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Where is hot in April? Our top 14 destinations

By Laura Chubb

Spring is in full bloom, but so too are April showers, dampening Easter plans and keeping UK temperatures cool. Elsewhere in Europe , though, April sees the mercury steadily rise, making it a pleasantly off-peak time to take a classic city break , or explore a chic Mediterranean island without the crowds. Prefer buzz to solitude? Hit up street-shaking carnivals everywhere from South America to the Deep South. Now’s a fine time to find bargains on castaway islands , or maybe take that big trip Down Under, where warm autumn temperatures are forgiving enough for beach breaks, urban exploring and adventures in the wild. So without further adieu, these are the 14 destinations that are hot in April.

Where is hot in Europe in April?

As we settle into spring, there are plenty of European destinations that are considerably warmer than the UK without having to travel too far. Below, we recommend Rome (average temperature 19℃), Santorini (average temperature 19℃) and Capri (average temperature 20℃) as well as Sicily's capital Palermo (average temperature 19℃) and Cyprus (average temperature 21℃).

These are the 14 best and hottest destinations to visit in April and where to stay to make the most of your holiday.

Palermo, Sicily

Average April temperature: 19℃

The capital of Sicily has known many eras in its time – and the relics of these past periods are everywhere. The result is a city that genuinely blends cultures, cuisines and architectural styles seamlessly – Baroque churches and Middle Eastern-style buildings jut up against each other in a landscape backed by mountains and fringed by the sea. In April, temperatures have started to rise comfortably – go before the summer crowds flock in a few month's time.

Where to stay in April: Villa Igiea, a Rocco Forte Hotel, is set on a graceful estate that feels worlds away from frenetic Palermo. See our edit of the best hotels in Sicily for more inspiration.

Average April temperature: 21℃

Clear skies and beautiful beaches make this island – closer to the Middle East than Europe – an evergreen favourite for sunseekers. Families come here for the smart-but-relaxed hotel scene and all-but-promised good weather, while honeymooners love the island for its 160-plus beaches and secluded stays up in the interior mountains.

Where to stay: The best hotels in Cyprus include beachfront Amara , which has a next-level sushi restaurant on-site, and one of the best family holidays in Europe , Almyra .

Rome, Italy

You’ve done Rome , so now for the greater luxury: doing it as the Romans do. Temperate April is a fine time to explore the city as the locals see it, rather than as it’s visited: no dashing from sight to sight, madly ticking boxes, but rather making the most of the walking weather to wander, wonder and get gloriously lost. Around six miles from the Eternal City’s centre, Centocelle is a happening suburb steeped in contemporary Italian cool. Natural wine bar Menabó is a tough reservation to snag, but worth it for roasted octopus and grassy Grechetto. Even in Rome’s more crowded corners, there are delicious secrets hiding in plain sight. On Piazza di Spagna, find metaphysical painter Giorgio De Chirico’s apartment just as he left it in the late 1970s, with cluttered studio and a brilliant arrangement of his canvases and sketches.

Where to stay in April: close to Palazzo Borghese is Hotel Vilòn , a mansion-turned-boutique-hotel on a blink-and-miss-it cobblestoned street.

Cartagena, Colombia

Average April temperature: 31℃

Easter in Colombia is the year’s biggest, most essential celebration, and it swells Cartagena’s streets with feasts and parades. Holy Week – leading up to Easter Sunday – is not the time to visit if you’re crowd-phobic, but to see this sultry city at its most festive, it can’t be beat. Temperatures here are steamy year-round, and the old town has long lost its best-kept-secret tag, so you might as well lean into the heat and the hordes. Plus, it’s still very romantic, with its corn-yellow colonial mansions, flower-filled balconies, clip-clopping horse-drawn carriages and palm-dotted squares. Stir in generous measures of rum cocktails and salsa music, and you’ve got yourself a hell of a holiday, even if it’s not exactly subdued.

Where to stay in April: Stay at Casa San Agustin , the best boutique hotel within the old city walls, so you can take restorative breaks on its sun-drenched rooftop and in its L-shaped pool.

Santorini, Greece

Santorini isn’t the A-lister’s Greek island because of its beaches, many of which are imperfect black-sand or pebble numbers. Nor is it for privacy, given that 15,000 locals share their home with around two million visitors each year. No, Santorini is the darling of fashion photographers, romantics, influencers and bon vivants because it is, quite simply, the Med’s most stunning sight. An inhabited caldera, its chalk-white villages and sea-view suites teeter on steep lava cliffs, skirting an interior of bewitching Aegean blue. The sunsets are so pinch-me perfect, advancing dusk sees Santorini’s hairpin roads clogged with buses, all agitating to catch that peerless shot. Behold the revelation, then, that is April: restaurants and bars newly flung open after a stormy winter, hotel rates pleasingly discounted. It might not be quite sunbathing weather yet, but it is vineyard weather and slurping oysters-in-your-seaside-cabana weather and cocktails-on-your-roof-terrace weather.

Where to stay in April: at Nous , a luxe retreat with unique architecture and design notes that hit a lovely harmony between a remote hideout and a lively base.

Capri, Italy

Average April temperature: 20℃

April is when Capri springs to life again, with enough sunny days to warrant packing a beach bag (though only hardened wild swimmers would dare a dip in the sea). Mid-month, beach clubs start opening up for the season, but there’s plenty to do before the party people dock. Take the chair lift to Monte Solaro for a heart-swelling panorama over the Gulf of Naples ; hire a gozzo fishing boat and explore Capri’s hidden coves and grottoes; go window-shopping for chic villas spilling bougainvillaea; wander the island’s decidedly upmarket, curving streets. And for every see-and-be-seen restaurant and seaside bar, there’s a genuine gem. Da Paolino, with tables set between rows of fragrant trees in a lemon grove, is a favourite with designer Nicky Zimmermann .

Where to stay in April: On a cliffside hovering above Marina Grande, the island's humming harbour, JK Place Capri is a welcome refuge from the tourists congesting the port below.

Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique

Average April temperature: 25℃

In the 1950s the Bazaruto archipelago, a string of six, immaculate islands off the sleepy shores of mainland Mozambique’s Vilankulo, had a certain reputation. Particularly the Santa Carolina hotel, on one of the smaller islands, where a colourful mix of the rich, renegade and rock ’n’ roll would land on its private airstrip, primed for clandestine revelry (it’s said Bob Dylan composed his song ‘Mozambique’ on the hotel’s baby grand). Decades of civil war spoiled the party, but today Bazaruto is quietly making a comeback, thanks to the splendour of its wild, dune-backed beaches, left for the longest time to themselves. And authentic island life isn’t just for visitors. Bazaruto, in particular, offers a rich, living tapestry of vibrant villages, waving schoolchildren, freshwater lakes, savannah grassland and mangrove swamps.

Where to stay in April: On the island of Benguerra AndBeyond has a bush camp-style hideaway with private plunge pools and cocktails served from a traditional sea-going dhow. On Bazaruto, the largest island, Anantara has a scattering of thatched beach villas and its signature spa.

Average April temperature: 27℃

One of the great pleasures of Mauritius is the culture: a real world of hot curries, temples and tea plantations outside the hotels. And now, one white-sand beach retreat aims to bring these disparate spheres together. SALT of Palmar – an east-coast eco hotel complete with organic food, e-bikes and hip rooftop bar – encourages guests to take part in its Skill Swap programme, matching them to islanders with similar passions so they might bond over regionally nuanced takes on shared skills. Artists might meet local painters and craft cocktail-makers could match with Mauritian mixologists – such as Denis Aristide, a taro farmer who also steers the hotel bar and favours ingredients including ylang ylang essence sourced from a local boutique estate. With cyclone season ending in March and May ushering in winter, April might just be the best time to get to know Mauritius.

Where to stay in April: At the most acclaimed hotel in these parts, LUX* Grand Baie .

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New Orleans, USA

Average April temperature: 26℃

New Orleans is so much more than the French Quarter, but it’d be daft to come here in April and miss the Easter parades. As flamboyant as Mardi Gras, if somewhat less raucous, several separate processions march their floats and Sunday-best bonnets through the famous neighbourhood, including a truly fabulous Gay Easter Parade. The weather might suit sunny wanders among Garden District antebellum mansions, but save some time for hipster Bywater: Bacchanal’s fairy-lit wine patio is a must. Meanwhile, more contemporary hotels are leaping from strength to strength here.

Where to stay in April: at Peter & Paul : a converted Catholic church and convent in Marigny – the French Quarter’s equally jazz-club-packed, but more boho-artsy, neighbour – it’s a masterclass in design, and the service is trѐs bien.

Perth, Australia

Long out on a limb – Perth is bunched into the corner of Western Australia , separated from the rest of the country by vast swathes of punishing outback terrain – the riverside state capital is now, for the first time, reachable by direct flight. Qantas must’ve clocked the new cultural cachet that’s lately made Australia’s most isolated city a proper rival to capital-in-all-but-name Sydney and cool-kid Melbourne , launching a non-stop from Heathrow in 2019. But you don’t travel 17 hours just for a sunny city break – though Perth is certainly that (it’s palpably pulsing with new energy: slick restaurants showing off Swan River views; blockbuster galleries and street murals; the spanking-new Ritz-Carlton Perth). Wider WA, though, possesses a wilder allure. Ningaloo Reef is just as jaw-to-the-floor ravishing as the Great Barrier, and with far fewer visitors; the Kimberley’s immense gorges and bizarre natural rock sculptures (see: the Bungle Bungles) are about as humbling as landscapes get. Oh, and the beaches. Everything about WA is hot.

Where to stay in April: at COMO The Treasury , the first COMO outpost down under.

Average April temperature: 32℃

Sri Lanka  has had a tough go of things in the past few years – but more recently, the teardrop  island  has had a serious renaissance and is now back on most peoples' bucket lists as a wonderful warm weather destination. Across the island, you'll find astonishing beaches, national parks with jaw-dropping wildlife-spotting opportunities, hill country paddies to explore – as well as some of the best food in this part of Asia and some seriously smart hotels, too.

Where to stay in April: Wild Coast Tented Lodge in Yala National Park is the spot for animal lovers. Beach bums with deep pockets should check out Amanwella .

St Barth’s, Caribbean

Average April temperature: 29℃

The Caribbean ’s chicest island is back in business, after twin hurricanes Irma and Maria wreaked havoc in the region in 2017. And April is the sweet spot for lapping up its revamped boutique suites and beach clubs , with the winter crowds gone and storm season safely some time away (typically kicking in around July ).

Where to stay in April: Two of our favourites, secluded Hotel Le Toiny and Villa Marie Saint-Barth (sister to the glamorous Villa Marie Saint-Tropez), were hit hard by the hurricanes, but have come back better than ever. The former, hidden away on St Barth’s rugged south-east side, has relaunched its beach club, with seafront pool, sunbeds and no end of chilled rosé; the hotel, all whites and creams and petrified wood, has also added eight new rooms, with pools and ocean-view terraces. At the island’s opposite end, Villa Marie – whitewashed, shuttered, with dangling bamboo egg chairs – has been fully restored.

Seville, Spain

This Spanish city is finally getting the recognition it deserves, but spring and autumn are the ultimate times to visit Seville. Temperatures can reach a balmy 25℃, but if you work around school holidays you’ll avoid the hordes of tourists visiting during half term and Easter break. The city is best explored through its food scene – our favourite lunch spot is Mercado de Triana, where Bar La Muralla serves up proper tapas amid bustling locals buying groceries and catching up with friends. For dinner, book a table at El Rinconcillo, a centuries-old restaurant where the waiters will tell you the best things to order (on and off menu). It's slightly cooler than in the summer months, so spend afternoons strolling through the city’s prettiest parks – the Royal Alcázar is the loveliest green spot come spring Where to stay in April: Nobu Seville offers the best of both worlds: a buzzy spot right in the city centre, close to all of Seville’s top restaurants and bars, with a zen rooftop space for relaxing come sundown, plus there’s a plunge pool if the weather is warm enough. Read our full list for more of Seville’s top hotels .

Marrakech, Morocco

Average April temperature: 25ºC

Marrakech is beautiful year-round, but the city is truly spectacular come spring. Tourists slowly start coming to the city around this time of year, so come early to make the most of the city. The medina comes alive as the city begins hotting up, with flashes of bright colours from overflowing bags of spices, the distant echoes of prayers and the hustle and bustle of the marketplace – all best enjoyed before the temperatures reach their peak in the summer months.

Where to stay in April: La Mamounia is always a safe bet in Marrakech. Having played host to the likes of Charlie Chaplin, Winston Churchill and Alfred Hitchcock, hours can be whiled away in the hotel’s vast gardens, peaceful pool or rooftop balconies. Take a look at our guide to Marrakech’s best hotels for more inspiration.

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The 10 Best Warm Weather Destinations to Visit in April

Matt Moffitt

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Sick of dark days and cold temperatures? We have some warm, sunny escape inspiration for you. The shoulder season month of April brings with it the advantage of fewer crowds and mild temperatures in many tourist destinations both in the US and abroad. With this comes lower accommodation and transport costs, and easier opportunities for sightseeing and touring.

These are the best warm weather destinations to visit in April. 

Miami, Florida

Temperature range: 70-84; Average number of rainy days: 7

South Florida in April is exactly what you’d expect it to be: white sandy beaches, sunny skies, and fun nightlife. The warm weather and clear days make it a perfect reprieve from a snowy winter.

If you’re looking to scratch an art fix, spend half a day at Wynwood Walls arts district and grab lunch at a nearby cafe.

And if you want to extend your trip into even warmer climes, consider hopping on a cruise into The Caribbean, departing from either Miami or Fort Lauderdale.

Where to Stay: Yotel Miami Amenities : Central location, Fitness Center, Pet-Friendly

Quepos, Costa Rica

Temperature range: 75-85; Average number of rainy days: 14

April sits on the cusp of Costa Rica’s dry and rainy seasons, letting travelers experience the best the climate has to offer. High season for tourists winds down at the end of April, so travelers may start to see fewer crowds later in the month.

Quepos is home to several beautiful beaches like the popular Playa Espadilla and the more secluded Play Biesanz , but most travelers visit the town to explore nearby Manuel Antonio National Park . Home to capuchin monkeys, lizards, sloths, and more, Manuel Antonio National Park is open to visitors everyday except Tuesdays. Dozens of guided park tours are available, from an educational night walk to adventurous canopy tours .

Where to Stay: Oceans Two Resort Amenities: Pool & Wetbar, On-site Bar, Pet-Friendly

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Sedona, Arizona

Temperature range: 42-73 ; Average number of rainy days : 4

April is a perfect time to visit the Southwestern United States, with daytime temps not yet reaching the scorching levels of the summertime.

Sedona offers eclectic restaurants, cafes and galleries, with well-established tourist infrastructure to make your stay comfortable.

You’ll want to rent a car and drive in from Phoenix or Flagstaff (also worth a one- or two-night stay), and drive to the many hiking trails both within and just outside of the town. One highlight is the Airport Loop Trail, which runs for three miles along the top of a big plateau with vistas of the town and dramatic mountain ranges that encircle the town.

Where to Stay: The Bell Rock Inn Amenities: Poolside Barbecue Area, Fitness Center, Outdoor Heated Pools & Jacuzzi

Castries, St. Lucia

Temperature range: 75-86; Average number of rainy days: 10-12

April is the end of high season for tourists in St. Lucia, with the weather remaining pleasant and drier in comparison to the rainy summer months.

Take a guided hike of the Pitons, the country’s twin volcanic mountains, for incredible views of the surrounding island. Afterward, kick back with a craft beer of the same name, a local brew inspired by the mountains themselves.

Travelers visiting toward the end of the month can extend their stay into early May to experience the 30th annual St. Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival , a multi-stage musical, artistic, and cultural experience celebrating its triumphant return after a three-year hiatus.

Where to Stay: Marigot Beach Club and Dive Resort Amenities: On-site Spa, Scuba Diving Lessons, Guided Island Excursions

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San Juan, Puerto Rico

Temperature range: 74-86; Average number of rainy days: 14

If you are looking for a combination of beachtime, colorful architecture and good food, then the capital of this U.S. territory is a great place to visit. After spending the day at one of San Juan’s pristine beaches, you can head into the old town for a happy hour cocktail and a scrumptious dinner. Bored of the beach? A day trip to El Yunque tropical rainforest, a one-hour drive outside the city, will satisfy your nature fix. There, you can enjoy a guided hike, try some ziplining, and swim in cascading waterfalls.

Where to Stay: San Juan Water Beach Club Hotel Amenities: Rooftop Dining, Fitness Center, Outdoor Pool

Las Vegas, Nevada

Temperature range: 57-79 ; Average number of rainy days: 2

April is an ideal time to lounge by the pool at one of Vegas’ many hotels and resorts, catch an evening show, and try your luck at a round of blackjack. Better yet, if you can stay mid-week, you’ll escape a lot of the weekend crowds and find great rates at normally pricey hotels.

If you want to extend your trip, consider heading out to the Grand Canyon, or explore a hiking trail just outside the city. 

Where to Stay: The Palazzo at the Venetian Amenities: Cocktail Club, Seven Pools, Attached Casino

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Austin, Texas

Temperature range: 59-80; Average number of rainy days: 7

Clear skies and abundant outdoor activities make Austin a fantastic destination to visit in April. With bluebonnets in bloom, take a road trip out to the Hill Country, and enjoy a wine tasting at one of the region’s many vineyards.

Back in the city, Barton Springs Pool is a must-do activity in April. It’s a natural pool located close to downtown with views of the skyline, and the water temperature is a constant 68 degrees year-round. Pro Tip: To avoid long lines, go to the South (rather than North) Entrance of the pool.

After your swim, check out nearby Terry Black’s Barbecue for lunch, and then enjoy an afternoon of shopping along hip South Congress Avenue.

Where to Stay: Fairmont Austin Amenities: 1,000+ Guest Rooms, Award-Winning Spa, Complimentary Mountain Bike Rental

Negril, Jamaica

Temperature range: 76-85; Average number of rainy days: 8

When vacationers picture their perfect Jamaican getaway, the area that comes to mind is almost certainly Negril. Negril’s beautiful beaches, resorts, and laid-back atmosphere coupled with weather that rarely dips below 80 degrees makes this area ideal for those looking to defrost and unwind from the long winter months.

Here, relaxation is the name of the game. Take a stroll along the coastline of Seven Mile Beach, frequently touted as not only the best beach in Jamaica but in the Caribbean, named for its seven uninterrupted miles of white sands. Afterwards, kick back with a cocktail and watch the sunset from one of several beachside bars.

Carnival celebrations are also at their peak in April in Jamaica, so be on the lookout for masquerades, parades, and concerts held across the country.

Where to Stay: Riu Negril All Inclusive Amenities: Beach-Volleyball and Tennis Courts, Water Sports, Swim-Up & Poolside Bars

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New Orleans, Louisiana

Temperature range: 61-79; Average number of rainy days: 4

April in The Big Easy is jam-packed with festivals, food, and fine weather. Sweltering summer temperatures and humidity have yet to set in, with temperatures averaging a comfortable 77 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Grab a beignet at Café du Monde , take a ride on one of the city’s iconic steamboats , and admire the colorful architecture of the French Quarter. April is also prime time for music lovers to check out the city, with The French Quarter Festival and the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival both kicking off within the month.

Where to Stay: Hotel Monteleone Amenities: Heated Pool, On-Site Spa, Fitness Center

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Temperature range: 71-82; Average number of rainy days: 9

Brazil’s second-largest city and famed party destination is a great place to visit in April, in between the summer and winter seasons that attract the most tourists.

Base yourself in beachside Copacabana, Ipanema or Botafogo to be centrally-located. Don’t miss the iconic Christ The Redeemer statue and be sure to take the cable car up to Sugarloaf Mountain for stunning city views. 

Enjoy lounging on the famous Copacabana or Ipanema beaches, or head to the lesser-known Búzios, Ilha Grande and Paraty beach destinations after spending time in Rio.

Where to Stay: Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana Amenities: 50+ Suites, On-Site Bar & Café, Pet-Friendly

Carol McPherson contributed to this story .

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17 Beautifully Warm States in April | Experts’ Recommendations for a Memorable Visit

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Note: The Travel Awaits team regularly updates content to provide the latest, and most accurate information to our readers. The updated content in this article may not reflect the views or opinions of the original author.

Reward yourself for making it through winter with a warm-weather getaway!

In April, warm U.S. states like Florida boast pleasant median temperatures. Florida sees around 70-80°F ideal for beachgoers. Arizona’s desert climate yields 70-85°F temperatures, perfect for exploring natural wonders like the Grand Canyon. These comfortable climates make April a prime time for outdoor activities and tourism in these states.

TravelAwaits writers have been all over the place at different times of the year, so we turned to the experts to tell us where to go in April 2024. Here are their recommendations!

17 Warm States in April You Should Visit

1. baton rouge, louisiana.

“You’ll be surprised by how warm — or cool — Baton Rouge is in April. 

“Baton Rouge’s oldest neighborhood, historic Spanish Town, is a must-visit. This community has been around longer than the French and English, leaving its mark with pink flamingos and its own Mardi Gras parade. Nearby is the stunning Louisiana State Capitol, with the tallest tower in the United States and a round-about porch on top for a beautiful view of the city and river. Home to a spectacular sprawling live oak tree, the Old State Capitol is a beautiful National Historic Landmark with a free museum. Just keep in mind that it’s closed on Mondays.

“Two plantations, Magnolia Mound Plantation and LSU Rural Life Museum, are well worth a visit. The best part is their presentation of the true story of enslaved people’s experiences in each building. The city has lots of trees, lakes, and scenic running trails, including a few through the LSU campus grounds.” — Ann Bush

Pro Tip: Check out Peggy Cleveland’s article, 8 Fabulous Restaurants To Try In Baton Rouge, Louisiana , for delish Bayou eats!

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Baton Rouge, Louisiana

2. Catalina Island, California

“If you’re yearning for an easy-to-access island with year-round temperate weather, look no further than Catalina . April might just be the best time to visit with temperatures that are warm but not hot, setting the scene to enjoy a wide array of outdoor adventures. 

“Most visitors depart from Los Angeles or Orange Counties aboard the Catalina Express and arrive 60 to 90 minutes later in the small town of Avalon. Spend time browsing the boutique shops, relax on the beach, or hop on a submarine for an underwater tour of Lover’s Cove.

“If you’re feeling more adventurous, head out to explore Catalina’s wild side. Protected by the Catalina Island Conservancy , 88 percent of the island is undeveloped. Take a 3-hour Eco Tour to learn all about the wildlife on the island and keep your eyes open for bison and island fox. Or hike along the Trans Catalina Trail with Catalina Backcountry.

“While most visitors just spend the day in Catalina, it is really worth an overnight stay. After all the day trippers return home, the island is even more peaceful at night. Grab dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants like Bluewater Avalon and watch the sun set over the harbor.” — Wendy Lee

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Catalina Island, California

3. Galveston, Texas

“A majestic fleet of tall sailing ships returns to Galveston April 13–16. Tall Ships® is a fascinating festival featuring family-friendly fun, food, special events, live music, and sailing excursions.

“Rescued from a Greek shipyard and restored, Galveston’s 1877 Elissa is a floating museum that actively sails, welcoming over 40,000 visitors yearly. This National Historic Landmark serves as the official tall ship of Texas.

“Stay at the Grand Galvez hotel and spa, the Queen of the Gulf since 1911, and enjoy fresh Gulf Coast seafood at its Galvez Bar & Grill, plus Sunday brunch. Eat fresh seafood at the historic Gaido’s or any local eateries in the Strand Historic District, including the Black Pearl Oyster Bar or Rudy & Paco Restaurant and Bar.” — Janie H. Pace

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Galveston, Texas

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4. Gulf Shores, Alabama

“With average highs in the mid-70s and lows in the upper 50s, April weather in Gulf Shores , Alabama, can’t be beaten. Sugar-white sandy beaches and the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico make for a relaxing day of doing nothing. Of course, if you somehow tire of lying on the beach there’s great shopping, excellent seafood, and a myriad of spectacular golf courses at your disposal.

