Best holiday destinations in August

Choosing where to go in August for the best weather is no mean feat: your options close to home are endless as the Mediterranean is bathed in sunshine, making it the most perfect place to holiday in the world at this time.

Hotel on the beach in Nusa Dua, south coast of Bali
Hotel on the beach in Nusa Dua, south coast of Bali © Nikolai Sorokin - Fotolia.com

Top five destinations to visit in August

Although the weather begins to shift slightly from the beginning of August, with days thinking about getting shorter and temperatures having peaked, it's still very much all about holiday weather and a favourite time to go away for thousands of Brits.

Read on to discover just some of the destinations worth considering when working out where to go in August for some seriously hot and sunny weather:

Where to go on holiday in August 2024/2025: Fifteenth century monastery, Hvar Croatia
Where to go on holiday in August 2024/2025: Fifteenth century monastery, Hvar Croatia © Nolte Lourens - Fotolia.com

1. Corfu, Greece

  • Flight time from London: 3.5 hours
  • Daily high: 31°C
  • Daily hours of sunshine: 11
  • Sea temperature: 25°C

Corfu has a long and colourful history having passed through the hands of various world powers over the centuries. The legacy of 51 years of British rule remains in the form of cricket, which is still widely played, and ginger beer which is still widely consumed.

It's perhaps this familiarity which has helped make Corfu an eternally popular summer holiday destination.

Kalami Bay, Corfu, Greece
Kalami Bay, Corfu, Greece © whl.travel - Flickr CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

August is typically the warmest month of the year with bucket loads of sunshine, although heat and humidity is certainly high.

Compared to many other Greek islands, Corfu has lots of lush vegetation which weaves its way between the picturesque beaches (try Glyfada in the west for soft sand), turquoise waters and rocky cliffs.

This growth also keeps temperatures in check, offering plenty of shade, although you'll still lounge in heat as Corfu is hotter than most other Greek islands in August.

It avoids the seasonal winds, which blow across the more southern Aegean Sea destinations. You'd be unlucky to encounter any sustained rain, however you may see the odd shower or thunderstorm, which will quickly roll by.

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2. The Algarve, Portugal

  • Flight time from London: 3 hours
  • Daily high: 29°C
  • Daily hours of sunshine: 11
  • Sea temperature: 21°C to 22°C

The Algarve has long reigned supreme as a holiday hotspot thanks to the variety of beaches, resorts, and activities that make it a hit with families, couples and groups alike.

However, unlike many eastern Mediterranean destinations, the Algarve is slightly fresher at this time, largely due to its proximity to the Atlantic.

Praia da Marinha beach, Algarve, Portugal
Praia da Marinha beach, Algarve, Portugal © Christopher Elwell - Dreamstime.com

The prevailing wind and cooling currents of this vast ocean help regulate temperatures throughout the region, keeping heat and humidity levels moderate and sea temperatures chilly. Taking a dip can be quite invigorating, even in August, so you might want to look out for a hotel with a heated pool.

However, for many, this cooling influence is a real bonus, guaranteeing warm and sunny weather without it becoming too hot and uncomfortable, making it an ideal destination for those hoping to avoid searing heat.

As a general rule, the further east towards Spain you go, the warmer and less windy it is, while the closer you are to the southwest tip of Portugal (such as Sagres), the cooler and windier it becomes; surfers go west while sunbathers stay east.

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3. Ibiza, Balearic Islands, Spain

  • Flight time from London: 2.5 hours
  • Daily high: 29°C
  • Daily hours of sunshine: 10
  • Sea temperature: 26°C

No matter what draws you to the white isle, be it the beaches, bays and pretty villages or world-class clubs and bars, you're certain to find your own slice of paradise in Ibiza.

Naturally, August is an incredibly popular time to go and it can get busy, but don't be put off as there are plenty of quiet spots on this island.

Blue sea around Ibiza
Blue sea around Ibiza © steffus - Fotolia.com

Thanks to its highest annual temperatures, plenty of warm sunshine, and, as it's a relatively small island surrounded by sea, only moderate heat and humidity, Ibiza is a real charmer in August.

There's an ever-present east wind, but Ibiza is small enough that you can switch to another side of the island to avoid it. Generally, it's dry in August apart from the odd thunderstorm, which will quickly pass by.

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4. Madeira

  • Flight time from London: 3.5 hours
  • Daily high: 23°C
  • Daily hours of sunshine: 8
  • Sea temperature: 23°C

For a destination within four hours of the UK, Madeira is a good call in August. Conditions are thoroughly pleasant with loads of sunshine each day, minimal chance of rain and free from heat and humidity.

