When it comes to finding your next sun-soaked adventure, it’s important to choose the right time of year to go. Travelling in August often means you get the best out of the beautiful beaches and charming resorts, with warm temperatures and a buzzing atmosphere.
Wondering where's hot in August? Simply read on to see our specialists' top recommendations for your next summer holiday in a sunny paradise.
European getaways in August
Just a short flight away, you can escape any encroaching rain clouds of the UK's summer and jet off to bask in the beautiful August sunshine of Europe. Our specialists have selected beach holidays perfect for your escape to a short-haul paradise this August.
Corfu, Greece
Average daytime hours of sunshine in August: 12 hours
Average maximum temperature in August: 32°C
Corfu is just a four-hour flight away, so why not take a short-but-tempting trip to this sunny Greek island? Corfu is the perfect summer sun destination in Europe, with it's pretty old town, peaceful pebbled beaches and sleepy waterside tavernas.
You'll never be short of something to do on this island. Lay back on one of the scenic beaches and marvel at the lush views that gave Corfu the name of 'Emerald Isle', or head out on the sparkling Ionian waters for a boat trip along the coastline.
But don’t let the beaches be the only attraction to this gorgeous island; you can explore the fascinating history of Greece dating back to the Roman era when you venture further in-land.
Crete, Greece
Average daytime hours of sunshine in August: 11 hours
Average maximum temperature in August: 29°C
Famed for its sandy beaches with dramatic landscapes and lively towns, Crete has so much to offer for a hot holiday in August.
The most southern Greek island enjoys some of Greece's hottest temperatures, especially in August. It also has its own distinct character, from its rugged mountain interior to its myth-laden history, including the 3,500-year-old remains of the Minoan palace of Knossos.
Stay in Elounda to be a short boat ride away from Spinalonga Island, a small droplet of an island that's nevertheless packed with history. Or, head to Agios Nikolaos to wander the marina and vibrant town laced with plenty of cafés, restaurants and bars to fuel up at. Whether you're spending your day snorkelling your way around tranquil coves or feasting on mezes in the balmy shade, Crete in August is always a marvellous choice.
Zakynthos, Greece
Average daytime hours of sunshine in August: 13 hours
Average maximum temperature in August: 32 degrees
As you soak up the sun on the beautiful golden beaches of Zakynthos, feast your eyes on the most incredible turquoise waters that Greece has to offer.
August is a fantastic time to spot the magnificent sea turtles bobbing on the surface of the water or nesting amongst the sand. You can also visit Smugglers Cove, which is where you'll find the island's picturesque shipwreck.
For a daytrip, you could explore the bustling streets of Zakynthos town, or take the short drive to the mountain village of Kiliomenos. For more sea and sun, a boat trip to the enchanting Blue Caves is a favourite for all ages, while foodies can make a stop to sample the olive oil produced by the surrounding groves.
Halkidiki, Greece
Average daytime hours of sunshine in August: 11 hours
Average maximum temperature in August: 33°C
Our final favourite Greek retreat for August is Halkidiki, sometimes known as the 'Greek Riviera'. Comprising three distinct peninsulas - Kassandra, Sithonia, and Athos - Halkidiki is known for it's naturally beautiful beaches, many of which are protected and Blue Flag-awarded.
With a very low 2% chance of rain on Halkidiki island in August, you have the freedom to fully enjoy the unique bliss that this island has to offer, with shimmering blue oceans, circled by lush cliffs and stunning natural greenery. Opt for an all-inclusive escape at Ikos Olivia or Ikos Oceania to totally switch off, or stay at Sani Beach to have 7km of beach and a trove of nature trails at your doorstep, along with a world-class spa and a host of activities for families.
Costa del sol, Spain
Average daytime hours of sunshine in August: 11 hours
Average maximum temperature in August: 30°C
With August being the hottest month of this Spanish region, there's no doubt you'll be making the most of the glorious sunshine of the 'Coast of the Sun'.
While the sun is brimming, there is plenty more to do on your holiday than sit on the white-sand shores of the southern Spanish coast. Head to Marbella, the headline town of the region, to stroll the bougainvillea strewn plazas with their high-end boutiques and restaurants. Or, head to the glamorous Puerto Banus marina, where you'll find designer shops and private yacht charters.
