Boston friends, this one is for you! Quarantine has definitely put a damper on our summer plans, but that doesn’t mean we should let August go to waste. Just because we are encouraged to socially distance does not mean we can’t enjoy all that the great outdoors has to offer. If you are looking for a day trip outside of the city, consider one of these spots. There is something for everyone to appreciate — and only a car ride away!

Crane Beach, Ipswich, Massachusetts (45 minutes from Boston)

Over the years, Crane Beach has become one of my favorite beaches in Massachusetts. Why, you ask? Because it’s rarely crowded. In a time of social distancing, this beach is the perfect oasis for any city dweller. There is a small fee to enter, but it’s totally worth it. The beach spans for several miles, so there is plenty of room to walk around. If you look closely, you can see Castle Hill on the Crane Estate from the sandy shores. In recognition of COVID, visitors are required to schedule visit times in advance. On your way home, grab a deli sandwich from Village Market (only ten minutes from the beach) or an ice cream cone from Zumi’s Espresso and Ice Cream.

Newport, Rhode Island (90 minutes from Boston)

I have yet to meet a New Englander that doesn’t love Newport, Rhode Island. This seaside town is the perfect Summer getaway destination for many reasons. If you enjoy nature, you can walk along the Cliff Walk, which has stunning views of the ocean. If you like historical sites, you can visit the Newport mansions. The Breakers and The Elms mansions are still open despite COVID. Just make sure to pack a mask. Visitors are required to wear a mask on the grounds as well as inside the mansions. And when it’s time for dinner, grab an outdoor table at any one of the harbor-side restaurants. 22 Bowen’s Wine Bar and Grille is a favorite of mine.

Newburyport, Massachusetts (45 minutes from Boston)

My friends moved to Newburyport last Summer, and I can totally see why. The historic downtown of Newburyport is the perfect place to go for a daytime stroll or bite to eat. There are countless boutiques for browsing and a beautiful boardwalk at Waterfront Park. My favorite store was Partridge in a Bear Tree, an adorable Christmas and gift boutique. If you love nautical home goods, pop over to Brass Lyon for marine souvenirs and sea-themed wall decor.

Portsmouth, New Hampshire (60 minutes from Boston)

Portsmouth is a historical coastal city full of character. Downtown Portsmouth hosts a bunch of cute boutiques and restaurants providing an upscale shopping and dining experience. Walking a few blocks along Market Street will make you forget you’re in one of America’s oldest cities. For a seafood dinner with a view, make a reservation at Surf, located on Bow Street. If beer is your thing, grab a pint at the Portsmouth Brewery, an upbeat tavern with a variety of local craft beers. And if you’re a huge nerd like me, head over to Diversions Puzzles and Games to find literally any game you can think of.

Blue Hills, Massachusetts (15 minutes from Boston)

If you’re looking to get your hike (or bike) on, consider popping over to the Blue Hills Reservation in Milton, Massachusetts. The reservation has over 7,000 acres of land with 125 miles of trails to explore. With dog-friendly trails that range in difficulty, it’s easy to find one that will work for your experience level. At the top of Great Blue Hill is the Blue Hill Observatory, which has spectacular views of the Boston skyline. This is an excellent place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and absorb nature’s beauty.

Kennebunkport, Maine (90 minutes from Boston)

I have been to Kennebunkport a handful of times, and I always have a wonderful time. This adorable waterfront town is the ideal place to walk around and window shop, indulge in delicious food, or soak up the sun at Gooch’s Beach. For food, Old Vines Wine Bar has an extensive wine and cocktail menu and delicious tapas. If you’re a lobster lover like me, stop by the Clam Shack. Objectively speaking, the Clam Shack has the best lobster roll in all of Kennebunkport. They serve their lobster rolls on a hamburger bun with crinkle fries and freshly squeezed lemonade. It is the quintessential Summer lunch, and, I promise you won’t be disappointed.

Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts (2.5 hours from Boston)

This one might be a stretch for a day trip, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you could hop on a boat from Woods Hole, Massachusetts to Martha’s Vineyard. Between its beautiful beaches, freshly-caught seafood, and picturesque villages dotted across the island, it’s the ultimate New England summer escape. I would suggest bringing a car with you on the ferry so that you have the ability to explore the island. Some highlights to consider: the Campground in Oak Bluffs, window shopping in Edgartown, or spending a day by the ocean at Long Point Beach. Much like Crane Beach, Long Point is requiring reserved day passes to limit overcrowding.

From left to right: Crane Beach, Newport, Martha’s Vineyard, Kennebunkport

Did I forget any favorite day-trip destinations? Share yours in the comments below!