55+ Hidden Gems Of Underrated Summer Travel Ideas

Summer is the best time for exploration and adventure. While popular travel destinations have their appeal, discovering the underrated and less traveled places has a distinct appeal. Let me take you on a journey through hidden gems that can inspire your next vacation.

Summer comes with promises of sunshine, exploration and adventure. But popular destinations are often overrun with tourists, leaving you longing for a unique and less crowded experience. Don’t worry, intrepid traveler! This list unveils 55+ hidden gems from around the world, catering to a variety of tastes and budgets.

Table of Contents

Why travel in summer?

Summer is the season of adventure, exploration and making memories. Here’s why you should consider visiting during this wonderful time:

Weather and Longer Days: Longer daylight means more time to explore. The warmer weather allows for outdoor activities, beach trips and hiking adventures.
Festivals and Events: Summer hosts many festivals, concerts and cultural events around the world. From music festivals to local festivals, there is something for everyone.
School Vacations: Families often plan vacations during the summer because of school vacations. A great time for family bonding and creating lasting memories.
Natural beauty: Many destinations show their best natural beauty in summer – blooming flowers, lush greenery and clear skies.

How to plan your summer adventure?

Planning your summer adventure involves several key steps to ensure a successful and memorable trip. Let’s break it down

Choose your destination

Research underrated places based on your interests – beaches, mountains, culture, or history.
Consider factors such as accessibility, safety and local attractions.

Budget and Time

Set a budget for flights, accommodation and activities.
Check peak travel seasons and plan accordingly.

Accommodation

Look for unique accommodations – boutique hotels, eco lodges, or local guesthouses.
Book in advance to secure the best options.

Activities and Itineraries

Create a flexible itinerary with a mix of relaxation and exploration.
Prioritize must-see attractions and leave room for spontaneity.

Health and Safety

Pack essentials such as sunscreen, insect repellent and any necessary medications.
Stay hydrated, follow local health guidelines, and respect the environment.

Hidden Gems Of Underrated Summer Travel Ideas in The World

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For The Beach Bum:

Pasikuda Beach, Sri Lanka: Pristine white sand, calm turquoise waters and swaying palm trees await.
Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka: A surfer’s paradise with steady waves, beautiful beaches and laid-back vibes.
Tangalle Beach, Sri Lanka: A secluded escape with golden sands, clear waters and stunning sunsets.
Pembrokeshire Coast, Wales: Dramatic cliffs, hidden cliffs and turquoise waters for hiking, kayaking and coastal walks.
Acadia National Park, Maine, USA: Escape the crowds and discover rugged beauty with hikes, beaches, and charming Bar Harbor.
Whitsunday Islands, Australia: Cruise the turquoise waters, visit Whitehaven Beach, and go snorkeling or diving on the Great Barrier Reef.
Algarve, Portugal: Hidden coves, golden sands and charming fishing villages offer alternatives to the Amalfi Coast.

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For The Culture Hawk:

Luang Prabang, Laos: UNESCO World Heritage city full of temples, colonial architecture and traditional culture.
Bhutan: Immerse yourself in the “gross national happiness” scene, climb stunning landscapes, and visit ancient monasteries.
Marrakech, Morocco: Get lost in colorful souks, marvel at stunning architecture, and experience traditional hammam baths.
Hoi An, Vietnam: UNESCO World Heritage city with beautifully preserved wooden houses, colorful lanterns and lively night markets.
Cusco, Peru: Immerse yourself in rich Inca history, explore ruins like Sacsayhuaman and Qorikancha, and hike up to Machu Picchu.
Dambulla Cave Temple, Sri Lanka: Explore the magnificent cave temple complex with centuries-old Buddhist frescoes and statues.
Kataragama, Sri Lanka: Experience the vibrant Hindu and Buddhist cultures, visit Kataragama Temple and immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere.

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For The Adventurer:

Lofoten Islands, Norway: Experience the land of the midnight sun with its dramatic scenery, charming fishing villages and endless outdoor activities.
Iceland: Hike glaciers, explore geothermal wonders, and hike waterfalls under the midnight sun.
Tanzania: Skip the crowded safaris and explore lesser-known gems like Ruaha National Park or climb Mount Kilimanjaro.
Azorean Islands, Portugal: Climb volcanic landscapes, explore hidden waterfalls, and go whale watching.
Yosemite National Park, California, USA: Hike giant sequoia groves, climb Half Dome, and marvel at iconic waterfalls.
Scottish Highlands, Scotland: Hike or bike through dramatic landscapes, explore ancient castles, and kayak on Loch Ness.
Adam’s Peak, Sri Lanka: Challenging climb with panoramic views from the summit, experiencing the spiritual atmosphere.
Sinharaja Rainforest, Sri Lanka: The UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a variety of flora and fauna, including endemic species.
Mahiyangana, Sri Lanka: Experience the peaceful atmosphere and explore ancient cave temples like Doa Parvata Vihara and Isurumuniya Vihara.

