The Best Places to Visit in the US in August

August in the US is a month of full summer energy–long sunlit days, warm waters, and the perfect rhythm for outdoor adventure. It’s the time to chase coastal breezes, mountain highs, and lakes that are finally ready for a dip.

Whether you’re after hiking wildflower-filled trails, waterfront relaxation, or small-town summer festivals, August offers a diversity of experiences. Here’s a guide to the best destinations where August truly shines, and recommendations for which Wander luxury vacation rentals in the US to choose.

Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles in August is vibrant, sunny, and full of cultural experiences. The city offers endless beaches, iconic landmarks, and outdoor events that make mid-summer feel effortless.

While the coast stays comfortably warm, inland areas offer hiking and sightseeing without the winter crowds.

Things to do

• Watch the sunset at Santa Monica or Venice Beach

• Hike Griffith Park or Runyon Canyon in the early morning

• Explore outdoor art installations at The Broad or LACMA

• Take a scenic drive along Mulholland Drive

• Enjoy rooftop dining with city views

Travel tips

• Traffic peaks midday – plan outdoor excursions for early or late in the day.

• Coastal mornings can be foggy; afternoons are reliably sunny.

• Book popular attractions ahead of time to avoid queues.

Where to stay near Los Angeles

Wander’s luxury vacation rentals in Los Angeles span from the Hollywood Hills to the Sunset Strip and offer state-of-the-art amenities to elevate your stay:

• Wander Hollywood Glow – A hilltop mansion offering unmatched luxury, sweeping city views, and refined modern living. Enjoy a private pool, outdoor TV, BBQ area, home theater, and seamless smart-home design.

• Wander Los Angeles Springs – Indulge in the ultimate relaxation experience on the expansive rooftop, where you can soak in the panoramic cityscape while enjoying a cozy fire in the outdoor fire pit.

• Wander West Hollywood Vale – This meticulously designed retreat provides the perfect blend of sophisticated style and tranquil ambiance, ensuring an unforgettable stay in one of Los Angeles' most coveted neighborhoods.

Joshua Tree, California

August is hot in the desert, but early mornings and late evenings reveal Joshua Tree’s unique magic.

The national park offers world-class stargazing, diverse desert flora, and rock climbing, while nearby towns provide relaxing bases for exploring the desert.

Things to do

• Sunrise or sunset hikes at Hidden Valley or Barker Dam

• Stargaze at the dark-sky spots in Joshua Tree National Park

• Explore local galleries and outdoor art installations in Joshua Tree town

• Try rock climbing on beginner-friendly formations

Travel tips

• Temperatures soar midday; plan hikes for morning or evening.

• Carry plenty of water and sun protection.

• Desert evenings cool quickly – a light jacket is recommended.

Where to stay near Joshua Tree

Wander offers luxury vacation rentals in Joshua Tree to suit large groups, couples, and families:

• Wander Joshua Tree Highlands – An exclusive desert retreat offering unparalleled luxury and breathtaking views. This property has a private hot tub, where guests can gaze at the spectacular desert landscape.

• Wander Joshua Tree Manor – This design-forward retreat is nestled in the boulders of Monument Manor, just walking distance from Joshua Tree National Park. Featured in The New York Times T List, this property sits on five private acres and features a plunge pool and spa.

• Wander Joshua Tree Luna – A captivating desert retreat offering an unparalleled luxury experience in the heart of Joshua Tree. This stunning property boasts breathtaking desert views, visible from nearly every room, creating a sense of serene isolation amidst the dramatic landscape.

Broken Bow, Oklahoma

Broken Bow is a hidden gem for August, offering lakeside fun and lush forests. It’s perfect for families or groups looking to escape city heat with water sports, hiking, and cabin relaxation.

Things to do

• Kayak or paddleboard on Broken Bow Lake

• Hike the Beavers Bend State Park trails

• Enjoy fly fishing in the Mountain Fork River

• Picnic under shaded forests and waterfalls

Travel tips

• August afternoons are warm; early mornings are best for hikes.

• Mosquitoes can be present near water; pack insect repellent.

• Book lake activities in advance to secure equipment rentals.

Where to stay near Broken Bow

Wander has luxury cabin escapes in Broken Bow to suit everyone’s needs:

• Wander Broken Bow Cabin – A stunning Scandinavian-style retreat featuring a serene and elegant interior. It offers a fully equipped kitchen, a cozy fireplace, a private pool, a relaxing hot tub, and a mini golf course.

• Wander Broken Bow Summit – This getaway seamlessly blends luxury and comfort, featuring inviting indoor and outdoor spaces. Enjoy a cozy living room with a fireplace and a big-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen with dining space for the whole group, and a game room filled with entertainment options.

• Wander Broken Bow Peace – A serene and luxurious retreat featuring elegant interiors with modern comforts. The cabin offers a peaceful and homey atmosphere, making it an ideal retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation.

St. George, Utah

St. George offers red rock scenery, warm summer evenings, and proximity to national parks. August is ideal for exploring outdoor wonders with early starts and cooler nights.

Things to do

• Hike the scenic trails at Snow Canyon State Park

• Explore the historic downtown and art galleries

• Take a day trip to Zion National Park’s less crowded trails

• Enjoy a round of golf or a spa visit at local resorts

Travel tips

• Mornings are cooler; avoid hiking midday in full sun.

