12 Dreamy Summer Destinations in the World for Your August Getaway

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Summer is almost at its end in August, but there’s still time to grab that last bit of sunshine before it passes. Destinations across the globe still offer plenty of sunshine, balmy temperatures, and many things to see and do. However, finding the perfect place to visit isn’t easy.

Whether you’re looking for a beach holiday or a city break, there are countless possibilities for finding somewhere to spend a summer vacation in August. Luckily, we’ve compiled a list of 12 top summer destinations worldwide in August. We’ve selected these places based on temperatures above 72°F (22°C) and the absence of a rainy season.

Chania, Crete, Greece

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The first summer destination on our list is Chania, a beautiful city on the island of Crete. It’s best known for its fascinating history, vibrant pastel-colored architecture, and pristine coastline. Chania is a great place to stay if you seek a vacation filled with sun, sea, sand, and many things to see and do.

You’ll likely spend most of your time around the Venetian Harbor, where you’ll find iconic landmarks, such as Agia Magdalini Church, a 16th-century lighthouse, and the Old Town Marina. You’ll also find several beaches near the Venetian Harbor, including Nea Chora Beach, and charming neighborhoods like Halepa. Expect plenty of sunshine and heat in August, as temperatures average 77°F (25°C) and above.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

If you’re looking for a luxury vacation destination with wall-to-wall sunshine, hot temperatures, and a relaxing atmosphere, look no further than Bora Bora. This stunning tropical island in French Polynesia is famous worldwide for its beautiful landscape, soft white sand beaches, luxury resorts, and impressive marine life.

When you’re not strolling along Matira Beach or sunbathing outside your over-water villa, you’ll find yourself snorkeling in the crystal-clear turquoise waters or tucking into world-class cuisine. In other words, Bora Bora is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and explore. In August, the average daily temperature on the island ranges between 77°F (25°C) and 86°F (30°C). You can also expect clear skies and very little rain.

Gozo, Malta

Gozo is one of 21 islands in the Mediterranean that make up Malta’s archipelago. Inhabited for thousands of years, the island is best known for its rich history, influenced by the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, French, and British. However, it also has a beautiful coastline dotted with glorious sandy beaches.

You can reach Gozo on a 45-minute ferry ride from mainland Malta. When you arrive, expect beaches with inviting turquoise water, a medieval town packed with interesting landmarks, and delicious cuisine. Popular attractions include Victoria’s Citadel, Independence Square open-air market, and Ramla Bay Beach. Regarding temperatures, in August, the average daily temperature in Gozo is 81°F (27°C), with daily highs of 88°F (31°C).

Sumatra, Indonesia

Sumatra is a large Indonesian island located west of Java and south of the Malay Peninsula in the Indian Ocean. This breathtaking island is recognized for its rugged tropical landscapes, smoldering volcanoes, picturesque coastline, and diverse wildlife. It offers travelers an exciting blend of relaxation, adventure, and exploration.

Sumatra is also one of only two places where wild orangutans are found worldwide. In Gunung Leuser National Park, you can spot wild Sumatran orangutans on a hiking tour. Other bucket list experiences in Sumatra include climbing an active volcano, Mount Sibayak, in Berastagi, swimming in Lake Toba, a supervolcano, and surfing in the Mentawai islands. During your vacation, you can expect average daily temperatures of 81°F (27°C) and highs of 88°F (31°C).

Chicago, Illinois, United States

Chicago, dubbed the ‘Windy City,’ is a US city with a dramatic climate. The winters are often very cold, icy, and snowy, while the summers are sunny, hot, and dry. That said, August is an excellent time to visit Chicago to enjoy the city with good weather. In August, the average daily high in the city is 81°F (27°C), which drops to 79°F (26°C) towards the end of the month.

There are many things to see and do in the city, but August poses an excellent opportunity to explore the great outdoors. Chicago has many parks to walk around and access to Lake Michigan. Spend time relaxing in Chicago Park, walking along the lakeside, and admiring the city and lake views on a boat tour.

Carcassonne, France

France isn’t short of cracking summer vacation destinations, and Carcassonne is one of the best if you love history. A history buff haven, this medieval city is home to some of the most mesmerizing architecture in Europe. You’ll find a medieval citadel, Le Cité, a double-walled fort, impressive watchtowers, and more.

