Are you tired of dealing with crowds and standing in long lines on your summer travels? There is an option to break out of the tourist traps and head for hidden summer vacation gems!
Picture sipping your morning coffee on a deserted beach, hiking through unspoiled forests or immersing yourself in the authentic local culture of destinations devoid of mass tourism. Such experiences are waiting for you to find them.
We’ll share seven expert-level techniques you can use to find those hard-to-find travel spots in 2025 and explain how to become a pro at finding these hidden gems. Get ready to take you to the summer, which will leave you feeling good and relaxed.
Criteria for Choosing Destinations
Identifying Your Travel Style
When identifying your hidden summer vacation gem, it is important to identify your travel style. Are you an adventure seeker, a culture enthusiast, or someone who prefers relaxation?
Identifying your travel style could lead you to those destinations that will better meet your interests. Think carefully about what activities you enjoy doing and search for areas that would provide these activities away from the masses.
Budget Considerations
Your budget may play a huge factor in narrowing down your hidden hot season holiday location. Often, hidden or lesser-known destinations prove to be less expensive than the big-time tourism meccas.
Remember, you’re looking for value, not just the cheapest option. A slightly higher budget might lead you to a truly unique experience that’s worth every penny.
Accessibility and Transportation
Although you want to find hidden gems, you do not want your destination or location to be completely inaccessible. You have to consider how many different modes of transportation you need to get there. Direct flights or rent a car or public transport?
Finding the right balance between being away from the beaten path and not making it too difficult can lead to a positive island experience that will not ruin your holiday.
Climate and Seasonality
Once you have identified your summer vacation destination, it is always wise to check the climate and what would be the best months to go are. Many hidden gems may have a peak season during your planned itinerary and a few may have created ideal weather conditions.
Research can provide you with a broad sense of average temperatures, sunny hours and rainfall. This information will help you pack appropriately for the best summer weather for your destination.
Research Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations
Utilise lesser-known travel blogs
You have probably scrolled through popular travel blogs a thousand times before, but have you thought of trying to discover lesser-known blogs? These blogs can provide hidden gems and unique insights into places you would have skipped otherwise.
Look for blogs by locals or long-term expats who have in-depth knowledge of their area. They will have valuable info about secret spots that guidebooks don’t even mention.
Explore local tourism websites
Big travel sites are useful, but local tourism websites are goldmines for hidden summer vacation spots. These guides are run by people who are intimately familiar with their area and are primed to show you some of the lesser-known sights. You frequently read about unusual summer escapes that most mass tourism won’t touch.
Ask for recommendations on travel forums
Never underestimate the power of the travel community’s wisdom. Travel forums are a great way to learn about hidden gem destinations. Connect with people who, just like you, are passionate about travelling authentically and want to discover the world.
Ask pointed questions about an area you’re interested in and you can expect a veritable wealth of insider travel secrets from those who’ve been there.
Consider nearby alternatives to popular spots
With information from a variety of sources, it is time for you to start thinking outside of the box. Instead of going to overcrowded tourist hotspots, find local alternatives, read a book about this. These places usually have a similar offering but fewer crowds and a more authentic feel. You could find a lovely village just a short drive from a busy city or a remote beach close to a well-known resort town.
Why Skip the Tourist Hotspots This Summer Vacation?
Overcrowded destinations in peak season
You may have had visions of the summer’s iconic destinations that you want to see, but have you thought about the drawbacks? During peak months, a large number of tourists and constant crowds can take you away from your dream vacation spots.
You’ll find yourself battling for space at popular attractions, struggling to get reservations at restaurants, and feeling more stressed than relaxed. You might end up experiencing a watered-down version of the local culture, tailored for mass consumption. All the pressure to see and do everything can tire you out and defeat the purpose of your summer getaway.
Health, budget and experience benefits
Focusing on some lesser-known destinations, you will have a wide range of options. From a health perspective, you will meet fewer crowds, which reduces your exposure to potential illnesses and allows for more peaceful, stress-free experiences. You would have room to breathe, room for relaxation, and completely escape.