“I recommend taking a cruise with Wild Hearts on their 53-foot catamaran. There are plenty of sailing adventures to choose from, but my favorite is the Dolphins & Angels, available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays in the spring. On this incredible tour, you’ll witness breathtaking aerial displays performed by the Blue Angels, the U.S. Navy’s precision flying team, during their practice session.” — Tami Brooks

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Gulf Shores, Alabama

5. Hilton Head, South Carolina

“ Hilton Head is a stunning vacation destination island with Atlantic Ocean views. Best known as a golfing destination , Hilton Head also has beautiful beaches and excellent restaurants.

“The average high in April is 76 degrees, perfect for getting in a round of golf with your besties. I love visiting the iconic Harbour Town Lighthouse and Museum on the southwest coast. Book a tee time at Sea Pines Resort’s spectacular Harbour Town Golf Links and try to play 18 holes like the pros.

“Take time off the links and score a dayboat ride out to Daufuskie Island . Rent a golf cart and explore the island’s peaceful Lowcountry vibe. Daufuskie was a haven for emancipated slaves who lived in isolation for generations, resulting in the area’s unique African/Creole Gullah culture.

“Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks is hands down the best place to eat. I’m a big fan of small plates and they offer lots of options. I love their oysters Rockefeller, Maryland-style crab cake, and the local fried green tomatoes. It offers a coastal casual vibe with perfectly crafted cuisine.” — Sandi Barrett

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Hilton Head, South Carolina

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6. Huntsville, Alabama

“April is the perfect time to visit Huntsville, Alabama , because winter is gone and the heat of summer has yet to arrive. Plus, Huntsville’s concert calendar is bulging with events. Hunstville aspires to be a Music City and various venues ensure that the North Alabama city’s musical aspirations take flight. Don’t limit your preferences to the Von Braun Center’s venues or The Orion Amphitheater. Try these quirky venues, too:

• Have a Huntsville music experience at Lowe Mill, a former 190,000-square-foot textile mill now repurposed into an arts and entertainment district. With 152 studios, seven galleries, and four venues, something is always happening.
• Find a unique instrument at The Cigar Box Guitar Store . Luthier Jeff Mello also creates guitars from other recycled materials like lunchboxes and baseball bats. Learn how to play the instrument on Saturdays. Other classes teach cigar box guitar building. Check out all of the cool classes at Lowe Mill in April.
• Traditional guitars and mandolins are in Tangled Strings Studios’ province. Tangled Strings continues the musical lifecycle in its 105-seat live performance venue.

“Beyond the music, every form of art, including culinary art, lives at Lowe Mill. Try an In-Fidel pizza at the Happy Tummy. It’s a Cuban sandwich turned pizza. The restaurant’s smiling stomach logo makes it a winner before your first bite.” — Roxie Yonkey

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Huntsville, Alabama

7. Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii

“No words can describe the beauty of Hawaii’s tropical landscape. It is beyond anything you see in photos; it surpasses stunning. April is a great month to go to Maui , the state’s second most visited island. The average high is 73 degrees, the winter rains have passed, and the large winter waves have calmed.

“Golf at the Ka’anapali Golf Courses in Lahaina promises views you only see on the Golf Channel, and if you love a challenging game, it definitely belongs on your bucket list.

“The courses are just a short walk from some of Lahaina’s best resorts. Stay at Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club – Molokai, Maui & Lanai Towers . One of my favorite amenities during my stay was a massage in a beachside cabana — dreamy.” — Sandi Barrett

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii

8. Las Vegas, Nevada

“ Las Vegas is a fun destination any time of year, but April is one of the best times to visit. The weather is perfect, spring break is usually over, and things seem less busy. We aren’t big gamblers, but we still like to visit Vegas for all the other things to do. High on our list are the nearby parks.

“ Valley of Fire State Park is so gorgeous it could pass for a national park, and Red Rock Canyon has excellent hiking trails. Both are less than an hour from The Strip. Speaking of The Strip, I like the vibe downtown better. The casinos are much closer together, so you’re not walking miles to get from one to another, and the minimum bets are less. Then you can Uber to The Strip and check out some celebrity chef restaurants, catch a show, and head back downtown for the night. The Fremont Street Experience downtown is a good time and you can’t beat the people watching.” — SJ Morgensen

“Las Vegas is a great year-round destination, but April is perfect for 80-degree temps and a visit before the days hit over 100. Flying into Las Vegas makes the most sense, but if you are close enough to drive in, I would absolutely add on a visit to Valley of Fire State Park (the oldest in Nevada and second most visited in the country) and the incredible Hoover Dam. Living in nearby Mesquite, I go weekly. I recommend getting off The Strip for fabulous museums and attractions, such as The Mob Museum, Fremont Street Experience, Ethel M Chocolate Factory, and Container Park.

“Stay at Circa Resort for a stellar rooftop pool offering or one of the Station hotel options for the best prices. Dine at Nacho Daddy , Cornish Pasty Co., or Chicago Joe’s. For a splurge, go to Dig This Vegas to operate heavy machinery in the nation’s first heavy equipment playground.” — Melody Pittman

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9. Palm Springs, California

“April is a great month to visit Palm Springs, California , when temperatures average around 85 degrees.

“Walk around downtown and you’ll find several museums to visit, boutiques to shop, and dozens of dining options (Sherman’s Deli & Bakery is a must). The Palm Springs Village Fest street fair is held on Thursday nights.

“Farther out, you can play one of the famous golf courses, pamper yourself at a spa, hiking trails and canyons , visit the zoo or a garden, take in a play or concert, or ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to the top of Mt. San Jacinto.

“The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival is held in April in Indio, 25 miles southwest, so expect a bit of traffic on the highways.” — Stan Thomas

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10. Roswell, New Mexico

“Best known for its alien and UFO incident, Roswell is an exciting city. Crowds are thick during the summer when temperatures are in the 90s, so April is an optimal time to visit. My husband and I visited about this time last year and the sun’s intensity made the mid-to upper-70s weather feel much warmer.

“Stroll the historic downtown area and take an in-depth look at the iconic stories in the International UFO Museum and Research Center. Venture into the metaphysical, souvenir, and coffee shops. Dive deeper into the alien craze with Roswell UFO Tours and consider driving out to the alleged UFO crash site.

“Cowboy Cafe has an excellent breakfast with chicken fried bacon and gravy. For lunch, try La Gran Victoria’s tasty mole dishes. Sample wine at Pecos Flavors Winery & Bistro, and grab Dunkin’ Donuts from the shop with the little green man out front.” Melody Pittman

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11. San Juan, Puerto Rico

“If you’re looking for warm weather in April, head to the Caribbean island of Puerto Rico and its capital city, San Juan .

“San Juan is known for its blue cobblestone streets and Spanish colonial forts, but there is more to explore in the city. Consider taking a food tour and learning about the island’s popular dishes . Or head to Casa BACARDÍ and learn about the history of rum and the island’s sugar cane plantations. Want to learn about Puerto Rican art? Head to the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico in Santurce and admire the talent of local artists.

“One of our favorite things to do in Old San Juan is simply wander the streets. Start at the fortresses, then walk to Catedral de San Juan Bautista, the oldest church in the U.S. From here, head to La Fortaleza (the governor’s mansion) and Parque de las Palomas to watch and feed the local pigeon population. Be sure to shop at the local stores and grab a paleta (fruit popsicle) if you need to cool down, or a café con leche if you need a pick-me-up.” — Kirsten Maxwell

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12. South Padre Island, Texas

“Enjoy sandy beaches, sunshine, and great weather in South Padre Island , Texas’s tropical paradise. With an average of 80 degrees during the day and 72 at night, this Texas Gulf Coast beach town is a much-desired vacation spot in April. 

“Miles and miles of beaches offer plenty of public access. Swimming and scouring for seashells is half the fun, but building a sandcastle on the beach is a blast, too. You can even take a lesson on how to build a sandcastle from an expert. If you want to see dolphins, take a cruise out in the morning — as that’s the best time to see them. (Hopefully you’re a morning person!)

“Spring is a great time to visit, before the crowd starts in for the summer, but South Padre Island offers unforgettable experiences and attractions all year long.” — Kim Croisant

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10 Beautiful South Padre Island Beach House Rentals

13. West Volusia, Florida

“Offering something for everyone, West Volusia makes for the perfect warm weather getaway in April. Stetson Mansion and Henry DeLand House Museum (currently closed for restoration) are great for history lovers. Blue Spring State Park is the place for a boat ride and the possibility of spotting manatees. Hontoon Island State Park also has lots of wildlife.

“Downtown DeLand has an award-winning Main Street with lots of unique shops and great dining. If you are craving culture, visit DeLand’s murals along the Wings of the West mural trail. Reputed to be haunted, Athens Theatre offers live performances. If you’re into the paranormal, visit Cassadaga, the oldest active spiritualist camp in the country.

“For living history, you can’t beat Barberville. The pioneer settlement hosts a wonderful Spring Frolic festival in April with over 180 musicians playing and singing folk, Celtic, bluegrass, blues, country, and more. Another amazing event in April is the Cracker Day Rodeo.” — Kathleen Walls

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14. Lakeland, Florida

“ Lakeland, Florida , is a tremendous multi-generational spring break getaway. High temperatures are typically in the low 80s, which is comfortable for outdoor activities.

“For the grandkids, the new Bonnet Springs Park is a fun place to discover the outdoors, but if it rains, you can take shelter in the nature center. The park’s brand-new Florida Children’s Museum is another rainy-day option. The kiddos will love the playground and have a chance to blow off some steam. The Butterfly House and Botanical Gardens are a few of my favorite areas to explore.

“Check into Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins in nearby Auburndale. No RV? No problem. The cabins are a roomy option for the entire family. The cabins have a full kitchen, but there are two onsite restaurants and a couple of tiki bars if you’re not in the mood to cook.” — Amy Piper

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15. Winter Haven, Florida

“The temperatures during April in Winter Haven, Florida , are perfect for those who want a spring getaway with the grandkids. Mine are ages 4 and 20, so the age disparity makes it difficult to plan something everyone will enjoy. But Winter Haven fits the bill.

“Younger kiddos will be delighted by Peppa Pig Theme Park, and everyone, even the adults, can get into building intricate structures with LEGOs at LEGOLAND Florida Theme Park and Water Park.

“Family members interested in art and architecture will enjoy exploring the buildings and galleries of downtown Winter Haven’s Historic District. Be sure to check out the restored 1925 vintage Ritz Theatre .

“Spring is also a great time to get out on a pontoon boat and explore Winter Haven’s Chain of Lakes with The Living Water Boat Cruises.” — Amy Piper

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16. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

South carolina average april temperature: high 73° – low 55°.

If you want a warm East Coast escape in April, look no further than the famous Myrtle Beach in South Carolina. From 60 miles of sandy coastline to vibrant boardwalks and family attractions, Myrtle Beach is bursting with beach fun.

The beaches will be warm enough for a lot of lounging and downtime in the sand, but some may find a visit in April a little too soon for ocean swimming. However, most larger, family-friendly resorts have indoor or heated swimming options.

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Myrtle Beach.

17. Miami Beach, Florida

Florida average april temperature: high 82° – low 66°.

Miami has a tropical climate so it is hot all year round and one of the best warm places to visit in April in the USA. During April you can unwind on the beach, jump in the sea, and walk around without the need for a warm jacket crossing your mind.

The city is famous for its beautiful beaches and is home to some of the best nightclubs and bars in the entire country.  Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Miami Beach.

What Places in the U.S. to Visit in April?

The south of the US has moderately warm weather in April without being overwhelming. For instance, Houston, Texas Hill Country, South Carolina, San Diego, Honolulu, Los Angeles, and New Orleans are some of the best warm vacation spots to visit in April.

What Is the Average April Temperature in the U.S.?

In the northern states, such as New York and Minnesota, the average April temperature can still be quite chilly, around 40°F. As you move southwards, the average April temperature becomes warmer, often exceeding 70°F during the day.

Where to Go for an April Vacation on the Beach in the USA?

With white sand beaches, beach clubs, sunny skies, rich marine life, and abundant outdoor activities, warm destinations like Miami Beach, FL, or South Carolina Myrtle Beach are perfect to visit in April. Without the high humidity and sweltering temperatures, the beach weather in April is just right.

Why Go on a Vacation in April?

With no summer crowds and the average April temperature still over 60 degrees, April marks a magical time across the USA. Summer months bring a tropical climate and little to no shade, making the peak season somewhat unpleasant, if not downright dangerous.

Which U.S. National Parks to Visit in April?

Choose a national park in the southern states to visit in April. Parks like Grand Canyon National Park which is one of the wonders of the world and Arches National Park with its breathtaking red rock landscapes offer manageable temperatures and fewer crowds on the hiking trails than in peak tourist season.

Laura Ray has lived in Atlanta, the Bay Area, SoCal, and Austin. After moving from Texas, she and her husband rambled about the Midwest in a camper for a couple of years before finally settling on 35 acres in their home state of Kentucky. When she isn't clacking around on the keyboard (cat in lap), you can find her practicing yoga, gardening, or playing the ukulele. This travel-lover's favorite destinations include Italy, the Greek isles, and Kentucky Lake.

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Where is hot in April? 13 sunny destinations

Spring is a great time for a holiday – many of the places that are sweltering by summer will be comfortable and crowd-free. here are the best places to find some sunshine.

W ith Easter out of the way and the May school holidays still some way off, April is one of the best times of the year for shoulder-season travel. After a long winter, warm-weather destinations are on the up as we head towards summer, and some are gratuitously close to home. In Europe, Spain’s sprawling Costa del Sol and history-packed Cyprus are among the best options. Then there are the spellbinding salt flats of Bolivia, or two cities streaked with neon: gamblers’ haven Las Vegas and Bangkok, where Thai new year water fights take place in April. In the Caribbean, there is St Croix, a US Virgin Island little known to Brits, while those seeking a distinctive spring destination should consider Bhutan, with its teetering Buddhist monasteries, or the ancient history, modern art and fantastic food of Athens. If you are wondering where is hot in April, here are some of the best places to look.

Main photo: Red Rock Canyon conservation area near Las Vegas (Alamy)

This article contains affiliate links, which may earn us revenue

1. Dubai, UAE

Average temperature 26C By April, temperatures in Dubai are already sizzling towards summer with very little rainfall if any at all — perfect if you just want to lie on the beach and relax. On the flip side, they’re not so high that you wouldn’t want to go out and explore. On any trip to Dubai, you’ll want to tick off a mix of the old and new. That might mean starting with its souks and then working your way towards the historic Al Fahidi neighbourhood for a drink at an Arabian tea house. Or heading to downtown Dubai to see the Burj Khalifa skyscraper up close before popping into the shopping malls nearby. And if you’re fancy a splurge, a scenic flight over the city is the best way to see all of the main sights, including Palm Jumeirah, which, let’s be honest, you can only really appreciate from above.

• Best hotels in Dubai • Best things to do in Dubai

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2. sharm el sheikh, egypt.

Average temperature 25C A reliable and affordable winter sun destination, Sharm El Sheikh is another good bet for fly-and-flop breaks, especially as there are so many all-inclusive resorts along its coast. Pick one with a house reef and you can snorkel steps from your lounger. April is also the beginning of the summer diving season, when the sea starts to warm up. You’ll still need a thicker wetsuit, but clarity will be good and there won’t be as many crowds as in the summer. For time away from the beach, head to the Egyyptian desert for cultural dinners with Bedouins, camel rides and stargazing in darkness so complete that you don’t even need a telescope to see.

• Best all-inclusive hotels in Egypt • Best things to do in Egypt

3. Las Vegas, US

Average temperature 19C For those solely visiting Sin City in order to gamble, researching a specific month’s weather is somewhat pointless: after all, each casino will deliver the same air conditioning and artificial light inside. Everyone else, however, should visit in April. That applies to travellers keen on day trips to the spectacular Hoover Dam, or on helicopter rides over the Grand Canyon. It applies to anyone driving on to Los Angeles via the Mojave Desert, as well as those bound for Death Valley National Park’s scorched salt flats. And it certainly applies to part-time hedonists who are as keen on wandering the Strip to see a mock Eiffel Tower and a lava-spewing volcano as they are on playing poker or roulette. Why? Because April in Las Vegas is like a fine British summer day — wonderfully warm and sunny.

• Best things to do in Las Vegas • Best Las Vegas hotels • The hottest places in the world

4. Gran Canaria, Canary Islands

Average temperature 20C Spain’s third largest Canary Island and second-most populous, Gran Canaria is great for authenticity and atmosphere. April — outside the Easter school holidays — represents an especially good time to come, thanks to its increasingly warm weather. Despite the density of humans, much escapism awaits, chiefly in the golden Maspalomas sand dunes nature reserve or at Artenara, a large mountain village whose Mirador de Unamuno viewpoint makes most jaws drop. Lounge on the many sandy beaches during sunny days and, if it happens to rain, learn about Christopher Columbus in capital Las Palmas’s handsome Casa de Colón museum. Mild April, before truly sweltering temperatures take hold, is also the time to visit for hikes through Gran Canaria’s leafy north.

• Best things to do in Gran Canaria • Best hotels in Gran Canaria

5. Perth, Australia

Average temperature 19C Although autumn is firmly under way in Australia , its warmer west stays balmy in April. That includes isolated Perth , whose stunning renaissance was seemingly confirmed when Qantas launched a 17-hour direct flight from London Heathrow in 2018. A place once dubbed “Dullsville” now possesses enviable boutique hotels, buzz-generating neighbourhood restaurants and a hip, young population. Factor in beaches plus the Art Gallery of Western Australia’s superb Aboriginal art collection, and this is now the Aussie city to visit. Not that you should remain there: the rest of Western Australia is also bountiful. Deservedly earning top billing are the remote Kimberley region’s immense gorges, crocodile-filled Fitzroy River and 41,000-year-old rock art. Ningaloo Reef’s colourful corals and the Margaret Valley’s acclaimed wineries are no less satisfying to experience.

• Best things to do in Perth • Best hotels in Perth

Average temperature 16C April’s climate is ideal for cultural tours around central Asia’s most enigmatic kingdom. Though temperatures climb as winter fades, it’s not unpleasantly sultry and the monsoon remains months away. Across many hillsides or Himalayan slopes, rhododendrons add pops of pink or white to the views. Known for its government’s use of “gross national happiness” to guide policy, Bhutan is predominantly Buddhist, hence you’ll find teetering, cliffside monasteries such as the Tiger’s Nest and a full calendar of celebrations that include April’s Tsechu festival in the Paro Valley — an engrossing spectacle featuring masked and colourfully garbed dancers. The government sets a minimum price for tourism packages in Bhutan that must be paid in US dollars, which covers accommodation, food, transportation and guiding, but the chance to see such a unique destination amply justifies this.

Average temperature 18C Though reliant on capricious weather gods, April usually offers a best-of-both-worlds scenario on Bolivia’s scintillating Salar de Uyuni salt flats. These never look better than when basins of water on their crusted, bright-white surface create a memorable mirror-like effect. As the month progresses, rains completely cease and sunshine resumes, baking the flats dry, but visit early enough and that reflective sheen should still be present in plenty of spots. All the while, as pools recede, it becomes much easier for 4×4 tours to traverse the flats and take visitors to flamingo-flecked lagoons, hot springs, spurting geysers, smoking volcanoes or eerie cacti “islands”. Bolivia is relatively crowd-free during this shoulder season and other standout destinations include South America’s largest lake (by surface area at least), Titicaca, and the wondrous Andean views from high-altitude capital La Paz.

8. Rhodes, Greece

Average temperature 20C Few of the islands within the southernmost Cycladic or Dodecanese chains have as diverse an offering as Rhodes . Along with an array of blue-flag beaches, this largest of the Dodecanese isles is home to cutely traditional mountain hamlets, wooded valleys, windmills and red-roofed Byzantine cathedrals. Most attractive is the village of Lindos, where an ancient, ruined citadel overlooks sugar-cube houses and a glittering bay. In April you’ll enjoy quiet sightseeing and shores — even the classics such as Pefkos and Ladiko — free of summer swarms.

• Best villas in Rhodes

Average temperature 17C In the southeast Mediterranean, Cyprus is mild year-round, apart from in deepest winter — and sometimes even then. Come April, it’s one of the best destinations in Europe for reliable sunshine and warmth. So where to go? Paphos, on the west coast and beloved by Brits, blends sandy beaches with an attractive, restaurant-lined harbour and world-class historical sights ranging from mosaic-covered Roman ruins to Aphrodite’s mythical birthplace. Thirty miles to the north is the Blue Lagoon, which should be quieter than normal outside the Easter holidays. Larnaca combines city and beach, while Ayia Napa’s hedonistic resorts lie to the east and Limassol, in the centre of the south coast, is the unofficial gastronomic capital. The cooler Troodos mountains are dotted with underrated winemakers and farms where moreish halloumi is produced.

• Best beaches in Cyprus • Best hotels in Cyprus • Best things to do in Paphos

10. St Croix, US Virgin Islands

Average temperature 25C Depending on how each year’s calendar falls, the bigger-name Caribbean islands can endure raucous spring-break crowds in April. Despite being an American territory, that’s not an issue in the quieter US Virgin Islands. About 40 miles south of its counterparts, St Croix is the biggest isle, yet blessed with more of a local, lived-in vibe. Cruise ships aren’t common, leaving fern-swathed mountains, an extensive botanical garden, two 18th-century forts and lush white-sand coves all pleasingly un-touristy. Perhaps the biggest draws are superb snorkelling and scuba-diving, with walls and wrecks aplenty on the north coast. Late April usually heralds Taste of St Croix, a short festival in the main town of Christiansted that celebrates local Crucian dishes and entices big-name cooks.

• Best Caribbean islands

11. Bangkok, Thailand

Average temperature 31C Bangkok in mid-April: sunshine, sizzling street food, shopping and… super soakers? Oh yes! Chiefly celebrated from April 13 to 15, the Thai new year festival of Songkran is basically a big water fight. Everyone except orange-clad monks is game for a drenching, with the act a symbolic way for Buddhists in Thailand to wash off the previous 12 months’ misfortunes or failings. It’s a religious holiday across the capital too, with street parties and stages everywhere. Westerners tend to congregate, as ever, along the temporarily pedestrianised Khao San Road. To get doused by balloon-throwing locals, make for Silom. Once you’ve dried off and seen enough of Bangkok , consider decamping to one of Thailand’s paradise islands. All promise decadent heat, but Koh Samui and Koh Phangan should be among the most pleasant.

• Best hotels in Bangkok

12. Costa del Sol, Spain

Average temperature 16C If you’d rather remain in mainland Europe in April, this famous seaboard in southern Spain often lives up to its name at this time of year. The average daily temperatures are very good for the continent in mid-spring, with that Mediterranean climate accompanied by Mediterranean food: typically cold gazpacho, spicy prawns and fried fish tapas. On days when the sandy beaches at Nerja or Benalmadena aren’t in play, inland Andalusia offers a wealth of day trips — Seville , Granada and sherry-making Jerez de la Frontera are leading contenders — while Malaga’s rejuvenation is exemplified by its Pompidou Centre outpost. To the west, pricey nightclubs and pricier yachts dot Marbella’s exclusive Golden Mile, and most resort hotels include spas where one can wallow or massage away winter’s worries.

• Best luxury villas on the Costa del Sol • Best hotels in Malaga

13. Athens, Greece

Average temperature 16C It’s still early in the season, so many of the Greek islands aren’t quite open for business yet, but you won’t find a shortage of things to do in the living museum that’s Athens . Popular tourist spots like the Acropolis, Parthenon and the National Archaeological Museum will be quieter than usual, and hotel rates are still comparatively low. Cultural attractions aside, the city has a pretty harbour near the port of Piraeus, where a row of sea-facing restaurants will help you while away an afternoon, wine in hand. Or head to Lake Vouliagmeni, where mineral waters that average 24C year-round can refresh and nourish your tired winter skin.

