Where locals go when it’s time to trade heat and crowds for cooler temps, open spaces and new adventures

Story by Lance Hanlin

For many, Hilton Head Island and the surrounding Lowcountry are the ultimate summer escape — sun-soaked beaches, fresh seafood and that easy coastal rhythm. But for those of us who live here, summer also means high heat, heavy traffic and a sudden craving to be anywhere else for a few weeks. Sometimes the best way to recharge is to step away from paradise for a bit.

Locals are no strangers to adventure, and their summer travel plans span the globe. To find out what’s trending for 2025 and where locals are heading when it’s time to beat the heat, we turned to Kelly Brock of The Auto Club Group (AAA). From cool-climate cruises to island getaways, here are her top picks for summer trips that offer the perfect change of scenery when you need it most.

European river cruising

Old-world charm meets stress-free travel

Summer is the ideal time to float down Europe’s most iconic waterways. Danube, Rhine and Seine cruises offer breathtaking views of castles, vineyards and medieval towns, without the chaos of crowds or packing and unpacking every day. On-board perks include locally inspired cuisine, guided excursions and a more intimate ship experience.

“This is by far the hottest travel experience right now,” Brock said. “River cruising has skyrocketed in popularity, especially with repeat travelers. It’s relaxing, culturally rich, and there’s a river for every interest.”

Lowcountry traveler’s guide

When to go: June through August for long, sunlit days

Fly to: Paris, Amsterdam or Munich

Pack: Casual layers, a rain jacket, comfy walking shoes and a universal power adapter. 

Why locals love it: It’s like drifting down the May River, but with more castles and less humidity. 

Best bet: A seven-night Danube cruise from Budapest to Vilshofen, featuring classical concerts, wine tastings and postcard-perfect towns. 

Alaska by land & sea

Wild beauty, whales and glaciers — oh my

Summer brings long daylight hours and lots of wildlife activity to Alaska. From the comfort of your cruise ship, you might spot humpback whales, otters and towering glaciers. Extend your trip inland to Denali National Park, and travel by rail for a deeper look at Alaska’s wilderness.

“Alaska is a bucket-list trip, especially for families traveling together,” Brock said. “A cruise gets you close to the marine life and glaciers, but a Cruisetour lets you explore the interior, too.”

Lowcountry traveler’s guide

When to go: Mid-June to late July for the best weather and wildlife sightings

Fly to: Seattle or Vancouver

Pack: Waterproof layers, binoculars, hiking shoes and a sense of adventure

Why locals love it: It’s everything the Lowcountry is not: cool, rugged and full of moose

Best bet: A seven-night Inside Passage cruise followed by a Denali land tour via luxury rail.

Ireland & Great Britain

Green landscapes, rich history, no language barrier

From the cliffs of County Clare to the streets of London and the castles of Scotland, the British Isles offer something for every traveler. Long summer days make it the perfect time to road trip through Ireland, stroll through Edinburgh or enjoy a proper tea in London.

“Ireland and the UK are an easy sell,” Brock said. “The summer weather is lovely, the people are welcoming, and for first-time international travelers, there’s no language barrier.”

Lowcountry traveler’s guide

When to go: June through early August for the greenest views and mildest weather

Fly to: Dublin, London or Edinburgh

Pack: Layers for cool mornings, a light rain jacket and a good travel adapter. 

Why locals love it: It’s like exploring Charleston on a cooler, older and even more charming scale. 

Best bet: A 10-day loop through Dublin, Killarney and Galway — or pair London with a scenic rail journey to Edinburgh and the Highlands.

Caribbean, Bermuda & Bahamas cruises

Close, easy and all about togetherness

Cruises to Nassau, Bermuda or Cozumel are low-stress, high-reward. You get all the sunshine, activities and tropical vibes without the hassle of flying. Departing from drive-to ports like Charleston or Port Canaveral, they’re perfect for families or friend groups looking for an easy summer reset.

“People say, ‘I’ve been there, done that’ — but that’s why it works,” Brock said. “It’s affordable, drivable and ideal for multi-generational trips. It’s all about being together.”

Lowcountry traveler’s guide

When to go: Anytime, but summer is especially popular for school breaks. 

Depart from: Charleston, Jacksonville or Port Canaveral

Pack: Swimsuits, sandals, SPF gear and a sense of fun. 

Why locals love it: It’s the tropical version of an oyster roast — laid back and full of fun and flavor. 

Best bet: A five- to seven-night cruise with stops at private islands like Half Moon Cay or CocoCay for white sand and crystal waters.

Portugal

Old-world soul, island escapes and a glass of port in hand

Portugal has quietly become one of Europe’s hottest destinations, and not just because of the summer sun. Whether you’re cruising the Douro River past terraced vineyards or road-tripping through the Algarve’s seaside cliffs, Portugal offers a magical blend of history, affordability and natural beauty. Add in the Azores and Madeira for an exotic island twist, and it’s no wonder even travel pros are picking Portugal for their own vacations.

“Portugal checks every box — culture, scenery, weather and value,” Brock said. “I’ve personally chosen it as my own summer getaway this year.”

Lowcountry traveler’s guide

When to go: May through October for dry, sunny days and fewer crowds

Fly to: Lisbon or Porto (one layover common)

Pack: Lightweight clothing, a good pair of sandals for cobblestones and a taste for wine

Why locals love it: It’s scenic, affordable, easy to explore and filled with the kind of food and wine that makes you want to linger a little longer.

Best bet: A seven-night Douro River cruise paired with a few nights in Porto — or explore Lisbon, Sintra and the Algarve on a scenic land tour.