As well, most of the lesser-known destinations would have given you better rates on accommodation, meals and activities. When you head out away from the norm, you can enjoy the experiences without the tourist tax, which gives you the opportunity to be able to stay longer or do more activities.
But the real benefits will be the quality of your experience. With hidden gems, you are likely to have authentic interactions with locals, discover unexpected cultural events and discover stunning scenery that is untainted by mass tourism. After all, these unique experiences create lasting memories.
Are there alternatives to crowded summer destinations?
I can hear you thinking, “Doesn’t every country have some hidden destination alternative to the overcrowded summer hot spot?” Definitely! To do this vacations, we need some creative thinking about alternatives. Instead of lying on the same beach or going to the popular national park as everyone else, maybe you could go to one that isn’t yet on travellers’ radars.
For example, in the Mediterranean sun, we all battle for beach access, where someone who had discovered the inland European villages would relish the experience. Or, in big cities, we can make memories in the countryside, small towns or alternative urban centres where we can have high-value cultural experiences without the masses of people.
Finding alternatives often means being open to exploring possibilities at the travelled destinations. It isn’t hard to find these seasonal adventure gems, you just need a little online research and willing to be adventurous.
Timing is Everything
Travel during shoulder season
Traveling in the shoulder season allows you to greatly improve your experience of a destination. This time is the sweet spot between high and low season, providing the ideal mix of good weather, thinner crowds and lower prices.
For example, visiting Europe during the late spring or early fall can offer you nice temperatures and a slower pace also allows you to visit popular sites without the crowds brought by summer tourists.
Visit some popular destinations mid-week
To escape the crowds even more, try to plan your visits to popular attractions for the middle of the week. Larger crowds are common on weekends, especially at popular sites. Also, if you schedule your visits from Tuesday to Thursday, you’ll probably see shorter lines and it’ll be less crowded overall.
This strategy is effective, especially for museums, theme parks and other attractions in tourist destinations that tend to be crowded on weekends.
Plan a trip around local events and festivals
If you plan your sunny escape around local events and festivals, you can experience a unique and authentic travel experience. These events offer a great window to local culture and watch the traditions unfold in real-time.
But keep in mind that, while some events draw big crowds, many gain more locals than tourists and provide authentic insight into their destination. Look for unique, lesser-known festivals or celebrations that highlight the region’s heritage, cuisine or arts so you can find hidden gems that many other travellers may miss.
How to Discover Hidden Gems?
Unique sunny holiday ideas
Finding unique summer vacation ideas can be easily done if you use a few digital tools and communities. Start by exploring lesser-known travel apps like Roadtrippers or Atlas Obscura, which specialise in off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Online communities are a great place for travel ideas. These communities often have seasoned travellers who will share their experiences and recommendations for less-travelled and hidden spots. You can sign up travel forums on Reddit or Facebook groups for alternative travel.
You can also check out travel blogs that focus on unique destinations. These blogs can offer invaluable information and inspiration to find a destination that fits your interests.
Timing and travel trends
Keep in mind that the timing of the places is everything, also, pay attention to upcoming travel trends. Search for destinations that are on the verge of becoming popular travel spots. You will have a less crowded and more authentic experience at a time when places still have charm and authenticity.
When looking for popular destinations, consider travelling in the shoulder season. You can find better prices, fewer tourists and perhaps a better overall experience with the locals. It is wise to be aware of what the travel industry reports and predicts, as they often highlight up-and-coming destinations before they become overrun with tourists.
Unique summer destinations
In searching for unique summer family vacation destinations, first ask yourself how to think differently. Instead of locating a summer family vacation in well-known tourist hot spots, look to neighbouring regions and less-known areas, provinces or countries. Research areas around the popular tourist destination, which often offer similarities.
When using social media, check out photos of locations to help find the perfect destinations. Consider following travel influencers who can show off-the-beaten-path locations. Also, ask for recommendations from friends, co-workers or well-travelled travelers who can identify unique discoveries.
