Hi Everyone!
When summer calls, I answer with a packed suitcase and a passport in hand. There’s something undeniably magical about this season—the golden light, the endless blue skies, and the way the world feels just a little more open to adventure. These are my favorite destinations to explore when the days get longer and the travel bug hits. Whether you’re heading abroad or sticking stateside, each of these spots offers unforgettable moments—and a little Gray-approved travel inspiration to match.
Montecito, California
Montecito is the epitome of California coastal charm. From its upscale boutiques to its serene beaches, it’s a slice of paradise.
Where to Stay: Boutique hotels like the Rosewood Miramar Beach or the iconic San Ysidro Ranch offer a serene and stylish home base.
Where to Eat: Savor fresh seafood at The Honor Bar, enjoy brunch at Jeannine’s, or grab Neopolitan style pizza from Bettina's!
What to Do: Relax at Butterfly Beach, explore the lush Lotusland gardens, or hike the trails at Montecito Peak for stunning panoramic views.
Lake Michigan
Lake Michigan brings all the nostalgic, barefoot-on-the-beach summer vibes—with just the right amount of midwestern magic.
Where to Stay: Charming lakefront rentals in Harbor Springs, cozy cottages in Saugatuck, or elegant B&Bs in Holland.
Where to Eat: Grab a lakeside lunch at The Southerner, try wine and wood-fired pizzas at Tabor Hill Winery, or enjoy local fish fries at neighborhood favorites.
What to Do: Lounge on the beaches, rent a bike for scenic shoreline rides, or explore towering sand dunes at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
La dolce vita lives here. The Amalfi Coast is nothing short of cinematic, with its pastel villages, cliffside roads, and lemon-scented breezes.
Where to Stay: Treat yourself at Le Sirenuse in Positano, the cliffside charm of Hotel Santa Caterina in Amalfi, or the quiet luxury of Monastero Santa Rosa.
Where to Eat: Try the fresh catch of the day at Chez Black, enjoy fine dining at La Sponda, or grab a limoncello and pizza in Ravello.
What to Do: Take a boat ride to Capri, lounge on Spiaggia Grande, or hike the Path of the Gods for jaw-dropping views.
Nantucket, Massachusetts
This charming island is the definition of East Coast summer. Think cobblestone streets, hydrangea-lined homes, and a deep breath of sea air.
Where to Stay: The classic White Elephant Hotel, the boutique Greydon House, or a historic inn in downtown Nantucket.
Where to Eat: Enjoy fresh lobster rolls at Cru, brunch at Black-Eyed Susan’s, or cozy dinners at The Proprietors.
What to Do: Bike out to Sconset, visit Brant Point Lighthouse, or take a sunset sail around the harbor.
Côte d’Azur, France
The French Riviera sparkles with timeless glamour—from the turquoise waters to the striped umbrellas and endless rosé.
Where to Stay: Iconic spots like Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, the chic Cheval Blanc St-Tropez, or a villa tucked into the hills above Èze.
Where to Eat: Dine seaside at Club 55 in Saint-Tropez, sip cocktails at Hotel Negresco in Nice, or savor bouillabaisse in a hidden harbor bistro.
What to Do: Spend a day at Plage de Paloma, stroll through Villefranche-sur-Mer, or yacht hop along the coast from Cannes to Monaco.
No matter where you wander this summer, I hope these destinations inspire you to embrace adventure, find beauty in the details, and create memories that last long after the tan lines fade. And if you’re dreaming of a way to bring the feeling home—my travel collections are always just a click away.
Bon voyage,
Gray