With summer on the horizon, you're probably starting to, or in the middle of, planning things to do with your friends. Keeping the summer months interesting may seem difficult, especially since the primary destination is the beach (which can get old easily), but it doesn't have to be. Here are some destinations for you and your BFFs/bros to help maintain the excitement, adventure, and spontaneity you're after for summer 2k17.

1. Boothbay Harbor, Maine

My family has a cottage in a small town outside of Boothbay, so we've been Maine-goers nearly every summer. Boothbay is filled with small locally-owned cafes, restaurants, and shops. There are whale watches, harbor tours, and other on-the-water cruises you can enjoy, too. Plus, on your way home, you can spend a few hours shopping in Freeport. The best part is, a long weekend is all you need to fit everything in, which means taking time off from work is no issue.

2. White Mountains, New Hampshire

This destination is the definition of serene. The White Mountains are a beautiful, quiet, yet exciting place to visit with your friends. There are a wide range of attractions including museums, railroads, hiking trails, amusement parks, and, if you're lucky, moose spottings. Again, an extended weekend stay will suffice for a visit to the White Mountains.

3. Atlantic City, New Jersey

Take a trip to the beautiful strip of beach to do some shopping, eat high-quality food, and spend time with your besties (or bros). While there are many casinos (of which my friends and I are unable to enjoy yet), Atlantic City can still be a fabulous getaway.

4. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Though I have never been, Cape Cod appeals to all types of people, whether you're looking to go out or stay in. Because there's so much to do in and around the Cape, this road trip may require at least a week's stay.

5. Newport, Rhode Island

Newport is simply beautiful. There is a cute downtown area that houses tons of shops and restaurants. On the outskirts, there are huge (and I mean huge) mansions that are open to the public to tour. There are beaches, short boat trips, and lighthouses to admire. And let's not forget that Taylor Swift owns a mansion herself in Newport as well. Obviously, (and unfortunately) entering the property is prohibited, but you can still catch a solid glimpse of it from afar.