While the sea is warm enough for many to jump right in, some might find a little on the cool side, so a hotel with a heated pool might be sensible. Evenings, too, are fresh, dropping to around 17°C, so you will want to pack a few extra layers.

Blue skies over Madeira
Blue skies over Madeira © Thomas Jaworski - Flickr Creative Commons

If you're looking for some warm summer sun without it being too hot or oppressive, then Madeira really is a great choice.

As well as the selection of beaches, generally a mix of sand and pebble, you can tackle the famed levada walks and trails, which zig-zag the island, taking you past the tropical fruit and flowers that thrive in this climate.

Recommended for Madeira

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5. Split, Croatia

  • Flight time from London: 2.5 hours
  • Daily high: 30°C
  • Daily hours of sunshine: 10
  • Sea temperature: 25°C

Croatia has soared in the popularity stakes and it's not hard to see why: as well as being blessed with an expansive and diverse coastline home to thousands of coves and beaches, it's also renowned for its crystal blue waters, beautifully unspoilt islands, and rich array of historical sites to explore.

Brela, Croatia, just south of Split
Brela, Croatia, just south of Split © Nikolai Sorokin - Fotolia.com

August is one of the warmest months of the year in Croatia, and almost as sunny as July. There's a marked difference between the climate in destinations across Croatia, however.

It's often up to 3°C cooler and less sunny in the north (such as in Istria), while in the south (such as Split or Dubrovnik) you'll find moderate heat and humidity, lower than Greece, and rainfall which is limited to sporadic thunderstorms.

The harbour city of Split and nearby idyllic islands are some of the sunniest places in August and just happen to have some of the best beaches, although many of them are limestone pebble rather than sand.

A big plus about pebbly beaches is that the water tends to be clearer as there's less silt and sediment to stir up.

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Alternative destinations to visit in August 2024/2025

As well as the popular destinations mentioned above, it's only right to include some other places around the world which also enjoy good conditions in August.

Golden gate sunset, San Francisco, California, USA
Golden gate sunset, San Francisco, California, USA © col - Shutterstock.com

If you're thinking of going long haul, California experiences some of its best weather in August, with up to 11 hours of sunshine and temperatures in the high twenties. It's warm enough to make the most of the state's great outdoors, but not oppressively hot.

Another long haul option with great weather in August is Bali in Indonesia. It's still in the dry season at this time, with warm sea temperatures, 10 hours of sunshine most days and daytime temperatures reaching 30°C. This is, without a doubt, one of the best months of the year to visit.

August is a wonderful time of year to get away with loads of places enjoying beautiful weather both near and far from the UK - the tough bit is simply deciding where to go!

Wherever your holiday takes you this summer, don't miss our collection of travel deals and discounts, while the weather in August page will give you more detailed information about where to go on holiday in August in 2024/2025 if you're still unsure.

Destination ideas for August 2024

  • Month: August
  • Daytime temperature: 22 - 28°C [remove]
  • Sunshine hours: 8 hours or more [remove]
  • Sea temperature: 25°C or warmer [remove]
  • Destination: Italy [remove]

