The Rise of Playcations: A New Trend in Summer Travel
This summer, Americans are embracing a new kind of travel experience that focuses on hobbies, outdoor activities, and childhood passions. These trips, known as “playcations,” are quickly becoming one of the most defining trends of 2026.
According to a recent report from Airbnb, there has been a noticeable shift in how people are planning their vacations. Instead of traditional sightseeing breaks or long-haul itineraries, many are opting for short-haul domestic escapes that revolve around active pursuits such as surfing, golfing, and boating.
“This summer’s travel is shaped by three things: playcations, nostalgia, and the allure of what’s close to home,” the platform stated. It highlighted that domestic travel has seen a significant increase this summer, with travelers choosing nearby destinations to enjoy their favorite active hobbies. Additionally, hidden gems are offering budget-friendly experiences at a fraction of the cost.
Popular Destinations for Active Travelers
Airbnb noted that listings near golf courses, lakefronts, and surf spots have experienced some of the highest booking growth this summer. This trend reflects a growing desire for immersive, hands-on, and experience-led travel.
Several lesser-known US destinations are gaining attention due to this shift. Along North Carolina’s coast, surf towns like Holden Beach, Nags Head, and Kill Devil Hills are seeing renewed interest from travelers seeking laid-back beach culture and beginner-friendly waves. Holden Beach is described as a “barrier island break that delivers mellow surfing conditions and a laid back vibe,” while Nags Head and Kill Devil Hills continue to attract visitors thanks to their long-standing surf culture and classic Outer Banks scenery.
Golf tourism is also expanding beyond America’s more well-known resort destinations. Rather than heading exclusively to Florida or Arizona, travelers are increasingly seeking out quieter golf escapes in states such as Michigan, Wyoming, and Idaho. Ann Arbor is emerging as an unexpected golf hotspot due to its mix of public and private courses, while Cheyenne and Victor are drawing players with dramatic Rocky Mountain and Teton Valley backdrops.
For boaters and lake lovers, waterfront destinations across the Midwest and Pacific Northwest are also booming. Airbnb highlighted places such as Saugatuck, known for its marina culture and inland waterways, alongside Osage Beach and Chelan, where travelers are embracing boating holidays, dockside dining, and long summer days on the water.
Hobbies as the Centerpiece of Holidays
The rise of play-focused travel reflects broader changes in how people want to spend their free time. Rather than ticking landmarks off a checklist, many travelers are now prioritizing experiences that feel nostalgic, social, and physically engaging.
Experts suggest that hobbies once considered weekend pastimes are increasingly becoming the centerpiece of holidays themselves. Travel companies are responding by creating packages and experiences around niche interests, from padel retreats and cycling escapes to creative workshops and wellness adventures.
This trend also ties into the growing popularity of “kidult” travel, where adults embrace experiences traditionally associated with childhood, summer holidays, and carefree recreation. That nostalgia-driven shift is already reshaping other parts of the travel industry.
One such trend includes the rise of adult summer camps, where travelers swap luxury hotels for cabins, campfires, canoeing, and communal activities. These experiences offer a unique blend of relaxation, adventure, and connection, making them an attractive option for those looking to reconnect with their inner child.