If you want to see more of what the Costa del sol has to offer, take a look at our Classical Andalusia itinerary - from Malaga to Marbella, you'll enjoy cultural experiences from olive oil tasting in Ronda to flamenco in Seville.
Mallorca, Spain
Average daytime hours of sunshine in August: 11 hours
Average maximum temperature in August: 30°C
The view of the coastline of Mallorca under the hot August sun is one you won’t want to miss.
While the main city of Palma is a great place to start, with its historic old town, there are plenty of other tempting spots. On the west coast, the peaceful mountain village of Deia is the perfect hideaway, with picturesque views of the Serra Tramuntana Mountains. We recommend staying at La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel or the exclusive Son Bunyola Hotel, owned by Sir Richard Branson.
Or, stay on the south coast at Ikos Porto Petro - the resort offers every guest a day's complimentary car hire for exploring the island.
Ibiza, Spain
Average daytime hours of sunshine in August: 13 hours
Average maximum temperature in August: 30°C
This popular Spanish destination is one for the lovers of a livelier holiday - though you can find more chilled out spots for a relaxing August escape.
Ibiza is perfect for a summer holiday, with temperatures easily reaching 30 degrees. Stay close to the old town for the biggest bounty of bars, cafes and restaurants - Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay is great option for this, as it's also home to the island's only Nobu restaurant.
Alternatively, seek out the more peaceful hideaways to make the most of the island's laidback hippy vibe - Six Senses Ibiza is perfect. Located in the tranquil northern part of the island, near to Portinatx, the resort offers organic dining, expert-led yoga sessions and, of course, an excellent spa experience.
Cyprus
Average daytime hours of sunshine in August: 13 hours
Average maximum temperature in August: 31°C
Home to many beautiful beach coves, this European gem is perfect for your August getaway. Explore the many historical sites of Cyprus strewn across the island, or take to one of the glistening beaches for watersports and snorkelling among the sea turtles and schools of tropical fish.
With just a five-hour flight time, Cyprus offers one of the hottest spots in Europe for August. When you're ready for a break from the heat, dip into the winding cobbled streets of the villages for a shop in the upmarket boutiques, or experience the island's delicious flavours in its local bars and restaurants.
Cyprus has some delightful holiday resorts such as Paphos and Limassol, but to escape the busy bustle of the streets, head to Pissouri Bay - you'll be within an easy drive of the former villages, while having a peaceful retreat to return to.
Long-Haul Getaways
If you're craving tropical sun this summer, then we have found the perfect destinations that will satisfy your wanderlust. Find your ideal destination fit for a long-haul August adventure.
Fiji, Australasia
Average daytime hours of sunshine in August: 12 hours
Average maximum temperature in August: 26°C
To enjoy something more tropical this August, Fiji is a beautiful island that holds some of the world’s most incredible underwater seascapes.
August is summertime in Fiji, offering warm temperatures and calm waters for snorkelling - and, as the surrounding waters are home to pristine coral and a kaleidoscope of marine life, you'll certainly want to dive in to make the most of it.
Fiji island-hopping is a wonderful way to experience this slice of paradise. Fly into Los Angeles to explore Hollywood, Santa Monica and Beverly Hills before taking your connecting flight to Fiji. Here, you can split your time between your favourite islands, enjoying the finest dining experiences, deeply relaxing spa treatments and, of course, plenty of sumptuous beaches.
French Polynesia, Australasia
Average daytime hours of sunshine in August: 8 hours
Average maximum temperature in August: 31°C
This gloriously sunny beach paradise is what dreams are made of.
August brings the best of summer weather to French Polynesia, which is excellent for days spent exploring islands of Tahiti, Bora Bora and Moorea, or dipping into the Pacific Ocean to spot the tropical marine life. You can also head out to watch for majestic humpback whales as they begin to depart from Antarctica during August.
Choose this alluring long-haul destination to really immerse yourself in Polynesian tranquillity with nature-inspired spa treatments and soul-soothing food - it's also idea for a summer honeymoon.
California, USA
Average daytime hours of sunshine in August: 12 hours
Average maximum temperature in August: 28°C
If you're looking for more than just beaches this August, California has a very worthy alternative - a fly-drive along the iconic west coast of the USA.
In August, the weather in California is at its driest, meaning you can explore the likes of Los Angeles, Santa Monica and Carmel & Monterey under sunny skies. In between cruising the highway, there are plenty of experiences to stop off for, from hiking along Big Sur and spotting the seals of Santa Barbara, to wine tasting in the Santa Ynez Mountains and letting loose at the iconic theme parks.