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Rank Rating Score Destination
1 Weather Score for Agrigento in August is 100% 100% Agrigento, Sicily
  Weather Score for Amalfi in August is 100% 100% Amalfi, Campania
  Weather Score for Arzachena in August is 100% 100% Arzachena, Sardinia
  Weather Score for Baia Sardinia in August is 100% 100% Baia Sardinia, Sardinia
  Weather Score for Cannigione in August is 100% 100% Cannigione, Sardinia
  Weather Score for Capo Vaticano in August is 100% 100% Capo Vaticano, Calabria
  Weather Score for Capri in August is 100% 100% Capri, Campania
  Weather Score for Cattolica in August is 100% 100% Cattolica
  Weather Score for Cefalu in August is 100% 100% Cefalu, Sicily
  Weather Score for Corniglia in August is 100% 100% Corniglia, Italian Riviera
  Weather Score for Finale Ligure in August is 100% 100% Finale Ligure, Italian Riviera
  Weather Score for Forte dei Marmi in August is 100% 100% Forte dei Marmi, Tuscany
  Weather Score for Genoa in August is 100% 100% Genoa, Italian Riviera
  Weather Score for Isola Rossa in August is 100% 100% Isola Rossa, Sardinia
  Weather Score for La Spezia in August is 100% 100% La Spezia, Italian Riviera
  Weather Score for Letojanni in August is 100% 100% Letojanni, Sicily
  Weather Score for Lido di Camaiore in August is 100% 100% Lido di Camaiore, Tuscany
  Weather Score for Lido di Jesolo in August is 100% 100% Lido di Jesolo, Venetian Riviera
  Weather Score for Maiori in August is 100% 100% Maiori, Campania
  Weather Score for Manarola in August is 100% 100% Manarola, Italian Riviera
  Weather Score for Mestre in August is 100% 100% Mestre, Venetian Riviera
  Weather Score for Milano Marittima in August is 100% 100% Milano Marittima
  Weather Score for Monterosso in August is 100% 100% Monterosso, Italian Riviera
  Weather Score for Palau in August is 100% 100% Palau, Sardinia
  Weather Score for Palermo in August is 100% 100% Palermo, Sicily
  Weather Score for Porto Rafael in August is 100% 100% Porto Rafael, Sardinia
  Weather Score for Portofino in August is 100% 100% Portofino, Italian Riviera
  Weather Score for Portovenere in August is 100% 100% Portovenere, Italian Riviera
  Weather Score for Positano in August is 100% 100% Positano, Campania
  Weather Score for Rapallo in August is 100% 100% Rapallo, Italian Riviera
  Weather Score for Ravello in August is 100% 100% Ravello, Campania
  Weather Score for Riccione in August is 100% 100% Riccione
  Weather Score for Rimini in August is 100% 100% Rimini
  Weather Score for Riomaggiore in August is 100% 100% Riomaggiore, Italian Riviera
  Weather Score for San Pantaleo in August is 100% 100% San Pantaleo, Sardinia
  Weather Score for Sant Agnello in August is 100% 100% Sant Agnello, Campania
  Weather Score for Santa Margherita Ligure in August is 100% 100% Santa Margherita Ligure, Italian Riviera
  Weather Score for Santa Teresa Gallura in August is 100% 100% Santa Teresa Gallura, Sardinia
  Weather Score for Sorrento in August is 100% 100% Sorrento, Campania
  Weather Score for Taormina in August is 100% 100% Taormina, Sicily
  Weather Score for Venice in August is 100% 100% Venice, Venetian Riviera
  Weather Score for Vernazza in August is 100% 100% Vernazza, Italian Riviera
  Weather Score for Viareggio in August is 100% 100% Viareggio, Tuscany
44 Weather Score for San Remo in August is 96% 96% San Remo, Italian Riviera
45 Weather Score for Bari in August is 94% 94% Bari
  Weather Score for Ischia in August is 94% 94% Ischia, Campania
  Weather Score for Messina in August is 94% 94% Messina, Sicily
  Weather Score for Naples in August is 94% 94% Naples, Campania
  Weather Score for Olbia in August is 94% 94% Olbia, Sardinia
  Weather Score for Oristano in August is 94% 94% Oristano, Sardinia
  Weather Score for Pizzo in August is 94% 94% Pizzo, Calabria
  Weather Score for Porto Cervo in August is 94% 94% Porto Cervo, Sardinia
  Weather Score for Santa Margherita di Pula in August is 94% 94% Santa Margherita di Pula, Sardinia
  Weather Score for Sciacca in August is 94% 94% Sciacca, Sicily
  Weather Score for Trapani in August is 94% 94% Trapani, Sicily
  Weather Score for Vilasimius in August is 94% 94% Vilasimius, Sardinia
57 Weather Score for Alghero in August is 90% 90% Alghero, Sardinia
58 Weather Score for Cagliari in August is 89% 89% Cagliari, Sardinia
  Weather Score for Pula in August is 89% 89% Pula, Sardinia
  Weather Score for Reggio di Calabria in August is 89% 89% Reggio di Calabria, Calabria
61 Weather Score for Giardini Naxos in August is 83% 83% Giardini Naxos, Sicily
  Weather Score for Syracuse in August is 83% 83% Syracuse, Sicily
63 Weather Score for Catania in August is 78% 78% Catania, Sicily

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Where to go on holiday for the best weather

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Kirsten Henton

Kirsten Henton

Kirsten Henton is Weather2Travel.com's editor. Kirsten writes, commissions and edits our travel features, liaising with our contributors and ensuring copy is spick-and-span. A member of the British Guild of Travel Writers, Kirsten also freelances writing articles on travel, history and the outdoors for titles such as Scotland Magazine and BBC Travel.

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