Best Destinations for Late Summer Sun in the US and the Caribbean

Are you not quite ready to say goodbye to the summer yet? Well, fear not, as there’s still plenty of time to soak up some late seasonal sunshine to keep those summer vibes flowing. From the turquoise beaches of the Caribbean to the glorious red-rock desert sunshine of Arizona, if you’re looking to prolong the enjoyment of its warming rays, here’s a list of the best destinations for late summer sun.

Savor the Sun Before The Summer Ends in Puerto Rico

With late summer temperatures in the mid-70s °F, Puerto Rico is the ultimate late summer getaway to fly to. An island bursting with adventure and over 300 palm tree-laden beaches to choose from, Puerto Rico is a prime spot to catch the late summer sunshine, where you can dive among the island’s fascinating coral reefs, and explore the countless shipwrecks off Puerto Rico’s shores.

Whether you’re on a solo trip or traveling with friends and family, our first Caribbean bucket-list recommendation when on the island of Puerto Rico has to be to join the fabulous team at Pintos “R” Us in Rincon for a horseback ride along the local sun-soaked beaches. In addition to this, we also highly recommend taking a day trip to see Isla de Mona’s pristine white sands, limestone caverns, and snorkel among vibrant schools of exotic fish found off this paradise island.

Soak up the late summer sunshine on the island paradise of Puerto Rico when you book your stay at the exceptional Hotel Mayagüez Plaza, BW Signature Collection.

Immerse Yourself in the Late Summer Sunshine of Sedona, Arizona

If you’re not a fan of beach vacations, then our next suggestion on our shortlist of the best destinations for late summer sun will be right up your street as we head to the warm desert settings of Sedona, Arizona. Taking advantage of the cooler mornings and evenings, late summer is a dream time of year to explore the unique red-rock formations, canyons, and mesas outside of Sedona.

Unquestionably, the best way to see the magic of Red Rock Country in all its glory is with a sunrise hot air balloon flight with the outstanding crew at Red Rock Balloons. Then afterwards, if you’re a keen hiker, you can tackle a rim hike around the natural rock formations of Cathedral Rock or Devil’s Bridge, before finishing the day in style with a wine tasting session at the marvelous Page Springs Cellars overlooking Oak Creek Canyon.

Bask in the restorative energy of late summer in Sedona, Arizona, while indulging in the comforts of the sublime Aiden by Best Western Sedona.

Feel the Warmth of Late Summer Sun in Shallotte, North Carolina

For those of you who crave a peaceful coastal escape for a dose of late summer sun, the North Carolina town of Shallotte offers the perfect solution along the Tarheel State’s Atlantic coastline. Here, the warm hospitality and small-town feel combined with its long sandy beaches make Shallotte the ideal destination for families and couples seeking sunshine at the tail end of summer.

It has to be said, Shallotte has something for everyone, whether it’s playing a round of golf at River’s Edge Golf Club, an Arnold Palmer-designed course that overlooks the impressive Shallotte River, or ziplining above the trees at the spectacular Shallotte River Swamp Park. Alternatively, for a more sedate way to enjoy the sun’s rays, Ocean Isle Beach is the idyllic location to stroll along the white sands, collecting seashells and sunbathing, and even enjoy a rare chance to watch both the sunrise and sunset from the same spot each day.

Experience a soothing late summer escape in Shallotte, North Carolina, by reserving your stay at the Best Western Shallotte / Ocean Isle Beach Hotel.

Catch the Last Rays of Summer in Santa Barbara, California

Nicknamed the American Riviera, Santa Barbara easily makes it on to our shortlist of the best late summer sun destinations for its majestic blend of Mediterranean charm and laid-back California West Coast style. Featuring balmy afternoons strolling along Santa Barbara’s palm-lined streets, sun worshipers will absolutely adore the warm temperate climate on offer here.

When you’re in town, Santa Monica’s gentle surf also makes it a wonderful destination to take a surfing lesson with the talented instructors at Santa Barbara Surf School, or head out to sea for an awe-inspiring cruise with the crew at Santa Barbara Sailing Center. Then afterward, head down to Butterfly Beach at the end of each day to catch a radiant sunset as the sun sinks below the Pacific Ocean horizon.

Discover the optimal blend of sun, sea, and surf in Santa Barbara, California, by getting a great night’s sleep every night at the cozy Best Western Plus Santa Barbara.

Late Summer Sunshine and Golden Sunsets in Key West, Florida

Finally, it would be impossible to compile a shortlist of the best destinations for late summer sunshine without including the jewel in Florida’s crown, Key West, where crystal-clear waters meet colorful streets packed with entertaining cafés and bars. Heading to the Florida Keys towards the end of the summer means the atmosphere is more relaxed, and with fewer crowds, it also makes an epic spot to catch an iconic Key West sunset.

For the sunbathers among you, be sure to head to Smathers Beach, where the long stretch of soft, white sand and calm, tropical waters create a picturesque, palm-fringed paradise at this time of year. Beyond the beach, another great local attraction is to join the legendary staff at Lazy Dog Adventures for a Key West Kayak Eco-Tour, a captivating paddle through the mangrove tunnels that form the Key West backcountry.

Chase an exclusive late summer getaway to Key West, Florida, with an unforgettable stay at the lush Best Western Hibiscus Motel.