Turns out, the best way to escape a sweltering summer is to lean into it—preferably with your toes in the sand and a cold drink in hand.
Airbnb just dropped its list of the top 10 trending beach destinations for late summer getaways, and it’s clear that travelers are chasing water, waves, and breezy relief. According to a new survey from Panterra, nearly half of global respondents named beaches as their number one destination type this season—and search data backs it up. From the surfer shores of Brazil to the dune-lined roads of Rhode Island, these spots are heating up in all the right ways.
Leading the charge is Saquarema, Brazil, where search interest spiked over 170% year-over-year thanks to its rep as the surf capital of the country. New Shoreham, Rhode Island (aka Block Island) also saw a 160% lift, with visitors biking to the lighthouse and seal-watching between dips at quiet beaches.
Meanwhile, Conil de la Frontera, a Spanish charmer on the Atlantic coast, is winning over travelers with both family-friendly stretches and hidden coves—searches are up 140%. Palermo, the Sicilian hotspot mixing history and Caribbean-blue waters, jumped over 90%, while Hossegor, France’s favorite wave town, is up 70% thanks to its barrels, beachfront cafés and breezy promenades.
Surprise newcomer Northumberland, in the United Kingdom, made the list too, drawing summer travelers to its golden sands and castle-topped coastline, with searches up 50%—alongside Fukuoka, Japan, where beach-hopping is just a ferry ride away. Also trending: Big Bear Lake, California (for freshwater fun), Port Aransas, Texas (for sunset strolls and sandcastles) and Portland, Maine, where tidepools and lighthouses define coastal calm.
Each destination includes Airbnb’s “Guest Favorite” listings—translation: You’ll find stays that are just as chill as the setting. So whether you're into surfing, snorkeling, seal-spotting or sun-lounging, there's still time to beat the heat without breaking a sweat.
Now all that’s left? Choosing between Mediterranean views, Gulf Coast breezes or North Atlantic drama. Better start packing.