20 Cool Destinations to Escape the Heat This Summer
When the summer heat becomes too much to handle and the average temperatures soar into the high 90s and beyond, many travelers…
When the summer heat becomes too much to handle and the average temperatures soar into the high 90s and beyond, many travelers dream of a summer getaway where the air is cool, the landscapes are lush, and the crowds are minimal.
If you’re one of those looking to escape the sweltering heat and enjoy comfortable temperatures, this blog is your ultimate travel guide.
We’ve rounded up 20 cool weather summer vacation destinations—from scenic coastal towns in North America to high-altitude escapes in the Southern Hemisphere. So grab your itinerary and let’s head where the temperatures peak at just the right level!
1. Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada
Nestled in the Canadian Rockies, Banff is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in North America. Summer temperatures are typically in the 60s and 70s, and the turquoise lakes and mountain vistas make for a magical escape. You can also soak in the historic Banff Upper Hot Springs.
Highlights: Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, hiking, wildlife, cooler climates, scenic drives on the Icefields Parkway
2. San Francisco, California, United States
With its foggy mornings and breezy afternoons, San Francisco is the perfect place to escape the heat. Despite being in California, the average summer temperature here rarely goes above 70°F, making it one of the coolest destinations along the West Coast. Known for its diverse neighborhoods and vibrant cultural scene, you can explore everything from street art in the Mission District to luxury shopping in Union Square.
Highlights: Golden Gate Park, Space Needle views from Twin Peaks, historic sites in Fisherman’s Wharf, ferry ride to Alcatraz Island, iconic cable car rides
3. Cannon Beach, Oregon, United States
Famous for its dramatic coastlines and the iconic Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach offers cool temperatures even in peak summer months. This quaint beach town is full of charming galleries, cozy cafes, and a laid-back atmosphere that makes it a perfect summer getaway. Morning walks on the misty beach and sunset views are unforgettable.
Highlights: Tide pooling, scenic routes, cooler climates, easy access to Ecola State Park, picturesque coastal views
4. North Cascades National Park, Washington, United States
Escape to one of the lesser-known national parks for a refreshing summer holiday. The North Cascades offer cool temperatures, dense forests, and glacier-fed lakes. It’s a paradise for hikers and nature lovers, with over 300 glaciers and rugged alpine terrain to explore. This park remains uncrowded even during peak season.
Highlights: Hiking trails, Puget Sound views, abundant wildlife, Diablo Lake Overlook, Ross Lake camping
5. Denali National Park, Alaska, United States
Looking for truly cool destinations? Head toward the Arctic Circle! Denali is one of the best places in North America for a cool-weather summer vacation. Average summer temperatures range between 60°F and 70°F. The park is home to North America’s tallest peak, Mount Denali, and offers incredible wildlife viewing.
Highlights: Polar bear sightings, horseback riding, midnight sun, natural wonders, scenic bus tours, backcountry hiking
6. Mexico City, Mexico
While the southern part of the country experiences high temperatures, Mexico City, thanks to its elevation, enjoys milder temperatures during summer. Average high temperatures hover around 75°F. It’s rich in history and culture, offering everything from Aztec ruins to modern art museums and vibrant markets.
Highlights: Historic sites like Templo Mayor, Frida Kahlo Museum, Chapultepec Castle, great food, cool temperatures despite warm days
7. New Zealand (South Island)
Thanks to its location in the Southern Hemisphere, New Zealand’s South Island experiences winter during the northern hemisphere’s summer months. That means snow-capped mountains, whale watching, and fewer tourists. Enjoy skiing in Queenstown, visit stunning fjords in Milford Sound, and soak in natural hot springs.
Highlights: Dramatic coastlines, cool water activities, natural beauty, winter sports, Aoraki/Mount Cook, Franz Josef Glacier
8. Buenos Aires, Argentina
Another Southern Hemisphere gem, Buenos Aires, offers mild weather during the northern summer. The warmest month is January, so visiting during July means comfortable temperatures, tango dancing, and great food. Enjoy its unique European-style architecture and lively street performances.
Highlights: Outdoor cafes, scenic city parks like Bosques de Palermo, vibrant culture, Teatro Colon, historic San Telmo district
9. Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town’s southern coast provides an ideal place for escaping the heat. While most northern regions are in the thick of summer, Cape Town is experiencing its mild, rainy season with average temperatures around 60°F. Explore the city’s culinary scene, famous beaches, and local markets.
