable trip.