• Best things to do in Athens • Best hotels in Athens

Take me there

Looking to go somewhere hot in April? Here are the best winter sun packages from BA Holidays and Jet2 Holidays .

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Top 20 Amazing Places to Explore in April in the USA

I think April is one of the best months to explore the country to find a bit of early sun and shake off those winter blues. Springtime is also one of the most beautiful times to travel, as this is when the weather gets warmer, and flowers are coming into bloom.

Whether you fancy a balmy city break or a hot beach vacation, here are my favorite spots to explore this month…

1. Naples, Florida

I think this place is just so dreamy! Located along the Gulf of Mexico, Naples is ideally situated to laze on the beach, escape to the Everglades or Ten Thousand Islands wilderness, or watch the Chubb Classic, one of the PGA events this month.

This month’s weather is warming up (around 20 degrees), but it has not hit the extremes of summer. With low rainfall and accommodation rates off-peak, so in my opinion it’s a great time to visit! 

In addition to tranquil white beaches and adventures in the adjoining nature preserves, there is excellent shopping and dining.

Naples is easily accessible from Miami along the famous Tamiami Trail. I also love that it’s a quieter and more laid-back place to stay after the craziness of Miami!

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 1010 Sixth Ave. S. Naples, FL 34102, Phone: (239) 262-7300
• Average temperatures – 18 degrees

My favorite highlights…

• Going on a kayaking eco-tour and exploring the beautiful coastal mangrove forests.
• Relaxing on the stunning white sand at Vanderbilt Beach before catching a breathtaking sunset.
• Visiting the Naples Botanical Gardens home to over 170 acres of preservation land and cultivated gardens.

2. Texas Hill Country

The Texas Hill Country, just west of Austin, with its dramatic limestone and granite hills, is a scenic destination at any time of year.

Still, late March and this month are my personal must-go times, as this is when the area comes alive with carpets of wildflowers, especially Texas’ State flower, the bluebonnet, primroses, and Indian paintbrush.

I recommend exploring the region’s unique food. The food has a strong German heritage and Spanish influences, also seen in the architecture and local music. It’s also a key wine region, with over 80 wineries.

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 160 Ingram Hills Rd, Ingram, TX 78025, Phone: +1 830-367-2151
• Average temperatures – 15 to 26 degrees

My personal highlights…

• Hiking to the Hamilton Pool and enjoying a picnic by the natural spring pool before taking a dip.
• Cycling along the Willow City Loop whilst admiring the picturesque countryside and bluebonnet fields.
• Walking the Texas Wine and Wildflower Trail and enjoying a complimentary tasting! 

3. Santa Catalina Island, California

Part of the Channel Islands of California (22 miles off Southern California), I honestly believe this gorgeous spot is one of the best islands to visit in spring.

For starters, there’s the stunning island scenery before the summer crowds arrive, and this time of year has a much more relaxed atmosphere.

The weather averages around 17 degrees in the day, and once there, I would highly recommend just kicking back and waiting for island life to take hold! 

It’s a rocky but very scenic island with white sand beaches, palm trees, a cute harbor filled with gently bobbing boats, and jaw-dropping sunsets. There are also plenty of accommodation options.

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 1 Green Pleasure Pier, Avalon, CA 90704, Phone: +1 310-510-1520
• Average temperatures – 17 degrees
• Experiencing the exhilarating Catalina Zip Line Eco Tour which reaches speed of nearly 40 mph at 600 feet above sea level!
• Exploring the outback on an open-air four-wheel tour to discover remote areas others don’t usually see.
• Taking part in a Happy Hour Tour where I tasted award-winning appetizers and speciality drinks.

4. Sedona, Arizona

As you would expect of a city in Arizona, the climate can be extreme, so this month is an excellent time to visit as temperatures hover around 25 degrees.

Desert flowers bloom, and the hills resound with spring birdsong, making it a special time for hikers and bikers.

The red sandstone rocks of nearby Red Rock State Park pick up the rays of the rising and setting sun and glow as if they were on fire; my Instagram followers loved it! 

The legendary Oak Tree Canyon meanders between Sedona and Flagstaff, and I would suggest adding this popular touring and hiking destination to your itinerary!

I personally have a huge fondness for the town as its favorite artist’s location, some of whom conduct workshops.

I suggest visiting some of the many spas and retreats, where you can restore and revive yourself surrounded by the area’s beauty. To me, staying here is always pure bliss! 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: Sedona Visitor Information Center, 331 Forest Road, Sedona, AZ, 86336, Phone: 928.282.7722
• Average temperatures – 21 degrees
• Hiring an ATV and driving across the scenic West Sedona Canyon outback.
• Catching a stunning sunrise whilst enjoying a hot air balloon ride overlooking the Red Rocks.
• Strolling Uptown Sedona to explore the shops, boutiques, and Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village.

5. Antelope Valley, California

I’d recommend visiting here for the beautiful California poppies that bloom in spring! Like all wildflowers, it depends on rainfall and temperature, so it isn’t easy to guarantee when they will be displayed.

However, this month is a pretty good bet if you want to see the poppies in Antelope Valley, as they bloom somewhere between March and May .

The state flower is celebrated in a Spring Festival, and in my opinion, the best time to view the miles of brilliant color is mid-morning when the flowers have warmed up and unfolded their petals. I promise you’ll love seeing the colors going on for as long as your eye can see!

I’d also suggest visiting nearby Lancaster City, an interesting place with a rich aviation and space travel history.

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 37765 53rd St E, Palmdale, Phone: (661) 361-8254
• Average temperatures – 23 degrees

My highlights…

• Walking through the trails of the Poppy Reserve to admire the Instagrammable views of the vibrant wildflowers.
• Checking out the fun events and rides at the Antelope Valley Fairgrounds.
• I learned about history and appreciated local artists’ works at the Lancaster Museum of Art and History .

6. Nā Pali Coast, Hawaii

Hawaii has only two seasons: summer (or Kau, from May to October) and winter (or Hooilo, from November to this month). At this time of year, there is much to see and do, from watching surfing competitions to exploring the dramatic scenery.

I would recommend the awe-inspiring coastline of Nā Pali in northwest Kauai, with views of dramatic razor-sharp mountains and rocky terrain, except for drivers, for the shore is too rugged to contemplate building a road along it.

For the adventurous, I would highly recommend trying the incredible hiking trails and kayaking tours, while there are catamaran and helicopter trips for those who are not so daring. There are also stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and even archaeological sites! 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: Kikiaʻola Small Boat Harbor, Kekaha, HI 96752, Phone:  +1 808-635-1131
• Experiencing the 17 miles of the coast from a different perspective by taking a sailing tour.
• Enjoying the adventure of a lifetime with a helicopter ride overlooking the dramatic cliff.
• Hiking along the Kalalau Trail to enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean and greenery. 

7. Tidal Basin, Washington DC

This is a famously beautiful spring break. Head to the Tidal Basin in Washington DC, and you’ll see the pretty blossom trees, which were a gift from Japan in 1912!

The historic trees signal the beginning of spring and have an average peak bloom date that falls in this month. I highly recommend taking a trip to see them as the trees explode into a wonderful sea of light pink and white blossoms.

Around 70% of the cherry blossom trees’ flowers are open around the 4th, but sometimes the bloom peak occurs as late as the 18th of the month. The bloom lasts around 14 days but is well worth seeing, and I suggest taking your camera! 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 1501 Maine Ave SW, Washington, Phone (202) 479-2426
• Average temperatures – 19 degrees
• Enjoying a bike ride along the stunning loop and array of national monuments.
• Renting a paddleboat and enjoying some time spent relaxing on the calm water.
• Spending the day at the National Cherry Blossom Festival and seeing live entertainment amongst the flowers.

8. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

A few miles south Of Yellowstone and part of the Rockies, the Teton Range is a majestic range of mountains separated from the plains of Jackson Hole by a dramatic fault. The Snake River meanders through the range and is fed by several of the lakes in the area.

The skiing season closes towards the end of March/beginning of this month. It is too early for the summer crowds, so in my opinion, it’s an excellent time to visit this beautiful place (I would suggest just wrapping up warmly as it’s still very chilly this month!).

A single visit will not do the Park justice, as there are over 300 km of hiking trails to explore and conquer.

The mountains are vast and awe-inspiring, and I love spotting wildlife here, including large herds of bison and other animals living in this unspoilt wilderness. 

• Visitor’s Centre Address (for post only): Grand Teton National Park, P.O. Box 170, Moose, WY 83012-0170, Phone: 307-739-3300
• Average temperatures – 8 degrees
• Taking a scenic drive to Signal Mountain and seeing picturesque panoramic views overlooking the park.
• Discovering the Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point located on the western side of Jenny Lake. 
• Hiking along the trail from String Lake to Leigh Lake (it’s okay for all ages and ability levels).

9. Bisti Badlands, New Mexico

I think these rather forbidding plains, with their bizarre rocky outcrops, are a gem in New Mexico .

The fossils here are impressive, and new dinosaur species are still being unearthed. The “Bisti Beast,” for example, was discovered in 1998, a new tyrannosaurus species.

As recently as 2017, the skull of a Parasaurolophus cyrtocristatus, a strange-looking duck-billed dinosaur, was found, only the second of this species! 

I personally think that this month is a good crossover time to visit. Between the rigors of winter and the heat of summer, it is comfortable to hike or wander among the rocks.

Temperatures hover around 19 degrees here, so it’s perfect for long hikes. 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 3041 E. Main Street, Farmington, Phone: 800-448-1240
• Average temperatures – 18 degrees
• Hiking along the Bisti Badlands Trail and discovering the cool Cracked Eggs rock formations.
• Capturing an Insta-worthy shot of the unique Alien Throne along the Valley of Dreams Loop.
• Exploring the short Ah-shi-sle-pah Trail and seeing the dramatic hoodoo views.

10. Palm Springs, California

I love this place for sun and hot weather this month, as temperatures reach 31 degrees. It has always been famous as a retreat for showbiz stars, retirees, and snowbirds escaping cold winters.

There is entertainment, spas, and shopping aplenty, as well as many retro-styled hotels and about 100 golf courses. There are lots of other opportunities, especially for outdoor experiences.

The area is well-provided with hiking trails, but I highly recommend going on a fun Jeep adventure and cultural experiences like the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum .

I would also suggest taking the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which rotates on its short journey to Monte San Jacinto State Park. 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: Palm Springs Visitor Information Center, 2901 North Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262, Phone: 800-347-7746 | 760-778-8418 
• Average temperatures – 31 degrees
• Strolling down the city sidewalks to discover the famous Palm Springs Walk of Stars, created in 1992.
• Checking out the Palm Springs Art Museum, which displays contemporary and modern art and I loved the stunning sculpture garden.
• Wandering through the Sunnylands and explore 12 acres of beautiful botanic gardens.

11. Port Townsend, Washington

Located in Jefferson County, around two hours from Seattle , Port Townsend, in my opinion, is a good choice if you’re looking for a relaxed spring break without any crowds.

This month, temperatures average around 14 degrees, so I recommend packing warm clothes before you leave. But it will be worth it!

The city has long trails and beaches, fine restaurants, fantastic art and cultural experiences, and a fascinating maritime history.

I personally loved the Point Wilson Lighthouse , The Jefferson Museum of Art and History , and The Fort Worden State Historical Park .

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 2409 Jefferson St, Port Townsend, WA 98368, +1 360-385-2722
• Average temperatures – 14 degrees
• Buying fresh, local produce and artisan products from a Farmer’s Market.
• Indulging in a beer and wine tasting at Port Townsend Vineyards and Port Townsend Brewing.
• Walking the beautiful čičməhán Trail, where you can find 3-, 6- or 12-mile loops.

12. Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs

Located just an hour from Denver , Colorado Springs is home to the Garden of the Gods , a significant attraction with scenic sandstone rocks. This month, the snow may not yet have melted on Pikes Peak, which overlooks the Park, adding more impact to the dramatic scenery.

I recommend stopping at the Visitor and Nature Centre, which includes an interactive museum.

Several trails, about 20 km long, are available, including the Perkins Central Garden Trail, which is accessible for wheelchairs and prams.

You can walk, cycle (or Segway), or even take a Jeep ride (my favourite!), and afterwards, I would suggest refreshing yourself in the cafeteria and just taking in the views.

Dogs are also welcome on leads, and there are even some areas where they can walk off-leash. This is also a popular and challenging spot for rock climbing, but permits are required.

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 1805 N 30th St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904, +1 719-634-6666
• Going on a fun segway tour and exploring the Garden.
• Climbing across the surrounding large carved rocks.
• Stopping by the hip and healthy Bean Sprouts Cafe for a bite to eat after my adventures.

13. Miami, Florida

Miami is the world’s playground, with something for everyone, from nature lovers and golfers to compulsive shoppers and nightclubgoers.

It is always hot and humid, but this is a great time to visit because it’s cooler, there is less rainfall, and temperatures can reach around 26 degrees.

I love that its proximity to Cuba and the rest of the Caribbean gives it a tropical and exotic flavor quite different from that of much of the country. 

I recommend celebrity spotting around South Beach (or in their hideouts in Coral Gables) and exploring the Everglades or the other preserves, like Big Cypress.

South Beach is also a must-visit for Art Deco fans, and I also suggest visiting quieter beaches such as Bal Harbour or North Beach.

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 701 Brickell Ave., Suite 2700, Miami, FL 33131, Phone: (305) 539-3000
• Average temperatures – 26 degrees
• Taking a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter ride overlooking the breathtaking Miami skyline.
• Spending the day at Sunny Isles Beach and enjoy some swimming, diving, and water sports in the cooling waters.
• Going on a tour of Miami’s most well-known film set locations.

14. Flint Hills, Kansas

This is a special place to visit as grasslands are shrinking worldwide, mainly because they provide excellent land for cultivation.

The prairies of North America and the life they support are steadily being restored and protected but have mainly been converted to farmland.

Spring brings warmer weather, rain, and sunshine, so in my opinion, it’s a vibrant and verdant time to visit. Elks are now extinct in the area, but the bison herds are starting to come back.

I highly recommend standing on the slopes and gazing at the grasslands, which have looked exactly like this for thousands of years and are still home to birds and animals that thrive in the prairie! 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 315 S 3rd St, Manhattan 66502, Phone: +1 785-587-2726
• Taking a free bus tour of Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve and learning about the culture whilst admiring the gorgeous scenery.
• Appreciating paintings from famous artists Judith and Ken Mackey Flint Hills Gallery.
• Enjoying a road trip through the National Scenic Byway, which is 48 miles long and is home to many historical sites and quaint towns.

15. San Diego, California

I personally think this month is a great time to visit San Diego as it’s much less crowded, there is still plenty of sun, and temperatures hover around 20 degrees.

Most people flock to “Beach City” for family fun on the beaches. Mission Beach is a good swimming beach, with a boardwalk and rollercoaster, but I recommend checking out the tidal pools at La Jolla, when the tide is low, and snorkeling at La Jolla Cove, part of the Underwater Park.

If you’ve had too much sun, I would suggest heading for Balboa Park, where you would need at least a week to explore, taking in the 18 diverse museums or some cultural events. The Air and Space Museum is affiliated with the Smithsonian and has something for kids of all ages.

I would suggest tasting some Baja cuisine, dancing the night away in one of the nightclubs, or viewing one of the many shows on offer.

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 996 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, Phone: (619) 236-1242
• Average temperatures – 20 degrees
• Having fun at Belmont Park is filled with exciting rides and adrenaline-pumping rollercoasters.
• Catching one of San Diego’s best sunsets at La Jolla Cove, a perfect spot for Instagrammable shots.
• Exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Gaslamp Quarter, filled with bars, lounges, and music venues.

16. Nantucket Island, Massachusetts

Nantucket was once a thriving whaling center. Even though the population today is only 11,000, it can swell into 50,000 during peak tourist season, so in my opinion, the shoulder months are an excellent time to visit.

Nantucket is reached by ferry from Cape Cod, a 30-mile trip. I suggest visiting this month because it is off-peak, accommodation prices are more affordable, and it is also during the daffodil season.

The flowers are growing everywhere, and the locals go daffodil-crazy for the whole month, which includes car parades, picnics, and daffodil dress-up competitions.

I would recommend visiting the Whaling Museum (although thankfully, most people are against the cruelty of catching whales now!) and walking, cycling, or even catching a bus to view the historic buildings dotted around the island. There are also guided tours.

If you have children with you, there are plenty of family-friendly activities for them, from beaches to boat rides. 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: Nantucket Department of Culture & Tourism. 25 Federal Street, Nantucket, MA 02554, Phone: 508-228-0925 Fax: 508-325-5443
• Average temperatures – 13 degrees
• Renting a bike and exploring the island’s 35 miles of multi-use paths. 
• Visiting the three historic lighthouses – Sankaty Head Light, Brant Point Light, and Great Point Light.
• Spending the afternoon shopping downtown, home to many cute boutiques and independent stores.

17. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach is a small but fast-growing city on the South Carolina coast that attracts around 20 million tourists a year. It offers a warm climate and welcoming beaches.

In my opinion, this month is a great time to visit, as it is a bit quieter than March when Ontarians flock to Myrtle Beach to escape their weather. 

It is also when the “Coastal Uncorked” festival of food and drink is held, and I would highly recommend timing your visit for then (it’s towards the end of the month).

The resort has 80 golf courses on offer, as well as nightclubs, theatres, and concerts. However, the warmth and the long sandy beaches bring most tourists to Myrtle Beach again and again! 

I love the Boardwalk, and it’s one of the best in the country. It’s great for a stroll along the coastline, or if you need a rest, hop on the SkyWheel and view the beaches and the Atlantic Ocean.

There is also a water park and an amusement park for the kids, which is a bonus! 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 1200 N Oak St, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577, Phone: +1 843-626-7444
• Average temperatures – 22 degrees
• Checking out the Hollywood Wax Museum and posing with some of my favorite A-listers.
• Enjoying a stroll along the boardwalk that is 1.2 miles long and filled with fun attractions, rides, shops, and restaurants.
• Going on a thrill-seeking adventure in the five-acre forest treetops at the Radical Ropes Adventure Park.

18. Caddo Lake, Texas and Louisiana

This beauty spot is located in Texas and Louisiana; in my opinion, it’s one of the region’s best-kept secrets.

Attracting families, couples, nature lovers, and wildlife watchers, plenty of vacation accommodation rentals exist, including camping spots, cabins, bed and breakfasts, and some nearby hotels.

In Caddo Lake State Park, you can swim hike, picnic, camp, or stay in a cabin, look for a geocache, but I highly recommend boating.

However, be warned—alligators live in the park. Read up on the area’s alligator safety tips before your visit!

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 245 Park Road 2, Karnack, Phone: (903) 679-3351
• Average temperatures – 24 degrees
• Renting a kayak and exploring the water trails to discover the unique landscape.
• Taking an early morning boat tour and watching a romantic sunrise or sunset over the lake.
• Camping overnight at a beautiful shore-side campsite.

19. Blue Ridge Parkway National Park, North Carolina

If you are planning a springtime road trip, I suggest that you include this spot—all 755 kilometers of it—on your list, as it takes you through scenic areas of North Carolina and Virginia.

The parkway is closed during winter but opens in spring again. Despite the closure, it has been one of the country’s most-visited parks since 1946.

There are attractions en route, and I recommend stopping at the visitor centre, but in my opinion, what makes the Parkway unique and special is its fantastic biodiversity.

Whether it is the 4000 species of plants, over 250 bird species, or the chance of spotting black bears ambling along, this is a nature watcher’s hotspot!

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 195 Hemphill Knob Rd, Asheville, NC 28803, Phone:+1 828-298-5330
• Hiking the breathtaking Blue Ridge Parkway Waterfalls via a park trail.
• Taking a trip to one of the local vineyards and experiencing world-class wine tasting.
• Visiting the Blue Ridge Music Center, which hosts several music events at its outdoor concert venue.

20. Bar Harbor, Maine

Although temperatures aren’t the warmest (average temperatures hover around 12 degrees in the day) I personally think there are many reasons to visit Bar Harbour, a town on Mount Desert Island along Maine’s Frenchman Bay in Maine this time of year.

For starters, you’ll get good deals on accommodation as it falls before the summer peak season, and you’ll also arrive before the crowds arrive.

I’m a huge fan of this place. I love that the scenery is quaint and beautiful, with gorgeous coastal beauty. I love the bobbing yachts and boats, the incredible ocean, the neighbouring island views, and the atmospheric weather, which ranges from sparkling sunlight to thick fog and mist.

I think Bar Harbor is a relaxing destination, as well as being the gateway to the mountains and the rugged scenery of nearby Acadia National Park. 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 2 Cottage St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, Phone: +1 207-288-5103
• Average temperatures – 12 degrees

My favourite highlights…

• Hopping on Oli’s Trolley to explore Bar Harbor with a narrated tour.
• Grabbing food at Geddy’s on the main street and admiring the view overlooking Frenchman Bay.
• Discovering the stunning landscape along the coastline via an e-bike rental at Bar Harbor Bicycle Shop.

Becky Moore - Owner, writer and photographer My first true adventure began as a six-month voyage around South East Asia as a fresh-faced backpacker and ever since I’ve lived a semi-nomadic existence, clocking up visits to over 40 countries. I’m a lover of US Road Trips, deserted beaches bathed in the warm glow of a sunset, Cuban mojitos, travel destinations far away from the tourist crowds, and all things Scandinavian – from cloudberry liquors to Nordic noirs. When not wandering the world and running Global Grasshopper, you’ll find me walking my ex-Athens street dog in leafy South West London, strolling around the Brighton Lanes on random day trips, hunting for photogenic landscapes or daydreaming about my favourite places; Havana, Copenhagen, Italy, Borneo, Finland, Greece, Berlin, Laos, California and the surreal and beautiful landscapes of a wintry Iceland. Hotel Reviewing Experience - published hotel review in the 52 Sleeps Book organised by Laterooms.com and Lonely Planet. Asked by over 12 tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including Germany Tourist Board , Canada Tourist Board , Eviivo , France.fr , Visitoostende.be , Live Riga and Queensland Tourist Board . Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos . I’ve also been quoted in Forbes, National Geographic , The Times , LA Weekly , Yahoo Travel , Huffington Post , Business Insider , Thrillist , British Airways Magazine, Entrepreneur , Daily Express , Wanderlust , Telegraph Travel, Daily Mail and Metro . Winner of Travel Blog of the Year . Find me on Linkedin or Facebook .

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15 Best Places to Travel in April

These are the best places to visit in April in the United States and around the world.

Adirondack Mountains, New York

Washington, d.c., oxnard and ventura, california, napa valley, california, salt lake city, utah, tampa, florida, new york, new york, kauai, hawaii, london, england, western australia, kyoto, japan, lake como, italy, vancouver, british columbia, virgin gorda, british virgin islands, river cruise in france.

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Looking for an April getaway? The first full month of spring brings flowers to many places around the world, including the world-famous cherry blossoms that paint Washington, D.C. pink each year. There’s still time for snow sports fans to get in a few runs, but we have suggestions for travelers who are more than ready for sunshine and warm weather, too. Plus, a total solar eclipse will be visible from several North American destinations, so you should start planning now if you want to see this astronomical event. Here are the best places to travel in April 2024 in the U.S. and around the world. 

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Located in northeastern New York State about 300 miles from Manhattan, the Adirondack Mountains will be one of the best areas in the Northeast to see the April 8 solar eclipse.  “Guests in the Lake Placid region will experience spectacular views of the eclipse over the Adirondack Mountains as day turns to night for a brief three minutes,” according to Matthew Wheeler, general manager of High Peaks Resort . In the meantime, activities include late-season skiing, the newly remodeled Lake Placid Olympic Center, outdoor adventure at New Vida Preserve, and the Lake Placid Olympic Museum, home to one of the world’s largest collections of Winter Olympics memorabilia. 

