The best places to visit in August 2024

Last Updated: January 22, 2024

With the weather at its best in most of the northern hemisphere, August is a great time to take a break and visit a new destination.

It can be difficult to know what are the best places to visit in August if you don’t have enough information about things like the weather and what to do in different places across the world during this time of the year.

To help you plan your next August holiday, we have come up with this guide enlisting some of the best places to travel in August.

Where to go in August 2024?

Best places to visit in August 2024 in Asia

Langkawi, Malaysia

Remember to take advantage of shoulder season prices!

One of the best places to visit in August in Asia, Malaysia’s Langkawi island is an ideal location if you are looking for a luxurious beach vacation but do not have the budget to splurge.

Langkawi is usually an expensive destination but prices drop massively in August due to the onset of the monsoon season. Despite having both airfare and accommodation rates plummet with some irregular rain showers, you will experience long hours of sunshine with temperatures between 25-31° C.

On the island, visitors can take the cable car to experience stunning views from the peak or try some more adventurous activities such as jet-skiing, island hopping and parasailing.

READ MORE: Langkawi is home to one of the most luxurious resorts in the world

Dubai, UAE

Ideal for a lover of the sun

Most Southeast Asian countries experience monsoon season in August, however you can escape to Dubai. If you love the sun, light summer wear and wish for lesser crowds, Dubai is undeniably one of the best places to visit in August.

Take the time to visit the Dubai Creek, explore Palm Jumeirah or beat the heat by spending a day at the Aquaventure Waterpark. With Dubai being a shopper’s paradise, you can head down to the world’s largest destination, The Dubai Mall, which is located next to the world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa.

Kerala, India

The perfect place for nature lovers

Visit Kerala in August and immerse yourself in nature

Kerala has everything for the modern adventurer – from lush hills to sandy beaches. August has warm weather with frequent downpours which bring life to the green paradise and is truly a sight to behold.

Spend your week here by immersing yourself in the serene nature and tranquil beaches. You can dine in at their cave restaurants for an unforgettable experience, take part in water activities, walk through the nature trails to visit highly-anticipated spots that are good for photography or spoil yourself with spa treatments at prices that won’t break the bank.

READ MORE: India has 2 of the largest cities in the world, can you guess what they are?

Best places to travel in August 2024 in the US and the Americas

Seattle, Washington, USA

Also known as the “Emerald City”

Seattle is a great place to visit in August — A coastal city escape to Seattle, Washington – a city with a prominent coffee culture

A thriving food-and-drink spot, Seattle is the perfect destination as it has many iconic destinations from foodies who want to explore the country’s greatest coffee culture and the famous food markets, to trendy neighbourhoods and hip culture, while taking a break under the summer sun with scenic views of famous landmarks – The Space Needle.

Do visit the Pike Place Market as they hit their 50th Anniversary of the Citizen’s Initiative – they will be having market activities like treasure hunts and even a market history tour!

READ MORE: Seattle is considered one of the safer places to travel

Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming, USA

For the most picturesque views you can find

Where to travel in August, Wyoming, USA — For amazing landscapes under the sun, visit the Grand Teton National Park in August

Admiring nature’s landscapes and the summer sun go hand in hand. There is no better place to experience both than the Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming, USA.

Take in the natural scenic views of the lush green topography with the summer sun shining in the background while hiking the hills or rafting in Lake Jenny.

Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska, USA

Ideal for nature and animal lovers

Best places to travel in August, Alaska, USA — Discover more hiking trails and wildlife in Alaska in August

For a summer mountain experience, Glacier Bay National Park in Alaska is one of our top places to visit in August. In August many attractions that are impossible to reach in winter are now accessible.

For example, the warmer weather means that you can traverse the park by boat (either by kayak or your own vessel or aboard a tour boat). Some of the wildlife visitors can spot include puffins, eagles, bears and whales. Hiking trails are another active option.

Visitors to the park can reach it by boat or plane and can stay at Glacier Bay Lodge or camp in one of the campgrounds.

READ MORE: Can you name the seven wonders of the world?

Nantucket, Massachusetts, USA

Classic Americana vibes of warmth

The weather is finally warm enough for water activities. Be sure to grab the camera and make use of the 120km stretch of some of the world’s most beautiful beaches as well as go on a stroll along the prettiest island walk, the Sconset Bluff Walk.

Swing by the Downyflake to pick up some homemade donuts for breakfast and don’t miss out on the exciting races and parties during Nantucket Race Week. There’s plenty to do and Nantucket in August one of the best places to visit in August.

READ MORE: Best travel alarm clock so you stay on schedule

Best places to visit in August 2024 in Europe

Budapest, Hungary

Festivals, culture and all-rounded fun

If you are looking for a summer city break, Budapest is one of the best places to visit in August. Situated on the river Danube and formed in 1873 when the three cities of Buda, Óbuda, and Pest joined, this historic city is a great choice for those looking for a cultural break.

What makes August in Budapest truly exciting is the array of festivals. The annual Budapest Summer Festival is held in August and offers visitors the chance to experience concerts, art, performances, and food stalls.

The city also celebrates St Stephen’s Day and Hungary’s State Foundation Day with spectacular fireworks on the river. A Festival Of Crafts also takes place around this date in the Baroque palace of Buda Castle.

