Top Coolcation Destinations to Beat the Summer Heat

When the summer sun starts scorching, smart travelers head north (or up into the mountains) for a "coolcation." A coolcation is a vacation spent in a cooler climate to escape the sweltering heat back home. Instead of baking on a tropical beach or melting in a crowded city during summer, more people are seeking out vacation spots with cooler weather – think crisp mountain air, breezy coastlines, and even destinations near the Arctic Circle. This trend has surged in recent years as global temperatures rise. In fact, interest in cooler destinations has skyrocketed: Google searches for cool-weather vacations jumped nearly 3000% this year, with booming travel to places likeIceland, Finland, Norway, and other northerly locales.

Why the sudden popularity of cooler holidays? Partly, it’s the comfort factor – travelers want to enjoy outdoor adventures in July and August without suffering heat exhaustion. But climate change plays a role too, as heat waves and wildfires make some traditional summer hotspots less appealing. Whatever the reason, "coolcation destinations" are now hot (ironically!) in travel, offering refreshing alternatives for your summer getaway.

What Makes a Great "Coolcation" Spot?

Not every destination with mild weather qualifies as an epic coolcation. The best coolcation destinations typically offer:

• Mild or Cold Temperatures in Summer: Highs might hover in the 50s–70s °F (10–25 °C) even in July, so you can comfortably hike, sightsee, and explore midday.
• Unique Natural Scenery: Many cool weather spots feature dramatic landscapes – think glaciers, fjords, mountains, or wild coastlines – that provide a wow factor beyond just cooler air.
• Activities Suited to Cool Weather: Instead of beach lounging and swimming, you might find glacier hiking, whale watching, mountain trekking, or cultural festivals during the long daylight hours of summer.
• Fewer Crowds (so far): Some cool-weather escapes are still under the radar for mainstream tourism, meaning you can enjoy unspoiled nature without the peak-season crowds. However, this is changing as the coolcation trend grows, so it’s wise to book popular tours or lodgings in advance.

Ready to swap your flip-flops for hiking boots and trade humidity for a refreshing breeze? Below are some of the top coolcation destinations to consider for beating the summer heat.

Top 5 Coolcation Destinations for Summer

• Iceland – The Ultimate Coolcation Classic:Average Summer High: ~55 °F (13 °C). Iceland summer travel is booming for good reason. This Nordic island offers everything a coolcationer could want: geysers, waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and glaciers – all with sweater-weather temperatures even in July. During the summer, Iceland enjoys nearly 24 hours of daylight (the famous midnight sun), allowing extra time for adventures like hiking to puffin nesting cliffs or soaking in natural hot springs. Don’t miss driving the Golden Circle to see Þingvellir National Park and Gullfoss waterfall, or journeying along the South Coast to witness iceberg lagoons at Jökulsárlón. With its brisk air and surreal scenery, Iceland proves that a cooler holiday can be downright magical.
• Norwegian Fjords (Norway) – Scenic Nordic Escape:Average Summer High: ~65 °F (18 °C) in Bergen. Norway’s fjord country is a perfect example of a coolcation destination with jaw-dropping scenery. Fly into Oslo or Bergen and enjoy mild weather as you explore deep blue fjords framed by emerald mountains. Take a cruise or ferry through famous fjords like Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord, where waterfalls cascade from snow-capped peaks. Thanks to the long summer daylight, you can hike panoramic trails like Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen) well into the evening. The coastal cities remain comfortable too – you might need a light jacket at night. As a bonus, Norway’s northern regions (even up to Svalbard in the Arctic Circle) offer true cold even in summer, plus unique experiences like the midnight sun and Arctic wildlife. For travelers seeking vacation spots with cooler weather and phenomenal nature, Norway delivers in spades.
• Alaska, USA – Wilderness & Glaciers:Average Summer High: ~60 °F (16 °C) in Anchorage. America’s largest state is also one of its coolest in summer, making Alaska a top pick for a domestic coolcation. Whether you cruise along the icy fjords of the Inside Passage or drive the scenic highways of the Kenai Peninsula, you’ll be greeted with crisp air and wild landscapes. Visit Denali National Park to see North America’s tallest peak or Kenai Fjords National Park to kayak among glaciers. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot bears, moose, and whales during the long daylight hours. Even Alaska’s summer “heat” feels pleasant – perfect for fishing, hiking, and camping without breaking a sweat. Pack layers and a rain jacket, and you’ll be set for an epic cooler-climate adventure under the midnight sun.
• Canadian Maritimes & Newfoundland – Coastal Cool:Average Summer High: ~70 °F (21 °C) in Nova Scotia, cooler by the ocean. The northeastern coast of North America offers a fantastic coolcation option with a mix of maritime culture and breezy weather. Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland & Labrador are known for their rugged coasts, charming fishing villages, and even icebergs drifting by in early summer. Stroll the pleasant streets of Halifax or Charlottetown without overheating, then head to Gros Morne National Park in Newfoundland for tundra-like landscapes and boat tours through fjords. In Newfoundland, you might even need a sweater in August, especially at night. One highlight is the chance to see whales and puffins along the coast, or go iceberg-spotting in “Iceberg Alley” off Newfoundland’s coast. With friendly locals and a slow pace of life, the Canadian Maritimes offer a cooler holiday that’s equal parts relaxing and adventurous.
• Patagonia (Chile & Argentina) – Winter in July:Average Summer (winter there) High: ~40–50 °F (4–10 °C). Willing to venture far for a serious cool-down? Consider a trip to the Southern Hemisphere’s Patagonia region during North America’s summer (which is winter there). This is a true escape from the heat – think snow-dusted peaks, glacial lakes, and crisp air. Fly into Punta Arenas, Chile or El Calafate, Argentina to begin exploring icons like Torres del Paine National Park or Los Glaciares National Park. You can trek to the base of towering granite spires, watch ice chunks calve off Perito Moreno Glacier, and sip hot cocoa by a cozy fire at a lodge. Patagonia in July or August is the opposite of a beach vacation, and that’s exactly the appeal. It’s an adventure coolcation – you’ll return with bragging rights that you went skiing or hiking in the Andes while everyone else was baking at the beach! Just remember to pack your warm layers and prepare for shorter daylight hours (the trade-off for experiencing true cold during the Northern Hemisphere summer).

