Underrated Summer Travel Ideas: Escape the Crowds, Discover Hidden Gems

Summer is synonymous with sunny days, warm weather, and the allure of travel. Unfortunately, the most popular destinations are often the ones that draw the most attention - meaning large crowds, inflated prices, and lines at popular attractions.

If you're looking to break free from the typical tourist crowds and experience something truly unique this summer, here are some of our top picks for underrated summer travel destinations!

Finding Underrated Summer Travel Destinations

While finding the best underrated summer travel destinations will depend on your tastes and preferences, here are a few things we considered when making some of these picks!

• Authentic Experiences: Finding experiences that provide a window into local life and culture that's often lost in major tourist hubs. This often means genuine hospitality and fewer staged "experiences."
• Affordability: Prices are often lower in lesser-known destinations, meaning your money goes further while you are there - plus you can stay longer.
• Less Crowded: One of the best part about finding an underrated gem is avoiding the swarm of tourists that often migrate to major vacation hubs.
• Unexpected Discoveries: Less is advertised and written so there is often more to explore – breathtaking natural landscapes, historical gems, and unique cultural experiences.

Underrated Summer Travel Ideas Around the World

Let's start broad and take a look around the globe to uncover some underrated (but still amazing) summer travel destinations that deserve your attention.

Europe

Sardinia, Italy: Sardinia offers stunning beaches, turquoise waters, ancient ruins, and charming towns with a distinct culture. Although, the north part of the island can be a bit touristy, check out the south part of the island to avoid crowds and really experience everything this destination has to offer.

Karpathos, Greece: Skip the tourist-heavy islands like Mykonos and discover the rugged beauty, traditional villages, and unspoiled beaches of Karpathos.

Asturias, Spain: Escape the crowds of southern Spain and explore the green landscapes, rugged coastline, and charming towns of Asturias. Go hiking in the Picos de Europa mountains, sample local cider, and soak in the unique culture of this Northern Spanish region.

Asia

Gili Islands, Indonesia: This trio of islands near Bali offer amazing beaches, coral reefs, and a relaxed vibe without the overwhelming crowds. Take advantage of a variety of activities like snorkeling or just enjoy relaxing in the sun.

Shikoku, Japan: Japan's smallest main island offers an escape from some of the typical tourist crowds. Explore a more rural side of Japan with the 88-temple pilgrimage trail, cycling the Shimanami Kaido (with stunning sea views), or whitewater rafting in the Yoshino River's rapids.

Karimunjawa, Indonesia: An escape from the typical tourist path of Indonesia, this marine national park offers a hidden gem in the Java Sea. Explore the beaches and go snorkeling amongst the diverse wildlife including sea turtles and colorful fishes.

Africa

Namibia: Stunning desert landscapes and unique wildlife in Etosha National Park make this one of our top picks in Africa. Explore coast towns like Swakopmund or check out the dunes of Sossusvlei.

Mozambique: If you're looking for beautiful beaches then Mozambique might be the place for you. With a variety of options along the Indian Ocean, this destination offers an interesting mix of both African and Portuguese influences.

Botswana: Check out the world-renowned Okavango Delta and go on a safari in the Chobe National Park, known for its large elephant populations.

Australia

Tasmania: With a number of national parks, stunning coastlines, and diverse wildlife this is one destination you can't miss. Check out the iconic Cradle Mountain, hike to scenic waterfalls, and encounter native animals like the Tasmanian devil.

Ningaloo Coast: A less crowded alternative to the Great Barrier Reef, the Ningaloo coast offers an incredible marine experience. Explore the Ningaloo reef and swim alongside whale sharks for an unforgettable trip.

Flinders Ranges: A unique outback region, this South Australian destination offers the opportunity to hike through the 600 million year old landscape and spot unique wildlife.

Kangaroo Island: One of the best places to see wildlife, Kangaroo Island is just off the coast of South Australia. With a one of kind food and beverage scene alongside some of the world's most unique geology you can't miss this destination.

Important Note: One thing to remember is that summer months differ in the Southern Hemisphere. The typical North American/European summer (June-August) is winter in Africa and Australia. So if you're aiming for warm-weather travel, consider visiting these destinations during (December-February).

Underrated Summer Travel Ideas in the USA

Looking for some underrate summer travel ideas in the United States? With a range of options to choose from, here are a few underrated gems for your next summer adventure:

Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota: Nestled in Minnesota's north woods, Voyageurs National Park offers a taste of untouched wilderness. Unlike its more crowded counterparts, Voyageurs boasts countless lakes and sprawling forests, creating a must see destination.

Stanley, Idaho: Surrounded by the Sawtooth Mountains, this charming town provides access to incredible hiking, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, and hot springs, all with a fraction of the tourists found in Colorado's mountain towns.

Block Island, Rhode Island: With beautiful beaches, scenic hikes, and a charming Victorian-era town, Block Island offers a relaxed New England coastal experience, away from the Cape Cod crowds.

Great Basin National Park, Nevada: Far from the neon lights of Vegas, this park offers stunning mountain ranges, ancient bristlecone pines, and the chance to explore underground caves like the Lehman Caves. Hike to alpine lakes, discover traces of history, and stargaze under some of the darkest skies in the country.

Cumberland Island, Georgia: An undeveloped barrier island, Cumberland Island is home to wild horses, pristine beaches, and historic ruins. Accessible by ferry, its limited visitation makes it a true escape where you can explore marshes, forests, and feel miles away from civilization.

The Black Hills, South Dakota: Witness iconic landmarks like Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial while enjoying hiking, camping, and the scenic beauty of this less-crowded South Dakota region.

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Alaska: Hike across glaciers, spot wildlife, and venture into this vast Alaskan wilderness for an unforgettable adventure.

Tips for Planning a Trip to an Underrated Summer Destination

• Do Your Research: While these destinations are less crowded, information may not be as readily available as popular tourist spots. Dig deeper online, use travel blogs and reddit as well as guidebooks.
• Book Early: As popularity grows, the best accommodations in these destinations can book up fast, especially during the summer. Planning ahead will help you secure a spot and get a good price.
• Be Flexible: Underrated places may have less developed tourism infrastructure. Be prepared for possible changes in plans and slower service at times.
• Learn Some Local Language: If you will be traveling to a different country, learning a bit of the local language can go a long way. Even a few basic phrases shows respect for the local culture and can help you make real connections.
• Pack for the Unexpected: Weather can be unpredictable in some of these areas - even in summer. Research your destination and be ready for varying temperatures.

Final Summer Travel Thoughts

This summer, consider going beyond the beaten path to explore some of these underrated travel destinations. Keep in mind that some of the world's most extraordinary places are the ones that don't get talked about. So, take the opportunity to go on new adventures, create lasting memories, and make this summer unforgettable!

Are you ready to plan your next great summer adventure? Share your thoughts or tell us about amazing under-the-radar places you've discovered in the comments below!