August is a popular travel month since many people are on vacation. This means crowded spots and busy tourist areas. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventure with outdoor activities, we've got you covered. While August might seem like the last month for summer travel, and the idea of big crowds might be discouraging, like I mentioned earlier, it’s also the last month for summer travel! Music festivals, long sunny days, ample time to explore your favorite cities, and just an essence of joy in the air, is what August brings to the table. So, if you want to make the most of the sun, start packing your bags! Before we get into the details, let's take a quick look at the weather around the world in August.
Asia
- Hot, humid, and often wet.
- Festivals bring parades, fireworks, and street parties in South and Southeast Asia.
- Crowds thin out slightly as summer ends, especially late in the month.
- Monsoon season keeps Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos green.
- East Asia remains hot and humid.
Australia
- End of winter in Australia and New Zealand.
- Temperatures rise from July's lows, good for various activities.
- Snowy mountains, warmer north, cooler and wetter south.
- Skiing, beach relaxation, city museums, and road trips are all possible in August.
Europe
- Full of events, festivals, and outdoor activities.
- Longer days and warm weather for exploring and beach activities.
- Pleasant climate for diverse landscapes and stunning views.
South America
- Great time to visit the tropical wetlands of the Pantanal.
- Rio has spring weather with blue skies and rising temperatures.
- Peak season in Peru and Bolivia, plan ahead for the Inca Trail.
North America
- Perfect for festivals, hiking, and water activities.
- Enjoy major music festivals, clear roads, and active wildlife.
- Parks will be busy during this time.
Africa
- Peak season for visitors in East and Southern Africa.
- Exceptional wildlife viewing in every country.
- High visitor numbers due to school holidays; family-friendly camps booked well in advance.
1. Kornati Islands, Croatia
The Kornati Islands offer a unique view of Croatia that is best experienced by sailing. Known for their calm waters, gentle winds, and stunning harbors, these islands are a sailor's paradise. The archipelago consists of nearly 150 islands, islets, and rocks, with distinctive karst rock cliffs, known as "Corones," that rise over 60 meters above sea level in some places.
This natural formation has kept the islands mostly untouched by human interference. The main attractions here are natural, with the sea being the star. Sail the short distances between islands, stopping in quiet coves to enjoy breathtaking views. Most islands are uninhabited, with occasional fishermen's homes offering mooring, water, and power for a fee or a dinner exchange.
Discover the authentic flavors of the region in local taverns, called konobe, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals. The Kornati Islands promise an unforgettable sailing experience, blending natural beauty with cultural richness.
- Temperature: Max 29° C - Min 22° C
- What to see: National Park Kornati, Tureta Fortress, Church of Our Lady of Tarac
- What to eat: Buzara, Grilled Fish, Roasted Pag Lamb
2. Tanzania, East Africa
August is a prime time to visit Tanzania. The weather is excellent across the country—less humid, with little rain and fewer mosquitoes, reducing the risk of malaria. Inland, game parks are full of wildlife, and the Great Migration is in full swing in the Northern Serengeti, with wildebeest crossing the Mara River. The dry weather and mild temperatures make it ideal for hiking Mount Meru and climbing Kilimanjaro.
Along the coast and Zanzibar Islands, blue skies and calm seas create perfect conditions for relaxing on white sandy beaches or snorkeling in the Indian Ocean. However, August is also the most popular month for visitors, leading to higher safari prices and busier parks and beaches. Despite the crowds, the vast game parks offer many secluded spots for a more private experience.
- Temperature: Max 28° C - Min 22° C
- What to see: The Great Migration, Pemba Island, Mount Kilimanjaro National Park
- What to eat: Ugali, Pilau with fried chicken, Ndizi Nyama
3. The Hebrides, Scotland
The Hebrides, a group of over 50 islands off Scotland's west coast, provide a serene alternative to the crowded seaside destinations in the UK’s southwest. While the weather can be unpredictable, the southern Hebrides often enjoy more dry, sunny days. On these days, the region's white-sand beaches and azure waters can be mistaken for the Indian Ocean.
Island hopping between Islay, Mull, Harris, and Lewis is a must. Be sure to book car hire and whiskey distillery tours in advance, or plan your visit after mid-August when Scottish schools are back in session. During July and August, the coastlines are adorned with vibrant machair (wildflower grasslands) and host various outdoor events, live music festivals, and local Highland games.
- Temperature: Max 29° C - Min 22° C
- What to see: Island hopping on a boat, Kisimul Castle, Hercules the Bear Statue
- What to eat: Haggis, Fresh fish, Cullen skink
4. Riga, Latvia
Latvia is a charming tourist destination that offers a variety of experiences. During summer, the weather is pleasant, akin to autumn in other regions. Rīga, the largest and most cosmopolitan Baltic capital, boasts diverse accommodations and global cuisine.
The city combines medieval charm with contemporary vibes, featuring the narrow, cobbled streets of Old Rīga and the Jugendstil Art Nouveau architecture in the New Town. Rīga also offers efficient public transportation, great shopping, and vibrant nightlife.