(Honorable Mentions: Other coolcation ideas include the Scottish Highlands (misty and cool even in summer), New Zealand’s South Island during their winter, high-altitude destinations like the Swiss Alps or Colorado Rockies, and coastal California or Oregon for those who prefer mild, foggy summers by the sea. The options are plentiful once you start looking for cooler climates.)

Tips to Plan Your Coolcation

Planning a trip to a cooler destination comes with its own set of considerations. Keep these tips in mind to ensure your coolcation is smooth sailing (or hiking):

• Pack for Varied Weather: Even though you’re escaping the heat, summer in many cool climates can be variable. Pack layers – lightweight shirts, a warm fleece or sweater, and a waterproof jacket – so you’re prepared for warm afternoons, chilly nights, and surprise rain showers. Don’t forget essentials like a beanie and gloves if you’ll be near glaciers or on the water. Our Pro Packing Tips guide (internal link) offers advice on using vacuum bags and packing cubes so you can fit bulky cold-weather gear in your luggage efficiently.
• Book Key Activities Ahead: Cool destinations are growing in popularity, and many have short peak seasons. Tours like glacier hikes, wildlife excursions, or scenic train rides can fill up fast in summer. Make reservations for any must-do activities or national park entry permits well in advance. Also, secure accommodations early, especially in small towns or cruise departures – there might be limited options in these remote areas.
• Mind the Daylight (or Lack Thereof): One perk of northern coolcations is extra-long daylight – for example, Iceland and Alaska have almost 20-24 hours of light near the solstice, great for extended exploring. However, if you travel to the far southern hemisphere (like Patagonia) during their winter, expect shorter days. Plan your sightseeing accordingly, and use those long evenings (or long nights) to relax. If you’re chasing the Northern Lights, remember they’re not visible in mid-summer due to too much daylight; you’d need to return in fall or winter.
• Stay Eco-Conscious: Cooler regions often have fragile ecosystems. Practice sustainable travel habits: stick to marked trails to protect tundra or alpine vegetation, carry in/carry out your trash, and respect wildlife distance guidelines. If you’re driving a campervan or rental car through pristine areas, consider an eco-friendly road trip approach – for instance, use refillable water bottles and choose accommodations with green credentials. (See our Eco-Friendly Road Trips article for more tips on sustainable adventures.)
• Enjoy Off-Season Savings: An added benefit of some cool-weather spots is that they can be more affordable than typical summer resorts. For example, ski towns in the Rockies or Alps often have lower prices in summer, and some northern destinations are eager for tourism during their brief warm season. You might score deals on flights or hotels compared to high-demand hot-weather spots. Keep an eye out for shoulder-season discounts that align with your coolcation timing.

Wherever you choose to chill out, a coolcation is a breath of fresh air – literally. You’ll come home refreshed, with stories of glaciers, fjords, or misty mountains, and maybe even a nice summer tan without the heatstroke. As the saying goes, if you can’t stand the heat… fly somewhere cooler!