Where to fly in August 2026: 19 countries with warm water

In August, the sea off the coast of Europe is very warm. But half of the destinations this month get hit either by tropical downpours or exhausting heat. We've rounded up nineteen countries and regions where you can swim in August without ruining your vacation.

If you want a warm body of water and a short flight, go for the Mediterranean: in mid-August 2026 it warmed to an average of 28.54 °C, a record since 1940 (according to Euronews, 09/2026). For calm waves and fresh air, head to the Aegean and Adriatic coasts, and for something exotic in August, Bali, the Seychelles, and the Caribbean fit the bill.

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1. Turkey

💡 In short:

• No visa is required for a short trip to any of the countries on this list.
• August is high season, so book hotels and tours in advance.
• Climate and water: 09/2026, according to Climate-Data.org.

Turkey is a short flight away. But August here falls in the peak of the season, and the Mediterranean coast is oppressively humid during the day. If you don't handle heat well, choose the Aegean resorts of Bodrum and Marmaris: the air there is drier and the water slightly cooler.

Families with children more often choose Kusadasi and Fethiye: the entry into the sea is gentle and the beaches are sandy. In Kemer, pine trees grow right by the sea, so it's easier to breathe there in the evening, although it's humid during the day. The resorts of Antalya, Side, Belek, and Alanya are known for water parks and all-inclusive hotels.

A vacation here isn't just about the beach: excursions, yacht trips, and evening shows await. In August, markets are full of peaches, watermelons, melons, grapes, and figs, so fruit costs less than at any other time. Pick a hotel in a green area, and the heat won't ruin your trip.

• Who it's for: families with children and those who want a short flight and all-inclusive.
• The catch: the Mediterranean coast is muggy in August; at midday it's better to leave the beach for the shade.

Hotels in Turkey on Trip.com

2. Tunisia

Tunisia gives you the same Mediterranean Sea as Europe, but noticeably cheaper. The coast here is subtropical, there's almost no rain in August, and seafood is at its freshest this month. Plan your swimming for the morning and evening: at midday the sun burns even in the shade.

The weather is almost identical across the resorts. In Hammamet, Sousse, Monastir, and on Djerba, it's hot during the day and warm at night. In the south, in Sfax, Gabes, and Zarzis, it's even hotter, but the water is very warm. Rain is unlikely in August; occasionally it occurs only in the northwest.

In the evening, music of various genres fills the cities, and restaurants serve fresh fish and seafood. Don't miss excursions to Carthage and the Roman ruins at Dougga, the country's two main historical sites. Book your trip for the morning, before the heat sets in.

• Who it's for: those who want a warm sea and history for a reasonable price.
• The catch: the daytime heat is intense; during the hottest hours stay in your hotel or in the shade.

Hotels in Tunisia on Trip.com

3. Thailand

In Thailand, August falls during the rainy season, but not for the whole country. Downpours are short, tour prices drop, and the sea stays warm. If you want exotic experiences for little money, Thailand in August gives you the best balance of price and impressions.

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A calm vacation awaits you on Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and the northern coast of the Gulf of Thailand: it rains less often here than in Phuket. There are almost always waves, so it's better not to go with small children. Surfers, however, will find waves near the islands of Koh Chang, Koh Tao, Koh Samet, and Phuket.

Between swims, take a trip to Bangkok for the sales and floating markets. You'll enjoy farms with exotic animals, national parks, and ancient temples with Buddha statues. The local cuisine and tropical fruits will leave a strong impression on you.

• Who it's for: surfers, couples, and those who want the tropics on a budget.
• The catch: in Phuket and the south, August is when it rains most often.

Hotels in Thailand on Trip.com

4. Vietnam

Vietnam stretches for thousands of kilometers, so the weather in August varies greatly. The center of the country is in its dry season at this time, with a warm sea and almost no waves. In the south and on Phu Quoc, August is the rainy season. If you want white sand and calm water, look at Da Nang, Hoi An, Nha Trang, and Phan Rang.