Budapest is easily accessible by air and has direct connections by rail to 25 European capital cities. Stay in the 5th District to have many attractions, cafes, and restaurants nearby.

READ MORE: Find out why we named Budapest one of the best places to visit this year

Reykjavik, Iceland

For unlimited and uninterrupted exploring

Though it may not be your standard winter trip to Iceland, Reykjavik should definitely be on a list of where to go in August.

During this time of the year, there is less traffic and fewer people on the roads, the landscape is lush green and the days are sunny. It is the ideal time to explore the interior of the island as there are 16-18 hours of daylight each day.

August offers a special look into Icelandic culture with a number of festivals taking place, including The Great Fish Day, Reykjavik Gay Pride, the European Swamp Soccer Championship and the annual firework show at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.

To get the most out of your trip, fly into Reykjavik and rent a car or van to explore this amazing island yourself.

READ MORE: Here is our selection of the best sites for cheap car rental deals

Santorini, Greece

World’s famous volcanic island – number one summer destination worldwide

Wander through the picturesque streets of the narrow alleys, alongside magnificent views of the beautiful villages – Santorini is the ultimate getaway destination for all in August

Known for its breathtaking views and romantic settings, this small island exhibits traditional architecture, famous volcanic topography and eye-capturing views that make for an unforgettable summer vacation. Visit the famous white and blue houses, take a boat trip and go island-hopping, and enjoy the good vibes and great food as you tour the unique landscapes at this top tourist destination.

Venture away from the traditional villages and see the views of the rocky formations at Mesa Vouno or even take a dip in nature’s hot springs that are fed with vents from the nearby active volcanoes to loosen up after a long day.

Balearic Islands, Spain

Ideal for exploring in the summer

With warm ocean water, temperatures as high 32°C and dry weather, the Balearics Islands (which includes Minorca, Mallorca and Formentera amongst other islands) should be high up on a list of where to travel in August.

During the summer months, there is a lively family atmosphere on these three islands, although it is still possible to avoid the biggest crowds by exploring the smaller towns and cities (such as Porto Petro, Mallorca).

To get the most out of your experience, hire a car and try to find an empty cove or two to spend the day at.

Best places to travel in August 2024 in Africa

Masai Mara, Kenya

Perfect destination for wildlife watching

To experience a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experience, place the Masai Mara top of your list of where to go in August.

Each summer, the famous Great Migration happens across both Kenya and Tanzania. More than two million animals (mostly wildebeest but also large numbers of zebras and gazelles) migrate to the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya from the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania.

August is usually when the animals reach the Mara River in the Masai Mara. Here you can witness their dangerous journey across the crocodile-infested river to the lions waiting onshore.

Ensure you book in advance to avoid disappointment and expect to spend a considerable amount of money. To reach the Masai Mara you will need to fly into Kenya’s capital city Nairobi to take onward transport.

READ MORE: Learn which of the most dangerous animals in the world can be found in Kenya

Tanzania, East Africa

Get up close with exotic animals

Just like in Kenya, Tanzania’s wildlife safaris and sanctuaries are just as buzzing during August.

The Ngorongoro Crater Is a wildlife sanctuary that houses over 30,000 safari animals, most notably the rare population of black rhinos left on earth.

Due to the time of the year, the Ngorongoro Lake is a Great Migration destination as well for the animals, leaving a great sight for travellers.

READ MORE: Here are the top 10 most endangered species in the world

Best places to visit in August 2024 in Oceania

Fraser Island, Queensland, Australia

The best vacation spot for water lovers

Best places to travel in August, Frasier Island, Australia — Visit Fraser Island in August for the experience of a lifetime

Take a trip down to the world’s largest sand island in Queensland for a truly unique experience. With its tranquil rainforests, massive collection of perched lakes and beautiful wildlife, it is no wonder Fraser Island is a UNESCO-listed site.

August is the perfect month to plan your visit as you will arrive just in time for whale watching season. While you check out the August Whale Festival, don’t miss out on the rest of the animals on the island such as dingoes and other wildlife.

Cook Islands

The quintessential island experience

Located in the South Pacific is a group of islands known as the Cook Islands. There is an endless amount of beaches ready for travellers to get sun kissed while enjoying the crystal clear water of the South Pacific Ocean and the soft white sand.

Nothing is worse than having a day at the beach that is ruined by a torrential rainfall. Lucky for the Cook Islands, in August it experiences minimal to no rainfall allowing travellers to have a tropical paradise undisturbed.

READ MORE: Cook Islands also feature in our list of the best tropical destinations for your next holiday

Brisbane, Australia

Ideal for a week-long city break

Winter in Brisbane, Queensland’s capital is in the balmy low 20°Cs during the day making it a highlight of the best places to travel in August.

The humidity is low and it is usually the driest month of the year so trying out the city’s outdoor activities is very inviting. In South Bank Parkland, visitors can swim, walk and picnic by the Brisbane River. Mt. Coot-Tha is an excellent place to bike or hike.

The annual Royal Queensland Show (also known as Ekka) is also in town. To top it off the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Great Barrier Reef, the largest coral reef in the world, can be found off Queensland’s coast.

READ MORE: Introducing Brisbane to the world

Pick from our list of best places to travel in August, from beach trips to amazing natural phenomena, and have the summer holiday of your dreams.