Sitting on a closely mowed green fairway just off the beach on Seabrook Island, SC, the party is underway. People dance to the music of a live rock band or gather in small groups on lawn chairs, drinking, eating, and playing cornhole. As the sun sets, the scene feels like a joyful prelude to the main event: fireworks.
Fourth of July fireworks are an annual tradition here—just like everywhere else—but the Big Bang celebration comes a day early. It’s kind of like celebrating Christmas on Christmas Eve.
There’s a shared joy in our common purpose: freedom, independence, and patriotism. No hint—none whatsoever—of the political divide that so often grips America.
As the first boom echoes and the sky bursts with colorful plumes, the crowd erupts in oohs, ahhs, and cheers. And it stays that way until the grand finale 25 minutes later.
People head home happy, content, and, for a while, united.
The number one tourist destination in Hawaii isn’t a beach, a luau, or an active volcano. It’s Pearl Harbor—a U.S. military base and national memorial that honors the seamen, airmen, soldiers, and civilians who lost their lives in one of the most devastating attacks in modern warfare.
On the morning of December 7, 1941, the Japanese launched a surprise attack on Pearl Harbor and Oʻahu that changed the course of history. America’s entry into World War II began that day. At the time, Pearl Harbor was home to the U.S. Pacific Fleet, including aircraft carriers, battleships, cruisers, and destroyers. Nothing before this moment had ever so deeply shaken America’s sense of safety and strength.
The toll: nearly 5,000 dead and 2,000 wounded—mind-numbing casualties. The battleship USS Arizona sank after being struck by specially designed torpedo bombs dropped from Japanese aircraft, taking 1,177 men down with her. The mission was to obliterate the Pacific Fleet. It was severe—but not a total success. By pure luck, all of the U.S. aircraft carriers, the backbone of the fleet, were out to sea.
A Memorial Experience Steeped In Reverence
The Pearl Harbor National Memorial, managed by the National Park Service, offers a free, deeply moving experience through its exhibits, museums, and memorials. It presents the story of the attack with respect, clarity, and emotional weight.
We arrived on a weekday afternoon to avoid morning crowds—and secured a spot in the visitor lot ($3.00, card only). A month earlier, I booked a 2:45 p.m. reservation online for the Arizona Memorial. The $2.00 fee covers your round-trip Navy shuttle ride to the site. (Reservations are strongly recommended.)
We arrived just after lunch, which gave us plenty of time to explore the grounds. The layout is intuitive and mostly open-air, aside from the theater and gift shop—something to keep in mind if you’re visiting during summer heat. Water is allowed, and refill stations are available near the restrooms. Be sure to pick up the free NPS brochure at the entrance—it’s packed with helpful timelines, maps, historical context, and more.
You could easily spend an entire day here. We focused on the two main galleries: “Road to War” and “Attack”. We chose the self-guided route, though audio tours and ranger-led options are available. I prefer to move at my own pace—ideal for quiet reflection.
The exhibits trace the complex economic, diplomatic, and political history between the U.S. and Japan, showing how tensions escalated into war. Powerful video interviews feature both American and Japanese veterans. One standout artifact: President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s original “A Date Which Will Live in Infamy” speech, complete with his handwritten edits—crossing out “world history” and replacing it with the now-iconic “infamy.” Seeing a piece of real history like that hits hard.
A Journey To The Arizona
Boarding the Navy shuttle to the USS Arizona Memorial, I felt a lump rise in my throat. We glided slowly across the water toward the stark, radiant white structure glowing in the afternoon sun. Just beyond, the USS Missouri—the Mighty Mo—stands in solemn watch. She represents the end of the war, the very deck where Japan officially surrendered. The Arizona marks the beginning. Side by side, they tell a story of sacrifice and victory.
As we approached the Arizona, a hush fell over the group—visitors of all ages, some old enough to remember, others too young to yet understand. Our Navy guide reminded us to treat this sacred site with the respect and reverence of a final resting place.
A gentle sea breeze flowed through the memorial as we stood above the submerged ship. Through an opening in the floor called the Viewing Well, you can see the shadowy remains of the hull—a haunting, solemn image. This is where brothers, sons, fathers, uncles, and cousins—many barely out of high school—perished. A melting pot of America. Some survivors even chose to have their ashes returned here, to rest with their shipmates after living full lives.
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We stayed just fifteen minutes, but it left an indelible mark. As the shuttle took us back to shore, I turned for one last look—a silent farewell and heartfelt thank you.
As summer draws to a close, there’s no better time to take advantage of the last wave of travel deals across the United States. From the serene beaches of the Northeast to the rugged beauty of the West, here’s a curated guide to some of the best end-of-summer travel deals by region.