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Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this fascinating destination offers travelers an insight into French history. Admire the views from the hilltop fort, get lost down the narrow cobblestone streets, and discover the 12th-century Château Comtal. In August, the clear skies and warm temperatures allow you to explore Carcassonne in shorts and a T-shirt. The average temperature is 72°F (22°C), with highs rising to 81°F (27°C).

Bodrum, Turkey

With temperatures regularly hitting 91°F (33°C) in August and a beautiful coastline with soft golden-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, Bodrum, Turkey, is a top summer destination for travelers seeking a hot seaside vacation. Average temperatures in Bodrum in August rarely drop below 86°F (30°C), so make sure you choose a resort close to the sea so you can cool off.

This beautiful port city is home to various beaches, including Bitez Beach, Gumbet Beach, and Yahsi Beach. You can swim in the Aegean Sea at all three beaches, sunbathe, relax under an umbrella, and grab a refreshing beer. What’s not to like? In the city, you’ll also find an array of famous landmarks, such as Bodrum Castle, Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, and Bodrum Marina.

Mykonos, Greece

Those looking for a summer vacation destination offering a party atmosphere should visit Mykonos, an upmarket Greek party island in the Aegean Sea. This vibrant island has many beach party resorts, nightclubs, and bars offering wild summer parties. You’ll find most of the action in Mykonos Town.

The island has its fair share of historical landmarks, Greek charm, and scenic beaches. Therefore, explore the island during the day, soak up the sun on the beach, and party the night away in the evening. Popular attractions in Mykonos include Super Paradise Beach, Matoyianni Street, Little Venice, and the Windmills of Mykonos. In August, the average temperature on the island is 79°F (26°C).

Ibiza, Spain

Another popular place to party in Europe in the summer is Ibiza. In August, Ibiza is a hot beach destination that experiences average temperatures of 79°F (26°C), daily highs of 86°F

(30°C), and long sunny days. This Balearic island is the ultimate summer party destination with picture-perfect sandy beaches, seaside resorts, and a lively strip to match.

Recover on one of the many beaches when not partying hard on the Ibiza Strip. Playa d’en Bossa is the island’s longest and most popular beach. However, Playa Niu Blau offers a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. Other points of interest include Cala de Sant Vicent, Cueva de Can Marçà, and the Castle of Ibiza.

Koh Samui, Thailand

Koh Samui, Thailand’s second-largest island, is best known for its palm-tree-lined tropical beaches, scenic rainforest, and luxury resorts. With August temperatures averaging 81°F (27°C) to 90°F (32°C), it’s also much appreciated for its gorgeous summer weather. Koh Samui is a fantastic place to visit if you’re looking for a tropical summer vacation destination.

You’ll likely spend most of your time relaxing on one of the beaches, eating delicious Thai food, or discovering the best viewpoints. However, there are significant landmarks on the island worth visiting, too, including the 39-foot (12-meter) golden Big Buddha statue and Wat Plai Laem Temple. Other places of interest include Chaweng Beach, Silver Beach, and Lamai Viewpoint.

Rome, Italy

If you prefer city breaks to tropical island getaways, personally, we love both, consider Rome as your next summer vacation destination. In August, the Italian capital experiences dry, clear skies and average daily temperatures of 75°F (24°C), highs of 86°F (30°C), and lows of approximately 64°F (18°C) at night.

Rome is one of the most famous cities in the world, as it’s home to some of the most iconic landmarks on Earth, including the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Trevi Fountain, and the Pantheon. The best way to spend your time is walking around the city, hunting down these iconic sights. Along the way, make sure you indulge in Italian coffees, Aperol Spritz, pasta, and pizza.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Alternatively, if you’re looking for a summer vacation destination that offers the best of both worlds, visit Dubrovnik in Croatia. Combining a historic city break with pristine beaches and turquoise seas, Dubrovnik is a beautiful city jam-packed with amazing things to see and do. In August, the average daily temperature hovers around 82°F (28°C), with highs of 91°F (33°C).

In Dubrovnik, spend time exploring the Old Town. Walk along the medieval walls, discover the narrow cobblestone streets and their hidden gems, and buy ice cream from a shop on the Stradun (Main Street). After, take the cable car to the top of Mount Srd. The next day, relax on Banje Beach or jump on a boat to Lokrum Island, where you’ll find refreshing natural swimming pools and more beaches.