According to some of the latest statistics by AAA, most travelers are heading to warm destinations with beaches to spend their summer vacations, like Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic and Montego Bay, Jamaica. If you’ve purchased one of the houses for sale in New Jersey, you should know that you have many other fantastic options other than the Jersey shore or those popular Caribbean island beaches.
This season is a fantastic time to take advantage of idyllic weather and a wide range of activities and attractions that don’t necessarily involve the beach or the crowds.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Upper Peninsula, Michigan
For a more crowd-free experience without the intense heat, head to the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore on the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. You’ll feel as if you’re worlds away from the chaos of the modern world, surrounded by breathtaking scenery that includes 42 miles of spectacular Lake Superior coastline, studded with cascading falls, multi-hued sandstone cliffs and remarkably clear azure waters. Enjoy taking a tip, paddling or hiking the multitude of trails.
Fogo Island, Newfoundland, Canada
You’re not going to find any beaches for soaking up the sunshine in Newfoundland, though there are some nice ones for a pleasant stroll or dipping in your toes in the frigid waters. Fogo Island, just off the northeast coast, the tails and breaching backs of humpbacks are frequently spotted just offshore. Take a hike to one of the “four corners of the Earth” as designated by the Flat Earth society, and be sure to visit Tilting, a traditional Irish village where you’ll hear locals speak in thick Irish lilts, explore the wooden docks and red-painted fishing rooms. There are several hiking trails here, a museum where you can learn about the town’s heritage and fishing industry, and even the chance to spot a herd of caribou.
Iceland
It’s never too hot in Iceland, although you can enjoy the long days of the Midnight Sun, which brings more time to enjoy some of the world’s most jaw-dropping waterfalls, strolls across jet-black sand beaches, hiking volcanic mountains, and soaking in natural hot springs surrounded by incredible scenery. The legendary Blue Lagoon is filled with cobalt geothermal water with a bar set right in the middle where you can swim up for a cocktail, or head to the north end of the country and experience the more remote Lake Myvatn Nature Baths without the crowds.
Lake Tahoe, Nevada/California
The largest alpine lake in North America, Lake Tahoe straddles the border of Nevada and California in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It offers a host of outdoor adventure on land and on the water. While it may be best known for its powdery slopes, in the summer you can look forward to cruises on the lake, paddle boarding, swimming, jet-skiing and more. The crystal-clear waters of of Tahoe offer unparalleled opportunities for all types of water sports. There are endless hiking opportunities along the shoreline and in the mountains, like the trek to Mount Tallac, with its views of South Lake Tahoe, numerous other lakes, Reno and Carson City in Nevada, and more. Afterward, take part in a party-happy casino atmosphere that includes frequent big-name concerts, table gaming and slots.
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