Where to Stay: High Peaks Resort is offering special eclipse packages and events. There’s also the Grand Adirondack Hotel, The Point on Saranac Lake, and The Lodge at Schroon Lake.  

Related: How to See the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse 

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Spring is lovely in the nation’s capital, and the annual National Cherry Blossom Festival from March 20 to April 14 makes it a truly special time. I had the good fortune to be in Washington during the bloom a few years back, and I still recall the visitors’ awe, as well as my own, at the beauty of the delicate blossoms overhead and carpeting the ground at our feet. Mild weather encourages time outdoors strolling along the National Mall, The Wharf, and Union Market. The many fantastic museums in D.C. offer something for every interest, as well as perfect places to shelter on a chilly or rainy day. 

Where to Stay: At The Wharf, Washington’s exciting waterfront neighborhood, stay at the Pendry Washington D.C or InterContinental Washington D.C. The Wharf . Other top hotel picks include The Ritz-Carlton Georgetown, Washington D.C., Salamander Washington D.C., and The Morrow Hotel.

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These coastal cities, located less than 100 miles from Los Angeles, are ideal for a spring (or summer) escape from the city. Oxnard is known for strawberries, and in April, the berries begin to ripen, continuing throughout the summer. The region produces one-third of the state’s strawberry volume, and visitors flock to the area to pick their own fruit and enjoy strawberry shortcakes, pies, ice cream, and beverages. Nearby Ventura, home to beaches, hiking trails, and ferries to Channel Islands National Park , will host the California Strawberry Festival at Ventura County Fairgrounds later in the year from May 18-19. 

Where to Stay: Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach in Oxnard reopened recently after a multi-million dollar transformation. Waypoint Ventura offers unique accommodations in restored vintage trailers. 

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Fans of wine, gorgeous scenery, and shoulder season travel will enjoy Napa Valley in April. Summer crowds are still months away, California poppies are in bloom, and you might catch the end of the wild mustard season’s bright yellow flowers . Tasting rooms are open, and Sullivan Rutherford Estate (a stunning winery I visited last year) offers Merlot Mastery , an immersive educational experience. At Silverado Resort, guests can up their racquet games with Pickleball Camp (April 20-21) and “Backhands, Vines, and Volleys” tennis camp (April 25-27), or go for a round of golf. Take in vineyard views from the Napa Valley Wine Train or enjoy the scenery with a drive among grapevines and fields of spring flowers.

Where to Stay: Meadowood Napa Valley is a personal favorite for its perfect combination of luxury and rustic atmosphere. I also enjoyed my stay at the romantic and elegant Poetry Inn where each suite is unique and all offer spectacular views. 

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Looking for spring skiing? Consider Utah’s capital your starting point and spend a few days in the city before you head for the slopes. You’ll find lively nightlife, restaurants, breweries, pubs, and views of snow-covered mountains to add to your anticipation. Less than 40 miles away, ski at Alta, Brighton, Solitude, Snowbird, and Park City, where there are snowy slopes for all levels of skiers, snowboarders, and winter sports fans. While I’m not a skier, I loved my winter visit to Park City where I tried snowshoeing (loved it!) and enjoyed the charming downtown and excellent restaurants.  

Where to Stay: In Salt Lake City, we recommend staying at the Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City or Kimpton Hotel Monaco . 

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

Temperatures in the low 80s with sunny days and cool nights make April an ideal time to visit Tampa. Spring also brings the Tampa Bay Wine & Food Festival (April 9-13), with a Chef Showdown competition, tasting events, and celebrity guests. The annual Taste at The Straz on April 27, held at the Straz Center on Tampa’s Riverwalk, raises funds for its outstanding theater productions, operas, and concerts. Stroll along the river, explore Water Street , and take a boat ride (or rent your own as I did on a trip last year, floating along in a craft that resembled my old ‘57 Chevy). Another personal favorite is the Ybor City Historic Walking Tour, where you can learn about Tampa’s role as a center of cigar production.

Where to Stay: JW Marriott Tampa Water Street features Beacon, a rooftop lounge with panoramic views. The Tampa Edition is a new five-star hotel on Channelside Drive, and the boutique Hotel Haya is a great option in Ybor City. 

Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure

Flowers are blooming in the city that never sleeps, and visitors can find cherry blossoms at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, the Orchid Show at the New York Botanical Garden, and more than 30,000 varieties of flowers at the annual Macy’s Flower Show. The free event also includes seminars, demonstrations, and more. Spring showers are the perfect excuse to see a Broadway show, go shopping, or visit one of the best museums in New York City . There are also plenty of free things to do in NYC — stroll through Central Park, walk along the High Line, or enjoy the view from the Brooklyn Bridge. 

Where to Stay: The InterContinental New York Times Square is a luxury spot, steps from Broadway theaters. I recently spent two nights there — I loved the buffet breakfast and The Stinger bar and restaurant. The new Virgin Hotels New York City is located in NoMad, a central location ideal for tourists who want to see it all. 

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The “Garden Island” is Hawaii’s oldest and northernmost island. Kauai’s weather is wetter than the other islands, but the rewards for waiting out those showers are waterfalls and rainforests with lush vegetation. Because April is part of the island’s shoulder season, you might score a deal on flights or accommodations, and you can still catch the tail end (pun intended) of whale-watching season. From relaxing on Kauai’s gorgeous beaches to tubing along mountaintop canals, there are many ways to enjoy the island. 

Where to Stay: The luxe 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay opened last year. Families love Kukuiʻula , with a wide variety of amenities and accommodations.  

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

April is one of the best times to visit London because it’s before the arrival of summer’s visitors and after the chilliest days of winter. The annual London Marathon, happening on April 21, is one of the world’s most popular, with Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge, and Canary Wharf along the route. After the excitement, relax with afternoon tea at Fortnum & Mason, The Dorchester, or Brown’s and indulge in savory and sweet treats. If a cocktail is more your style, the city’s hotels offer plush lounges and creative menus — and we’ve rounded up the top cocktail bars in London so you can find the best sips.  

Where to Stay: Last year, I stayed at the charming Beaverbrook Town House and toured the Chelsea Townhouse. The Westin London City features specialized services for marathon runners through a new Westin Hotels & Resorts program.

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

From Perth’s sophisticated urban vibe to the historic port town of Fremantle and the beaches of Rottnest Island, visitors have a variety of ways to enjoy Western Australia. Warm weather continues into April, and Perth’s Indian Ocean shores feature sandy beaches and stunning sunsets. Rottnest Island, a 30-minute ferry trip from Fremantle, is car-free with beaches, walking trails, cute quokkas , and an opportunity to learn about the island’s history and Aboriginal people with a visit to the Wadjemup Museum . Tour the area from above on a seaplane flight or from the sea aboard Seabourn’s Kimberley cruise, an expedition along the rugged coast. In the Margaret River region, about 100 wineries welcome visitors with tours and tastings. 

Where to Stay: In the Margaret River region, Chambré Estate is a newly renovated lodge, and adults-only Edge Luxury Villas are built over a lake in a forested area. In Fremantle, stay at the recently restored historic Warders Hotel.

Jui-Chi Chan/Getty Images

Renowned for UNESCO World Heritage Sites including ancient temples and shrines, Kyoto is especially beautiful during spring when the cherry blossoms bloom. The pink and white sakura , reminders of rebirth after winter, are celebrated with festivals, parades, and nightly illumination. April weather is pleasant for exploring Kyoto’s gardens, teahouses, and historical sites and for savoring traditional kaiseki cuisine. Kyoto is a short bullet train trip from Tokyo, and with InsideJapan Tours , guests can explore Kyoto on a private journey, small group tour, or self-guided adventure.

Where to Stay: Choose Roku Kyoto, LXR Hotels & Resorts or Garrya Nijo Castle Kyoto located next to Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Five-star Hotel the Mitsui Kyoto offers a Sakura Experience with private garden tours, a visit to a local temple, and afternoon tea, according to general manager Manabu Kusui who invites guests “to immerse themselves in the rich heritage and traditions of Kyoto through these cultural experiences.” 

This lake in northern Italy can thank James Bond and George Clooney for some of its fame, but the historic villas, resorts, and charming towns that line its shores get most of the credit. April is shoulder season, when the hotels are reopening and visitors begin to arrive. The summer months, naturally, are the popular season, but spring is beautiful and the weather is mild. A boat ride is the best way to see the elegant villas with intricate landscaping, and several are open to the public for tours. I toured Villa del Balbianello a few years ago and marveled at the grounds, the building, the art, and the history. Lake Como’s resorts are among Italy’s most beloved, as confirmed by Travel + Leisure’s readers in the 2023 World’s Best Awards . 

Where to Stay: Il Sereno topped the list, with Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni and Villa D’Este also receiving high scores in 2023. I have wonderful memories of Grand Hotel Tremezzo — so I’m happy it’s a readers’ favorite, too.

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You can combine a visit to a great city with diverse neighborhoods, fabulous restaurants, and mild weather with a convenient late-season ski trip when you visit Vancouver. Just 15 minutes from downtown Vancouver, Grouse Mountain offers skiing and snowboarding until early May as well as a skating pond, dining, and more. About two hours north, world-class snow sports await at Whistler Blackcomb with more than 200 runs over 8,000 acres of terrain. Home to Vancouver International Airport, nearby Richmond offers history, art, an authentic fishing village, and the Richmond Olympic Oval, an indoor multi-sport center. 

Where to Stay: In the heart of Vancouver, Rosewood Hotel Georgia and Fairmont Pacific Rim are luxurious options. Kim Carmichael, the spa director at Fairmont Pacific Rim, told T+L about their Nordic spa, a new outdoor hydrotherapy experience with hot and cold environments in a circuit. “With April being a time when we experience a rapidly changing climate in Vancouver, it’s an ideal opportunity for self-care.”

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The third largest of more than 60 islands that make up the British Virgin Islands, Virgin Gorda offers pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and national parks. Swimming, diving, snorkeling, and boating are among things to do, and hikers can enjoy the view from the top of Gorda Peak. According to Emily Oakes, vice president of business at Oil Nut Bay, “The crystal blue waters and temperate weather, along with fewer crowds compared to earlier in the year, make April a lovely time to visit our beautiful island. Travelers wishing to fully immerse themselves in the island can book tours to explore The Baths, see Devil’s Bay National Park, and even scuba dive to the Wreck of the Chikuzen.” Visitors can arrive by air from Miami, St. Thomas, and now from San Juan via a semi-private jet . Tortola , Jost Van Dyke, Anegada, and several private island resorts are also popular BVI destinations. 

Where to Stay: Rosewood Little Dix Bay , Bitter End Yacht Club , and Oil Nut Bay are among the best resorts in the British Virgin Islands, with luxe accommodations and ocean views.

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Spring begins the European river cruise season, with most lines starting in mid-March. France is especially beautiful in April, and cruising is an ideal way to see many of the cities and small towns along the country’s rivers. Guests aboard AmaWaterways Paris and Normandy cruise begin in Paris and cruise the Seine to Le Havre, the historic Normandy Beaches, medieval Rouen, and Monet’s home in Giverny before returning to Paris. Viking offers a variety of ways to cruise the rivers of France, including a scenic Lyon and Provence cruise . Uniworld Boutique River Cruises also features cruises along France’s rivers, including trips as long as 22 days with the Ultimate France itinerary. 

Where to Stay: No need to worry about finding hotels — unless you extend your trip at either end of your cruise. You also won’t have to plan transfers, find restaurants, or pack and unpack between stops — these are just a few of the major benefits of exploring Europe via river cruise. I’ve cruised the Rhine, Danube, Douro, and Nile, and I’m a fan of the relaxed pace, shore excursions, and views of the passing scenery that a river cruise provides.

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16 Best Places to Travel in April

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated Feb 10, 2023

Author Anietra Hamper travels year-round and knows the best months to experience destinations, whether you are looking to save a little money or visit when all the attractions are in full swing.

April is a month of new beginnings (hello, budding blooms), revitalization (we missed your energy, sunshine), and awesome deals on vacations. Whether you're hoping to visit Europe , the Caribbean , or as far away as Indonesia, there are a ton of incredible places to visit in April.

A bonus: April is considered the shoulder season in many tropical destinations , which means travelers can enjoy cheap hotel rates and comfortable temperatures before the influx of summer crowds and stifling summer heat set in.

For the winter warriors who are not ready to let go of the snowy season, places like Lake Tahoe still have skiing for end-of-the-season runs. Whether you want to tackle some hiking in the Rocky Mountains or witness the breathtaking cherry blossoms in peak bloom in Japan, April is a great time to travel.

Plan your trip with our list of the best places to travel in April.

1. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

2. moab, utah, 3. london, england, 4. venice, italy, 5. yangzhou, china, 6. amsterdam, netherlands, 7. lake tahoe, california, 8. kyoto, japan, 9. cayman islands, 10. newport beach, california, 11. sydney, australia, 12. bali, indonesia, 13. denver, colorado, 14. washington d.c., 15. athens, greece, 16. agra, india.

The month of April is an ideal window to visit Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, when the weather is comfortable, and rates for hotel rooms are more affordable . This month rests between the high season in the winter and the rush of summer tourists, when hotel and airfare rates skyrocket.

Temperatures are pleasant and rain is almost non-existent in April, meaning more days for enjoying the beautiful beaches and better opportunities to stroll the street markets to find souvenirs or taste some culinary dishes beachside. There is no shortage of things to do in Puerto Vallarta .

You will enjoy your time exploring the historic sites, like the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe during the day and walking along the Boardwalk Malecon to soak in the views of the ocean in the evenings, where you can catch a free dance performance at the amphitheater.

If a visit to the red rock canyons of Moab, Utah is on your bucket list, then planning a trip in April is a great time of year to do it.

Early spring is a perfect time for hiking in Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park , when the weather is cooler and the summer tourists are still a few months away. The climate is perfect for outdoor activities like mountain biking or taking the three-mile trek to capture the iconic image of the Delicate Arch and see this national treasure up close.

Many people travel to Moab for the incredible hiking and unforgettable canyon views but there are so many other things to do in Moab , from biking and horseback riding to taking a four-wheeler trek through the national parks. April is also a good month for camping around Moab .

You will want to plan ahead when making reservations and add enough days to your stay to get in everything that you want to do, especially if you plan to do a lot of hiking.

London is almost always a hot spot for tourists year-round, but April will enable you to enjoy the sights before the summer rush kicks in for domestic and international vacationers. Some attractions require booking tickets for specific days and time slots or may not be open certain days of the week, so you will want to plan ahead if there are specific places on your must-see list.

Another upside to visiting in April is that the weather is more comfortable, especially for walking around the streets of London.

Accommodations in central London stay at a premium most of the year, but you can likely find a break on lodging by staying just outside the city and taking the train.

Kew Gardens is unmissable at this time of year, and you'll want to carve out some time to wander through other London parks and gardens , like Hyde , Regent , and Richmond Parks , when flowers are coming into bloom.

April is a great time to take advantage of the best scenery, from the top London attractions like the Tower of London and the beauty surrounding Buckingham Palace and Kensington Gardens .

April is a great month to visit the historic Italian city of Venice. The weather is comfortable, with spring temperatures starting to emerge and less humidity than in the summer months. You'll be able to enjoy dining on your homemade pasta al fresco, as long as you pack a sweater, that is.

As for tourists, the boom does not start for several months, so you will still have plenty of elbow room to enjoy local attractions and gondola rides along the Grand Canal. Take advantage of fewer crowds as you explore St. Mark's Square and St. Mark's Basilica .

April is a beautiful time to see Venice, and hotel rates are still at a lower level than in the busy summer tourist season.

Yangzhou is one of the best places to travel in April. The reason is made clear as soon as you catch sight of its stunning flowers and rare and ancient bonsai trees. During April, everything in Yangzhou blossoms into an Instagram-worthy glory.

One of the best places to visit in China , Yangzhou lies in the Jiangsu Province , which borders the Yangtze River . The city is known for its gardens, like the Ge Garden and the elaborate floral displays on offer at Slender West Lake . There are also more than 200, centuries-old miniature private gardens located throughout the ancient city.

Beyond the colorful variety of flowers throughout the city and in the public gardens, Yangzhou is known for its history of producing scholars, poets, artists, and famous geishas. You can find outdoor evening performances among the gardens at Slender West Lake and enjoy a cultural experience detailing the city's history through music, dance, and poetry.

By April, winter's icy chill has left Amsterdam, making it a more enjoyable time to wander around the Dutch city's iconic canals and interesting neighborhoods. While you may run into a spot of rain, Amsterdam's impressive museums, like the Ann Frank House , Van Gogh Museum , and Rijksmuseum , are the perfect places to take cover.

Temperatures hover in the high 50s Fahrenheit but can jump, so layers are your best bet. Aim to be here for King's Day on April 27 th if you want to see the city decked out in all its orange glory. Decorated boats pack the canals, live music is pumped through the streets, a city-wide market opens, and plenty of delicious treats are on offer.

Wander through colorful Jordaan , enjoying its unique markets, boutique shopping, and tasty restaurants before boarding a boat cruise. The NEMO Science Museum is especially worthy of a visit, if only to gaze at the creative contemporary design.

Read More: Best Tourist Attractions in Amsterdam

If you have a hard time letting go of winter and want to push your skiing opportunities out as long as possible, an April trip to Lake Tahoe is in order. This recreational area in the Sierra Nevada Mountains sits on the state line between California and Nevada , where the snowcapped mountains enable skiing to last later than most ski resorts in the United States .

The hard-core snow bunnies can take advantage of the cool daytime temperatures to log a few more runs on the slopes. The other advantages of visiting Lake Tahoe in April are the smaller crowds and lower prices as the ski season comes to an end. You may also find cheaper prices at luxury resorts around Lake Tahoe.

There are many Lake Tahoe ski areas and resorts to choose from, and a few have even remained open until June in some years.

• Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do at Lake Tahoe

The top reason to travel to Kyoto, Japan in April can be summed up in two words: cherry blossoms . Kyoto cherry blossoms begin in mid to late March and peak in April, when the blooms are spectacular and the city fills with an unforgettable fragrance.

Much attention is paid to forecasting peak viewing times each year, so locals and visitors can have the best experience with the cherry blossoms accenting the ancient architecture, tea houses, pagodas, and gardens.

Given the beauty of Kyoto at this time of year, it is no surprise that it is a popular time for tourists, so you will want to book hotel rooms at least four to six months in advance. Prepare yourself for a hefty bill — this is definitely not one of the cheapest places to visit in April .

Kyoto is also the hub of Japanese culture. While here, make your way to visit the famous Ryoanji Temple rock garden, antiques stores in Gion , and peruse the 100 vendor stalls at the Nishiki Market .

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kyoto

While the Cayman Islands are a popular winter destination for people who want to get away from cold weather, April is an ideal month for those who want to visit and avoid the crowds of snowbirds or incoming summer vacationers.

April sits on the shoulder season, with lots of benefits, including better deals on resorts, more availability on tours and excursions, and fewer people in general.

Temperatures do not change much throughout the year in the Cayman Islands, hovering around the 80s during the day, but the April bonus means that you can visit on the tail end of the dry season and have fewer rain showers overall.

Great weather means more time for the beach and some of the top tourist attractions , like Stingray City and the Cayman Turtle Centre. If you plan to stay on Grand Cayman, be sure to book a boat trip to visit Little Cayman and Cayman Brac during your visit.

The area of Newport Beach, California is beautiful anytime of the year, but if you want to catch the gray whale migration , April is an ideal time to visit.

With so many dolphin and whale excursions available from Newport Landing, it is best to visit this area in the spring for the optimal viewing opportunities and before the summer crowds arrive.

There are many beaches to enjoy and boutique shops in the town. You can also enjoy the Balboa Fun Zone , which opened in 1936 and still has the wholesome, old-fashioned amusement park thrills, like a Ferris wheel and midway games.

Read More: Best Beaches in Southern California

Sydney in April is nice because it is the fall season, which means cooler temperatures and fading summer crowds. You can also take advantage of declining hotel rates and airfares during this short fall window.

Since there are fewer tourists flocking to the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour , you will have more time (and space) to enjoy some of the most popular Sydney attractions . You will also have more room to enjoy Hyde Park , an inner city park, and the Royal Botanic Garden .

Even though temperatures are cooling off heading into the Australian winter, you can still enjoy comfortable weather at Sydney's famous beaches like Manly Beach , Bondi Beach , and Coogee Beach .

The tropical paradise of Bali is one of the most spectacular places to visit in Indonesia , and April is one of the best times to go. April marks the start of Bali's dry season , which usually lasts through October, so it is a great time to experience the beaches and all the other things to do around the island.

The beautiful weather in April will also make it easy to visit some of Bali's temples, like the Uluwatu Temple and Tanah Lot Temple .

Nusa Dua will be bustling by April, and it is where you will find many high-end hotels and resorts. You can book one of the luxury water villas to relax in, so you do not even have to walk to the beach.

Be advised that since April begins a popular time for tourists heading to Bali, you will be paying a premium for accommodations and airfare and you will want to book far in advance.

Head to Ubud if you want a quieter rainforest retreat. While you're there, be sure to check out the spectacular Ubud Monkey Forest , but keep all food and water well hidden, as the clever little monkeys can open backpacks.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Bali

April is one of the best months of the year to visit Denver because the shoulder season has mild temperatures, and the rush of tourists do not arrive until after May. The outdoor scene in the city starts to come alive in April with bustling activity along the 16 th Street Mall and Larimer Square .

Just outside of downtown, you can rejuvenate with a drive along the Mount Evans Scenic Byway or an outdoor concert at the unforgettable Red Rocks Amphitheatre .

You can find low hotel rates, but they will begin to rise by the end of the month. Denver is a major airport hub with plenty of flights available, so if you plan ahead, you can keep an eye out for discounted airfare alerts.

• Best Attractions in Denver
• Best Hikes near Denver, CO

If you are lucky enough to visit the United States capital of Washington D.C. in April, you may catch a glimpse of the cherry blossoms in bloom along the Potomac River and enjoy the annual parade that accompanies this springtime celebration. Washington's parks are beautiful this time of year.

Temperatures can be cool, but comfortable for walking around the grounds of the U.S. Capitol Buildings and along the Smithsonian Mall and museums.

Since so many of the museums and monuments are free in Washington D.C., you can get away with an affordable vacation this time of year . Due to D.C.'s popularity, you can also find hotel and airfare deals that will keep your costs down.

There are many tours available to the White House and other attractions , but sometimes Washington D.C. is best explored on your own at a leisurely pace.

There's hardly a bad time to visit Athens, Greece, but there are a few reasons why April is a great month to go. Topping the list is the fact that the peak tourist season doesn't hit until summer, when visiting the Acropolis and Ancient Agora are almost too crowded to enjoy. An April Greece vacation will mean fewer tourists and more availability on popular tours.

The spring temperatures in April are another reason to visit, when cool evenings and mild days make touring outside comfortable. Take a jacket for dinners on the coast where it can be breezy.

You will also find decent deals on hotels and airfare to Athens in April before the summer push for reservations.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Athens

Do yourself a favor and add Agra to your list of places to travel in April. While the days are hot (you can expect temps in the mid to high 90s) and humid, April offers visitors a ton of bright sunshine, cheap prices , little to no rain, and few tourists.

You can't visit Agra without a trip to the iconic Taj Mahal , the city's most famous landmark. While you're here, carve out some extra time to explore the nearby Agra Fort , Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah , and the captivating Mehtab Bagh park.

Be sure you have enough water when wandering around this remarkable city in Uttar Pradesh, and stop in at the numerous restaurants to enjoy a cool respite from the sometimes oppressive heat.

