Summer may be winding down, but there’s still one major holiday weekend left to savor: Labor Day Weekend. While the official holiday falls on Sept. 1, the long weekend really begins the Friday before on Aug. 29—or even Thursday, Aug. 28, if you’ve got a little PTO to spare. Now’s the time to start booking those fall getaways and mapping out your winter travel plans—but don’t pack away the swimsuits and flip-flops just yet.
This year’s top trending destinations have all the essentials for a final summer escape—sun-soaked beaches, island breezes, and plenty of warm weather. But they also promise something more: the chance to go beyond the resort and immerse yourself in rich culture, history, and local flavor.
For Labor Day Weekend, Chase Travel found that San Juan, Puerto Rico; Maui, Hawaii; and Miami are the top three trending destinations.
San Juan had a 116 percent year over year growth; some of this can certainly be attributed to Bad Bunny’s summer-long residency on the island. “We’re seeing the gig-tripping trend really take hold—where travelers build entire getaways around marquee events,” Karen Magee, President of Valerie Wilson Travel, a Chase Travel Group company, told Travel + Leisure. “In Puerto Rico’s case, Labor Day weekend offers the perfect mix: easy nonstop flights from major U.S. cities, great weather, and a major draw like Bad Bunny’s concert.”
Beyond a sensational summer concert opportunity, San Juan offers visitors spectacular food, fine rum, historic architecture, national forests, and of course, spectacular beaches.
Miami has seen a 55 percent year over year growth. With no shortage of white sand beaches, clear waters, and year-round warm temperatures, it is no surprise that this southern location is climbing up the ladder as a LDW destination. After a day spent roasting in the sun, Miami’s nightlife, vibrant immigrant communities, globally recognized food scene, and burgeoning art scene means there’s truly no shortage of ways to spend time when you’re not on the shore.
Maui, Hawaii has seen a 37 percent year over year growth in popularity. The island has 80 beaches and 120 miles of shoreline, making it the place to go for people looking to spend time with their natural environment. You’ll need to make sure you’re visiting the island responsibly, but doing so can introduce you to a slower, more relaxing side to the island. Consider going star gazing, snorkeling, and chasing waterfalls to get the full experience.
Wherever you go, just don’t forget to pack your sunscreen; the sun is still strong in September.
