Best destinations to book an Airbnb this summer
There’s still time to plan a last-minute summer trip, so if you haven’t booked yet, consider this a friendly nudge.
While some hotels in this summer’s hottest destinations have been booked for months already (did someone say Paris Olympics?), there are plenty of other appealing domestic and international destinations to choose from. They are waiting for you with open Airbnbs fit for every personality type — and budget.
Here are 10 ideas to spark your inspiration.
Palm Springs, California
But isn’t Palm Springs infernally hot in summertime? Yes, it absolutely is, so this option won’t be ideal for everyone.
However, if you like it hot, Palm Springs and its Southern California desert environs make for a dreamy destination to rent an Airbnb in the summertime. That’s when rates are low (a fraction of the cost as they are the spring season during festivals and other high-profile events) and inventory on the most in-demand properties is high. Plus, many rentals have glimmering swimming pools, so you can spend your outdoor time submerged, and your indoor time amid classic midcentury architecture and cooler-than-cool AC.
Where to stay: In 1947, Frank Sinatra commissioned Palm Springs architect E. Stewart Williams to build this Twin Palms estate. The midcentury marvel has four bedrooms and a piano-shaped pool.
Jackson County, North Carolina
Swap the urban bustle of a big city for a tranquil natural environment in the Appalachian Mountains. Sitting at the crossroads of the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountain ranges, Jackson County is a great summertime destination. It offers dramatic landscapes, comforting Southern fare and family-friendly outdoor adventures — including excellent trout and fly fishing.
During the summer months, temperatures can be cool enough in the morning and evening to escape the intense heat characteristic of many southern destinations. Still, days are warm enough to enjoy water sports or relax at the beach of Lake Glenville.
Where to stay: Set amid forests and streams, this serene mountain cabin with room for two guests is the ideal jumping-off point for hiking and fishing. The Stearns & Foster king bed and slipper bathtub bring a touch of luxury amid the rough-cut wood interior.
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Mystic, Connecticut
Escape for a serene, slow-paced getaway in the town of Mystic, Connecticut. You can explore the river and shoreline as well as the historic and charming downtown on foot at your own pace. Reach the nearby Stonington Borough by car in about 15 minutes for a spectacular coastal New England town experience. Ocean lovers should visit DuBois Beach for a quick dip. Later, sip wine at a local winery and take quaint, postcard-worthy snapshots all over town.
Where to stay: This restored schoolhouse in Groton is right on the river with water views. The historic one-bedroom building was moved in 1857 to its current location and impeccably furnished.
Indianapolis
Indy’s on a roll this year, hosting this year’s NBA All-Star games and Olympic swimming trials. It offered one of the best locations to catch the solar eclipse, and it’s been prepping for Taylor Swift’s arrival in November.
Summer falls between these big 2024 events, so it’s a great time to capitalize on low prices and Airbnb availability. Check out one of the country’s biggest river redevelopment projects via canoe, kayak or paddleboard. Or, rent an e-bike to explore one of America’s flattest cities. Don’t forget to visit the Indianapolis Zoo’s new International Chimpanzee Complex, where chimps walk right over your head on an open-air walkway.
Where to stay: This riverfront home has room for six guests. It boasts stunning views from the deck and an outdoor fireplace overlooking the water.
The Ozarks
There’s no place like a lake to make summertime memories, and Lake of the Ozarks is an iconic one. It has nearly 1,200 miles of shoreline in Missouri. Bring the whole family for a boating adventure (rent a boat or bring your own), and make time for golfing if it suits your style. For live music, catch an act at the Ozarks Amphitheater (where this summer’s diverse lineup ranges from the Beach Boys to Ice Cube) or check out Shady Gators lakeside bar and restaurant for live acts and a party atmosphere.
Where to stay: This stylish lakefront home has its own hot tub and boat slip with room for four and a deck ideal for summer barbecues.
Eugene, Oregon
Eugene is one of Airbnb’s top trending destinations for summer 2024, and the destination appeals to all ages. Adults can sip to their hearts’ content at local wineries (Willamette Valley is renowned for its pinot noir), and families with kids can float gently down the McKenzie River during a tubing excursion. It’s also the place for track fans, as the U.S. Olympic team trials for track and field return to the newly renovated Hayward Field this month.
Where to stay: With room for six guests and a near-perfect review score, this Eugene home has two decks and a generously sized yard.
Buenos Aires
As temperatures soar, the “coolcation” trend is taking off. Escape the summer heat in much of the U.S. by heading someplace where it’s winter during our summer months: South America. High temperatures in June and July hover around 60 degrees Fahrenheit in Buenos Aires. These are ideal conditions for strolling city streets and sightseeing in this lively, historic — not to mention affordable — city.
(July is also the start of Argentina’s ski season, should you want to couple your city break with a trip to the slopes further south.)
Where to stay: For less than $50 per night, you can stay in this conveniently located San Telmo apartment with easy access to transit, and you can get access to an indoor/outdoor pool, saunas and a gym.
The French Riviera
While Paris draws hoards for the Olympic games, escape to the coast of France with an Airbnb along the ultra-chic French Riviera. The weather is steamy, and beach clubs are ready to offer comfort with spritzes and ice cream on demand. Along the Cote D’Azur, Nice, Canne, Antibes, and St. Tropez all offer see-and-be-seen places against sparkling seas. Plus, there are plenty of lively dining and shopping opportunities.
Where to stay: How fabulous is this Cote D’Azur villa with a sprawling pool and 180-degree view over the bay of Saint Raphael, L’Esterel and the Alpes Maritimes?
Gstaad, Switzerland
Of course, this Swiss Alpine destination is renowned for skiing, but don’t sleep on the summer season here. Clean air and impeccable mountain views envelope visitors after the snow melts. Gstaad is a stunning location for hikers, with nearly 200 miles of pristine hiking trails. Definitely pack a picnic from bounty sourced from local farmers’ markets (as there are more than 300 farms in the area). In summer, Gstaad also hosts the Swiss Open (held here since 1898).
Where to stay: This house above Chateaux d’Oex has room for eight guests and is the last house at the edge of the forest, far away from even its nearest neighbor.
Puerto Rico
It’s never a bad time to visit Puerto Rico, but summer can be an excellent chance to score deals on air and Airbnbs compared with the busier winter season. Soak up the beaches, nightlife (including casinos) and the culture of colorful Old San Juan. While the bioluminescence is visible here all year long, the drier summer months offer the best chance to see those bucket-list-worthy glowing waters.
Where to stay: This unique dome home in Cayey (just about 10 minutes from the main roads) is a dreamy glamping experience with air conditioning and a pool.
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