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The north of the country is also suitable for a vacation: rains are short and quickly give way to sun. In Ha Long Bay, near Ninh Binh, and on Cat Ba Island, you'll get scenic cliffs and warm water.

Mui Ne will appeal to you with its quiet, sand dunes, and palm groves, while Phu Quoc is worth staying at for diving. Excursions to Hue will introduce you to imperial monuments, and on Vinpearl Island you'll find beaches and entertainment for the whole family. The local cuisine is known far beyond the country's borders.

• Who it's for: divers, families, and lovers of white beaches.
• The catch: in northern Vietnam, it rains more often in August.

Hotels in Vietnam on Trip.com

5. Israel

Israel in August remains one of the hottest countries in the Mediterranean. In Tel Aviv and Haifa, it's very hot and humid during the day, so people with respiratory conditions should be careful. Evenings, however, are comfortable, and the sea is warm almost all day.

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Water lovers will enjoy the Red Sea: in Eilat you'll see coral reefs and a rich underwater world. Divers and surfers come here for the warm water and clear visibility. In the evening, many cities host concerts and festivals, so you won't be bored.

At the Dead Sea, an unusual swim awaits you: the water is so salty that it keeps you afloat. The beaches here are calm and uncrowded, and the air is considered healing. Come early in the morning or in the evening; during the day the coast is too hot.

• Who it's for: divers, surfers, and lovers of warm seas.
• The catch: during the day, the coast has heat and high humidity.

Hotels in Israel on Trip.com

6. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka in August surprises you with the difference between its coasts. While it rains in the southwest, the northern and eastern resorts stay dry and calm. Choose the east coast: it has minimal rainfall and a warm sea.

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In Trincomalee, you can combine the beach with Buddhist temples and the old port. Near Nilaveli and Uppuveli, there's clean water, a coral reef, and thermal springs. Come here at dawn, while the sun is soft.

In Batticaloa, two spits form a long strip of white sand, and the sea, protected by the reef, stays calm. Surfers and nature lovers head to Arugam Bay, next to which lies a national park with exotic birds and elephants. The equatorial sun here is very aggressive, so bring sunscreen.

• Who it's for: surfers, nature lovers, and those who want a calm sea.
• The catch: the equatorial sun is very aggressive, bring sunscreen.

Hotels in Sri Lanka on Trip.com

7. Cyprus

Cyprus in August is hot, but the dry air is easier to bear than humid stuffiness. Because of this, the flow of tourists doesn't let up, and prices here are high. If you're going to Cyprus, book your trip in advance.

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Swimming is comfortable at all resorts: in Limassol, Ayia Napa, Paphos, and Protaras. Every major resort has a water park, and at sea you can try catamarans, water skiing, diving, and kitesurfing.

The island is closely tied to antiquity: see the ruins of Kourion and Amathus, and the monuments of Paphos and Nicosia. Tours run in the morning or evening, and you can escape the heat in the Troodos Mountains. In August, the island also hosts a wine festival in Limassol.

• Who it's for: lovers of calm seas, history, and water sports.
• The catch: in August it's very hot here, and accommodation is expensive.

Hotels in Cyprus on Trip.com

8. Montenegro

Montenegro lies on the Adriatic Sea, and August here is mild. There is no extreme heat, evenings are cool, and the sea offers a comfortable temperature. There is almost no rain in August.

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Each resort is good in its own way. Budva, Petrovac, Tivat and Herceg Novi sit right on the coast, with Velika Plaza, Jaz and Kamenovo beaches nearby. The water here is clean, and the locals are very welcoming.

Between beach days, take a trip to the medieval fortresses in Budva and Kotor and to the island of Sveti Stefan. In the coastal towns, family-run restaurants serve grilled fish and meat. Book your August trip in advance: demand here is high.

• Who it's for: those who dislike exhausting heat and want a relaxed vacation.
• The catch: in August the coast is crowded with tourists, and the beaches are packed.

