This article originally appeared in Travel+Leisure.
Editor's Note: Those who choose to travel are strongly encouraged to check local government restrictions, rules, and safety measures related to COVID-19 and take personal comfort levels and health conditions into consideration before departure.
Just before Memorial Day's "official" beginning of summer, the month of May is ideal for beating the crowds to places like New York's Hamptons and Nantucket. May is also perfect for getting ahead of hot summer temperatures in spots like Nashville, Chicago, and Fort Lauderdale. In Carlsbad, California and Texas Hill Country, late spring flowers are the attraction, along with welcoming weather and outdoor activities.
If you've been waiting for the right time to travel, May could be the ticket. A trip to the Bahamas for warm weather, water sports, or relaxing on the beach or by a pool might be the best antidote for a winter of staying in and daydreaming of a tropical vacation. Here are eight of the best places to travel in May.