May's temperatures skyrocket, making it an almost unbearable time to visit. April is technically the beginning of India's summer, which means it only gets hotter through July. Monsoon season begins then and runs through September, so it's best to avoid the area at that time.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Agra

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

The Caribbean: If your vacation planning has you interested in a getaway that will land you on Caribbean beaches you might consider Grenada , the Bahamas , Barbados , and St. Lucia . The Caribbean offers some of the best snorkeling in the world and many all-inclusive resorts that make traveling easy, whether you are on a honeymoon, traveling with family, or going solo.

Exploring Europe: European vacations are exciting, and there are so many places to consider, from Tuscany to Austria . You should start by determining whether you want to visit the top European summer destinations , cheap places in Europe , quaint European towns , or destinations with ski resorts . Once you narrow down the type of vacation you want, then you can narrow your destination options.

More on Utah

The 10 best places to visit in April

Editor's Note

April showers bring May flowers, but let's not wait for the blooms to have all the fun!

Before the crowds hit the beaches and the mountains call the hikers, there's a sweet spot for wanderlust that can only be satisfied in April.

It's that magical time of year when the world shakes off its winter slumber, yet summer hasn't quite turned up the heat. We've scoured the globe, dodged the April fools and come up with a list that's as fresh as spring itself.

So, pack your bags, set your out-of-office email and prepare to jet set. Whether you're looking to frolic in the last bits of snow, bask in the gentle warmth of the sun or immerse yourself in blooms and festivals, we've got you covered.

Here are the 10 best places to inject a little adventure into your April.

San Francisco

San Francisco shines in April, offering a slice of Japan right on the West Coast, especially in its vibrant Japantown. Imagine wandering under cherry blossoms without the long flight to Japan.

The city's Cherry Blossom Festival, running from April 13-21, invites you to immerse yourself in a cultural spectacle rivaling those of its inspiration. It's not just about the blossoms; it's a journey through taste, craftsmanship and nostalgia.

Related: The best places in the US to see cherry blossoms this spring

Visit Paper Tree for a dive into the delicate art of origami, or step back in time at Miyako Old Fashion Ice Cream Shop, where the flavors are as rich in taste as they are in history.

Craving something savory? Marufuku Ramen serves unforgettable Hakata-style ramen, a must-try for any food enthusiast. And for those who love a good treasure hunt, Daiso's aisles are packed with surprises, from kitchen gadgets to candies.

TPG tip : Where to stay? The Kimpton Hotel Enso is in the heart of San Francisco's iconic Japantown neighborhood — one of only three remaining Japantowns in the U.S. and the largest and oldest surviving of its kind. A king room is available from $235 or 38,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

Lucca, Italy

Lucca, perched in the heart of Tuscany, shines in April. It's the sweet spot of shoulder season, offering all the charm with fewer people, affordable travel and mild weather. Imagine cycling atop the city's ancient walls, enjoying panoramic views without the summer heat.

Related: Everyone is going to Sicily — try these 7 underrated places in Italy instead

Then there's the enchanting Festival of Flowers on April 27, honoring St. Zita, a local heroine to the poor, with a miraculous tale of bread turning into flowers. Her legacy is celebrated with vibrant blooms, and her body is displayed for homage in San Frediano church, adding a unique spiritual dimension to your visit.

TPG tip : This year, the Grand Universe La Residenza — available from $253 or 22,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night — is recognizing this iconic figure with fresh flowers in each room April 27 to celebrate and honor St. Zita.

April is a stellar month to visit Austin, literally and figuratively! It's not just about the music and barbecue; this month, Austin turns into an astronomical hot spot with the total solar eclipse.

Related: Travel to these places to see the total solar eclipse in April

Imagine gazing at the sky as day turns to night, joining a citywide celebration of this rare celestial event. And the fun doesn't stop there.

Austin hosts the Moontower Just For Laughs, bringing belly laughs with some of the biggest names in comedy. From the laughter echoing through the Paramount and State theaters to the playful skies of the ABC Kite Fest, Austin in April is an eclectic mix of cosmic wonders and comedic genius.

TPG tip : The Hyatt Centric Congress Avenue Austin hotel is available from $342 or 23,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

Frisco, Colorado

Nestled just a stone's throw from Denver, Frisco comes alive as a cozy retreat in the heart of the Rockies. Not just a gateway to Colorado's famed ski slopes , this quaint town offers a unique blend of winter sports and small-town charm.

With fewer crowds and lower costs than nearby resorts, it's a haven for spring skiers and outdoor enthusiasts. Imagine gliding through pristine backcountry on cross-country skis or laughing as you sled down gentle hills.

Then, as the day fades, experience the magic of a horse-drawn sleigh ride through snow-laden forests, complete with treats and warm beverages. Frisco's Main Street, a hub of local eateries and shops, welcomes you afterward for a leisurely meal in the crisp mountain air.

TPG tip : The Homewood Suites by Hilton in nearby Dillon is available from $159 or 42,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Tucson, Arizona

Tucson is buzzing as a must-visit hot spot, drawing attention from globe-trotters and foodies alike. As the United States' first UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, it's a paradise for foodies, offering an array of dining experiences that highlight local flavors and innovation.

This Arizona gem, celebrated for its rich culinary heritage and vibrant culture, really comes to life with the Agave Heritage Festival. This unique four-day event in April offers a deep dive into the world of agave, showcasing its significance through tastings, seminars and culinary delights.

Exploring Tucson offers more than just a festival; it's an opportunity to be immersed in the city's vibrant art scene, hike in the surrounding Sonoran Desert or stargaze under clear skies at one of the local observatories.

Bonus: Currently, there are nonstop flights to/from Atlanta; Chicago; Denver; Seattle; Dallas; Las Vegas; Los Angeles; Orange County, California; Minneapolis; Portland, Oregon; Salt Lake City; San Diego; Phoenix; San Francisco and Seattle.

TPG tip : The brand-new Leo Kent Hotel, Tucson, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel is available from $205 or 37,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Champagne, France 

Visiting Champagne in spring is special because the vineyards start to come alive with new green shoots, a phase known as "bud burst."

This April, there's even more reason to go with the launch of Coquelicot, a luxury river barge by Belmond. It partners with Maison Ruinart for exclusive Champagne experiences.

Guests can enjoy unique activities like a private tasting lunch with chef Valérie Radou, the first of its kind outside Maison Ruinart, and tours of the Taissy vineyard to see its sustainability efforts. It's a straightforward way to dive deep into Champagne's world, combining luxury travel with the region's renowned bubbly.

TPG tip : Stay at the stunning Domaine Les Crayeres for around $729 or 48,600 Chase Ultimate Rewards points per night.

As the weather warms, Bermuda becomes a hub for exciting annual events that attract both tourists and locals. The Convex End to End event April 27 is a highlight, challenging participants to traverse the island's 24.1 miles by walking, biking, swimming or rowing, all in the spirit of charity.

Moreover, with the rise of sports travel, the island buzzes with anticipation for the USA Track & Field Bermuda Grand Prix. Here, elite athletes from over 20 countries gather to compete, offering spectators a thrilling display of talent.

Beyond these events, visitors can enjoy Bermuda's stunning beaches, explore historic forts or dive into the vibrant local cuisine, making every moment on the island unforgettable.

TPG tip : The St. Regis Bermuda Resort is the first Marriott International luxury brand property to debut on the island, and the island's only resort with beachside access. A room is available from $685 or 73,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Moab shines in April, serving as the perfect gateway to adventure under the vast, sunny skies of southeastern Utah .

With temperatures hovering in the comfortable 70s, it's the ideal time for hikes through the stunning landscapes of Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park. Adventure seekers and nature lovers alike flock to Moab to explore its unique red rock formations, vast canyons and the world's highest concentration of natural arches.

April 20 marks a special opportunity with a free park entrance, celebrating the start of National Park Week. This nine-day festivity draws visitors who are eager to immerse themselves in the unparalleled natural beauty and outdoor activities that Moab offers.

TPG tip : Less than 20 miles from Arches National Park and 40 miles from Dead Horse Point State Park and Canyonlands National Park, travelers can retreat to Red Cliffs Lodge after a day of adventure. It's available for around $458 or 30,533 Chase Ultimate Rewards points per night.

Related: The best places to stay near Zion National Park

In late April, Antigua transforms into a bustling hub for sailors and yacht enthusiasts from across the globe, marking the commencement of.

This prestigious event, hosted in the picturesque English and Falmouth harbors, is celebrated as one of the leading yacht racing events in the Caribbean, if not the world. The island vibrates with excitement as sleek yachts slice through the azure waters, competing under the warm Caribbean sun.

Beyond the races, visitors can soak in the festive atmosphere, mingle with international crews and enjoy the island's renowned hospitality and stunning beaches.

TPG tip : Travelers from across the globe can stay at the Carlisle Bay Antigua — available for around $1,335 or 89,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points per night — to take in all the action. The resort will be arranging dedicated private charters on Carlisle Bay's own private luxury motor yacht.

South Korea

April in South Korea is a dream, with its landscapes painted in shades of pink. Cherry blossoms transform the country into a live canvas, rivaling Japan's spring allure. From Seoul's urban bloom to Gyeongju's historical charm and Busan's coastal beauty, each place offers a unique cherry blossom experience.

Related: 2024 cherry blossom forecast announced for Japan

Even Jeju Island, with its volcanic landscapes, gets a touch of soft pink. Seoul becomes a festival city in April, buzzing with life and color. Imagine fireworks illuminating the sky above thousands of cherry trees, creating a spectacle of light and petals.

At Seokchon Lake, cherry blossoms create a delicate pink canopy, reflecting on the water for a mesmerizing view. The Yeouido Spring Flower Festival is another crowd-pleaser, where the beauty of spring is celebrated in full force.

TPG tip : The Park Hyatt Busan is available from $192 or 21,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

Related reading:

• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a beginner or expert traveler
• The best travel credit cards
• Where to go in 2024: The 16 best places to travel
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
• 13 must-have items the TPG team can't travel without

Warm Places to Visit in April in the USA in 2022

Winter is coming to an end, so if you’re looking for a hot place to visit there are plenty of warm US destinations in April. Whether you love the laid-back California lifestyle, the partying and beaches of Miami or you want to head to Texas for excellent food and culture, the USA has it all during April.

There are various cities in the USA that are cold during April. You would be unlikely to pull out your shorts and T-shirts during April in New York City. However, all the destinations on this list are fantastic for relaxing in the warm April sunshine.

Let’s give you an overview of the best warm vacation spots for April in the USA.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means that should you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission.

Table of Contents

10 Warm Destinations to Travel in the Us in April

Los angeles, california.

Average April Temperature: High 73° – Low 55°

Los Angele s is home to a beautiful Mediterranean-style climate, with constant high temperatures and sunshine. It is one of the warm places to visit in April in the USA. Unlike New York City, you will never be freezing and, during April, you can walk around in a T-shirt, a far cry from many US cities in April.

The City of Angels is world-famous for a reason; visitors never get bored with its endless attractions. If you love the beach lifestyle, then head to Santa Monica Beach or Venice Beach, either of these brilliant beaches epitomizes the Californian lifestyle.

Then you can visit Hollywood and the array of awesome things to do there, such as Warner Bros. Studio and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. If you want spellbinding views of this megacity, head to the Griffith Observatory for an amazing panorama of Los Angeles.

Recommended hotels to stay in Los Angeles: Ocean View Hotel  is an option for those wishing to be close to a beach. It is a 3-star boutique hotel with some rooms having views over the bay in Santa Monica. There are 67 comfortable guest rooms, modern décor, and balcony a feature throughout.  Loews Hollywood Hotel   certainly scores from the location point of view. It is a 4-star hotel close to all the action, including shopping. Its facilities are all you would expect from quality accommodation. 

Miami, Florida

Average April Temperature: High 78° – Low 69°

When you think of Miami , you might think of gorgeous beaches, blistering tropical sun, and world-class nature. You would be right on all of those counts. Better still, you can enjoy all of this during April. Miami has a tropical climate so it is hot all year round.

In April you can jump in the sea, relax on the beach, and walk around without ever having to think about a warm jacket. It is one of many warm places to visit in April in the USA.

The city is famous for its fantastic beaches. Miami Beach remains one of the most iconic beaches globally, and visitors love the excellent surfing options available. The city is home to some of the best nightclubs in the entire country, and you can enjoy them during the warm night temperatures. The city is home to an array of bars, shops, restaurants, amusements, and museums.

Recommended hotels to stay in Miami: Hotel Ocean : Hotel Ocean is on South Beach’s famous Ocean Drive, and visitors love the fantastic range of facilities, including a full-service bar, restaurants, and the 24-hour reception.  The Marlin Hotel : The Marlin Hotel is next to the gorgeous white sands of South Beach, and the hotel includes free high-speed WiFi, a fully stocked mini-bar, flatscreen TVs, plus complimentary beach bags and beach towels for your trip to the beach! 

San Diego, California

Average April Temperature: High 68° – Low 57°

San Diego is a fantastic city in Southern California. Situated a mere two-hour drive from Los Angeles, the city contrasts to the bustling, busy, and densely populated City of Angels. If you visit in April, San Diego will bless you with excellent weather that is perfect for T-shirts and shorts. This city of 1.5 million people remains one of the best warm US destinations in April.

San Diego has an endless stunning coastline, crystal blue waters, and is famous for its pristine white-sand beaches. It also has outstanding attractions, including the San Diego Zoo, home to majestic animals such as giant pandas and rhinos. San Diego’s city has an excellent mix of shops, bars, restaurants, and incredible nature, making it the perfect place for an April vacation in the sun.

Recommended hotels to stay in San Diego: Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel Old Town : Located next to the Old Town State Park and a 10-minute walk from Old Town Trolley Station, it offers guests an outdoor heated pool and a restaurant. Inn by the Sea, at La Jolla : Located 2 blocks from the Pacific Ocean and the beaches of La Jolla, the hotel boasts a heated outdoor pool, free wi-fi, and air-conditioned rooms.

You might also like: A 3 day San Diego itinerary.

Honolulu, Hawaii

Average April Temperature: High 82° – Low 68°

Is there anywhere more beautiful for a hot April escape than gorgeous Hawaii? The state is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking scenery, hiking trails, and beaches. The capital of Hawaii is Honolulu, and it’s an incredible spot for outdoor activities. The weather is perfect for shorts and T-shirts and you will never feel a chill in this tropical climate. Honolulu is one of the best warm US destinations in April.

Amazing beaches surround the city, including Kailua Beach, Magic Island, and Sandy Beach, all of which will blow you away with their idyllic beauty. And if you love incredible views, be sure to head up to Diamond Head State Monument, the views from the top are phenomenal. Furthermore, the island has a long history, playing a pivotal role in World War II. Be sure to visit the fascinating Pearl Harbour National Memorial.

Recommended places to stay in Honolulu, Hawaii: Hilton Garden Inn Waikiki Beach : located just a 5-minute walk from Waikiki beach and next to dining and shopping areas. It offers guests an outdoor swimming pool, onsite restaurant and bar, and a fitness center. ‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach : located just a 2 -minute walk from Waikiki beach it offers guests a swimming pool, a spa, a fitness center, and onsite restaurants.

Houston, Texas

Average April Temperature: High 77° – Low 60°

The biggest city in the great state of Texas, Houston is a wonderful place to visit. The weather during April is hot, so don’t worry about bringing your jacket. The city has ample outdoor and indoor attractions, and the warm weather means you can do both. It’s one of the best warm destinations in April in the United States.

Visitors love the array of attractions, including The Houston Museum of Natural Sciences. This is home to dinosaur bones, Egyptian history, and local history so it’s a great place to visit with kids.

People know Houston for many things, including outstanding Southern cuisine, the home of space exploration, a global leader in science, and the city’s superb parks, bike rides, and trails. It is a perfect city to escape the cold winter and grab some April sunshine.

Recommended hotels to stay in Houston, Texas: Homewood Suites by Hilton Houston Near the Galleria :  Located a 5-minute walk from the premier shops and restaurants at the Houston Galleria Shopping Center, this hotel features free WiFi and a daily complimentary buffet breakfast. Hyatt Regency Houston Galleria : Located just 300 meters from The Galleria, it offers guests an outdoor pool, sun terrace, and an on-site restaurant. Free WiFi is offered throughout the property and valet parking is available on site.

Phoenix, Arizona

Average April Temperature: High 86° – Low 59°

If you’re looking for an excellent warm US destination in April, Phoenix will tick several boxes. This city is a superb place to visit in April, and the temperatures will even reach the 30s. It’s probably the best time to visit because a few months later the city is scorching and often unbearably hot.

Phoenix is the biggest city in Arizona and visitors love the array of things to see. These include the beautiful Desert Botanical Garden, which hosts 50,000 plants. The majority of these are native to the local area and include 379 endangered plants. But the main attraction of the city is the Grand Canyon National Park, one of the wonders of the world and a phenomenal site for any human to witness.

Recommended hotels in Phoenix, Arizona: Hilton Garden Inn Phoenix Downtown : Located just 0.6 km from Copper Square the hotel offers an on-site bar, a 24-hour front desk, and comfortable air-conditioned rooms. DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Phoenix : is located very close to the Phoenix International airport and a metro light rail station that offers direct access to the city center. The hotel offers a free shuttle to the airport, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Average April Temperature: High 80° – Low 44°

Las Vegas is the entertainment capital of the world. Although it does get chilly during the night in April, it stays hot during the day. With an average high temperature of 27°, you will be able to sit around the pool and enjoy the gorgeous Nevada sunshine. It is a fantastic warm US destination in April.

Visitors love the city for the incredible nightlife that never sleeps. The Las Vegas Strip is one of the most famous streets in the world and is home to some of the finest clubs, casinos, and hotels. You will never be bored with the endless nightlife of this city. It’s also close to great outdoor attractions, like the Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon National Park.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Average April Temperature: High 78° – Low 60°

One of the best warm US destinations in April has to be New Orleans . The city is hot throughout the month, and you won’t even need to bring your jacket. The city is famous for incredible music and has some of the best artistic creativity in the country.

Visitors love the delicious Southern cuisine in New Orleans, it’s quite possibly the tastiest food in the USA. Popular attractions within the city include Bourbon Street, Jackson Square, and St. Louis Cathedral. The city is one of the most vibrant cities in North America, and the combination of fantastic food, attractions, and music scene is tough to beat.

Atlanta, Georgia

Average April Temperature: High 73° – Low 48°

Atlanta, Georgia, is one of the most historically significant cities in the United States and one of the best warm destinations for April in the United States. The city is known for its incredible sporting history, cultural icons, like the famous Martin Luther King Jr, and fantastic parks and outdoor space.

Planning to visit Atlanta? You might be interested in the following activities: Georgia Aquarium: Skip-the-Purchase-Line Tickets Atlanta CityPASS®: Save 40% at 5 Top Attractions World of Coca-Cola: Skip-the-Ticket-Line Entry Atlanta 5 Hour City Tour by Air-Conditioned Bus

Visitors love the Olympic Park, which hosted the 1996 Summer Olympics. There are a variety of excellent guided tours of the Olympic Park. The city is also home to the Georgia Aquarium, which includes a range of marine life from around the globe. A top-rated attraction is the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, a hugely significant museum showcasing the history of the USA.

Recommended hotels to stay in Atlanta, Georgia: Hyatt Regency Atlanta : Located a 7-minute walk from the World of Coca-Cola and the Georgia Aquarium, it offers visitors a seasonal outdoor pool, onsite restaurants, and a fitness center, AC Hotel Atlanta Downtown : located next to Centennial Olympic Park and only 450 m from the MARTA Peachtree Center Station it features a 24-hour mini-market with snacks and drinks and a business center.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

If you want a warm east coast escape in April, look no further than famous Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. This popular tourist destination is one of the best nightlife spots on the east coast of the US. It remains one of the top warm vacation spots for April in the USA.

Visitors love the fantastic array of entertainment in the area. That includes amusement parks, such as Broadway at the Beach, and the excellent SkyWheel Myrtle Beach which offers incredible views of the coastline. Myrtle Beach State Park is a great place to visit. With many miles of white sand beaches, you will never be short of places to relax in the South Carolina April sunshine.

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Don’t Miss These Awesome Places to Visit in the USA in April!

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April showers may bring May flowers , but stunning blooms of all kinds tend to happen in April in the US as well, creating some particularly scenic vacation spots. From tulips to cherry blossoms, the US comes alive in April. Winter has said goodbye in March , paving the way for warmer temperatures and brighter days. I love traveling around the USA in April as the weather is great and the summer break crowds have yet to descend.

However, spring break will be in full swing. College spring break tends to happen in March, though some schools do have spring break in April. However, elementary, middle, and high schools most often have spring break tied to the Easter holiday. 

If you want to avoid the crowds, generally steer clear of the biggest family-friendly destinations in the US, like Walt Disney World . These areas often see their largest crowds of the year around school breaks, like spring break.

With so many places to visit and see, how can you choose where to go on your April vacation? To help you out, we’ve compiled our list of the best places to travel in the US in April for you. From small towns with a lot of charm to places to get in the last ski trip of the season, stick with these April travel recommendations, and you’re bound to have an amazing time on your spring vacation!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 15 Best Places to Visit in the US in April

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

Awesome Places to Visit in the USA in April

Bodega bay, california.

When we think of Sonoma County , we often picture its many wineries. But in the county’s Bodega Bay, you’ll find a lot more than picturesque tasting rooms. You’ll also find tons of outdoor activities that are just ramping up during your vacation in April.

The Bodega Head peninsula is one of the best places to go whale-watching on the West Coast, and April is prime time to see these majestic creatures as they migrate north after heading south for the winter. Other outdoor activities perfect for April include kayaking, hiking, biking, and horseback riding. 

April is also when the area has its Bodega Bay Fisherman’s Festival , a family-friendly celebration honoring the bay’s fishing history. Originally used to mark the start of the salmon fishing season, it’s now a festival featuring live music, kids’ entertainment, crafts from local artisans, and wine tasting from wineries all over Sonoma County. 

For even more family-friendly fun, you can take part in the annual wooden boat challenge, which sees competitors build their own vessels and race out on the water. On Sunday, you can also participate in a local tradition and see the Blessing of the Fishing Fleet.  

Miami, Florida

April is generally shoulder season for sunny Miami. Although you’ll see some spring break crowds, Miami is most often quieter in April because the “snowbirds” who come to the South for the winter have already gone back up north and the summer crowds haven’t yet arrived. Despite the lack of crowds, it’s plenty warm enough to take a dip in the clear blue Atlantic waters.

But it’s not just the beaches that’ll have you wanting to travel to Miami in April. One of the factors that make this location one of the best places to visit in April is that the month marks the start of Miami Attractions & Museum Months , which last through May. 

This annual event offers significant discounts and offers to more than 31 of Miami’s museums, tours, performing arts theaters, zoo, and much more. If you want to see Miami on a discount, vacationing in April is a great way to do it!

If you arrive early enough in the month, you’ll also be able to partake in the Miami Riverday Festival. This annual event offers free Miami River boat rides, environmental education, historical reenactments, live music, and much more. 

Also early in the month are the Miami Beach Pride Weeks , which offer entertainment celebrating the diverse culture of the Miami LGBTQ+ community. It all leads up to the annual Miami Beach Pride Festival and its parade, which happens mid-month.

Anchorage, Alaska

Summer is the busy season for Anchorage, but April tends to be much quieter. However, there’s plenty to do to keep you occupied on your vacation in April. From skiing to winter biking to hiking, outdoor lovers will have a great time on their Anchorage trip – although they’ll need to be bundled up! But with a flightseeing tour, you’ll be able to see the great outdoors from the comfort of a helicopter or plane. 

It’s not just the majestic sight of the snow-covered mountains and native wildlife that makes Anchorage one of the best places to travel in the US in April. Anchorage has a diverse cultural scene that you’ll love embracing. 

Head to the Performing Arts Center to see the Anchorage Symphony or a touring Broadway show. Or get your ticket to the Native Youth Olympics , a celebration of Alaskan Native skills in which more than 500 athletes come out to compete. 