For an affordable European getaway in August, Rīga is a perfect choice. The city’s colorful old town and beautiful parks are ideal for summer days. August, the warmest month of the year, is full of open-air concerts, street performances, and amazing street food.
- Temperature: Max 23° C - Min 12° C
- What to see: Riga Central Market, The Freedom Monument, Dome Square and Cathedral
- What to eat: Riga Black Balsam, Rye bread, Kvass
5. Baja Peninsula, Mexico
Head out on that Baja Peninsula road trip filled with shrimp tacos, scenic routes, and charming town squares. This is one of the most scenic and straightforward road trips in Mexico—safe, beachy, and perfect for visiting in August. The nearly 1,000-mile-long peninsula boasts pristine tropical beaches, a wine country rivaling California's Napa Valley, and lush, palm-fringed oases.
Enjoy desert sunsets surrounded by Saguaro cacti and coyotes, as the landscape is painted in pastel pink. The undeveloped white sand beaches are a major draw, rivaling those in Southeast Asia. While Cabo San Lucas is famous for its turquoise waters and limestone arches, the rest of Baja offers even more spectacular stretches of sand.
- Temperature: Max 27° C - Min 19° C
- What to see: Bahía Concepción, Land’s End, Espíritu Santo
- What to eat:
6. Langkawi, Malaysia
Langkawi is an ideal destination in Asia for an August vacation. Perfect for those seeking a dreamy beach getaway on a budget, August sees a significant drop in airfares and accommodation rates without compromising the island’s charm. Despite occasional showers, Langkawi enjoys long hours of sunshine and pleasant temperatures between 31°C and 25°C.
Explore the island’s top attractions, including the
Langkawi Sky Bridge, Cenang Beach, Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, Tanjung Rhu Beach, and Langkawi Wildlife Park. Langkawi offers an enchanting experience at an affordable price.
- Temperature: Max 31° C - Min 25° C
- What to see: Sky Cab Ride, Sky Bridge, Night market throughout the week
- What to eat: Nasi lemak, Beef rendang, Ikan bakar
7. Samoa
Samoa is a popular holiday destination in August, offering warm weather and soothing sea breezes. For Americans, it’s a pleasant escape from the Northern Hemisphere summer, while Australians and New Zealanders can avoid winter’s chill. August is one of the busiest months in Samoa, so booking ahead is essential to secure a beach hut (known as a fale).
Despite the crowds, the warm sunny days, pleasant sea temperatures, and excellent conditions for snorkeling, scuba diving, and surfing make it worth the visit. Enjoy must-see attractions like the Insta-friendly To-Sua Ocean Trench, Alofaaga blowholes, and Falealupo Canopy Walk.
- Temperature: Max 27° C - Min 24° C
- What to see: To Sua Ocean Trench, Sopo’aga Falls, Maketi Fou
- What to eat: Palusami, Faiai eleni, Fa'apapa
8. Wyoming, USA
Wyoming is a land of diverse wildlife, majestic mountains, geysers, and vibrant hot springs. Home to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, it’s easy to visit both in one trip as they are adjacent to each other. Don't miss the historic town of Jackson, where you can enjoy a drink at the authentic Cowboy Bar or experience the western spirit at a Jackson Hole Rodeo.
Wyoming is truly cowboy country, and staying at a dude ranch is the best way to experience it firsthand. Wyoming dude ranch vacations offer a chance to live the Western way of life, even if just for a short time. These ranches range from luxurious resorts with 5-star dining, spas, and entertainment to working ranches for a truly authentic experience.
- Temperature: Max 27° C - Min 17° C
- What to see: Devils Tower National Monument, Yellowstone National Park, Jackson Hole Aerial Tram
- What to eat: Bison Burgers, Elk steak, Trout
9. Paris, France
Visiting
Paris in August during the Olympics is an exciting experience filled with the energy of 206 countries! The city will be alive with Olympic spirit, hosting numerous events and welcoming athletes and fans from around the world. Iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Champs-Élysées, and Notre-Dame will serve as stunning backdrops for various competitions, creating unforgettable memories.
Despite the large crowds, the city will offer a variety of Olympic-related activities, including live screenings of events, cultural performances, and interactive exhibits. Public transportation will be bustling but efficient, and special arrangements will ensure smooth travel to different Olympic venues.
- Temperature: Max 25° C - Min 16° C
- What to see: Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, Hotel des Invalides
- What to eat: Croissant, Crepes, Macaron
10. Alaska, USA
August in Alaska is slightly rainier than earlier summer months but offers fewer crowds and lower prices. It's an excellent time to spot caribou, wolves, and golden eagles in Denali National Park, as well as grizzly bears hunting salmon and enjoying the season's abundant berries. You can also taste these juicy blueberries at the annual Alyeska Berry Festival in Anchorage. Don't miss the Alaska State Fair in Palmer, which celebrates the end of summer with concerts, fairground rides, and street food.
- Temperature: Max 18° C - Min 0° C varies between coastal, interior, and arctic.
- What to see: Denali National Park and Preserve, Kenai Fjords National Park, Tracy Arm
- What to eat: Reindeer Sausage, King Crab Legs, Berry Cobbler
