Tips for Guests

Summer Travel: 5 Destinations to Explore the Outdoors

Get ready to explore the outdoors this summer and learn how to maximize your Airbnb listing by promoting nearby outdoor attractions.

By The Turno Team

Last updated: January 30, 2024

This past year has been anything but normal. Now that we’ve reached the halfway point of 2021, many of us are more than eager to plan our summer travel. While the world is still recovering, there is a renewed sense of energy within the travel industry. More than ever, travelers are looking for ideas to kickstart their summer travel plans.

Research shows the benefits of reconnecting with nature and our outdoor surroundings can have lasting effects on our health, relationships, and overall well-being.

To help, we have provided a list of five summer travel destinations – from the beach to glamping – for you and your loved ones to travel this summer. Included are bucket lists for each summer travel destination and some Airbnb properties nearby.

Do you have an Airbnb in one of the cities featured below? Highlighting nearby activities within your property listing is an important component to marketing your Airbnb.

1. Steamboat Springs, Colorado

Colorado isn’t just for hitting the slopes during the snowy season. Steamboat Springs is a perfect place for those seeking peace and adventure – between the laid-back lifestyle, country charm, and beautiful landscape.

Steamboat Springs Bucket List:

Fish Creek Falls
This waterfall drops 280 ft into Fish Creek Canyon. The hike is a paved path, making it available for people of all ages and skill levels. The lower falls are the first access point, but it doesn’t end just there. You can take the moderate trail to the upper falls, which is a 5-mile round trip. But it’s not over yet. Those looking for an even more advanced hike can hike even further to the very top of the falls. 

Soak in the Springs
You can soak and relax in these natural outdoor springs year-round. Located in downtown Steamboat Springs is Old Town Hot Springs, which is open to the public with day passes for purchase on a first-come, first-served basis. Strawberry Park Hot Springs is located in a forested area and open to the public with day passes for purchase. Due to COVID-19, Strawberry Park is only taking reservations. Be sure to check out their websites for more information regarding COVID-19. 

Goat Yoga
Goat Yoga takes yoga to an entirely different level. Although it may not be your typical peaceful yoga experience, it is definitely one you will never forget. If you’re not an animal lover, this may not be for you, but how can you not have fun surrounded by a bunch of baby goats?!

Bike the Yampa River Core Trail
People of all ages can enjoy this 7.5-mile paved trail, which runs through Steamboat Springs along the Yampa River. You can stop at the Yampa River Botanic Garden along your journey, consisting of ponds, sculptures, and 40 gardens. You can also take a float down the river where you can peacefully enjoy all of the scenery.

Eat at Taco Cabo
Taco Cabo is a local favorite serving Mexican food, including homemade street tacos, tamales, signature hot sauces, alcoholic beverages, and happy hour. You can even opt to dine outside along the Yampa River.

Our Airbnb finds for Steamboat Springs:

  • This beautiful Scenic Mountainside Studio is located 8 minutes from downtown Steamboat, and it has a beautiful panoramic view of Steamboat Springs.
  • Relax in this Cozy Luxury Ski Condo. This Airbnb is just a 12-minute walk to the mountain and a short drive from town.

2. Key West, Florida

Key west, Florida beach
Photo by Keith Luke on Unsplash

Escaping to a tropical paradise sounds like the perfect way to detach and enjoy the summer. Tropical destinations aren’t just exclusive to the Caribbean Islands, Hawaii, Maldives, or French Polynesia. Soak up the sun this summer in Key West, Florida, where you can enjoy beautiful white sand beaches, amazing sunsets, outdoor adventures, culinary delights, and fascinating history.

Key West Bucket List:

Parasail
Those seeking some extra thrill can choose to glide above the crystal clear waters while taking in outstanding tropical views and the ocean breeze. While parasailing, you may even see pods of dolphins.

Snorkel
Key West is the perfect place to snorkel. The Florida Keys are home to the only living coral barrier reef in the United States, and it is the third-largest in the world! The reef is home to more than 6,000 different species, and you will be sure to encounter some beautiful marine life on your adventure. You can embark on morning or afternoon trips and even all-day excursions. 

