From mountains and lakes to surf and sand: ideas for planning your summer vacation

With winter behind us and spring in full bloom, it’s time to start thinking ahead to your summer vacation; and rest assured that there's a destination to suit you, whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or a cultural devotee.

The classic beach holiday is an all time favourite. Whether you're an activity addict who enjoys surfing, sailing and diving, or simply prefer to bask in the sun and relax to the soothing sound of waves, a beach holiday can cater to you. With some 12,000 miles of coastline, the USA is spoilt for choice when it comes to beaches; some of the most popular include Maui in Hawaii, Dunedin in Florida, Outer Banks in North Carolina and Southampton in New York.

If you prefer lakes and mountains to sun and sand, a visit to the Rockies, Appalachians, Cascades or Sierra Nevada Mountains will offer hiking, camping, rock climbing, kayaking and other outdoor activities. Many ski resort towns are actually more popular in the summer than in the winter due do the greater range of activities that they offer, such as guided nature walks, wildlife spotting, camping and boating.

The USA boasts vast regions of natural beauty; various parts of which have been preserved as national parks. Yellowstone in Wyoming, for example, offers spectacular scenery, including crystal clear lakes, blasting geysers, majestic waterfalls and gingerbread coloured canyons. Wildlife fans should be on the lookout for the abundant fauna - including bison, jackals, coyotes and bears - that move freely around the park. Yellowstone is open all year round, but is best visited in July and August when the temperatures are mild.

For those that prefer history, arts, eating out and nightlife, the cultural appeal of a summer city break may be more tempting. There are hundreds of vibrant cities to visit: Las Vegas, for instance, is one of the most famous in the USA, offering all the glitz and glamour of the big name casinos and some of the best live shows in the country. San Francisco is another very popular summer destination, offering museums of science and art, lounges and waterfront bars, as well as must-see attractions such as the Golden Gate Bridge, China Town and the world famous prison, Alcatraz. Summer is also a great time to see New York City at its best, as you’ll be able to enjoy the Botanical Gardens in full bloom, the Bronx Zoo and Central Park, not to mention fine dining, shopping and sports events.

When planning a summer vacation, it’s best to book your campsite or hotel accommodation in advance, as places tend to book up quickly, especially during the peak times. So, don’t leave it to the last minute - start planning your summer vacation now and get ready to embark on a trip to remember!

Andrew Regan is an online, freelance journalist.