Top Weekend Getaways in the U.S. for Summer Travel

Why Book Your Summer Weekend Travel Now

Summer weekends are some of the most in-demand travel dates of the year, especially for luxury hotels and resorts with limited room inventory. Booking in advance not only secures the best rooms and suites — it also opens the door to exclusive experiences, from private yacht charters to top-tier spa reservations.

Luxury properties in high-demand destinations often sell out months ahead. By planning now, you avoid disappointment and ensure your trip is customized to perfection — from arrival transfers to farewell brunches.

What Makes a Great Summer Weekend Destination

The best summer weekend destinations combine ease of access, immersive beauty and elite-level service. Whether tucked into wine country or overlooking the ocean, these places provide a perfect change of scenery for travelers who want a short-haul escape with maximum return on rest, relaxation and refinement.

Look for properties that offer on-site dining, wellness amenities and curated local experiences — making it easy to arrive and immediately unwind. All six of these destinations deliver exactly that.

Santa Barbara, California

Known as the “American Riviera,” Santa Barbara is a stunning blend of upscale beach town and wine country retreat. Its coastal cliffs, Spanish-style architecture and gentle Pacific breezes make it one of California’s most romantic and refined escapes. The region also boasts world-class wineries, scenic hiking trails and farm-to-table cuisine — all with the Pacific Ocean as your backdrop. Whether you’re sipping wine in nearby Santa Ynez or strolling through Montecito’s art galleries and boutiques, the vibe is effortlessly elegant.

Where to Stay: Rosewood Miramar Beach is the only five-star resort in Southern California located directly on the sand. With a design that blends Gilded Age glamour and California cool, it features private bungalows, curated retail boutiques and two cabana-lined pools. Guests can enjoy complimentary use of beach cruisers, garden yoga, and beachside cocktails while the sun dips into the ocean.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Often defined as a playground for East Coast elites, Cape Cod offers windswept beaches, lobster rolls, hydrangea-lined lanes and a sense of timeless summer nostalgia. Quaint towns like Chatham provide a storybook setting where historic inns meet luxury service and the days pass in a rhythm of salt air and sea breezes. It’s an ideal place to disconnect from the busy world and reconnect with the charm of coastal living. Summer brings sailing regattas, bike rides along the shoreline and clam shacks tucked into harbor towns.

Where to Stay: Chatham Bars Inn sits on 25 acres of oceanfront property and blends New England charm with elevated amenities. Expect spacious suites with private terraces, a private beach with staff service and a seasonal farm that supplies the restaurant’s hyper-local menu. Spend your days lounging by the pool, exploring the coast by boat or enjoying afternoon tea on the veranda.

Aurora, New York

Tucked away in New York’s Finger Lakes region, Aurora is a peaceful lakeside village that blends pastoral beauty with elevated culture. Think vineyard visits, paddleboarding on Cayuga Lake and quiet mornings spent wandering blooming gardens. It’s a soul-soothing destination ideal for those craving rest and reconnection with nature. The slower pace and surrounding natural beauty create the perfect backdrop for a wellness-centric weekend or a romantic couple’s escape.

Where to Stay: The Inns of Aurora is a unique collection of five historic residences that have been meticulously restored and artfully styled. The experience is enhanced by the destination spa, cooking classes, lakeside fire pits and a rotating collection of art and design installations. With gourmet breakfasts, complimentary yoga and wine hour on the lawn, it's a haven of calm sophistication.

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona's towering red rocks, otherworldly landscapes and renowned energy vortexes make it a destination that stirs both the soul and the senses. In summer, warm days give way to cool desert nights, perfect for stargazing, fireside cocktails and sunset hikes. Nature lovers, wellness seekers and design enthusiasts will all find something to fall for here. This is where luxury meets healing — where you can start your day with a sound bath and end it with a chef’s tasting menu under the stars.

Where to Stay: Ambiente Sedona redefines eco-luxury with its cutting-edge, sustainable design and immersive natural setting. Suspended atriums with glass walls give guests panoramic views of the red rocks, while private rooftop decks and outdoor soaking tubs allow for a seamless connection with the landscape. The resort’s emphasis on wellness and tranquility makes it a one-of-a-kind desert sanctuary.

Isle of Palms, South Carolina

Just 25 minutes from historic Charleston, the Isle of Palms offers a peaceful coastal retreat with miles of wide beaches, warm Southern hospitality and a distinctively relaxed pace. It’s a top choice for luxury travelers looking to combine beach time with easy access to cultural charm. Days unfold with slow morning walks on the sand, afternoons by the pool or golf course, and evenings filled with Lowcountry cuisine and soft sea breezes.

Where to Stay: Wild Dunes Resort is a full-service oceanfront haven offering everything from hotel rooms to spacious private homes. The Sweetgrass Inn is the resort’s crown jewel, with chic interiors, a serene spa and a lively rooftop terrace with panoramic views. With two golf courses, a tennis center, multiple pools and fine dining options, it’s easy to spend the entire weekend without leaving the property.

Las Vegas, Nevada

For travelers who crave excitement, indulgence and impeccable service, Las Vegas offers the ultimate weekend playground. In summer, poolside glamour reigns supreme, with sun-drenched cabanas, curated cocktails and high-energy day clubs. As the sun sets, Michelin-starred meals, headline performances and world-class shopping await. Beyond the neon lights, you’ll also find natural beauty — Red Rock Canyon and helicopter rides over the Grand Canyon offer a scenic counterbalance to the Strip’s nonstop energy.

Where to Stay: Wynn and Encore Las Vegas are iconic for a reason. These sister properties are known for their stylish suites, top-tier dining (from Mizumi to SW Steakhouse) and one of the most acclaimed spas in the city. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or sipping Dom Pérignon in a private cabana, you’ll be surrounded by beauty, elegance and possibility.

Let an Expert Advisor Curate Your Perfect Summer Escape

Planning a luxurious weekend getaway should feel as relaxing as the trip itself. An experienced advisor brings unparalleled knowledge and insider access to ensure every detail of your summer trip is extraordinary — from room upgrades and private excursions to seamless transfers and special surprises.

Make this summer one to remember. Connect with you advisor today to begin planning your next unforgettable weekend away.