This summer, Americans are increasingly organizing their trips around their hobbies, outdoor activities, and childhood passions, with “playcations” emerging as one of the key trends for 2026.
This is revealed in Airbnb’s summer travel trend report, which shows that travelers are favoring short domestic getaways centered around activities like surfing, golfing, boating, and other physical pursuits, rather than traditional long-haul trips or sightseeing itineraries.
“This summer’s travel is shaped by three elements: playcations, nostalgia, and the appeal of what is close to home,” stated the accommodation reservation platform.
According to the company, listings near golf courses, lakefronts, and surf spots are seeing some of the highest reservation increases this summer, highlighting a growing appetite for immersive, experiential, and experience-led travel.
This trend also sheds light on lesser-known American destinations.
Along the coast of North Carolina, surf towns like Holden Beach, Nags Head, and Kill Devil Hills are capturing travelers’ interest looking for a laid-back beach culture and beginner-friendly waves.
For golf enthusiasts, the trend extends beyond well-known American vacation spots.
Instead of just heading to Florida or Arizona, travelers are increasingly seeking quieter golf getaways in states like Michigan, Wyoming, or Idaho. Ann Arbor stands out as an unexpected golf destination with a mix of public and private courses, while Cheyenne and Victor charm players with spectacular Rocky Mountain and Teton Valley panoramas.
For boating and lake lovers, waterfront destinations in the Midwest and Pacific Northwest are also flourishing. Airbnb highlights places like Saugatuck, known for its marina culture and inland waterways, as well as Osage Beach and Chelan, where travelers embrace boat holidays, dockside dining, and long summer days on the water.
Leisure at the heart of vacations
The rise of play-based travel reflects a broader shift in how people want to spend their leisure time.
Instead of ticking off landmarks on a list, many travelers now prefer experiences filled with nostalgia, social interactions, and physical activity. Experts say that hobbies once confined to weekends are increasingly becoming the focus of vacation planning.
Industry players are adapting by offering stays and experiences built around niche interest centers, from padel retreats and cycling getaways to creative workshops and wellness-focused adventures.
This shift also ties into the growing popularity of “kidult” travel, where adults embrace experiences traditionally associated with childhood, summer holidays, and carefree leisure pursuits.
This nostalgia-driven shift is reshaping other aspects of the travel industry.
Among these new trends is the rise of adult summer camps, where travelers swap luxury hotels for cabins, campfires, canoe rides, and communal activities.
This article was translated with the help of artificial intelligence. Report an issue: [feedback-articles-en@euronews.com].