Hotels in Montenegro on Trip.com

9. Jordan

Jordan in August is hot, but the country's character is worth any inconvenience. The hotels here are excellent, and the service is geared toward tourists. If you can handle the heat, the trip will reward you with powerful impressions.

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The main resort, Aqaba, sits on the Red Sea. It is very hot here during the day, but the water is warm, and divers will find a sunken ship and rich underwater fauna.

The Dead Sea beaches will appeal to you with their quiet: it is uncrowded here, and the salty water and healing air draw tourists. Do not miss excursions to Petra, Kerak Castle, Ajloun and Madaba. Take them in the morning, before the heat sets in.

• Who it's for: divers, history lovers and those seeking a quiet vacation.
• The catch: in August the daytime heat is intense, and walking is comfortable only early in the morning.

Hotels in Jordan on Trip.com

10. Georgia

Georgia combines mountain and sea air, so the climate here is mild. In August the coast is hot, while Batumi is humid with frequent rain. Nights here are cool. The sea saves you during the day, and coolness arrives quickly in the evening.

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In Kobuleti and Batumi you get a warm sea and long pebble beaches. The cuisine and hospitality here are a pleasure in themselves: try khachapuri, khinkali and local wine.

In August the country hosts festivals, including an electronic music festival in Anaklia. Excursions to ancient fortresses and monasteries will transport you into history. Mountain landscapes and sea views combine beautifully here.

• Who it's for: those who value cuisine, nature and a mild climate.
• The catch: in Adjara the heat intensifies on some days.

Hotels in Georgia on Trip.com

11. Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan in August is at the peak of the beach season. Baku's beaches are packed to capacity, but a light breeze and dry air help you handle the heat. In the city, fountains and dense greenery save the day.

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In the villages of Buzovna and Mardakan you will find both beaches and ancient architectural monuments. It is calm and quiet here, and private accommodation is inexpensive to rent.

Fans of active recreation will enjoy the water parks and the amusement park in Alyat. The clean beaches of Lankaran with their famous lighthouse will not disappoint you either. Nearby you can see how the Caspian is receding: the lighthouse that once stood in the water is now on dry land.

• Who it's for: those looking for a quiet and affordable vacation by the sea.
• The catch: Baku's beaches are overcrowded in August, and finding a free spot is difficult.

Hotels in Azerbaijan on Trip.com

12. Indonesia, Bali

Bali in August is in high season: dry, sunny and comfortable even for those who dislike heat. The ocean water is warm, and rain is rare. If you want a tropical island without downpours, Bali is for you.

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The southwest coast, Canggu, Kuta and Seminyak, is loved by young travelers: there are plenty of bars and parties here. Mostly surfers come here, with surf schools, equipment rental and experienced instructors available.

For calm swimming, choose Nusa Dua and Jimbaran: there you get turquoise water, sandy beaches and almost no waves. Hotels in Nusa Dua are pricier, but the service justifies the cost. The island has plenty of entertainment in every area.

• Who it's for: surfers, couples and lovers of warm ocean water.
• The catch: the southwest has a lot of noisy parties, so you will not find quiet there.

Bali hotels on Trip.com

13. China, Hainan

Hainan remains China's only tropical island, and in August the weather here is very warm. The sea heats up strongly and barely cools down after rainstorms. You'll be comfortable, especially if you like heat.

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August on Hainan is peak season for rain and typhoons, so keep an eye on the forecast. The island's main advantage: unspoiled nature right next to the hotels. There are volcanoes, nature reserves, and parks with wild fauna.

Divers appreciate Hainan for its coral reefs and shipwrecks. From the island's airport you can fly on excursions to Hong Kong and Beijing. Hotels are integrated into the tropical landscape and don't harm the environment.

• Who it's for: heat-loving travelers, families, and divers.
• The catch: humidity is elevated in August, and it can feel stuffy during the day.