If you’d like to see more of Alaska , hop on the Aurora Winter Train . This scenic train ride takes you between Anchorage and Fairbanks, where you may just see the Northern Lights!

Shenandoah National Park

Located in Virginia , Shenandoah National Park is one of the best places for a vacation in April as it falls during the park’s shoulder season. It should be noted that this massive park has many elevation changes, so the temperature can vary.

But, generally, the weather is quite nice for outdoor adventures in April – although rain is not uncommon. Still, that rainfall is what makes the waterfall hikes so particularly impressive this time of year.

In addition to stunning waterfalls, you’ll also spot an abundance of wildflowers, which are just starting to bloom. You can see them on hiking trails or take the scenic Skyline Drive. You’ll want to make several stops along the drive as dozens of overlooks offer incredible panoramas. 

If you’re stopping by this National Park, be sure to take a visit to nearby Luray Caverns, the largest caverns in the eastern US. You can go on a guided underground tour here, while your little ones will love the Rope Adventure Park located here. 

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

New Mexico can get quite hot in the summer, hot enough to make it unsafe for strenuous outdoor activities. So it’s no wonder spring is the peak season for Carlsbad Caverns National Park. It’s warm enough to explore the park but not hot enough to make you want to stay inside. Still, April is usually the least busy month during the peak season. 

The main attraction here is the caverns themselves. You can venture inside on a self-guided tour or go in with a ranger, who can give you more insight into how these marvels formed. Bats also tend to arrive in mid-to-late April, so keep your eyes peeled for them. There are also plenty of hiking trails and scenic drives to go on throughout the park

Pinnacles National Park

If you’re searching for the best places to travel in the US in April, this is the best time to visit Pinnacles National Park, one of California ’s lesser-known national parks. Not as rainy as in March but not as hot as in May, you’ll find that the temperatures here are just right for outdoor excursions. Although April is the peak season for Pinnacles, it’s never particularly crowded since it’s not a very popular park. 

On your vacation in April, head inside the two talus caves, Bear Gulch Cave and Balconies Caves. Be sure to bring a flashlight and potentially be prepared to get wet if it rained recently. 

But you’ll love exploring these stunning caves, where you just might spot some bats hanging out, literally. These caves close for two months starting in May for bats to raise their pups in peace, so you’re going to want to check them out before they’re shut down.

Visiting in spring also means seeing the wildflowers in bloom, which you’ll see across many trails. There’s no lodging in the park, but camping is allowed, which you’ll love because this park has some of the best stargazing in all of California! 

Williamsburg, Virginia

Williamsburg is known for being one of the best vacation destinations for history buffs, mainly thanks to Colonial Williamsburg . This town-within-a-town is a living history museum filled with fun and educational activities for the whole family. 

Tour historic buildings, watch tools being made in the blacksmith shop, admire the works in the art museums, stroll through the beautiful arboretum, grab a bite at the authentic public house, hop on a carriage ride, and much more. Your little ones will have so much fun they’ll hardly know they’re actually learning along the way.

But it’s not just Colonial Williamsburg that makes this destination so great for history lovers. You can also stop by the Jamestown Settlement , another living history museum, this time dedicated to everyday life in Jamestown. You can even visit dig sites to see the artifacts that were uncovered here. 

Williamsburg is generally more crowded in the summer. You’ll see far fewer people in April, which will come in handy, particularly if you want to spend some time at Busch Gardens Williamsburg . If you want to ride the coasters here, you’ll appreciate that there are barely any lines in April. 

Skagit Valley

Skagit Valley in Washington State is one of the best places to travel in the US in April for one very important reason: the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival ! This incredible festival, which lasts for the whole month, sees people come from all over to see fields upon fields of technicolor tulips. 

Depending on when you visit, you’ll see all different kinds of tulip-themed events. Early in the month is the Tulip Parade, where locals don their very best to celebrate the season. Throughout the month, you’ll also enjoy art classes, massive cookouts, and a showcase of work made by local artists.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Vegas tends to be pretty busy year-round, but April is one of the calmer months, making going here one of the best US vacations in April. And while it’s still hot, it’s nowhere near as hot as it gets in the summer. 

On the Strip alone, there’s plenty to do, from concerts to touring Broadway shows to, of course, a little gambling. But Las Vegas also has many family-friendly attractions, both on and off the Strip. From art installations to carnival games, staying busy all day in Vegas is easy.

But because you’re visiting outside of the summer months, you can also expect to enjoy some more outdoor-focused activities without soaring temperatures keeping you inside. Take a trip to the Hoover Dam, kayak around Lake Mead, or take to the skies on a helicopter tour – there are just so many cool things to do in Las Vegas !

Boston, Massachusetts

Spring break is generally a concern when it comes to booking a vacation in April. But spring break is actually what makes Boston one of the best US cities to visit in April. Boston is very much a college town, home to over 70 colleges. During spring break, many students opt to go elsewhere! 

You’ll see something similar happen during winter and summer break as well. This historic city tends to get a little sleepy without the youngins around. Although students are heading out of the city for their spring getaways, much of Boston is actually opening up for the first time since closing for the winter , which can get quite cold.

Boston’s Duck Tours , which take you around the city and onto the Charles River and are one of our favorite Boston tours , generally start at the very end of March for its spring and summer seasons. Meanwhile, the Boston Public Garden’s Swan Boats typically come out in mid-April.

As baseball season starts to kick off in April, it’s also a great time to take in a game at Fenway Park . This iconic stadium is unlike any other, and you can really enjoy marveling at the history here. 

You can take a tour of the stadium, another of our favorite Boston tours, to get the full experience before your game. Even if you’re not a sports lover (or if you prefer the Yankees), it’s hard not to love Fenway.

Channel Islands National Park

One of the things that make California’s Channel Islands National Park one of the best places to travel in the US in April is that it’s made up of five unique destinations. If you’re an outdoor lover, you’ll have an amazing April vacation, hopping from island to island and enjoying everything each one has to offer.

Snorkel around Anacapa Island’s rich kelp forests, kayak over to Santa Cruz Island’s magnificent Painted Cave, see the rare Torrey pines of Santa Rosa Island, take a boat tour to see thousands of seals and sea lions around San Miguel Island, or hike through seas of flowers on Santa Barbara Island. Other things to do around these islands include scuba diving, surfing, camping, and whale-watching. 

Channel Island National Park is typically more crowded in the summer. Visiting in April may be chillier, but it also means contending with fewer people. The water will also be very cold this time of year. If you plan on getting in the water or doing any activity where you may end up in the water, like kayaking, be sure to wear a wetsuit for your safety.

Big Island, Hawaii

The island of Hawaii, typically referred to as the Big Island , is the largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago. It’s also one of the best places to visit in the US in April. It’s typically less crowded here in April than in the summer. Even though April is often the time for spring break vacations, spring breakers tend to congregate more on Maui or Oahu, leaving the Big Island pretty quiet this time of year.

However, there are some events that do bring in more visitors in April, so you may see more people if you visit closer to these dates. But the fun-filled festivals are worth contending with larger crowds. 

One of the biggest events is the Merrie Monarch Festival . Typically taking place the week after Easter, the Merrie Monarch Festival is a week-long party celebrating Hawaiian culture in the Big Island’s Hilo. 

The festival includes a parade and a craft fair with wares made by local artisans. But the real highlight is the hula competition. You’ll love spending the day immersed in the history and culture of hula.

Another festival in April is for those of us with a sweet tooth. The Big Island Chocolate Festival invites you to learn more about the past and present of cacao farms and see demonstrations of how chocolate goes from the farm to a candy bar wrapper. It all leads up to the gala, which invites you to sample dozens of chocolate treats, from chocolate fountains to mole dishes.

Chicago, Illinois

You may have noticed that we didn’t include Washington, DC , on this list, despite April being prime time to see the cherry blossoms. Well, while visiting DC in April does mean seeing some pretty amazing events, it also means dealing with a crowd of over a million people who also want to see those dazzling buds.

But the reality is that there are so many amazing places in the US to visit in April that have cherry blossoms in bloom. One such place is Chicago ! 

To see the cherry blossoms, you’ll particularly want to visit Jackson Park and the Japanese-style Garden of the Phoenix. To see even more beautiful blooms, head to the Chicago Botanic Garden or the Morton Arboretum . Even if you miss peak bloom for the cherry blossoms, you’ll still see plenty more at these picturesque spots. For more to do outdoors as Chicago heats up, you’ll love that the outdoor markets, showing off magnificent local vendors, tend to return in April.

Portland, Oregon

For another great place to travel in the US in April to see cherry blossoms, consider heading to Portland , Oregon . Tom McCall Waterfront Park is one of the best places in the country to see these stunning flowers in bloom.

But there’s another famous flower that’s a big reason why you should head to Portland in April: tulips. In nearby Woodburn, you’ll find the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival every April. Not only will you see an artist’s palette filled with tulips of every color, but you’ll also have tons of family-friendly fun at the festival. 

How many flowers are in bloom will depend on the time of the month you visit and the weather. But the festival has plenty of activities to keep you entertained outside of the flowers, like hot air balloon rides and the TulipFest Run.

One thing to keep in mind is that the Portland area in April can be very rainy . However, that can sometimes work to your advantage as there are many scenic hikes in the area with waterfalls. The water runoff makes these hikes particularly stunning this time of year. Just be sure to wear shoes with a lot of traction, and don’t hike if the terrain is too slippery.

Lake Tahoe, California

Lake Tahoe is where to go in April if you want one last snow fix. As it’s the area’s off-season, you should expect to see fewer crowds than if you’d gone in the winter. You’ll also find that accommodations tend to be much more budget-friendly. However, especially earlier in the month, snow will still be on the ground. Tahoe has the perfect conditions to get in one last ski trip before the ski season ends!

But there’s plenty to do in Tahoe outside of skiing. Depending on the conditions, you can either go hiking or snowshoeing, allowing you to take in the picturesque sights of the distinctive blue waters of the lake. 

You can also take a cruise around the water or paddle around yourself in a kayak or stand-up paddleboat. One thing to keep in mind, though, is that the water temperature will be very, very cold. For your safety, please wear a wetsuit if you intend to kayak or paddleboard. 

April is also when one of Tahoe’s biggest festivals happens, WinterWonderGrass . What started as a small, homegrown music festival has become an annual tradition. This festival celebrates the marriage between music and nature, allowing you to take in the tunes while also marveling at the beautiful world you find yourself in. 

There you have it! The 15 best places to travel in the US in April. What’s your favorite?

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Jacqueline is a writer and editor pursuing the freelance life to explore the world. Born and raised in New Jersey, she spent her college years in Boston before settling down with her partner and puppy in Monterey, California. When she’s not writing, you can often find her planning her next trip. Road trips are her favorite, whether it’s driving across the country or simply exploring a new city in her own backyard. She loves uncovering the history of every new place she goes. Jacqueline has a restless passion for learning and makes it a goal to pick up a new skill every year. She’s picked up embroidery, crocheting, knitting, and cross-stitching, but she’s hoping to master more languages to help her in her travels. She’s also a published author, with short stories and poetry appearing in several anthologies.

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9 thoughts on “don’t miss these awesome places to visit in the usa in april”.

Oh I’ve always wanted to visit the tulip fields but forget every year!! This is a great reminder. Also, I never would have thought about Alaska in April but taking notes for the future.

So many things to do but I think seeing the flowers starting to bloom makes many places so pretty and worth a visit. I’m looking forward to it.

You have me convinced by all the national parks! Waterfalls in Shenandoah National Park must be incredible in April. Carlsbad Caverns National Park and Pinnacles National Park both look fabulous too – such interesting rock formations!

So many great ideas on places to go in April. I’d be interested in checking out Bodega Bay, Portland and Lake Tahoe. April is one of the best times for travel!

The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival looks incredible, I had never heard of it. I’ll be adding it to my list.

Carlsbad Caverns with a trip to Roswell, NM sounds like a perfect trip. Sending this list to my brothers as they’re always indecisive when it comes to our next family vacations. All the National Parks on your list are great!

such a vast variety of destinations to visit in April – those national parks all look like a dream!

I love Hawaii and Vegas is always fun, but it’s spending time in the national parks that I love most. Great list and a few to add to my list to visit asap.

April is such a great time of year to travel, especially for the weather and flora and forna! Whale watching would be a bucket list thing for me, as would all the outdoor adventures that could be had in the Channel Islands!

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Situated on the south east coast of Mexico, Cancun has a tropical climate with very warm temperatures throughout the year and April is no exception. Temperatures rise to a maximum average of 36.7 ºC meaning the majority of days are very hot and dry.

April marks the end of the dry and cooler season in Cancun. During this month the likelihood of rainfall occurring and the amount of rainfall steadily increases with an average of 55 mm of rain falling during April.

Days are largely dry, warm and sunny with minimal cloud cover and light coastal breezes to make it feel slightly cooler.

• Read more about the weather in Cancun

Temperature in Orlando in April

• Orlando's average temperature in April is 28.3 °C

The Theme Park Capital of the World and home to Walt Disney Resort, Orlando is a popular tourist destination all year round with its sub-tropical climate and little seasonal variation.

A typical day in April is hot and sunny. The average daily maximum reaches 28.3 ºC alongside around 9 hours of daily sunshine. Sitting outside of the wet season April is one of the driest months in Orlando with the amount of rainfall decreasing significantly to 46 mm.

• Read more about the weather in Orlando

Temperature in Cairo in April

• Cairo's average temperature in April is 28.1 °C

The capital city of Egypt, Cairo is situated on the banks of the Nile River. It is the largest city in Africa with a population of close to 7 million people.

Cairo's desert climate means that days are warm and rainfall is low and rare throughout the year. The weather in April continues this trend. April sees the last of the slightly cooler and more comfortable temperatures in comparison with the following summer months with average maximums of 28.1 ºC. The sun shines for around 10 hours daily, making days hot and sunny with minimal cloud cover. Average total rainfall for the month is around 5 mm.

During April there is a risk of hot ' scirocco ' winds blowing, bringing dust and sandstorms to the city, while average rainfall for the month is 38 mm.

• Read more about the weather in Cairo

Temperature in Marrakesh in April

• Marrakesh's average temperature in April is 25.4 °C

Marrakesh is an inland city in the south-west of Morocco near the Atlas Mountains. The desert landscape and Mediterranean climate mean that like much of the year April is a warm month to visit.

Tourist numbers begin to rise in April as the temperature increases to a maximum average of 25.4 ºC. However noticeable drops in temperature do occur during the night making it feel considerably cooler. Throughout the month you can expect around 8 hours of daily sunshine alongside only 31 mm of average rainfall. Rainfall is relatively low this month but falls as short storms.

In spite of relatively low wind speeds at around 5.9 mph, sandstorms can blow in from the Sahara during the spring months.

• Read more about the weather in Marrakesh

Temperature in Las Vegas in April

• Las Vegas' average temperature in April is 25.2 °C

The subtropical, hot desert climate means that April is a warm and dry month in Las Vegas.

Peaking at an average of a more comfortable 25.2 ºC, April makes for a more comfortable climate in Las Vegas before the blisteringly hot temperatures of the summer months.

As the month progresses the likelihood of rainfall occurring during your stay decreases. April sees an average of just 5 mm of rainfall during the month. Daily sunshine hours rise to an average of 11 making the majority of days warm and bright.

• Read more about the weather in Las Vegas

Temperature in Lanzarote in April

• Lanzarote's average temperature in April is 23.7 °C

Sitting only 127 km away from the Sahara Desert, Lanzarote enjoys a pleasant climate all year round and is one of the most visited tourist destinations across Europe.

The hottest of the Canary Islands, Lanzarote's temperatures rise to an average maximum of 23.7 ºC in April. However wind speeds do pick up this month and reach around 14.5 mph making the days feel cooler. Cloud coverage remains relatively consistent throughout the month at 44% whilst daily sunshine increases to 9 hours.

Precipitation falls to a total average of 6 mm in April with the likelihood of it occurring reducing as the month progresses.

• Read more about the weather in Lanzarote

Temperature in Costa del Sol in April

• Costa del Sol's average temperature in April is 21.8 °C

The Costa del Sol increasingly becomes the Coast of the Sun as April progresses with daily sunshine hours increasing to around 8 per day whilst rainfall decreases to an average of 43 mm across the month.

Similar to the majority of Spain the temperature begins to steadily increase during April reaching 20 ºC on occasions and peaking at an average of 21.8 ºC. However light winds or breezes feeding in throughout the day will make the days feel cooler.

Days in April are highly unpredictable, usually beginning bright and sunny before becoming cooler, breezier and experiencing some showers later into the afternoon.

• Read more about the weather in Costa del Sol

Temperature in Bodrum in April

• Bodrum's average temperature in April is 21.4 °C

April sees temperatures rising to a comfortable maximum of 21.4 ºC. Daily sunshine hours extend to around 8 hours a day meaning days are sunny but occasionally interrupted by minor showers as average total rainfall for the month decreases to 44 mm.

In spite of minimal changes in humidity levels from the previous month, higher temperatures and less wind mean that it feels increasingly humid as the month progresses. Sea temperatures, on the other hand, are cooler at this time of year at 17 ºC.

• Read more about the weather in Bodrum

Temperature in Kos in April

• Kos' average temperature in April is 21.4 °C

Situated in the Aegean Sea, Kos is part of the Dodecanese Islands and has a Mediterranean climate.

Following a mild winter, April signals the start of the warm season ahead of summer. Temperatures rise gradually throughout the month, heading towards a more comfortable peak average of 21.4 ºC making it feel considerably warmer than March.

As the temperature rises, rainfall decreases throughout the month with an average monthly rainfall of 44 mm. Throughout the month cloud coverage will also fall gradually leading to warm and sunny days.

• Read more about the weather in Kos

Temperature in Albufeira in April

• Albufeira's average temperature in April is 20.7 °C

A coastal city in the southern Algarve region of Portugal, Albufeira is a popular tourist destination for much of the year.

The Mediterranean climate in Albufeira produces hot summers and mild winters. April sees many weather-related improvements. Temperatures increase throughout the month as we head toward the summer period, peaking at a maximum average of around 20.7 ºC. However nights are still considerably cooler falling to minimums of 11 ºC.

One of the sunniest regions in Europe, daily sunshine increases to 8 hours a day.

• Read more about the weather in Albufeira

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10 Warm Places to Visit All Year Round

Winter is here and we’re dreaming of sunny skies. Here are our top picks for places where it’s always warm all year round

A travel adventure always feels better when it’s balmy. Yet during the winter months, when travelers are most in need of sunshine, it can be difficult to find guaranteed warm places to visit.

So where is it warm all year round? We’ve compiled a list of 10 warm places to travel, from adventurous locations ideal for solo and group tour travel to relaxing destinations perfect for beach lovers. 

Koh Lanta, Thailand

Choose your own adventure on Koh Lanta. This tropical paradise offers a diversity of activities—and average highs of 87F (31C) all year round. 

Bike along the luscious coast for unforgettable views, scuba in the breathtaking marine national park, and explore the stilted restaurants of Ban Si Raya, the island’s original port. If you love to party, head to Hat Khlong Khong—the island’s hippie beach—when the sun goes down. Koh Lanta can also be enjoyed as part of a Thai island-hopping tour .

Koh Lanta’s climate is warm throughout the year, but the rainy season hits hard from July to October. Visit from December to March for a vacation that is both warm and dry.  

See Also: 250+ Tours to Thailand

Lanzarote, Canary Islands

Discover sun, sea and black sand beaches set against the extraordinary volcanic landscape of Lanzarote. This Canary Island is breathtaking to behold, with its luminous Montañas del Fuego (Mountains of Fire) and lava fields drawing comparisons to martian terrain. 

Against this dramatic backdrop, revelers sip cocktails and nod along to live music at the island’s many bars. Away from the party scene, wander amidst the spiky plants of the spectacular Jardin de Cactus, explore ancient lava tubes, and learn about the life of influential local artist César Manrique. 

Sunseekers can stretch out on the island’s startling black sand beaches, with average highs never dropping below 68F (20C), and the mercury spiking in summer and fall.

Marrakesh, Morocco

Prepare to be dazzled by the heady sights, sounds and scents of the balmy Ochre City. Once-in-a-lifetime adventures await, from the perfumed souks to the Jardin Majorelle, world-famous for its brilliant blues. 

There are plenty of opportunities to delve into the city’s rich history and culture, with major attractions including the Saadian Tombs, Le Jardin Secret, Badia Palace and the ultra-chic Yves Saint Laurent Museum. Marrakesh is also the perfect base from which to explore more of Morocco .

In July and August, Marrakech sizzles under average highs of 98F (37C), while the coolest month is January, with the mercury rising to a comfortable 66F (19C). 

See Also: All Morocco Tours starting in Marrakesh

Bali, Indonesia

Discover a slice of paradise under the swaying coconut palms of Bali, which is a perennial favorite on any warm places to visit list. This vacation hotspot boasts undeniably chilled out vibes, and serves adventure travelers and sunseekers in equal measure. 

Surfing, scuba and rafting are some of the most popular activities on Bali, thanks to its pristine coastline. Keen hikers find their path among the thickly-tangled tropical vegetation and waterfalls in-land, while wellness enthusiasts indulge in yoga and spas. Bali is hard to beat when it comes to beaches. There’s the famous Kuta beach, surrounded by party spots, luxurious Nusa Dua, and Padang Padang beach, favored by bohemian types. 

The temperature on Bali remains balmy year-round, hovering between 68F (20C) and 89F (32C). However, the island does have a distinct wet and dry season, with May to October generally the best time to visit. 

See Also: Active Adventure Tours in Bali

Mirissa, Sri Lanka

Mirissa is perfect for adventurers seeking a laid-back beach holiday off the beaten track. 

Modest guesthouses, bars and restaurants line a powdery crescent beach, with the warm tide lapping the feet of diners. At low tide, a sandbar emerges from the water, laying the trail to a small island. Surfing, snorkeling and whale watching are also on offer.

Mirissa is best enjoyed as part of a larger Sri Lankan adventure, with the historic fort of Galle an hour’s drive away, and surfer’s paradise Matara just 30 minutes along the coast road. Leave the south coast behind to visit the world-famous city of Kandy and take an iconic train ride through tea country to the wellness haven of Ella .

Temperatures in Mirissa fluctuate just a couple of degrees throughout the year, with highs between 84F (29C) and 89F (32C). Frequent rainfall is to be expected from May to November, but these showers typically pass quickly. 

Tourists have flocked to the former Portuguese enclave of Goa for decades to enjoy its vast golden beaches, famous party scene, and mesmerizing sunsets. 

Lounge on one of the island’s luxurious beaches or head to more secluded sands, where refreshments are available from palm leaf shacks. Shopping is a true cultural experience in Goa —there’s the famous tourist bazaar Anjuna Flea market, as well as the newer Saturday Night Market at Arpora, which becomes a hopping nightlife spot as the sun sets. Don’t miss Aswem, a painfully cool spot on the north Goan coast that regularly attracts A-listers to its upscale resorts and clubs among the sand dunes.

Hot weather is guaranteed in Goa, with average temperatures fluctuating from 77F (25C) in January to 86F (30C) in May. Monsoon season typically lasts from June to September, however, which can thwart beach days.

Sal, Cabo Verde

The golden sands of the well-developed Santa Maria Beach are a favored tourist hotspot in Sal, while Ponta Preta Beach offers more rugged scenery, and windsurfers flock to Kite Beach. As the sun sets over Santa Maria, live music, traditional dancing and cocktail bars are to be expected. 

There’s a unique experience to be had at Pedra de Lume—the site of a former salt mine in the crater of an extinct volcano—where the saltwater is believed to have therapeutic properties. Meanwhile, divers flock to Buracona, or ‘The Blue Eye’, where they plunge into a cave filled with blue water brilliantly lit by the sun. It’s also possible to use Sal as a jumping off point to explore Cabo Verde’s other islands .