Image by Freepik

For The Foodies:

Vietnam: Go beyond popular dishes and explore a variety of regional cuisines, from fresh seafood to delicious street food.
Morocco: Immerse yourself in exotic spices and flavors, take cooking classes, visit bustling food markets, and enjoy tagines and pastillas.
San Sebastian, Spain: A haven for foodies with Michelin-starred restaurants and countless pintxos bars offering culinary delights.
New Orleans, Louisiana, USA: Dive into Creole and Cajun cuisine, sample beignets and gumbo while listening to live jazz.
Puglia, Italy: Discover hidden gems like Alberobello with its trolley houses while enjoying fresh seafood, olive oil and pasta dishes.
Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico: Explore ancient ruins and centotes and sample delicious Mayan cuisine like cochinita pibil and poke chuck.
Little India, Colombo, Sri Lanka: Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and smells while sampling South Indian cuisine and exploring colorful shops.
Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka: Hills famous for cool climate, steep hills and delicious Sri Lankan food like fresh vegetables, fruits, tea, jams, sauces and more refreshing treats thanks to the mild climate.
Jaffna, Sri Lanka: Explore unique Tamil culture and cuisine, sampling Jaffna crab curry, hopper pancakes, and other delicious dishes.

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For The Budget Traveler:

Budapest, Hungary: Explore beautiful architecture, soak in thermal baths, and enjoy affordable Hungarian food and nightlife.
Kraków, Poland: Discover rich history and culture, visit Wawel Royal Castle and the Auschwitz-Birkenau memorial, and enjoy inexpensive food.
Prague, Czech Republic: Immerse yourself in medieval charm, explore the Prague Castle complex, and enjoy affordable Czech beer and food.
Ella, Sri Lanka: The charming hill town is popular with backpackers, hikes, train rides and a laid-back atmosphere.
Trincomalee, Sri Lanka: Beach town offering beautiful beaches, affordable accommodation and delicious seafood.
Mirissa, Sri Lanka: An excellent base for whale watching and surfing, with beautiful beaches and affordable options.

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For The Nature Lovers:

Knuckles Range, Sri Lanka: Drive through lush green hills, diverse flora and fauna, waterfalls and tea plantations.
Yala National Park, Sri Lanka: Spot elephants, leopards, sloth bears and a variety of birdlife on a jeep safari.
Madulsima, Sri Lanka: Travel to Mini World’s End to experience breathtaking views, explore the surrounding countryside and experience the peaceful atmosphere.
Mount Snowdon, Wales: Hike or take a train to the top of Wales’ highest mountain for panoramic views.
Isle of Skye, Scotland: Explore dramatic landscapes, charming villages and iconic landmarks like the Old Man of Stour.
Azores, Portugal: Climb volcanic craters, swim in natural pools, and explore the lush greenery of these islands.
Kerala Backwaters, India: Cruise through tranquil backwaters, unique boats, and spot a variety of birds.

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For The Wellness Seeker:

Ayurvedic Retreat in Sri Lanka: Immerse yourself in ancient Indian healing practices, enjoy personalized treatments, yoga and meditation.
Elephant Sanctuaries in Thailand: Observe elephants in their natural habitat, learn about conservation efforts, and volunteer to care for them.
Meditation Retreat in Nepal: Find peace and tranquility in the Himalayas, participate in guided meditations, and learn mindfulness techniques.
Hiking and Yoga Retreat in Costa Rica: Combine physical activity with mindfulness practice amid stunning natural beauty.
Digital Detox Retreat in Bali: Disconnect from technology, reconnect with nature, and enjoy wellness activities like yoga and massage.

Image by Penny on Pixabay

For The Off-The-Path Explorer:

Mannar Island, Sri Lanka: A secluded paradise offering beautiful beaches, lagoons, salt flats, ancient temples and a slow pace of life.
Gokarna, India: Less crowded than Goa, a beach town with a laid-back vibe, yoga centers and stunning coastal scenery.
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Vietnam: Explore hidden caves, explore a boat through jungle rivers, and discover a lesser-known UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia: Marvel at the world’s largest salt flats, take unique perspective photos, and experience the otherworldly landscape.
Ethiopia: Explore ancient rock-cut churches, diverse landscapes and unique cultural experiences.
Oman: Discover historic forts, dramatic mountains and pristine beaches, offering a different Arabian Peninsula experience.

Bonus Tips:

Learn some basic phrases: Respect the local language and culture.
Connect with locals: ask for recommendations, try homestays, and join cultural events.
Travel responsibly: Minimize your environmental impact and support local communities.
Embrace the unexpected: Be open to detours, unplanned adventures, and new experiences.

Here Some Caption Ideas To Use With Your Travel Memories

Remember, the joy of summer travel is finding hidden gems and creating unforgettable memories. Happy exploring! 🌴🌞✨