Hainan hotels on Trip.com

14. Malaysia

Malaysia is divided by the sea into two parts and lies north of the equator. In August it's hot and humid here, and rain falls even in the dry season. In return, you'll see lush tropical greenery, unusual cities, and long beaches.

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You'll be most comfortable in Johor Bahru: it gets the least rain. Malaysian Borneo has more rainfall, but the sun is gentle and the water near the shore is warm. You can swim and sunbathe without worry.

A vacation in Malaysia suits travelers on any budget: hotels, food, and transport are inexpensive. The multicultural society and varied architecture make the trip interesting.

• Who it's for: those who don't mind humidity and want to see the tropics.
• The catch: in August, rain can fall even in the dry season.

Malaysia hotels on Trip.com

15. Morocco

Morocco is very hot in August, especially away from the ocean. On the Atlantic coast the heat is milder and the water entry is easy. If you don't handle extreme heat well, stick to the Atlantic shore.

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Oualidia, Agadir, and Casablanca will suit you: breezes soften the heat here, and the water is refreshing. During the hottest hours, stay in the shade, which is especially important for children and older adults.

Essaouira awaits surfers: the wind kicks up waves that are good for maneuvering. In Agadir you'll find a long sandy beach with small waves, convenient for families with children. Also take trips to Marrakech and ancient Fez.

• Who it's for: surfers and those who want to combine the sea with sightseeing.
• The catch: inland areas experience intense heat in August.

Morocco hotels on Trip.com

16. Philippines

The Philippines consists of thousands of islands and is made for beach vacations. August is the wet season here, and rain falls often. In return, hotels are in low season with moderate prices, and nature stays vibrant.

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The islands of Boracay and Palawan get less rain than the north of the country. It's always warm but humid, so breathing can feel heavy. Swimming in the ocean is pleasant: the water is warm.

Accommodation prices are lower in August, although plane tickets are never cheap. White-sand beaches, mountains, and exotic fauna make up for any inconvenience.

• Who it's for: those willing to put up with humidity for white-sand beaches.
• The catch: rain falls almost every day in the north and center.

Philippines hotels on Trip.com

17. Costa Rica

Costa Rica is famous for its unspoiled nature, nature reserves, and long coastline. In August it's warm here, nights are cool, and short downpours don't get in the way of your vacation. If you want jungle and ocean in one place, choose Costa Rica.

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During the day the heat is easy to handle, and at night you'll sleep soundly. The country has become a global surfing hub, so the waves here are excellent.

Younger travelers choose the Pacific resorts of Punta Leona and Jaco, while Matapalo Beach on the Osa Peninsula is known for its silver sand. Divers head to Cocos Island, and on the Caribbean coast you'll find Puerto Limon and Puerto Viejo.

• Who it's for: surfers, divers, and nature lovers.
• The catch: short downpours are fairly frequent in August.

Hotels in Costa Rica on Trip.com

18. Jamaica

Jamaica works for a beach vacation year-round. In August it's humid and hot here, and the island is in hurricane season. The warm water lets you swim all day.

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The best resorts are on the north coast: Negril, Ocho Rios, Montego Bay and Port Antonio are protected by coral reefs. You'll find white sand, warm water and good hotels here.

Diving, surfing and sailing are also available. In the evening there are lots of mosquitoes on the coast, so bring protection. Accommodation prices are higher in Montego Bay and lower in Negril.

• Who it's for: divers and fans of Caribbean beaches.
• The catch: mosquitoes bother you in the evening, so repellent is a must.

Hotels in Jamaica on Trip.com

19. Seychelles

The Seychelles lie in the Indian Ocean, and most of the islands in the archipelago are uninhabited. In August it's the warm season here with minimal rain. You'll get white and pink sand, boulders and a calm ocean.

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It's hot and humid during the day, and sometimes a strong wind picks up. The beaches on the islands are stunning: white and pink sand, picturesque boulders, a gentle entry into the water.

The islands of Mahé, Praslin and La Digue are popular. The underwater world is rich in corals and fish, and the coconuts of the local palm can weigh dozens of kilograms.

