Looking to Extend Those Summer Vibes This Year?

Not ready for your summer to end? I always have that gulp every Labor Day weekend where it hits me that my summer is over. If you like me love summer backyard barbecues, longer days, and boost of Vitamin D, saying good bye to summer vibes can be really hard.

Thanks to equator-hugging countries and Southern Hemisphere hotspots, travelers can extend the warm weather for a few more sun-soaked months. Whether you’re after a relaxed beach getaway or a cultured city escape, there are plenty of places to go that will help stave off the winter chill just a bit longer.

From Southern Europe to Florida, check out our favorite spots where you can extend your summer.

Cocoa Beach, FL – Surfer’s HQ

The home of surfing on the East Coast, Cocoa Beach, FL is an ideal place to drag out the summer weather. The beaches are beautiful with great surf and surfing opportunities, but as a vacation spot the options are endless. Within an hour drive, you have access to Orlando, FL and all the amusement parks and entertainment, or you could also jump on a weekend cruise from Port Canaveral. 

Where to Stay

LivingBetter50 love the Lost Inn Paradise for it location and affordability!

The Maldives – For the Ultimate Beachgoer

The Maldives are dotted with resorts, which is where most travelers will spend their time. But that doesn’t mean there’s a lack of sun-loving activities. Spend days snorkeling the house reef, diving shipwrecks, or kayaking the ultra-blue lagoons. Through your resort, book a trip to go fishing or a sunset cruise to see the dolphins flip and spin.

Where to Stay

One of the Maldives’ best resorts is Soneva Jani, famous for its overwater villas with waterslides and retractable roofs. Stargazing from bed at night is what dreams are made of!

Maui, Hawaii – For Outdoorsy Types

Grab your reef-safe sunscreen and settle in for a day at the expansive, secluded Makena Beach. Other options for beach time include the quiet Hamoa Beach, located on the road to Hana, or the popular Ka’anapali Beach. For an adrenaline rush on a sunny day, try your hand at windsurfing at the famous Ho’okipa Beach Park with Action Sports Maui. For some sun and a little different heat, hike the volcanic Kapalua Coastal Trail or lush Waiheʻe Ridge Trail.

Where to Stay

If you are looking for an intimate spot, try the Hotel Wailea, an adults-only reprieve with sweeping ocean views.

Lisbon, Portugal – For the History Buffs and Culture Seekers

A fall trip to Portugal’s capital means you’ll hit the trifecta of fewer crowds, cheaper prices and milder weather. Visit before November, when the temps start to drop and the rain clouds roll in.

Climb Lisbon’s endless steps and hills without getting soaked in sweat. Wander the alleys and shops in Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest and most historic neighborhood. Be sure to grab a chocolate cup filled with ginjinha from one of the many grandmas selling streetside throughout the nabe. Then, climb to the top of the neighborhood to view Lisbon from Castelo de São Jorge, an 11th-century castle and royal residence. Once you’ve worked up an appetite join the Tastes & Traditions of Lisbon Food Tour, a walking tour that stops into seven local restaurants to nosh on traditional Portuguese dishes.

Where to Stay

Try the historic Torel Palace Lisbon. Its pool and Rapunzel-inspired tower have next-level views over Lisbon.

As I make my plans to extend my summer time I wonder, will I bump into your at one of these great destinations?

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