Embrace Nature’s Hidden Treasures
Discover secluded beaches under the Sun
You don’t have to mingle with the crowds to have a beautiful day at the beach. By seeking out hidden coves and lesser-travelled coastal spots, you can find stretches of sand and water that are pristine and peaceful, free from the hustle and bustle.
Check local maps or ask residents about hidden sites. These off-the-beaten-path beaches may take a bit more work to get to, but the payoff is a quiet, uncrowded piece of paradise.
Explore lesser-known national parks
Famous parks may draw millions, but thousands of lesser-known parks across the country can offer just as impressive scenery with a fraction of the crowds. You’ll enjoy stunning views, an array of wildlife and unusual geological features without fighting hordes of tourists. These parks tend to offer a more intimate connection and a chance to find solitude in nature.
Find hidden hiking trails
Venture beyond well-known paths to explore hidden routes that take you to stunning vistas and peaceful wilderness. Information about these routes can often be found through local hiking clubs or nature centres. They provide a more challenging and rewarding walk through uninterrupted areas.
Seek out tranquil lakes and rivers
Quiet lakeshores and secluded river bends are perfect for relaxation and reflection. Investigate smaller treasures of a lake or river in your destination, they’re often under the tourist radar. These semi-secret waterways provide tranquil kayaking, fishing or just the chance to unwind in unspoiled nature.
Immerse in Local Culture
Stay in small towns or villages
If you go outside the tourist resorts and pick to visit small towns or villages where you can experience life more authentically. These lesser-known havens often provide a more personal sense of local life, so you can avoid the throngs and engage in the culture.
Booking hotels in these less popular regions allows you to connect with locals regularly and feel the pulse of daily living in your destination.
Participate in community events
To really get into the local culture, look for community events during your stay. Getting involved in local events like traditional festivals, a local market or a gathering in the town will allow you to experience the area’s customs and traditions firsthand.
You will meet with locals, taste their delicacies and maybe even learn a few words in the lingo. These are often the most treasured memories of your trip.
Try authentic local cuisine
What better method to immerse yourself in a new culture than food? But go beyond tourist-reliant restaurants. Sample regional specialities and don’t be shy about asking for suggestions. You may end up tasting flavours and ingredients you have never tried, each one telling a story of the region’s history, traditions and culture.
Learn about regional traditions
Spend some time familiarising yourself with the destination’s traditions, which make it special. To learn more about the area’s heritage, visit local museums, artisan workshops or cultural centres. You could even take a class to learn a traditional craft or skill, like pottery, weaving or cooking.
These experiences will enrich your understanding of the place you’re visiting, create lasting connections to the local community and provide you with stories of your own to tell when you return home.
Utilise Alternative Accommodations
Book unique Airbnb experiences
This year, you can take your sunny-season break to the next level with Airbnb, as you can book experiences that go beyond just a place to crash. Seek out treehouses, houseboats or converted barns that promise a unique stay. These types of overnight deals tend to offer incredible views, fascinating backstories and local appeal that typical hotels can’t provide.
Try glamping or eco-lodges
For nature-obsessed comfort-seekers, glamping or eco-lodges can be ideal substitutes. You’ll love the peace of the outdoors while not compromising on modern-day comforts. Of course, these often land you in the thick of beautiful nature, so you can fall asleep and wake up surrounded by scenery and wildlife not often found anywhere else.
Consider house-sitting opportunities
House-sitting can be a perfect style to live like a local in your dream destination and save on accommodation costs in the process. And you’ll get to stay in a real home, usually in residential neighbourhoods far from tourist centres. This option offers you an authentic view of local life and may help you discover some hidden gems in the area.
Explore agritourism options
Agritourism allows you to sleep on working farms or vineyards and experience rural life. One day, you might be harvesting olives in Italy or caring for alpacas in Peru. These experiences feature accommodations that are different from your tired hotel chains, but they also offer hands-on activities and you will know what local farmers do.
Connect with Locals for Insider Tips
Use social media to find local guides
Using social media platforms to connect with residents and experienced guides will give you a wealth of local knowledge. Instagram and Twitter are great sources for local influencers and interested travellers with tips and insights. Make a list of these influencers.