• Sunscreen and hydration are essential for desert climates.

• Evening events and farmers’ markets provide cultural charm

Where to stay near St. George

• Wander St. George Bay – A luxurious retreat with a private pool and hot tub, featuring a spacious sun shelf perfect for lounging and children. The property features a fully equipped gourmet kitchen, expansive dining areas, and large sliding doors that connect indoor and outdoor entertainment spaces.

• Wander St. George Twilight – Enjoy a private heated/chilled pool with a two-story slide, waterfall, hot tub, cold plunge, and outdoor misters. Stay fit in the gym with a sauna, treadmill, bike, and weights.

• Wander St. George Panorama – This luxurious vacation home is nestled near a 2.5-acre lagoon in Desert Color and offers a private hot tub and professionally designed interiors with a fully stocked gourmet kitchen and open-concept gathering spaces.

Winter Park, Colorado

Winter Park in August is lush and green, offering alpine relief and outdoor adventure. Trails, rivers, and mountaintop vistas are perfect for hiking, biking, and summer festivals.

Things to do

• Hike through the Fraser Valley or Mary Jane trails

• Explore the Winter Park Resort summer activities

• Kayak or paddleboard on nearby rivers and lakes

• Attend local music festivals or farmers’ markets

Travel tips

• Start hikes early to avoid afternoon storms.

• Bring layers for cooler mountain mornings and evenings.

• Weekdays are less crowded for trail access and sightseeing.

Where to stay near Winter Park

• Wander Winter Park Pines – A secluded mountain retreat surrounded by towering pines and sweeping views of the Colorado Rockies, offering the perfect blend of luxury, nature, and comfort.

• Wander Winter Park Sky – This mountain retreat offers unparalleled views of the majestic Colorado landscape's peaks. Spend your days exploring the vibrant town of Winter Park and return to the comfort of your private hot tub under the stars, or gather around the inviting fire pit for an evening of storytelling and relaxation.

• Wander Winter Park Glade – A serene mountain getaway in the heart of Winter Park, blending comfort and elegance. This rental is ideal for families or groups of friends seeking a memorable getaway.

Sevierville, Tennessee

Sevierville sits at the gateway to the Smoky Mountains, making it ideal for August visitors seeking cooler mountain air, rivers, and forested trails. The area combines outdoor adventure with charming small-town charm.

Things to do

• Hike the Greenbrier or Little River trails

• Float or paddleboard on the Pigeon River

• Explore local shops, markets, and artisan galleries

• Take scenic drives into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Travel tips

• Early mornings are cooler for hiking or river activities.

• Afternoon thunderstorms are common; pack light rain gear.

• Weekdays are quieter for popular trailheads and local attractions.

Where to stay near Sevierville

• Wander Sevierville Peaks – A mountain retreat offering unparalleled luxury and entertainment, this unique property features a private indoor pool, a state-of-the-art movie theater, and an exciting game room for endless amusement.

• Wander Sevierville Retreat – Escape to this luxurious mountain getaway designed for comfort, fun, and unforgettable gatherings. Dive into the indoor pool or unwind in the private hot tub, taking in breathtaking mountain views.

• Wander Smoky Sky – A luxury chalet nestled in an exclusive resort, offering a global journey through its uniquely inspired rooms. Guests will revel in sophisticated comforts, including a private pool, a game room, and a serene patio.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Fort Lauderdale offers sunny beaches, waterways, and a vibrant cultural scene in August. Early mornings are perfect for water sports before the afternoon heat or summer showers.

Things to do

• Paddleboard or kayak along the Intracoastal Waterway

• Relax on Fort Lauderdale Beach

• Explore the Las Olas Boulevard shops, galleries, and restaurants

• Take a boat tour of the city’s canals

Travel tips

• Early morning is best for beach and water activities.

• Afternoon storms are frequent; plan indoor or shaded activities midday.

• Evening breezes along the waterfront provide a cooler, pleasant experience.

Where to stay near Fort Lauderdale

Wander has luxury vacation rentals in Fort Lauderdale with breezy indoor-outdoor living spaces, private pools, chef-ready kitchens, and spa-inspired bathrooms:

• Wander Fort Lauderdale Beach –  A luxurious urban oasis set just one block from the Atlantic Ocean and perched on the Intracoastal waters by Birch State Park. This remodeled retreat features an open kitchen, lake-facing living spaces, and glass walls that invite the natural surroundings inside.

• Wander Fort Lauderdale Harbor – This waterfront retreat is perfect for relaxation and entertainment. With an open layout, a brand-new kitchen, alfresco dining, a pool, a jacuzzi, and a gas BBQ for outdoor gatherings, this is the ideal getaway.

• Wander Fort Lauderdale Gardens – This European-inspired retreat blends timeless elegance with modern comfort. A private gym allows guests to stay active, while a fully equipped BBQ area sets the stage for memorable outdoor meals.

Plan the perfect August getaway with Wander

August is a month for personalized adventures, with warm beach towns, mountain escapes, and lakeside retreats awaiting.

With Wander’s luxury vacation rentals in the US, you can find a base that matches your style and enjoy every moment of summer’s final full month.