• Who it's for: couples and those looking for quiet tropical beaches.
• The catch: strong ocean winds are possible in August.

Hotels in the Seychelles on Trip.com

How to choose a destination in August

Start with two questions: how far you're willing to fly and what kind of weather you can handle. For a short flight, go with the Mediterranean: Turkey, Cyprus, Tunisia and Montenegro. If a long journey doesn't scare you, explore Asia, the Caribbean and the Indian Ocean.

Then check the season. In Thailand, the Philippines and Malaysia, August brings rain, but it's also the low season with affordable tours. Bali, the Seychelles, Cyprus and Turkey are dry at this time. In Sri Lanka, stick to the east, and in Vietnam, look at the central region.

The last step is simple. Decide what matters more to you: the sea, the food or sightseeing. That way you'll narrow it down to two or three destinations and compare them calmly.

When to book and how to save

August falls in the peak season in Europe, so prices rise closer to the date. Book two to three months ahead. That gives you choice and a reasonable price. If your dates are flexible, look at midweek departures.

You can also save on the details. Book an apartment with a kitchen instead of a hotel with breakfast, fly with carry-on only, set up an eSIM at home. In Thailand, Malaysia and the Philippines, August is the low season, so you'll spend less there than in Europe.

Don't chase last-minute deals: in peak season, good hotels get booked up early.

What to pack for the seaside

For August at the seaside, light clothing, a swimsuit and sandals will be enough. Bring high-SPF sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. In hot countries, mosquito repellent and a basic first-aid kit will come in handy.

Don't forget a plug adapter, a power bank and offline maps. A water bottle and a light sun cover-up will help on the road. A microfiber towel dries quickly and takes up little space. This set fits in carry-on luggage, so you won't have to pay for checked baggage.

⁉️🤔 Frequently asked questions

Where is the sea warm in August without oppressive heat?

Look at the Aegean and Adriatic coasts: in Bodrum, Marmaris and Montenegro the heat is milder than on the Mediterranean, and evenings are cool. Bali also offers a good balance: August stays dry and comfortable there. For the warmest water, head to Cyprus and Turkey.

Where should I go with kids?

For a trip with kids, choose Turkey and Montenegro: gentle entry into the sea, sandy beaches and a short flight. In Turkey, pick Kuşadası, Fethiye or Belek; in Montenegro, the calm beaches near Budva.

Where is it cheaper to vacation in August?

Thailand, Vietnam and Malaysia are the cheapest in August: the rainy season lowers prices on tours and hotels. Among nearby destinations, Tunisia and Montenegro are better value. Cyprus is above average in price, so book early there.

Where is it rainy season in August, and where is it dry?

Downpours in August occur in Thailand, the Philippines and Malaysia, but they're short. It's dry and sunny in Bali, the Seychelles, Cyprus and Turkey. In Sri Lanka, go with the east coast, where there's almost no rainfall, while the southwest stays rainy.

Which destinations suit surfers and divers?

Surfers will enjoy Bali, Essaouira in Morocco and Sri Lanka. Divers will find good spots in the Red Sea in Eilat and Aqaba, on Phu Quoc and on the coral reefs of Hainan. The underwater world is also rich in the Seychelles and Costa Rica.

In short: what's worth booking

The bottom line is simple: in August, the choice depends on weather and budget. If you want a warm sea close to home, go with the Mediterranean and the Adriatic. If you're willing to fly farther, look at Bali, the Seychelles and Vietnam.

The selection matrix looks like this.

• Want cheap and kid-friendly: Turkey, Tunisia, Montenegro.
• Want something exotic: Bali, Sri Lanka, Thailand.
• Love diving: Israel, Jordan, the Philippines.
• Looking for surfing: Bali, Morocco, Costa Rica.
• Need a short flight: Cyprus, Montenegro, Turkey.

Hotels in these countries are best booked in advance: August is high season.

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