Florida, USA
Average daytime hours of sunshine in August: 13 hours
Average maximum temperature in August: 31°C
Full of famous landmarks, sandy coast lines and heart-racing theme parks, Florida offers exciting adventures from the moment your holiday begins.
Take your trip in sunny August to be welcomed with pleasantly hot weather, whether you want to hit the famed beaches of Miami, explore the tropical Florida Keys or enjoy some family fun in Orlando.
One of the state's biggest draws are the magical Universal Studios and Walt Disney World Resort theme parks, which between them stretch for over 15 miles. In 2025, the new Universal Epic Universe park will be added to the already action-packed line-up, offering five more immersive worlds from the realms of films, tv and games.
Bali, Far East
Average daytime hours of sunshine in August: 10 hours
Average maximum temperature in August: 29°C
Enter a world of tranquillity and serenity in Bali. Your beach holiday nothing short of perfect if you visit during August, when the tropical weather is at its driest and sunniest.
Explore Bali’s finest at one of its bucket-list-worthy beach clubs, set along the many beautiful white-sand beaches. Take one of Bali's signature cocktails and sprawl out under the sun — or visit at night to enjoy the glimmers of the stars and some music with your drink.
The epitome of natural beauty, Bali is a destination perfect for the discerning traveller. It's also an incredibly romantic destination, so choose Bali for your couples' getaway this August to experience its driest month!
Koh Samui, Thailand
Average daytime hours of sunshine in August: 12 hours
Average maximum temperature in August: 28 degrees
This charming island has some incredible offerings, proving why Koh Samui should be your next sunny August destination. Koh Samui holds some of Thailand’s most picturesque beaches — the most popular being Chaweng, Lamai, and Maenam.
You can enjoy the peaceful sounds of the swishing turquoise ocean as you lounge on its cozy coast. Enhance its relaxing vibe by choosing one of the island's ultra-luxurious spa villa accommodations.
East Coast of Malaysia
Average daytime hours of sunshine in August: 12 hours
Average maximum temperature in August: 33 degrees
To experience the perfect summer temperatures, calm waters, and stunning places to explore both above and below sea level, Malaysia is the best destination for August.
You can partake in a plethora of activities on the coast of Malaysia to immerse yourself in the culture and beauty of this stunning island. Take a tree-top walk through the rainforest, explore the home of the orangutan or sail on the Andaman Sea.
Experience Malaysia below the surface of the ocean — swim amongst its tropical fish and marvel at its picturesque seabed’s.
Remember, the exotic paradise of the coast isn’t all you can see in this oasis haven! Venture out to Kota Kinabalu to experience modern architecture and buzzing markets.
Borneo, Asia
Average daytime hours of sunshine in August: 12 hours
Average maximum temperature in August: 28 degrees
For wildlife lovers, Borneo is excellent for spotting some of the world’s most rare species. During the hot month of August, Borneo is your natural wildlife safari park, where you can see orangutans swing closer to the ground to search for their food, turtles hatching and making their way to the sea, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the Bornean elephant!
Whether you take to the spectacular beaches or the exotic jungle, next to no rain and the beautiful weather of August spell the best conditions for this unmissable adventure.
Sri Lanka, Asia
Average daytime hours of sunshine in August: 12 hours
Average maximum temperature in August: 30 degrees
Sri Lanka offers year-round beauty and bucket-list-worthy experiences that you could only dream of back at home in the UK. The entire island is home to some of the world’s most exotic wildlife and its beaches are some of the most delightful in Asia. Plus, its an unbeatable destination for indulging in incredible cuisine and tasting the flavours of Sri Lanka.
What's more, August holds one of the most incredible Buddhist festivals of the year. The spectacular Perahera festival is held in Kandy and is a ritual performed to pay homage to the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha. Watch musicians, dancers, and the beautiful elephants doused in glittering finery, dance and parade through the streets for several nights through August.
Have you found your next hot getaway for this August?
We can help to personalise your holiday to suit you. Whether its a short-haul trip in Europe or a week-long getaway exploring the beauty of a tropical paradise, we can find your next sunshine-filled holiday.
Speak to one of our Travel Specialists to start planning today!