Book a Dolphin Tour
The waters surrounding Key West are filled with dolphins. Atlantic bottlenose dolphins are the most popular dolphin in the area, but spinner, spotted, and Risso’s dolphins can also be found in this region. In addition, Dolphin’s Playground is an area in Key West where dolphins commonly breed and feed.

Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory
This beautiful conservatory is home to about 50-60 species of butterflies, 3,500 plants, and more than 20 different species of exotic birds. 

Duval Street
Stroll along Duval Street, which includes historic homes, restaurants, bars, and tourist attractions. The street leads to Mallory Square and the Southernmost point marker.

Our Airbnb finds for Key West:

  • This beautiful cottage located just a block away from Duval Street with its own heated private pool, front porch, rooftop deck, fully equipped kitchen, grill, home office, washer & dryer, AC, and WiFi.
  • This modern and elegant 2 bedroom condominium offers a Chef’s kitchen, washer & dryer, Keurig, WiFi, parking, and you can easily walk or bike to Duval Street!

3. Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a top travel destination for 2021.

National Parks are notorious for their breathtaking views, hiking trails, wildlife, and diverse ecosystems. Zion National Park is located in southwest Utah and known for its steep red cliffs. Experience the outdoors and take camping to a whole other level.

Zion National Park Bucket List:

Hiking
Zion is full of beautiful hikes for everyone to do. You can either embark on a mile-long hike or multi-day treks. 

Angels Landing and The Narrows are among two of the most famous hikes at Zion National Park. Angels Landing overlooks Zion Canyon, but it is recommended for only experienced hikers. The trail follows a narrow ridge with very high drop-offs. The Narrows is located inside the canyon along the Virgin River. Prepared to get wet! During this breathtaking hike, you will be ankle-deep in water, and at some points, waist-deep.

Hike .6 of a mile (roundtrip) on a paved trail to access the Lower Emerald Pools, located at the base of a cliff. If you would like to continue your adventure, you can hike even further to the Middle and Upper Emerald Pools, where you will enjoy scenic viewpoints along the way.

Riverside Walk is a 2.2 mile long paved trail that runs along the Virgin River. During the hike, you will pass hanging gardens, waterfalls, spotting birds, and other wildlife. 

Canyon Trail Rides
If you need a break from hiking, horseback riding may be the perfect alternative. Go horseback riding along the picturesque Virgin River, one of the most beautiful areas of the park.

Rock Climbing
Whether you’re an advanced rock climber or a beginner, Zion’s slot canyon offers courses for all thrill-seekers, regardless of experience. The courses also offer equipment rentals.

Our Airbnb finds for Zion National Park:

  • Enjoy Glamping Tents at Zion West. This Airbnb gives you the camping experience, but without all of the work. It also provides its guests with AC, queen size bed, mini-fridge, a private porch, WiFi, BBQ and picnic area, a large fire pit, and communal bathrooms and showers. It is located 45 minutes from Zion National Park, and 3 miles from Red Cliffs and Quail Creek State Park. 
  • Rent a Deluxe Bunkhouse at Gooseberry Lodges. This miniature cabin includes a queen bunk bed set, table, chairs, mini-fridge, microwave, WiFi, shared fire pit, picnic area, and charcoal grill, as well as a shared bathroom facility with private showers and restrooms.

4. Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a top destination for 2021.
Photo by David Banning on Unsplash

Glacier National Park is the perfect summer travel destination for the ultimate outdoor experience. It offers crystal clear waters, beautiful mountains, wildlife, outstanding hiking trails, and exciting adventures, all of which are exactly what you need after being indoors during COVID-19. 

Glacier National Park Bucket List:

Hike the Trail of Cedars
This 1-mile hike travels alongside a boardwalk, which is wheelchair and stroller accessible. The hike takes you through a forest of ancient western red cedars and western hemlocks. The path leads you to a beautiful waterfall and gorges, which are from melted glacier water. 

