As summer 2026 approaches, American travelers are shifting their vacation planning strategies. Instead of selecting destinations first, many are now choosing activities such as golfing, surfing, and boating as the primary focus of their trips. This trend is evident in Airbnb’s data, which shows a rise in bookings near golf courses, lakefronts, and surf spots.

On the Water

Inland lakes are becoming popular among boaters, with places like Saugatuck on Lake Michigan and Lake Chelan in the North Cascades drawing visitors for their water activities. These locations highlight the trend of choosing destinations based on available activities rather than traditional sightseeing.

On the Waves

The Outer Banks in North Carolina continues to attract surfers, with spots like Holden Beach and Nags Head offering conditions suitable for both beginners and seasoned surfers. These areas emphasize the activity-first approach, where the surf experience is the main attraction.

On the Fairway

Golf enthusiasts are discovering under-the-radar destinations like Ann Arbor, Michigan, and Victor, Idaho. These locations offer unique golfing experiences that are becoming central to travel plans, showcasing the shift towards activity-focused vacations.

On the Trail

Running and cycling are also influencing travel decisions. Events like the Chicago Marathon and Duluth’s Grandma’s Marathon are drawing significant numbers of visitors, while Bentonville, Arkansas, has become a hub for mountain biking, further illustrating the growing trend of fitness tourism.

Industry Implications

This shift in travel planning has significant implications for the tourism industry. As travelers prioritize activities over destinations, tourism boards and marketers must adapt by promoting experiences rather than locations. The industry that successfully caters to this trend will likely capture the interest of these activity-focused travelers.

Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.