In August the Mediterranean is warmer than at any other time of year. The days are hot, the evenings long, and in many southern European countries it is now the holiday season for locals too. The beaches are crowded and prices high, but there is hardly a better time for a beach holiday. If you prefer things a little quieter and cooler, head for the Atlantic.
Destinations in August
| Destination | Daytime air | Sea | Flight from Frankfurt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Azores | 26 °C | 23 °C | approx. 4.5 hrs |
| Canary Islands | 28 °C | 23 °C | approx. 4.5 hrs |
| Algarve | 28 °C | 21 °C | approx. 3 hrs |
| Croatia | 29 °C | 25 °C | approx. 1.5 hrs |
| Mallorca | 31 °C | 26 °C | approx. 2 hrs |
| Corfu | 31 °C | 26 °C | approx. 2.5 hrs |
| Rhodes | 30 °C | 26 °C | approx. 3.5 hrs |
| Cyprus | 33 °C | 28 °C | approx. 4 hrs |
| Antalya | 34 °C | 28 °C | approx. 3.5 hrs |
| Bali | 30 °C | 27 °C | approx. 16 hrs with a change |
Approximate averages. During heatwaves the Mediterranean reaches much higher values.
Swimming in the warm Mediterranean
On the Adriatic, August is high season. The islands of Hvar, Brač and Korčula tempt with clear water, small harbours and old towns. In Croatia many locals and holidaymakers from neighbouring countries are on the move now too, so book accommodation and ferries early.
In Greece, the meltemi, a strong north wind, cools the islands of the Aegean. On Rhodes, Crete and the Cyclades that is pleasant. For ferry crossings, though, it can bring delays and cancellations. Corfu in the Ionian Sea is hot in August and usually calm.
Furthest east, on Cyprus and the Turkish Riviera, the sea is at its warmest. The air, often above 33 °C, is very hot, though. It is best to spend the middle of the day in the shade or by the pool.
More pleasant on the Atlantic
On the Atlantic it stays pleasant even in August. The Algarve has warm days and refreshing water. In the Canary Islands the trade wind keeps temperatures around 28 °C. The Azores and Madeira are green and mild, ideal for anyone who wants to combine walking and swimming.
Long-haul destinations in August
Bali has its dry season in August and is one of the best destinations of the month. In Kenya and Tanzania it is the best time for a safari, as the great herds now move through the Masai Mara. On Mauritius and the Seychelles it is winter: dry, but windy and a little cooler.
Better not in August
In the Caribbean, the peak of the hurricane season begins in August and lasts until October. On Thailand’s Andaman Sea coast and in the Maldives it is the rainy season. On the Red Sea and in Dubai it is very hot, at over 40 °C.
Tips for August
- Book early: accommodation and ferries are often booked up long in advance in August.
- Take a break at midday: between noon and 4 pm, the shade is the best place to be.
- Check for air conditioning: in the heat it matters for a good night’s sleep.
- Mind the fire risk: barbecues and open fires are banned in many places.
- Do not forget sun protection: UV radiation in the Mediterranean is very high in August.
flug-123.de editorial team, updated 10 November 2026. We review our guides regularly. Rules can change. If in doubt, the details in your booking apply.