Northeast: Coastal Charm and City Vibes
If you’re looking for a blend of beachside relaxation and vibrant island life, look no further than Cape Cod. A couple of Septembers ago, my wife and I booked a waterfront cottage in the Cape village of Orleans for a week after Labor Day through Airbnb. We paid considerably less than we would have the week before.
Photos By Susan Geiger/Mellow Wanderer
As one veteran Cape Cod vacationer told us in a full-throated Boston accent, “The smaht money goes in Septembah.” Martha’s Vineyard is a great pick. As August transitions into September, the island sees fewer tourists, resulting in lower prices for accommodations. Look for package deals that include ferry rides and stays at boutique inns. This is the perfect time to enjoy the island’s quaint villages and pristine beaches without the summer crowds.
Photos By Susan Geiger/Mellow Wanderer
For a more urban escape, New York Cityis surprisingly budget-friendly as summer winds down. It’s also a great time to experience a Broadway show. The day after Labor Day marks the beginning of Broadway Week, during which a slew of shows offer two tickets for the price of one—an incredible deal!
Photos By Susan Geiger/Mellow Wanderer
In mid-September, with the majority of tourists gone, luxury hotels in the Financial District and Midtown offer weekend specials and discounts. If you’re flexible with your travel dates, you can score deals that include perks like free breakfast or late checkout. (Sources: Kiplinger.comGo Far Grow Close).
Midwest: Lakeside Retreats
In the Midwest, Lake Geneva in Wisconsin is a top destination for a tranquil end-of-summer getaway. The crowds start to thin out, making it easier to find discounts on lakeside resorts and bed-and-breakfasts. Many of these places offer special packages that include golfing, spa services, or even wine tasting tours, perfect for a relaxing weekend away from the hustle and bustle of city life. (Source: Kayak).
If you’re more of an outdoor enthusiast, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is calling. The late summer season is ideal for exploring the region’s waterfalls, hiking trails, and forests. Numerous lodges and campgrounds offer discounts for extended stays, making it easy to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area. (Source: Expedia)
South: Beach Bliss and Southern Hospitality
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is a fantastic destination in late August, offering warm waters and a bustling beach scene. Many resorts along the coast offer significant discounts as the summer season comes to a close, with family packages that include tickets to local attractions like water parks or mini-golf courses. The Marriott Resort at Grande Dunes and Hilton Grand Vacations Club Ocean Enclave are excellent options, both offering easy access to the beach and local amenities. (Source: TravelZoo).
In Savannah, Georgia, you can enjoy Southern hospitality at its finest. As summer winds down, historic hotels and charming inns start offering special rates, making it an ideal time to explore the city’s beautiful squares, vibrant art scene, and delicious cuisine. Don’t miss out on deals for ghost tours and riverboat cruises, which add an extra layer of intrigue to your visit. Just minutes by car on the outskirts of Savannah is spectacular Tybee Island. Check out the deals on beachfront hotels and bungalows and stroll miles of sun soaked beaches. (Source: Priceline , Expedia).
SavannahSavannahSavannahTybee IslandTybee Island Light Station
Photos By Susan Geiger/Mellow Wanderer
Miami Beach, Florida, (If you don’t mind heat and humidity and risk of a hurricane.) is a steal in September! Several years ago we checked into a beachfront four star hotel the day after Labor Day and received royal treatment. The Sagamore hotel’s general manager checked us in, gave us a complimentary bottle of wine, a bunch of free breakfast buffet vouchers, and a free upgrade to a suite at the cost of $200 a night. During the height of tourist season that same suite is $1,200 a night!
Sagamore Hotel SuiteSagamore Hotel SuiteSagamore Hotel LobbyMiami Beach
Photos By Susan Geiger/Mellow Wanderer
West: Mountain Air and Coastal Views
The West offers a variety of stunning end-of-summer destinations. Lake Tahoe, on the California-Nevada border, is a haven for outdoor lovers. With fewer crowds in late August, you can find deals on cabins and resorts, making it easier to enjoy the lake’s clear waters and scenic trails. Look for special rates on accommodations that offer longer stays or include amenities like bike rentals or guided hikes. (Source: Visit Lake Tahoe).
For those craving coastal adventures, San Diegois an unbeatable choice. The city’s hotel rates drop as the tourist season winds down, and many properties offer package deals that include tickets to major attractions like the San Diego Zoo or SeaWorld. Whether you’re strolling along the beach or exploring the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, you’ll find plenty of ways to save on your end-of-summer trip. (Source: sandiego.org).
San Diego SeaWorld Photo by Soly Moses on Pexels.com
Wherever your travels take you, these regional deals offer the perfect opportunity to enjoy the last days of summer while sticking to your budget. For more detailed information and to snag these deals, check out the latest offerings from travel deal sites.
