Celebrate the Longest Day: Top Destinations for the Summer Solstice Vanlife Experience
Make the most of the longest day of the year with our curated list of the best vanlife destinations for the Summer Solstice!
May 17th, 2023
It's that magical time of the year again, folks! When the sun pulls an all-nighter and graces us with the longest day - the Summer Solstice. And what better way to spend this extended sunshine than on an epic road trip? So, if you’re revving up to celebrate the Solstice vanlife-style, you're in luck. We've compiled a list of top destinations that are just begging to be visited on this sunny spectacle.
Get Thee to a High Point - Mount Rainier, Washington 🗻
Let’s kick things off on a high note, quite literally. We’re talking about Mount Rainier National Park in Washington. At an elevation of over 14,000 feet, it gives you a front-row seat to the sun's extended performance. Imagine yourself tucked in your cozy campervan, witnessing the sun play hide and seek with the majestic peak. It's Mother Nature's greatest magic show, folks.
Desert Solstice - Joshua Tree National Park, California 🌵
Is the thought of a Solstice sunset over an endless desert landscape giving you goosebumps? If yes, Joshua Tree National Park is your haven. Watch as the desert turns into a golden sea under the Solstice sun. As the heat mellows, step out for an impromptu jam session or an intimate bonfire night. Just remember to hydrate!
A Coastal Solstice - Big Sur, California 🌅
Picture this: The sun takes a majestic bow and dips into the mighty Pacific Ocean, painting the sky with hues of pink, orange, and gold. This isn't a Bob Ross painting, folks, but the Summer Solstice at Big Sur, California. Keep your eyes peeled for the enchanting night sky, where stars twinkle their approval of your excellent location choice.
Lake Lovers’ Paradise - Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada 🚣♀️
Why not take the longest day of the year as an opportunity to soak in the sun by the largest alpine lake in North America? Lake Tahoe straddles the California-Nevada border and is a treat for water babies. Go paddleboarding, take a swim, or simply lie back and bask in the sun. As evening falls, enjoy the sight of the sun casting long shadows over the serene waters. It's the kind of experience that'll have you waxing poetic in no time.
Forest Magic - Olympic National Park, Washington 🌲
If your idea of a perfect Solstice celebration involves lush green forests, we've got you covered. Head to Olympic National Park, where the sunlight dances through the dense canopy of trees, creating a mesmerizing light show. As twilight falls, the hushed whispers of the forest under a starlit sky make for a magical solstice night.
Solstice in the City - Seattle, Washington 🌆
If you're craving an urban vibe for your Solstice celebration, don't fret! Seattle, fondly called the 'Emerald City,' hosts one of the largest and most fun-filled Solstice festivals. There's music, food, parades, and an infectious joy that permeates the city. Soak in the vibrant spirit and enjoy the cityscape bathed in the warm Solstice sun.
Southern Solstice - Key West, Florida 🏖️
For those of you who fancy celebrating the Solstice with a tropical twist, Key West in Florida is the place to be. Imagine sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and you lounging in your beach chair, sipping on a chilled drink. As the sun sets, it lights up the sky in a brilliant display of colors, creating a breathtaking panorama.
No matter where you are or which destination you choose to celebrate, the Summer Solstice is all about enjoying the gift of extended daylight. So get out there and make the most of this longest day. Make it an adventure. Make it an exploration. Make it a celebration. Most importantly, make it yours. Here's to sunshine, safe travels, and memorable Solstice stories!