Look up location-specific hashtags or geotags to find accounts that showcase hidden gems in your destination. And don’t be shy about asking for recommendations, the beauty of this is many locals are enthusiastic about sharing their go-to spots with visitors.
Join community Facebook groups
Facebook groups provide insider tips and off-the-beaten-path recommendations. Search for a group focused on your destination, like “Expats in [City]” or “[City] Local Adventures.” These communities often suggest lesser-known attractions, events and dining spots that a typical travel guide might miss.
Ask group members for special finds or interests in the area. You’d be amazed at the scoop you can get from both locals and other travelers alike.
Attend local meetups or gatherings
Once you are at your chosen destination, dive into the local scene by participating in community events or meetups. Websites like Meetup.com or Eventbrite are where to find meetups, from language exchanges to hiking groups.
These are great opportunities to mingle with locals and get firsthand tips on hidden spots and authentic experiences. Be bold, ask questions and tell people you want to know the area’s best-kept secrets.
Leverage Technology for Hidden Gems
Use location-based discovery apps
You’ve probably heard of common travel apps, but have you explored those customised to uncover hidden gems? Apps like Roadtrippers, Atlas Obscura and HiddenGem can be your digital compass to off-the-beaten-path attractions.
These apps utilise your location to recommend nearby hidden gems, whether it’s quirky museums or secret panoramas. This technology will be able to show you things that even locals may not know about and can help you with your summer vacation.
Explore virtual reality tours before travelling
Try taking a virtual reality (VR) tour before you even step foot in your destination. Many lesser-known attractions now have VR experiences, so you can scout possible hidden gems from your home.
This technology not only allows you to plan your itinerary intelligently, but it also creates anticipation for your upcoming adventure. You may discover a hidden beach or a sweet village you’d never heard of before.
Utilise offline maps for remote areas
When exploring off-grid areas, internet access can be a luxury. That’s exactly where offline maps can be useful. Apps like Maps.me or the offline feature on Google Maps will let you download detailed maps of your destination area.
That way, you can navigate confidently to their hidden spots without the fear of losing your approach. These apps often show places that aren’t normally featured on traditional maps, which could help you sniff out your next hidden summer vacation gem.
Sunny escape Travelers
Best For Families Discover some mountains
In general, families can find hidden summer vacation gems that provide incredible experiences for youth and all ages. Search for destinations that promote diverse activities, from hiking nature trails to going to interactive museums.
Consider lesser-known coastal towns or mountain retreats that offer space for kids to explore safely. You’ll often find these spots have more relaxed atmospheres and fewer crowds, allowing for quality family time. The mountains also offer a refreshing escape from city heat, with scenic views and family-friendly adventures like zip-lining, nature walks, and wildlife spotting.
Best For Couples
As a couple, you are looking to spend time together. Look for locations that have secluded beaches, vineyard regions or picturesque towns rich with history not typically visited by tourists.
These types of destinations often have intimate dining experiences that offer scenic walks and unique opportunities without the distraction of the bustling crowds. More importantly, many of these types of destinations can offer a more authentic feel and allow a couple to connect with each other and their destination.
Best For Solo Travellers
When looking for hidden summer vacation spots as a solo traveler, oftentimes you can find great community vibes in small areas, which can help facilitate conversations with locals or fellow travellers. Of course, do not forget your insurance.
Consider small, walkable cities with vibrant art scenes or remote adventure destinations that attract like-minded explorers. Because you are a solo traveler, you will easily be able to create your own unique experience, which can often turn into a local cultural expedition where you meet locals and enjoy the journey ahead.
Conclusion
In closing, discovering hidden summer vacation gems offers a refreshing alternative to crowded tourist hotspots. After all, some of the best adventures often lie beyond the lesser-known paths.
Use technology to find these treasures, but also remember to enjoy the spontaneity and surprise of discoveries. These suggestions will not only remove the crowds from your shoulders but will also create long-lasting memories in spots that reflect the essence of summer vacation exploration.
