Summer is often associated with sunbathing on the beach, swimming in the ocean, and enjoying a stroll along the boardwalk with ice cream — unless you’re not a fan of the heat. If you’re looking for a cooler getaway, these off-the-beaten-path summer destinations, from New Zealand to Greenland, are perfect for those who prefer overcast skies and crisp breezes. Plan your trip to one of these locations to avoid the scorching heat and enjoy a refreshing escape.

International Destinations

International travel offers ideal options for a cool summer escape. The Southern Hemisphere brings winter during summer, while northern regions provide mild temperatures and long days. Whether hiking or enjoying nature, these destinations offer refreshing alternatives to the heat.

Svalbard, Norway

If you want to experience summer without the heat, a trip to Svalbard is the ultimate destination. Located deep in the Arctic Circle, this remote archipelago offers cool temperatures even during the summer months, typically ranging between 3°C and 7°C (37°F to 45°F). Svalbard’s breathtaking landscapes, from glaciers and fjords to tundra and wildlife, make it a nature lover’s paradise. What to do: Experience the Midnight Sun, where the sun doesn’t set for weeks, providing endless daylight for exploration. Take a boat tour to see calving glaciers or kayak in the calm Arctic waters. Spot unique wildlife such as polar bears, walruses, reindeer, and Arctic foxes in their natural habitat.

Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

Summers in this East Coast province are brief and delightfully cool, with July highs in St. John’s, the capital of Newfoundland and Labrador, rarely surpassing 69°F. In this charming city, visitors can explore the iconic, castle-like Cabot Tower atop Signal Hill or experience the vibrant nightlife in the town’s entertainment district. Venture outside the city, and you’ll discover many hiking trails offering breathtaking ocean views and a sense of seclusion. Further along the coast, it’s not unusual to spot icebergs drifting offshore, perfectly complementing the refreshing, cool-weather vibe.

Durmitor National Park, Montenegro

Montenegro might surprise you as a fantastic summer destination. While its coast is known for warm weather, the northern region offers some of the coolest temperatures in Europe. Durmitor National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features stunning gorges, mountains, and lakes shaped by glaciers and underground rivers. With summer temperatures ranging from 55°F to 75°F and snow possible as late as June, it’s perfect for travelers seeking a refreshing escape. Enjoy the cool climate while hiking or relaxing at a nearby resort.

Yukon, Canada

The Yukon offers incredible outdoor adventures bordering Alaska in the far northwest of Canada. You can hike the scenic Miles Canyon Basalts in south-central Yukon, where the Yukon River and ancient glaciers have shaped volcanic rocks. Take a bus tour at the Yukon Wildlife Preserve to see mountain goats, brown bears, moose, and other wildlife that thrive in the calmer summer months. Just be sure to visit before temperatures plunge— the preserve closes when it drops below -40°C.

Afterward, warm up at Whitehorse’s Takhini Hot Springs, where the cold air turns your beard into icicles while the hot water soothes your body. Amidst the stunning evergreen forests and mountains, you’ll experience moments of peace that make braving the cold worthwhile.

Scotland

Summer temperatures in Scotland range from a cool 59 to 63°F, making it an ideal destination for those seeking relief from the heat. Visitors can explore castles, hike the Highlands, and enjoy the rugged coastlines while staying cool. Like its Scandinavian neighbors, Scotland enjoys long summer days—particularly in the far north, which gets four more hours of daylight than London, according to Visit Scotland. This extended daylight provides plenty of time to explore Edinburgh’s historic sites, take a day trip to Loch Lomond, or venture to the stunning Isle of Skye.

Destinations in the U.S.

Finding consistently comfortable temperatures in the U.S. during summer isn’t easy. Your best options for cooler weather are typically mountainous or coastal destinations.

Upper Peninsula, Michigan

Lakes, charming towns, and cool weather await in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and nearby islands. The UP is the perfect off-the-beaten-path getaway and a starting point for exploring the Great Lakes islands, accessible only by ferry or seaplane.

On Mackinac Island, cars are banned, so you’ll explore by bike, on foot, or horse-drawn carriage. Visit museums, art shops, and Mackinac Island State Park.

Nature lovers will enjoy Isle Royale, a remote wilderness reached by a five-hour ferry ride. It’s ideal for camping, hiking, or kayaking in one of the least visited national parks, a designated U.S. Biosphere Reserve.

Denali National Park, Alaska

Alaska is ideal for those who prefer mild summers. Head north to the breathtaking Denali National Park, where July temperatures peak at around 66°F. Explore the park’s vast six million acres, drive along the scenic Denali Park Road, and view snow-capped peaks from various trails and lookout points. Watch for moose, caribou, Dall sheep, wolves, and grizzly bears. The park also offers six campgrounds, perfect for camping in comfortable summer weather.

 Block Island, Rhode Island

If you’re in the Northeast U.S., Maine is a popular cool summer spot, but don’t overlook Block Island, Rhode Island. With temps in the 60s and 70s and ocean breezes, it’s perfect for unwinding beachside. 

Stroll long stretches of beach, enjoy fresh seafood (try the lobster!), and embrace the island’s laid-back vibe. Rent a boat to explore the Great Salt Pond or Block Island Sound. Summer also brings the glass float scavenger hunt, where you can search for unique, handcrafted orbs hidden around the island—a perfect souvenir to take home.

White Mountains, New Hampshire

New Hampshire’s White Mountains feature breathtaking alpine peaks covered in dense forests. As you ascend, the temperatures drop noticeably. While lower elevations experience summer highs in the mid-70s or warmer, the higher elevations stay cool, with some snow lingering until July. 

On Mount Washington, the Northeast’s tallest peak, summer temperatures range from 40 to 55 degrees. Visitors can escape the heat by hiking the numerous trails or driving up the Kancamagus Highway, one of the most scenic routes in the U.S.

Breckenridge, Colorado

While Breckenridge is famous for skiing, summer offers just as much adventure. The mountains become perfect for hiking, biking, and ziplining, and you can even try to fly fishing or summer dog sledding. 

You can meet over 100 Siberian huskies at Good Times Adventures and enjoy a trail ride with them. Wear sunscreen and dress for the elevation with summer highs in the upper 60s. After a day of adventure, relax with an al fresco meal and craft beer in the refreshing mountain air.

In conclusion, if you’re looking to escape the summer heat, there are plenty of cool, refreshing destinations to explore. Whether you prefer scenic hikes, coastal retreats, or remote wilderness adventures, these locations offer mild temperatures and a chance to enjoy the outdoors without the heat. Plan your summer getaway to one of these cooler spots for a relaxing vacation away from the blazing sun.