Highlights: Table Mountain, coastal towns, hiking trails, whale watching, Robben Island, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
10. Reykjavik and the Golden Circle, Iceland
Long sunny days and cool air make Iceland a perfect destination for summer holidays. The Golden Circle offers scenic routes, geysers, and hot springs, while Reykjavik serves as the base for adventures. Expect average temperatures in the 50s to low 60s°F.
Highlights: Midnight sun, natural hot springs like Blue Lagoon, ghost town visits, northern lights in late summer, Thingvellir National Park
11. Machu Picchu, Peru
At a high altitude, Machu Picchu enjoys comfortable summer temperatures when it’s winter in the Southern Hemisphere. The Inca Trail remains a bucket-list experience, and visiting during this time means dry weather and fewer tourists.
Highlights: Historic sites, higher altitudes, ideal for summer travel, Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo ruins
12. Seattle, Washington, United States
Seattle rarely experiences extreme summer heat. Average summer temperatures hover in the low 70s, and it offers endless outdoor activities and cool weather attractions. Enjoy the vibrant music and coffee scene, and take a ferry to Bainbridge Island.
Highlights: Pike Place Market, Space Needle, Puget Sound, water park options nearby, Museum of Pop Culture
13. Patagonia, Chile/Argentina
Though it’s technically winter here during the summer months in the Northern Hemisphere, that’s exactly why it’s a great place to visit—cooler destinations like Patagonia feature snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and sparse crowds for a true outdoor adventure.
Highlights: Torres del Paine National Park, Perito Moreno Glacier, outdoor activities, southern hemisphere charm
14. Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Vancouver is a great place for escaping hot summers. The average summer temperature is around 72°F. Stanley Park, sandy beaches, and beautiful coastal views make it an all-in-one destination. Explore Granville Island or bike along the Seawall.
Highlights: Whale watching, hiking trails, cool weather, outdoor cafes, Capilano Suspension Bridge
15. Edinburgh, Scotland
A perfect destination for history buffs who want to avoid high temperatures. Edinburgh’s cool, sometimes rainy summer months rarely break 70°F. Tour centuries-old castles or attend the famed Edinburgh Fringe Festival in August.
Highlights: Castle tours, cobbled streets, ghost tours, mild temperatures, Arthur’s Seat hike, Royal Mile
16. Zurich, Switzerland
Switzerland offers cool-weather summer vacation destinations with breathtaking alpine views. Zurich remains mild even during peak season, with average summer temperatures around 75°F. You can swim in Lake Zurich or take day trips to mountain villages.
Highlights: Lakeside strolls, easy access to mountains, central European charm, Swiss cuisine, Bahnhofstrasse shopping
17. Homer, Alaska, United States
A lesser-known gem along the southern coast of Alaska. Homer has cool temperatures and is a haven for wildlife lovers and adventurers. Kayak in Kachemak Bay, visit art galleries, or go halibut fishing.
Highlights: Whale watching, sandy beaches (yes, even in Alaska!), road trip worthy, great place for outdoor activities
18. Hokkaido, Japan
While most of Japan sweats through hot summers, Hokkaido stays pleasantly cool. It’s known for its natural beauty, wildflowers, and mountains. The annual lavender bloom in Furano is a must-see during the summer.
Highlights: Flower fields, hiking, seafood, average summer temperature in the 60s, national parks, onsens (hot springs)
19. The Azores, Portugal
Located in the middle of the Atlantic, the Azores are one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. The average high temperature during summer is only about 75°F. These volcanic islands offer crater lakes, lush forests, and charming villages.
Highlights: Hot springs, volcanic lakes, cool water adventures, whale watching, scenic hiking trails
20. Greenland
For the ultimate cool-weather experience, Greenland is a bold and adventurous choice. Even during the warmest month, temperatures rarely exceed 50°F. It’s a land of glaciers, fjords, and unspoiled wilderness.
Highlights: Arctic Circle, polar bears, glaciers, natural beauty, northern lights (late summer), ice fjord cruises
Final Thoughts
When hot days and sticky nights start to feel like too much, there’s good news: you have options. From the northern hemisphere to the southern hemisphere, these 20 cooler destinations offer a variety of climates, landscapes, and activities to make your summer holidays memorable and comfortable.
Whether you’re into hiking trails, historic sites, sandy beaches, or dramatic coastlines, you can find the perfect destination with cool temperatures and unforgettable experiences.
So this summer, ditch the air conditioning and find your escape in one of these cool destinations. Your travel guide to beating the summer heat starts right here!