White Water Rafting
You can enjoy the thrill of white water rafting class II or III rapids. However, you can also book scenic floats, which are kid-friendly. Be mindful that, although it is summer, the water is very cold!

Whitefish Town and Beach
This isn’t your typical beach, and the water is definitely cooler than your average beach. However, if it is hot and sunny, the water is enjoyable. Here, you can rent kayaks or swim in the water. Whitefish has some great restaurants, a local brewery and hosts festivals during the summer. 

Cracker Lake
The hike to Cracker Lake is one of the most beautiful hikes at Glacier National Park. The hike is 12.2 miles long and takes about 6 hours to complete. Also, the location of this trail is prime bear territory. This trail is definitely not for everyone, but it is definitely worth the view! Upon arriving at Cracker Lake, hikers are welcomed with bright turquoise water and stunning mountains.

Virginia Falls
This 3.6-mile long hike leads hikers to a beautiful 50 ft waterfall known as Virginia Falls. During your hike, you will pass St. Mary Falls, a popular site for tourists.

Our AirBnb find for Glacier National Park:


5. Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina is a top destination for summer travel in 2021.
Photo by Ella de Kross on Unsplash

Charleston is known for its southern charm, rich history, Aristocratic homes, art, great shopping, and spectacular restaurants and bars. In fact, Charleston is considered one of the best food cities in the United States. 

Charleston Bucket List:

Visit the Historic Charleston City Market
This open-air market is home to one of the country’s oldest public markets. Local vendors sell everything from spices and food to souvenirs and cookbooks.

Shop King Street
Here you can find designer brands and local boutiques. Take a break from shopping and stop at one of the restaurants or cafes along the street.

Sullivan’s Island Beach
Take a break from town and visit Sullivan’s Beach. Relatedly, this beach is perfect for families due to its peaceful waves and wide beach. Bring a book, lay back, and enjoy the sun and sea.

Book a Tour with Two Sisters
Mary Helen Dantzler and Therese Smythe are sisters and retired lawyers. Their family has been in Charleston for seven generations, so it’s safe to say they know the city pretty well.

You can book a 2-hour tour through the streets of Charleston with the sisters (although you can only book a tour with one sister, they do not give their tours together). You will walk along the cobblestone streets while learning about Charleson’s rich history. 

Our Airbnb finds for Charleston:

  • Enjoy this beautiful James Island “La Casita” Guesthouse located 9 minutes away from Historic Downtown Charleston. This guesthouse includes a fully equipped kitchen, WiFi, free parking, elective vehicle charger, washer and dryer, and A.C.
  • This Stylish Luxe Apartment is located 10 minutes from Downtown Charleston and walking distance to over 20 bars and restaurants. This apartment includes 24 hour gym access, shared access to a saltwater pool, outdoor grilling and cabanas, full kitchen, WiFi, and free parking.  

For the Hosts

Marketing your Airbnb is important to the success of your vacation rental business.

Maintaining your Airbnb can be difficult, hard work, and time-consuming. Cleaning your vacation rental can be an extra stressor. Additionally, the summer travel season can require more cleaning than during the off-season.

Turno allows you to put your Airbnb on autopilot. The easy-to-use software connects hosts with cleaners in your area. Automatic payments, scheduling, and communication all happen within the web and mobile app, so you can relax knowing your rental property is being taken care of.

Now that you are equipped with the right Airbnb cleaning software, it’s time to get back out and enjoy the outdoors this summer.

The Turno Team Avatar
The Turno Team , The Turno Team researches and publishes articles designed to provide short-term rental Hosts, Property Managers, and Airbnb Cleaners with insightful, useful resources. Articles written by the Turno Team cover a wide range of STR interests, from the latest industry data and best practices to real-world, practical advice on running efficient, revenue-generating vacation rental businesses in an ever-changing market. Here at Turno, we’re always looking for original ideas and hot new topics. Have something you’re curious to learn more about? Interested in authoring a guest blog? Drop us a line at [email protected].