Sal is one of those rare destinations that is great to visit at any time of year thanks to its dry tropical climate. The mercury rises to an average daily high of 87F (31C) in August, while in February—the coldest month—temperatures peak at an average 77F (25C).

Aruba , Caribbean

Year-round sunshine is just one of the benefits of spending a vacation in this Caribbean haven. Miles of white sand beaches are complemented by incredible wildlife-spotting opportunities and outstanding hikes. The adventure is topped off by Oranjestad—the quaint, colorful capital. 

Nature lovers should not miss the island’s donkey sanctuary, butterfly farm and ostrich farm. Meanwhile, the island’s second highest peak, Hooiberg, is a 587-stair challenge for hikers. Popular beaches include Eagle Beach, Palm Beach and Baby Beach—and Andicuri Beach is a true surfer’s paradise, with limestone cliffs and crashing waves. 

Average highs remain above 86F (30C) throughout the year, and Caribbean hurricanes rarely make landfall on the island.

See Also: All Carribean Tours

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro is a sprawling, magical city containing a multitude of adventures.

Take a cable car up to the iconic Sugarloaf Mountain for panoramic views over the city, and pay a visit to the giant Christ the Redeemer statue. Embrace nature at the Parque Nacional da Tijuca to see what’s left of the Atlantic rainforest that once surrounded Rio.

Elsewhere, the central neighborhood of Lapa is famed for its nightlife. Its plethora of bars vibrate with samba music, and there’s a huge, loud street party every weekend.

Rio’s hottest months occur from December to March, with average highs hovering around 86F (30C). June to August bring cooler weather, but it’s certainly not chilly—average highs for this time of year sit at around 77F (25C).

Welcome to the gleaming desert-metropolis of Dubai . This ambitious city draws in a wide range of tourists, from luxury lovers in search of seven-star service and sparkling malls, to sporty types looking for their next adrenaline rush on Kite Beach.

Take in the Burj Khalifa and the Burj Al Arab—two of Dubai’s most stunning architectural structures. Soak up the culture at the dazzling gold souk and at Madinat Jumeirah, a modern interpretation of a traditional Arab village.

From June to September, Dubai is scorching, with average highs around 105F (41C), while January is the coolest month, with average highs of 75F (24C).  

Caroline Howley

Caroline Howley is a travel journalist based in the United Kingdom.

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Top Things to Do in Balashikha, Russia

Places to visit in balashikha.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Malenky Puppet Theater

2. Balashikha Park

3. Monument to Street Cleaner

4. Rock Fountain

5. Temple of Archangel Michael

6. Palace Pekhra-Yakovlevskoe

7. Monument to Fallen Soldiers-Brothers

8. Transfiguration Church

9. Mystical Castle

10. Alexander Nevskiy Cathedral in Balashikha

11. Homestead Gorenki

12. balashikha museum of history and local lore.

13. Arena Balashikha Ice Dome

14. Protection of the Holy Virgin in Balashikha

15. Art Gallery of The City District

16. Grave of Michael Lunn

17. Temple of St. Catherine

18. Alekseyevskiy Pond

19. Temple of Pochayevskaya Icon of Our Lady

20. Temple of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin in the Trubetskoy

21. Lover's Bridge

22. Temple of St. Vladimir

23. fairy tale children's model puppet theater, 24. saltykovka flea market.

25. Lisya Gora

26. Ecodrom Ekvilibr

27. temple of the prelate nicholas, 28. balashikha chapel.

29. Zoodvorik Zolotoi Fazan

30. Church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker

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Exiting nps.gov

Alerts in effect, angels landing permits & hiking.

Planned trail maintenance will close the route to Angels Landing from April 1 to April 4, 2024. We will not issue any permits to hike on those days.

Learning the lottery outcome

• If you cancel your permit at least two days before your hike, we will refund the $3 per person fee.
• You can get your permit by logging in to your account on recreation.gov
• You did not get a permit and can consider applying again the day before your hike or for a future Seasonal Lottery.  

After you get your permit

You will get an email from recreation.gov confirming that you got a permit. This confirmation email serves as your permit. Print or download a copy of the confirmation email and bring it with you on your hike. Mobile phone service is unreliable at the permit checkpoint so be sure to print or download before you arrive. 

Day-before Lottery

When to apply.

You can apply for a permit the day before your planned hike. This lottery opens every day at 12:01 a.m. and closes at 3 p.m. Mountain Time (MT).

Note: It costs $6 to apply for a permit. The fee covers an application for up to 6 people (including the person filling out the application). This fee is non-refundable.  

How to time your application

Apply on the day before you want to hike between 12:01 a.m. and 3 p.m. MT. For example: If you want to hike on a Tuesday, you need to apply between 12:01 a.m. and 3 p.m. MT on Monday. We will issue permits at 4 p.m. MT on Monday.  

At 4 p.m. MT on the day you apply, we will send you an email to let you know:

• This fee is not refundable.
• You did not get a permit and can try again in a future lottery.  

You will get an email from recreation.gov confirming that you got a permit. This confirmation email serves as your permit. Print or download a copy of the confirmation email and bring it with you on your hike. Mobile phone service is unreliable at the permit checkpoint so be sure to print or download before you arrive. 

Getting a refund or changing your permit

Cancellation policy.

You cannot change your permit. All fees are non-refundable.

Seasonal Lottery

If you get a permit using the seasonal lottery, you can cancel the permit until two days before the permit reservation date for a full refund of the $3 per person fee. The $6 application fee is not refundable. Canceled seasonal lottery permits will automatically roll into the day-before lottery.  

Change Policy

You can reduce the group size on your permit until two days before the permit reservation date. If you reduce the number of people on your permit, you will get a refund for the $3 per person fee for each person you take off of the permit. The $6 application fee is not refundable. 

Example:  If you have a permit to hike on a Friday, June 24, you can cancel it or reduce the number of people on it until 11:59 p.m. MT on the Wednesday, June 22. If you reduce the number of people on your permit or cancel it, recreation.gov will refund the $3 per person fee for each person who is removed or canceled.

You cannot:

• Increase the number of people in your group
• Change the date of your hike
• Change the permitee (transfer the permit).
• Change to an alternate leader.

Permits are not transferable.

Embed Video

Learn how to apply for a permit on recreation.gov to hike at Angels Landing in Zion National Park.

Learn more about hiking at Angels Landing

After you get a permit

Prepare for your hike! Along this 5.4 mile round-trip hike, you will gain 1,488 feet in elevation. M ost hikers take around 4 hours to complete the hike, but some take longer. Check the seasonal shuttle schedule before you leave to make sure you do not miss the last shuttle. Print or download your permit and carry a flashlight or headlamp with new batteries, some food and lots of water just in case you end up out later than you planned. The trail is well marked, but bring a park map in case you get disoriented. Always carry and drink plenty of water, dress in layers, know the forecast, and check conditions in the park to get ready for your hike.

Before your hike

Print or download your permit.

You need to print or download the confirmation email from recreation.gov that says you got a permit (this serves as your permit) before you get to the trailhead. A ranger may check your permit at the Grotto (Shuttle Stop 6), at Scout Lookout or along the trail. If you do not have your permit with you, we may not allow you to take your hike.

Treat your feet right

Check the weather forecast, get to the trailhead, at the trailhead, fill your water bottle, go before you go, leave no trace.

• Protect the canyon walls, rocks, and trees from graffiti and vandalism.
• Leave rocks as you find them and do not stack rock cairns.
• Protect the natural sounds of the canyon by talking softly and using headphones for music.

On the trail

The hike along the West Rim Trail to Angels Landing is strenuous. Your safety on the trail is your responsibility, and we want to share some tips so that you reduce the risks and have an enjoyable hike.

Stay hydrated

Enjoy scout lookout.

You do not need a permit to go to Scout Lookout.   

You do need a permit to go past Scout Lookout on to the part of the trail with Chains.

For many people, Scout Lookout is a reasonable stopping point. You will have to hike the West Rim Trail  from Zion Canyon to this viewpoint. and you will covering most of the distance and elevation gain for the hike. If you or someone in your group has a fear of heights, consider splitting up here and regrouping at a specified time and place. It can be a great option to head up the West Rim Trail to get views overlooking Angels Landing and Zion Canyon. You do not need a permit to hike on the West Rim Trail.

Be mindful of conditions

Even if you have a permit, it may not be advisable for you to hike if the weather is bad when you are in Zion. Do not attempt to ascend if:

Storm clouds are in the area.

The ground is wet or icy (the rock becomes very slick when wet; most accidents on the chains occur during wet conditions).

It is dark or will be dark before you finish.

• You have any fear of heights.

Watch for rockfall

Rockfall hazards occur throughout the park and are especially high near any cliff face. If you witness a rockfall, quickly move away from the cliff. If you are near the base of a cliff or talus (loose rock) slope when a rockfall happens and cannot quickly move away from the base of the cliff, immediately seek shelter behind the largest nearby boulder and pull your backpack over your head. After rocks have stopped falling, move quickly as far away from the base of the cliff as possible. Be aware that rockfalls can occur at any time. Pay attention to your surroundings, stay off of closed trails, and, if unsure, keep away from cliffs.

Use caution on the Angels Landing Chains

You need to have a permit to hike the Angels Landing chains.

Take your time and be patient with slower hikers.

Allow faster hikers to pass you (when possible).

• Where available, remain within reach of the chains.
• Be considerate. There are many places that are only safe for one person to travel the two-way route. Communicate and take turns with others.
• In winter, the metal chains are very cold. Gloves may be useful.

Watch for wildlife

Keep wildlife wild : respect them from a distance. Squirrels, ravens, chipmunks, and other animals live along the trail; never feed them or allow them to get your food. Do not leave your pack unattended (e.g., at the base of the chains or while you take a nap).  California condors are the largest bird in North America and you might see one near Angels Landing. Please respect these critically endangered birds by keeping your distance. Never feed or approach a condor.

Pack out your trash and recreate responsibly

Pack it in, pack it out, don't roll rocks.

In Zion, you will commonly be above other people and wildlife. Do not throw anything over the edge of the trail. Angels Landing is a nesting area for many birds and rock climbers are often below. A falling rock could injure or kill.

Logistics and other information

Emergencies.

Even if you plan well and bring the right equipment, you might still have problems. If you need help, try to call 911. If you have cell and/or data service, a call will connect you with the Zion Dispatch Office. If you do not have cell and/or data service ( most people cannot connect to a mobile network in Zion Canyon ), find a park ranger or park volunteer on the trail or at a trailhead.

More Information

• Learn more about why we issue permits to hike at Angels Landing and about Zion's Visitor Use Research and Planning .
• If you have a Commercial Use Authorization to guide hikes in the park, please contact the Zion Commercial Services to discuss options. If you want to find a guide, consult our list of authorized guides . No matter when you plan to hike Angels Landing, you will need a permit

If you do not receive a permit

You can hike about 2.25 mi (3.62 km) from the Grotto (Shuttle Stop #6) to Scout Lookout on the West Rim Trail without a permit.

Hiking to Scout Lookout is strenuous and you will climb 1000 ft (305 m). Hikers at Scout Lookout get scenic views of Zion Canyon. The half mile route with chains to Angels Landing starts at Scout Lookout. You need a permit to go from Scout Lookout to Angels Landing.

There are many other trails in Zion Canyon. Learn more about hiking in Zion.

An album with materials you can print to share QR codes, tips, and updates with people planning trips to Zion

Learn about the Free Zion Canyon Shuttle Service.

Maps, shuttle schedules, hiking, and camping information. Check here for materials translated into languages other than English.

Last updated: June 1, 2024

Park footer

Contact info, mailing address:.

Zion National Park 1 Zion Park Blvd. Springdale, UT 84767

435-772-3256 If you have questions, please email [email protected]. Listen to recorded information by calling anytime 24 hours a day. Rangers answer phone calls from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. MT, but a ranger may not answer if they are already speaking with someone else.

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7 of the 10 Hottest Countries in the World Are on 1 Continent

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Did you know that some places on Earth can get so hot that local wildlife has evolved specifically to survive the extreme conditions? In these regions, the heat isn't just a summer wave; it's a constant presence.

This survival strategy is not an isolated phenomenon but a common trait among the flora and fauna in the hottest countries in the world.

There are many ways to measure the heat and average annual temperatures in these scorching-hot regions. But focusing on the mean surface air temperature — which averages daily highs and lows over a period to provide a consistent measure of warmth — offers a reliable way to compare the relentless heat affecting both deserts and rainforests.

• Burkina Faso

Disputes Around the Record for Highest Temperature

The title of the hottest country in the world goes to Mali. The West African country experiences a predominantly hot desert climate, particularly in the northern regions, while the southern parts have a semi-arid climate that receives very little rainfall.

The average annual temperature in Mali is approximately 84.6 degrees Fahrenheit (29.21 degrees Celsius).

During Mali's hot season, which spans from April to June, its extreme temperatures can soar, occasionally reaching or surpassing 113 degrees Fahrenheit (45 degrees Celsius). Such severe heat poses considerable challenges to daily life and agriculture, particularly in Mali's vast northern territories.

Climate Change

The West African nation faces significant challenges due to climate change. Rising temperatures exacerbate droughts, desertification and water scarcity, impacting agricultural productivity and food security.

The country's vulnerability to climate-related hazards underscores the importance of implementing adaptation measures, such as sustainable land management practices, water conservation efforts and community resilience-building initiatives.

2. Burkina Faso

In West Africa, Burkina Faso is a landlocked country characterized by a varied climate that transitions from a Sahelian semiarid region in the north to a more humid tropical savanna in the south. It has an average yearly temp of 84.7 degrees Fahrenheit (29.26 degrees Celsius)

Temperatures across Burkina Faso can vary significantly, with the north experiencing more extreme heat. During the hot season, which spans from March to May, temperatures in some parts of the country can climb to over 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius).

The country's vulnerability to climate change is evident in the increasingly irregular rainfall patterns and more frequent extreme weather events, such as droughts and floods, which pose significant risks to food security, water resources and the well-being of its people.

Burkina Faso has embarked on various adaptation and mitigation strategies, including large-scale reforestation projects, promoting sustainable agricultural practices and investments in renewable energy to reduce reliance on biomass and improve energy security.

Senegal, located at the westernmost point of Africa, experiences a tropical Sahelian climate, marked by distinct dry and wet seasons due to its positioning on the fringe of the Sahara Desert to the north and the more humid West African coast to the south.

Despite a piping-hot yearly average temperature of 84.02 degrees Fahrenheit (28.9 degrees Celsius), the country's climate experiences fluctuating rainfall and temperature, influenced by its diverse geography, which includes arid deserts, fertile plains and a verdant southern region.

The country's rainy season spans from June to October, with the majority of the annual rainfall occurring during this period. The dry season, from November to May, is characterized by the hot and dry harmattan winds blowing from the northeast. These winds can carry fine dust from the Sahara, reducing air quality and visibility.

Climate change has significantly impacted Senegal, leading to higher temperatures, unpredictable rainfall and higher sea levels, endangering coastal areas and Dakar. These shifts intensify drought , land degradation and biodiversity loss, affecting agriculture and food stability.

In response, Senegal has implemented various adaptation and mitigation strategies to combat climate change, including promoting sustainable agriculture practices and implementing coastal protection measures.

The Great Green Wall initiative , aimed at tackling desertification across the Sahel region, includes Senegal in its efforts to plant a vast belt of trees from Senegal in the west to Djibouti in the east.

4. Mauritania

In the heart of Northwest Africa, Mauritania's climate is sculpted by its expansive deserts, which push the average yearly temperature to 83.9 degrees Fahrenheit (28.82 degrees Celsius).

Mauritania's vast interior, encompassing regions like the Adrar and Tagant, endures the brunt of this heat, thanks to the Sahara Desert.

Seasonal Harmattan winds offer a fleeting chill, albeit with a haze of dust and sand that challenges air quality and visibility. The Atlantic Ocean provides some cooling along the coast, but its effort is barely enough against the prevailing heat.

The architecture here, designed for maximum ventilation and shade, mirrors the community's resilience, as does the adaptive flora and fauna.

As with other countries on this list, the trend of increasing temperatures in Mauritania over recent decades signifies the impact of climate change.

With hotter months becoming more common in recent years, this warming trend reflects a global pattern of rising temperatures attributed to anthropogenic factors like pollution and deforestation.

Tuvalu, a small island nation in the Pacific Ocean, experiences a tropical climate with relatively consistent temperatures throughout the year and high humidity levels.

The archipelago is situated just south of the equator, which contributes to its warm and stable climate, with an average annual temperature of 83.5 degrees Fahrenheit (28.6 degrees Celsius), making it warm but comfortable due to the oceanic breezes.

The climate in Tuvalu is characterized by two main seasons: a wet season from November to April, marked by heavier rainfall and occasional tropical cyclones, and a dry season from May to October, with less precipitation and more moderate conditions.

The annual rainfall varies across the islands but typically ranges from 79 to 118 inches (about 2,000 to 3,000 millimeters), essential for replenishing freshwater supplies and supporting local agriculture and subsistence fishing practices.

Tuvalu's proximity to the international date line — an imaginary line between the North and South Poles, marking where the calendar date shifts by one day when crossing east or west or vice versa — means it is one of the first countries to experience the new day.

6. Djibouti

With an average yearly temp of 83.3 degrees Fahrenheit (28.49 degrees Celsius), this small country in the Horn of Africa is characterized by its arid and semi-arid climates.

Situated at the junction of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, Djibouti experiences extremely high temperatures, particularly in its inland areas, where conditions are predominantly desert.

The country's climate can be broadly categorized into a hot desert climate ( BWh ) in most of the country — including the coastal areas — and a semi-arid climate ( BSh ) in the northwest and parts of the highlands.

Temperatures in the interior desert regions can soar above 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius) during the day for much of the year, with some of the highest recorded temperatures exceeding 122 degrees Fahrenheit (50 degrees Celsius) in the summer months, particularly in places like the Danakil Depression, one of the lowest and hottest areas on Earth.

The high temperatures and scarcity of rainfall in Djibouti pose significant challenges to water resources, agriculture and overall sustainability. The country's limited arable land and freshwater resources restrict agricultural productivity, making it heavily reliant on imported food and water for its population.

7. The Gambia

The Gambia in West Africa boasts a tropical climate characterized by a distinctly hot dry season and a rainy season influenced by the African monsoon. Coastal areas enjoy moderated temperatures due to the proximity of the ocean, while the interior experiences higher heat levels.

The country maintains consistently warm conditions throughout the year, with an average yearly temperature of 83.1 degrees Fahrenheit (28.38 degrees Celsius).

The tropical climate of The Gambia is marked by two primary seasons: dry and rainy.

During the dry season, typically from November to May, the weather is characterized by hot and arid conditions, minimal rainfall and clear skies. Inland regions experience particularly high temperatures, often exceeding 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius).

However, humidity levels remain relatively low, providing respite, especially along the coast where the ocean breeze offers relief.

On the other hand, the rainy season, lasting from June to October, brings heavy rainfall and increased humidity. Monsoon rains are vital for agriculture and replenishing water sources.

Rainfall varies across the country, with coastal areas receiving less precipitation compared to inland regions. The heightened humidity during this period amplifies the perception of heat, particularly in the interior.

Perks of the Coastal Region

The country's coastal areas benefit from the tempering influence of the Atlantic Ocean, resulting in slightly milder temperatures and less extreme weather conditions compared to inland regions.

8. Maldives

The Maldives occupy the eighth spot on the list of scorching hot countries, with an average temperature of around 82.6 degrees Fahrenheit (28.11 degrees Celsius).

This temperature is relatively consistent due to the region's tropical monsoon climate, with minimal variation in maximum and minimum temperatures throughout the year.

Climate change poses significant challenges to the archipelago state known for its low-lying islands, including increased coastal erosion, more intense and frequent weather events like storms and coral bleaching affecting marine biodiversity .

The nation has been proactive in addressing these challenges, with former President Mohamed Nasheed highlighting the urgency by stating that the country could be submerged if carbon emissions continue at their current rate.

In 2009, Nasheed held an underwater cabinet meeting to highlight the threat of climate change and rising sea levels to the country. The meeting, conducted with officials in scuba gear under the sea, aimed to draw global attention to the urgency of addressing climate change.

This West African country exhibits a climate ranging from humid in the south to arid in the north. While the average yearly temp is approximately 82.4 degrees Fahrenheit (28 degrees Celsius), there is some fluctuation throughout the region.

The tropical climate in Benin fluctuates between 82 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit (28 and 32.2 degrees Celsius). In the north, temperatures from February to May often spike to around 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius).

Coastal areas like Cotonou benefit from the moderating influence of the sea, which leads to more consistent temperatures year-round due to cooling sea breezes. This results in a prolonged rainy season, enriching the region's biodiversity.

From November to February, rainfall decreases during the dry season, but the climate remains relatively mild compared to inland areas, thanks to the ocean's stabilizing effect. This creates a distinct weather pattern for coastal regions, contrasting the harsher climates found further inland.

As with most places on Earth , climate change has intensified temperature fluctuations and altered rainfall patterns in Benin , impacting agriculture and water resources.

Nestled in the western Pacific Ocean , this archipelago is distinguished by its equatorial climate, which is marked by high temperatures and humidity throughout the year.

The average annual temperature in Palau hovers around 82.2 degrees Fahrenheit (27.9 degrees Celsius), with little fluctuation between the warmest and coolest months. This stable temperature is characteristic of Palau's tropical rainforest climate, which also brings about significant rainfall annually.

The islands experience a wet season from May to November, characterized by heavier rainfall and occasional storms, including the risk of typhoons , particularly from June to December. Monthly rainfall can exceed 18 inches (457 millimeters) during this period.

From December to April, the dry season sees a reduction in rainfall, making it an ideal time for tourism.

Threats to a Tropical Paradise

Palau's oceanic surroundings contribute to its moderate climate, with sea temperatures consistently around 84 degrees Fahrenheit (29 degrees Celsius), providing ideal conditions for marine life and coral reefs .

These reefs, crucial to Palau's biodiversity and economy are sensitive to changes in sea temperature and acidity.

Climate change poses a significant threat to Palau , primarily due to rising sea levels and the increasing intensity of weather events. Palau's low-lying islands are vulnerable to flooding, coastal erosion and habitat loss.

Libya once held the record for the highest temperature ever recorded on Earth, with a reading of 136.4 degrees Fahrenheit (57.8 degrees Celsius) in 'Aziziya in 1922. However, this record was decertified by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) in 2012 due to evidence suggesting it was an erroneous reading made by an inexperienced observer.

The current official highest recorded temperature is 134.1 degrees Fahrenheit (56.7 degrees Celsius), measured on July 10, 1913, in Furnace Creek Ranch, Death Valley, in the United States.

This revision followed a detailed investigation that concluded the El Azizia record could be inaccurate by as much as 44.6 degrees Fahrenheit (7 degrees Celsius), due to factors such as the asphalt-like surface over which the measurement was taken, which did not represent the native desert soil accurately.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.

Please copy/paste the following text to properly cite this HowStuffWorks.com article:

5 not-too-hot places to camp this summer that are very cool

You don't have to sweat it out to revel in the great outdoors

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Camping in cooler temperatures during the summer is a treat — you get to enjoy the great outdoors without worrying about the mercury shattering. Here are five refreshing spots across the U.S. to beat the heat while you green your days off.

Covered Bridge Campground, Albany, NH 

The Albany Covered Bridge inspired the name of Covered Bridge Campground

More than a dozen covered bridges remain in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, including the Albany Covered Bridge just off of the Kancamagus Scenic Byway. Originally built in the mid-1800s, the historic structure now ferries campers across the Swift River to the 49-site Covered Bridge Campground . Birdwatching is a popular activity here, with almost 200 species living in the shady old hardwood forest, as is hiking the nearby three-mile Boulder Loop Trail and going fishing for brook trout. On days when it might be in the high 70s, expect temperatures to cool off quite a bit by nightfall.

Denali National Park and Preserve, AK

Riley Creek Campground is close to Denali National Park and Preserve's entrance

When it comes to camping in Denali National Park and Preserve, Riley Creek Campground is as cushy as it gets. Open year-round, this is the largest campground in the park and has restrooms, potable water and a well-stocked mercantile within walking distance. Each tent and RV site comes with a picnic table and fire grate and is close to the hiking trails that lead to the visitor's center. Expect cool and possibly rainy conditions, with summer temperatures usually in the high 50s.

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Isle Royale National Park, MI

Visitors have to trek across Lake Superior to reach Isle Royale National Park

Getting to Isle Royale National Park is part of the fun. You need to cross Lake Superior, either by seaplane or boat, and depending on the weather, departure point and mode of transportation, this could take anywhere from 35 minutes to seven hours. The park is an archipelago of more than 400 islands, with Isle Royale the main one. Activities abound, from backpacking to fishing to canoeing, and there are 36 campgrounds to choose from, all with tent sites, outhouses and a water source. Note: Because of its remote location, make sure to read up on important things to know about the park and how to prepare for a visit.

Jubilee Lake, Umatilla National Forest, OR

The dark skies of Umatilla National Forest make it perfect for stargazing

Jubilee Lake's name is fitting — you want to celebrate once you arrive and see the shimmering water and feel the cooler air. Surrounded by spruce fir, the lake is great for swimming, fishing and non-motorized boating, and walking the 2.8-mile Jubilee Lake National Recreation Trail offers a picturesque way to take it all in. The Jubilee Lake Campground , with 48 tent and RV sites, vault and flush toilets, potable water and a boat ramp, opens in July. After dark, be sure to look up: On clear nights, the stargazing can be unreal.

Morro Strand State Beach, Morro Bay, CA

The famed Morro Rock is a volcanic plug

A trip to Morro Strand State Beach offers instant relief, with summer day temperatures usually 30 degrees cooler than inland areas. This is a fun beach to explore, where you can go windsurfing, bird watching, and see dunes, dune wetland and tidepools up close. For tent or RV camping, head to Morro Strand State Beach Campground , where all 70 sites are equipped with fire rings and picnic tables. The beach is a short walk away, and if you secure a site closer to the ocean, the sound of waves might lull you to sleep.

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Catherine Garcia is night editor for TheWeek.com . Her writing and reporting has appeared in Entertainment Weekly and EW.com , The New York Times , The Book of Jezebel , and other publications. A Southern California native, Catherine is a graduate of the University of Redlands and the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism.

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Here It Comes: Another Hot Summer in Europe

Extreme heat and other weather challenges are in the forecast this summer, and travel advisers, tourists and local officials are getting prepared.

By Ceylan Yeğinsu

Europe, the world’s fastest-warming continent, is headed for another scorching summer, meteorologists warn. And travelers, once again, are heading to the hot spots.

Last year, large parts of southern Europe experienced prolonged periods of extreme heat with temperatures reaching 118 degrees and lasting up to two weeks or more. The sweltering conditions upended vacations throughout the summer season as visitors collapsed from heat exhaustion at crowded tourist sites, and wildfires led to evacuations in Greece, Italy and Spain.

“Our computer models are in good agreement that it’s going to be another unusually hot summer, especially during late July through August,” said Todd Crawford, vice president of meteorology at Atmospheric G2 , a weather and climate intelligence firm based in Manchester, N.H. The company expects the magnitude of the heat to be similar to 2022, the hottest summer ever recorded in Europe, with the most anomalous heat projected in the south, in popular countries for travelers like Greece, Croatia and Italy.

Since 1991, Europe has been warming at twice the global average, and 23 of the 30 most severe heat waves in Europe since 1950 have occurred since 2000, with five in the last three years, according to the World Meteorological Organization. The European Union's Copernicus Climate Change Service said several factors contribute to the continent’s vulnerability, including the proportion of European land in the Arctic — the fastest-warming region on earth — and changes in atmospheric circulation.

Yet despite the forecast and increasing trend of excessive summer heat, demand is still high for destinations where temperatures reached 100 degrees or higher in recent summers. Overall, U.S. demand for travel to Europe has increased since last year, according to the travel site Hopper . Rome, Paris and Athens are among the most searched cities out of billions of annual searches for summer vacations on Kayak and Expedia.

“The destinations are being booked again, and what really characterizes people is how quickly they forget and push back negative experiences,” said Stefan Gössling, a professor who researches tourism and climate change at Linnaeus University in Sweden. “People who were caught in life-threatening situations like the wildfires may reconsider where they travel, but for the broader population, we are not yet seeing a big change in decision-making because of the heat.”

Green spaces and heat officers: Cities adapt

As the summer approaches, popular destinations that were hit hard last year are working on protocols to make residents and tourists safe and more comfortable. In 2021, Athens became the first European city to appoint a chief heat officer to oversee those efforts. One of the first steps was to categorize heat waves by severity, like hurricanes, as an early warning system for the potential impact on human health. It is also naming heat waves to emphasize their potential risks.

“Heat is a silent killer and projections for the coming years show that it will only get worse, so we are redesigning our city and making changes to adapt,” said Elissavet Bargianni, the chief heat officer for Athens. Beyond raising awareness, the city plans to implement additional measures, which include increasing the number of green spaces and creating cool public areas.

For visitors planning to visit Athens this summer, Ms. Bargianni advises using the Extrema Global app that calculates the coolest route for getting from point A to point B according to the current temperature and density of the trees. The city already has several air-conditioned cooling centers that are free.

During last July’s heat wave, the Acropolis was forced to close between midday and the early evening to protect visitors after some of them collapsed from the heat. The ministry of culture could make the same decision this year, Ms. Bargianni said, if the heat is severe.

Heat and tours: Travel advisers get creative

Travel advisers are also factoring heat into flexible itineraries. In cities like Rome, Barcelona, Paris and Athens, they are scheduling sightseeing in the cooler morning and evening hours, and arranging air-conditioned transportation.

“We tend to do activities and tours in the morning, then stop for lunch, and in the mid- to late afternoon you either go back to the hotel to sit by the pool or go to the beach,” said Gary Portuesi, a co-managing partner at Authentic Explorations, a New York-based travel company that specializes in Europe.

If clients insist on taking midday tours, the company will work with local partners to make the experience as comfortable as possible. “If there is a six-hour tour, for example, they will cut it down to four and take them to an air-conditioned gelateria for a break,” Mr. Portuesi said.

It is not only the heat that travel advisers have had to grapple with, but also other unpredictable weather events. Last summer, while some parts of the continent were hot and dry, others were cold and wet. “There was a period during the summer peak when it was hotter in the Dolomites than it was in Sicily,” said Jennifer Schwartz, the Italy-based partner of Authentic Explorations. “The most important aspect of our job is to set expectations about the variables and guide people instead of saying it’s too hot, don’t come.”

Heat insurance?

To help travelers book with more confidence, Sensible Weather, a Los Angeles-based start-up that provides a weather guarantee for vacations and outdoor experiences, has recently added high heat protection to its coverage. When booking through a Sensible partner, travelers will be able to add daily protection and if the temperature exceeds a threshold — usually set between 90 and 100 degrees — they can claim reimbursement. Currently, the insurance is only available in the United States, but, the company said, will gradually be rolled out in Europe and elsewhere.

“The goal of the company is to cover everything that can ruin a trip, and usually it’s rain, but temperature is number two,” said Nick Cavanaugh, the company’s founder who was developing the product while caught in a heat wave in Barcelona last year.

Customers do not need to cancel their trip in order to be reimbursed. Those on package tours are reimbursed for the average daily rate of their entire trip for each day that surpassed the heat threshold. “Our customers can still go on their vacations, but if it’s too hot for some hours of the day and unpleasant to go outside, you can hang out in the air-conditioning and we will reimburse you,” Mr. Cavanaugh said.

Heading to cooler climes

Some travelers who were caught in Europe’s heat waves last summer are seeking cooler destinations this summer in places like Norway, Slovenia, Switzerland, Sweden and Finland. Flight searches for Tromsø, Norway, for example, have increased by 85 percent over 2023, according to Kayak.

Joanna Walker, a 43-year-old recruiter from Boston, was caught in a blistering heat wave with her family in Italy last July and vowed never to return during the summer. She said she had been advised to travel during the shoulder season, but couldn’t because her children were in school.

“We couldn’t even cool off in the pool because there was no shade and the water was hot,” Ms. Walker recalled. “We wanted to see the sights in Florence and have long lunches in the piazzas, but instead we were stuck in our overpriced villas under the air-conditioning.”

This year her family has booked a tour of Norway’s fjords in July, where temperatures linger in the high 60s. “It’s going to be a different vibe to Italy for sure, lots of nature and not as much history, but at least it will be cool enough to experience something.”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Ceylan Yeginsu is a travel reporter for The Times who frequently writes about the cruise industry and Europe, where she is based. More about Ceylan Yeğinsu

Explore Our Weather Coverage

Extreme Weather Maps: Track the possibility of extreme weather in the places that are important to you .

Heat Safety: Heat waves are becoming increasingly common across the world. Here is how to keep yourself and your loved ones cool, hydrated and healthy .

Tornado Alerts: A tornado warning demands instant action. Here’s what to do if one comes your way .

Flash Flooding: Fast rising water can be deadly. Here’s what to do if you’re caught off guard , and how to prepare for a future flooding event.

Evacuating Pets: When disaster strikes, household pets’ lives are among the most vulnerable. You can avoid the worst by planning ahead .

Climate Change: What’s causing global warming? How can we fix it? Our F.A.Q. tackles your climate questions big and small .

Dubai   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Adél Békefi | Getty Images

Best Times To Visit Dubai

The best time to visit Dubai is from November to March. Weather-wise, Dubai really only experiences two seasons: hot and hotter. During the winter months, the city sees blue skies and primo beach weather. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect plenty of company on Jumeirah's beaches. You can escape the crowds if you visit during the summer months, but be prepared for triple-digit temps and high humidity levels (it's only a "dry" heat in the winter).

Visiting Dubai during Islamic holidays is a special experience, but note that dates for these holidays change annually, based on the lunar cycle. The major Islamic holidays in Dubai include the holy month of Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice), Hijri (Islamic new year) and the Prophet Mohammad's birthday. An Islamic calendar can be found here , but it is important to understand that the exact date(s) may not be confirmed until a moon phase is sighted by the moon-sighting committee to call the official start of these holidays.

Keep in mind: Islamic holidays may impact business hours during your trip. Hours may be shorter and the nightlife scene may also be a bit quieter compared to other months of the year. Between sunrise and sunset during Ramadan, Muslims do not eat, drink or smoke. The dates for Ramadan are variable since they follow the lunar calendar.

Weather in Dubai

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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Popular Times to Visit Dubai

Tourism volume is estimated based on in-market destination search query interest from Google and on travel.usnews.com in 2015-2016. Hotel prices are sourced from a sample of U.S. News Best Hotels rates through 2015-2016.

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Wild Weather Ahead: Summer 2024 Could Be a Scorcher After Hottest Year on Record

I n 2023, we lived through the hottest year since recordkeeping began more than a century ago, but before too long, it might be outdone as the pinnacle of extreme heat. 

That's because it's unlikely to be the only hottest year that we experience. Our climate is changing, growing warmer due to the emissions from burning fossil fuels, and our weather is changing with it. It's possible that this year may turn out to be hotter still.

It's certainly shaping up that way. On Thursday, the EU's Copernicus Climate Change Service said that May's heat meant we've now had 12 consecutive months of record-breaking global temperatures, according to records that stretch back to 1940. It's not just the air that's hotter: Sea surface temperatures in May marked 14 months in a row of record warmth.

"If we choose to continue to add greenhouse gases to the atmosphere then 2023/4 will soon look like a cool year," C3S Deputy Director Samantha Burgess said in a statement.  

In January, the EU service reported that  2023 was the hottest year on record for the period stretching back to 1850. Temperatures closed in on the critical 1.5-degree Celsius rise above preindustrial levels, after which we will see irreversible damage to the planet . These aren't freak outliers: The extreme heat we're experiencing is something we'll need to be prepared to deal with on a much more regular basis, along with storms, floods and drought.

The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in March issued its spring outlook, predicting that most of the continental US and Alaska will see above-average temperatures from April through June . The risk of flooding, it said, will ease during the three-month period because of "historically low winter snow cover" in large parts of the country. 

An April forecast from the Weather Company also predicted an "abnormally hot" summer in parts of the US. NOAA, meanwhile, published a map showing where it expects the summer heat to be most extreme compared with normal. It highlighted a band stretching from the Northwest down through the Southwest and into Texas. The combination of heat and little rain could increase the risk of drought and wildfires in some regions. 

Extreme weather

A key trend highlighted by the US government's Fifth National Climate Assessment , published in November, was that climate change is provoking extreme weather events across the country that are both more frequent and more severe. It pointed to an increase in heatwaves and wildfires in the West over the past few decades, the increased drought risk in the Southwest over the past century and more extreme rainfall east of the Rockies. Hurricanes have also been intensifying, as those who have found themselves in the path of a storm know all too well.

You'll need to be prepared. Extreme weather is going to have a widespread impact on industry, society and individuals. Last year in the US there were 25 extreme weather events with losses amounting to over $1 billion that resulted in the deaths of 464 people. People lost their homes, saw personal property damaged or suffered mental and physical health issues.

If there's a silver lining as we stare down the barrel of another potentially record-setting hot year, it's that the US is now better prepared than ever, and we know what steps you can take to better deal with these unwelcome events. When it comes to weather, forewarned is forearmed. 

The Biden administration has provided funding to build resilient communities , and in September issued a National Climate Resilience Framework, which should provide the US with a whole range of protections. These include conserving water resources, modernizing and strengthening the electric grid against weather and disasters and building infrastructure to protect communities and ecosystems from sea level rise, tidal flooding, hurricanes and storm surges.

At home and in your community, you can take steps, too, including preparing your home for wildfires and flooding and recognizing signs of heat-related health issues. This way, when wild weather comes calling, its impact on our homes, health and livelihoods is minimized.

Forecast 2024

Last year's heat was no anomaly. It's part of a long-term trend: The last 10 years have been the 10 warmest on record, according to NASA , with most of the Earth's warming taking place over the last 40 years . Most forecasters are anticipating yet another year of extreme heat ahead.

"If we look at the forecast for the next three months in the long range, it's suggesting that the trend that we're seeing in baseline warming could continue, and so 2024 could rival 2023 for being the hottest year on record, which is very scary," says Chloe Brimicombe, a heatwave researcher at the University of Graz.

Some of the extreme weather we experienced in the latter half of last year and will continue to experience in the first half of this year is a result of El Niño, a cyclical climate event that sees unusually warm ocean waters that has a knock-on effect of warmer temperatures and increased rainfall across the southern part of the US. For instance, temperatures in Death Valley, California, peaked at 128 degrees Fahrenheit in July, while forecasters   predicted warmer temperatures in northern parts of the US stretching into February and a colder, wetter winter for Southern states.

While meteorologists are able to make long-term predictions about El Niño, other climate-related predictions are trickier. "All things told, we're going to see an increased prevalence of heat events across the globe, but we can't tell right now exactly where that will be," says Andy Hoell, a climate scientist at NOAA.

What we do know, he adds, is that the climate crisis can compound events such as extreme heat or extreme rainfall to make them more likely or more severe. 

In the past, it wasn't always easy to draw direct links between extreme weather events and climate change. But huge improvements in attribution science (the ability to specifically identify emissions as the cause for unusually dramatic weather) in recent years have changed the game. The World Weather Attribution program, based at Imperial College London, has now completed nine studies on droughts, heatwaves, wildfires and heavy rainfall in North America. "Every study found that climate change made the event more intense and more likely," says Ben Clarke, a researcher at WWA.

The speed at which climate scientists are able to identify human-caused climate change as the culprit for extreme weather has also dramatically improved. Last year alone, Climate Central was able to attribute record-breaking spring heat in the western US , and ongoing extreme heat stretching through the summer in Texas and Florida , to climate change as it was happening. "It's much more impactful as far as our understanding of what climate change really is if we can make that connection in real time," says Andrew Pershing, vice president of science at Climate Central, a climate science analysis non-profit.

Thanks to attribution science, we can confidently point to a heatwave we've experienced and say whether climate change played a role in making it happen. But it also helps us to recognize that extreme weather events we're experiencing are part of a pattern – one that can't be broken without tackling the root causes of the climate crisis. "Until the world moves away from fossil fuels and reduces emissions to net zero," says Clarke, "extreme weather events in North America will continue to become more intense, more dangerous and more deadly."

Even if you live in a region that hasn't yet directly been impacted by a climate-linked weather event, you're not off the hook.

"As the climate continues to warm, most areas will be at an increased risk of some types of climate-linked extreme weather," says Russell Vose, chief of the Monitoring and Assessment Branch at NOAA' National Centers for Environmental Information and one of the NCA's authors. "Perhaps the best example is extreme heat – it can occur anywhere."

He points to the scorching heat dome that descended on the Pacific Northwest in June and July 2021, which was unprecedented in the historical record. The unpredictable nature of such extreme heat means no regions are marked as safe.

In fact, a region that's been lucky enough to not yet experience an extreme heat event is more likely to experience one in the future and suffer more greatly due to lack of preparedness, according to a study published by scientists from Bristol University last April.

Scientists are more concerned about the ability of people in areas that don't usually get intensely hot to cope when their turn comes. "What worries me would be something in the Upper Midwest or the Northeast that just hasn't had a major heat event for a few years," says Pershing. "I think we kind of lose a little bit of that muscle memory."

Weather's unequal impacts

The weather might not discriminate when it comes to who gets hit, but that doesn't mean its impacts are experienced equally by all groups across American society.

"Certain groups are simply more vulnerable to extreme events due to geographic, socioeconomic or demographic factors," says Vose. He points to the extreme rainfall brought by Hurricane Harvey in 2017, which led to a large number of homes being flooded in Harris County, Texas, with a disproportionate impact on low-income Hispanic neighborhoods.

When a heatwave hits, it will feel hotter in high-density urban environments that are more likely to be occupied by people of color or people living in poverty than in more spread-out neighborhoods or rural areas. Then some are homeless and can't access health care. They have little ability to protect themselves, no matter how much warning they get about an incoming heatwave. This makes these groups much more vulnerable to the health risks of extreme heat.

Heat researchers are extremely concerned about people who live in housing not resistant to warm temperatures, says Brimicombe, who points out that those who rent are especially at risk. "If you're a tenant, you have less ability to adapt your house to extreme heat than if you're a homeowner," she says. "And that also means young families, because babies are vulnerable to extreme heat."

Not only are economically disadvantaged communities in the US more susceptible to feeling the worst impacts of extreme weather, but they have also done the least to contribute towards the climate crisis in the first place. A study published last August revealed that the wealthiest households in the US are historically responsible for 40% of the country's climate emissions.

Meanwhile, these same households have more tools at their disposal to protect themselves from the impact of climate-related weather events. In 2019, The New York Times reported that wealthy California residents were banding together to hire private firefighters to protect them from the impacts of wildfires.

The Biden administration is well aware that marginalized and minority groups are hardest hit by climate change, including extreme weather. At the beginning of his term, the president set up the White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council, made up of leading experts from the US climate justice community.

Last September the group published its policy recommendations urging the government to ensure climate disasters do not further or exacerbate harm to vulnerable populations and communities. 

"Disaster relief should never be the cause of deepening inequality in any neighborhood, region, or Tribal community," the council wrote in its recommendations. "When disaster hits, the goal of government should be that the people hit the hardest should emerge stronger and more secure than before, not the opposite."

It recommended a number of measures that would help protect people in case of extreme weather including the creation of a low-cost national flood insurance and the establishment of a "Just Relocation Fund" that would provide communities hit by climate impacts with a relocation process based on a dignity framework with respect for their human rights. 

The White House has yet to respond to the recommendations, but if it does act on them this would hopefully prevent a repeat of the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, in which Black communities were allocated less money to rebuild their housing, resulting in a lawsuit against the federal government .

Through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and other initiatives, the Biden administration is investing heavily in adaptation, mitigation and resilience measures designed to protect all Americans from the impacts of climate-linked extreme weather. As with all funding, people may have to wait some time to feel the full impact of that funding. In the meantime, there are a number of steps you can take to keep yourself safe in the months ahead.

How to weather the weather, whatever the weather

Intense heat poses some scary risks to our health, including heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which can be life-threatening. It's important to familiarize yourself with the signs so that you'll recognize them in yourself and others, and can therefore seek medical attention if necessary.

Remember that heat is more likely to adversely affect older people, children and babies, and those with preexisting health conditions. There may be cooling centers or other well-air-conditioned places in your community where you can take refuge – if you do, consider taking elderly or vulnerable neighbors with you. "Look out for friends and families," said Brimicombe. "Don't be complacent."

The British writer and fellwalker Alfred Wainwright is widely credited as coining the phrase, "there's no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing." Wainwright, who died in 1991, didn't live through the kind of consistently bad weather we're experiencing in this era of extreme heat, but that doesn't mean we have nothing to learn from him. In the midst of a heatwave, it's best to wear loose-fitting clothes in light colors, rather than black, which absorbs the heat.

Make sure you stay hydrated and try to spend as little time as possible outside in the sun. Try to block sunlight from warming your house, and consider buying reflectors to place in your windows that can help keep the heat out. At nighttime, take note of when it might be cooler outside than in, and use this to your advantage by opening doors and windows to let the internal temperature of your house regulate. Fans can be effective, but at very high temperatures they're likely to just start pushing the hot air around – in which case you should, sparingly and without putting too much pressure on the grid, resort to air conditioning, or moving to your local cooling center.

Remember that global warming is worldwide, so the same heat warnings apply even if you plan to travel to other parts of the world over the summer. The heat waves that hit the US in the summer of 2023 also impacted areas of Europe, including popular vacation spots in the Mediterranean. Countries including Greece, Spain and Italy were all affected by wildfires that resulted in the evacuation of locals and tourists alike from some areas and islands.

The surge in Europe-bound American tourists that occurred in 2023 is expected to continue this year, but if you're planning to be among them it's important not to travel without comprehensive insurance. Likewise, if you're traveling in the peak months of July and August, be prepared to adjust your itinerary in case of extreme heat to ensure you're not putting your health at risk. This may mean spending more time indoors than you'd planned for the sake of your health.

For other types of extreme weather that may hit your property such as wildfires, storms or floods, it may be useful to have an evacuation plan. You should prepare an emergency evacuation bag , also known as a go bag or a bug-out bag. Don't forget to plan for your pets. The National Fire Protection Association has a handy guide on how to prepare your home for wildfires . 

One of the easiest but most important things you can do is keep an eye on long- and short-term weather forecasts. The silver lining for people in the US, says Pershing, is that the country has great weather forecasting capabilities and the channels to communicate incoming events to people so you can prepare. "The gaps are really whether you take it seriously yourself," he says.

So for anyone who does take it seriously, be sure to read our tips on how to prepare yourself and your home for wildfires, hurricanes, floods and storms.

Here are some additional resources:

• Natural Disaster Guide: How to Prep for Wildfires, Hurricanes, Storms and More
• Flood Insurance: What It Costs and What It Covers
• Pet Disaster Prep: Take These Steps to Keep Your Pets Safe
• Emergency Prep: 3 Tips to Recover Important Documents
• 16 Emergency Apps for Wildfires, Earthquakes and Other Disasters
• Wildfire Season Is Here: Prepare Your Emergency Evacuation Bag Now
• Climate Change Is Intensifying Severe Weather. Take These 4 Steps to Fortify Your Home

For even more details on natural disasters and how to prepare beforehand or respond after an event takes place, check out https://www.ready.gov/ .

Correction, March 15: This story originally misstated the name of the National Fire Protection Association.