The Top 12 Destinations to Explore in August

With schools out for the summer, many avoid traveling in August due to higher prices, larger crowds, and longer waits. However, knowing the right spots can lead to relaxing beach days, exciting festivals, and so much more.

If you’re mindful of your budget or want to skip the long lines, check out Dinogo’s data-driven recommendations based on popularity, flight options, and hotel costs.

Top Destinations to Explore in August

Best European Destinations for August Travel

August is the peak month in Europe, buzzing with energy and warmth. The blazing summer sun makes beaches come alive, while historic cities overflow with festivals and festivities. Off-the-beaten-path locations are eager to welcome adventurous travelers seeking new experiences. It’s the perfect time to explore them all. 

1. Edinburgh, Scotland

• Discover more: Edinburgh travel guide
• Why visit in August? Experience a month-long celebration of arts, comedy, and excitement.

August is the most pleasant month in Edinburgh, featuring frequent sunny days, with average temperatures around 59°F and minimal rainfall at just 2 inches. In Scotland, this is about as warm as it gets, which explains its popularity during this time.

The UNESCO World Heritage Old Town and the iconic Edinburgh Castle shine at their finest. The castle hosts the spectacular Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo from August 2nd to 24th. Throughout the city, galleries and lesser-known venues transform into a massive canvas for the Edinburgh Arts Festival from August 9th to 25th.

The highlight, however, is undoubtedly the Edinburgh Fringe Festival – one of the world's premier cultural celebrations. This expansive arts, comedy, and music festival infuses the city with a vibrant energy from August 2nd to 26th. A diverse lineup of the world’s funniest, quirkiest, and most imaginative performers take the stage, many offering free shows. If you enjoy a good laugh, Edinburgh is a top destination in August. 

2. Kotor, Montenegro

• Explore more: Kotor travel guide
• Why visit in August? Experience the serene charm of Europe’s most underrated gem without the crowds.

Often overshadowed by its northern Croatian neighbor, Montenegro remains relatively untouched by mass tourism. Its stunning Adriatic coastline features breathtaking fjords, inviting beaches, and rocky coves. My favorite destination here is the medieval town of Kotor, nestled deep within a fjord and surrounded by the towering limestone cliffs of Mount Lovćen. Its charming red-roofed homes and winding streets cascade down to the water’s edge, offering access to some lovely (albeit rocky) beaches. 

The first two weeks of August are filled with carnival celebrations in Kotor. Purchase one of the colorful masks available and immerse yourself in the local parades and festivities. Be sure to witness the trial of the town’s mascot, who faces judgment for any misfortune the town may have encountered throughout the year.

Nearby, Porto Montenegro's marina development offers 5-star luxury, complete with berths for mega yachts and the stunning Regent Porto Montenegro. This destination has emerged as a new symbol of European elegance. For the ultimate movie star experience, glide across Kotor Bay in a classic Riva and enjoy oysters and champagne at a dockside lunch. 

3. South Coast, England

• Explore more: Brighton travel guide
• Why visit in August? Experience the stunning English countryside and an extraordinary horse racing event.

Just an hour's train ride from London, England's south coast comes alive in August. Start your journey in Brighton and spend a couple of days soaking up its vibrant, carefree atmosphere. One of the most beautiful walks in the country, the South Downs Way, is close by. Stretching 100 miles from Eastbourne to Winchester, it winds along white chalk cliffs, past breathtaking beaches, and through charming villages. Walking its full length offers a fantastic way to spend a week.

Not far from its conclusion, the Goodwood Estate is nestled amidst quintessentially English rolling hills. From July 30th to August 3rd, it hosts Glorious Goodwood, a week-long horse racing celebration at its picturesque hilltop track. Don your finest attire and savor the Pimm’s for an authentically English outing.

Just 15 miles to the south, on a peninsula jutting into the English Channel, lies the charming seaside village of West Wittering. With expansive sandy beaches and a vibrant surf culture, I highly recommend it – it’s my hometown.

4. Faroe Islands

• Learn more: Tórshavn travel guide
• Why visit in August? Untamed wilderness, no crowds, and plenty of puffins!

The final month of the Faroese summer is the ideal time to explore its 18 islands and the natural adventures they provide. Since it’s not a typical August destination, it remains delightfully uncrowded.

Endless summer days illuminate everything in the most beautiful way, from the small capital of Tórshavn to emerald-green peaks and untouched valleys. The range of activities is extensive, with plenty of space to enjoy them all.

August is the prime time to visit the Faroe Islands' largest puffin colony on the stunning Mykines Island before it closes to tourists on August 31st. Take a boat or guided tour to observe the colorful birds and experience their lively sounds up close.

5. Monaco

• Why visit in August? Glamour, culture, cuisine, and the return of a legendary venue.

If you’re looking to steer clear of crowds and steep prices, the luxurious avenues of Monaco might not be your top pick for an August getaway. However, this tiny gem on France’s stunning Riviera truly shines under the summer sun if you dig a little deeper. 

Enjoy pristine beaches like Plage du Larvotto, indulge in exquisite dining at Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo’s Le Grill, and visit the recently reopened yet still iconic Café de Paris Monte-Carlo. Unique attractions like the Car Collection of H.S.H. the Prince of Monaco showcase that Monaco’s allure goes far beyond its surface beauty.

On August 1st, 4th, and 8th, the exclusive concerts at the Prince’s Palace feature the renowned Monte-Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra. Set in the majestic Cour d’Honneur of the Prince’s Palace, masterpieces by Haydn, Brahms, Mozart, and Beethoven resonate like never before. Additionally, the Monte-Carlo Summer Festival is in full swing, showcasing contemporary performances from some of the biggest names in music.  

Top destinations to explore in August in the US

Not keen on splurging on international flights? You’re not alone. Some of the finest and most budget-friendly spots to visit in August can be found right here at home. With sprawling metropolises, tranquil beaches, and stunning islands, the US offers a diverse array of experiences. For a more peaceful getaway, check out Dinogo’s recommendations, which highlight destinations with fewer crowds like Orlando and Las Vegas.

6. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

• Discover more: Jackson travel guide
• Why visit in August? Experience the authentic Wild West at its modern finest. 

In the heart of Wyoming's plains and prairies, the soaring peaks of Grand Teton National Park reach for the heavens. Take on the challenge of hiking or climbing before winter's snow sets in, or opt for a more tranquil ride on the Bridger and Sweetwater Gondolas. These stunning landscapes are just a glimpse of the natural beauty this quiet state has to offer.

Enjoy long, sun-drenched days and warm evenings outdoors. Experience horseback riding adventures and camp beneath endless skies for a true taste of the Wild West. Jackson Hole serves as your perfect August hub, with rodeos and the almost nightly Town Square Shootout bringing a lively cowboy atmosphere.

Yet it’s not just about cowboy hats and boots. The Grand Teton Music Festival runs from June 27th to August 17th, offering a musical backdrop to your summer. Later in August, the Art Fair from the 18th to 20th features a weekend dedicated to fine art, photography, ceramics, and culture, enhancing the appeal of this remarkable US destination.

7. Chicago, Illinois

• Explore more: Chicago travel guide
• Why visit in August? There are more events than you could possibly attend (but it's fun to try!). 

August starts with a bang as international stars headline the four-day Lollapalooza festival in Grant Park from the 1st. Use your downtime to relax on the urban beaches along Lake Michigan and enjoy a stroll along the 606, an elevated trail that spans nearly three miles through various neighborhoods.

August 9th and 10th celebrate baseball as the Crosstown Classic pits the Northsiders against the Southsiders, with the Cubs and White Sox clashing at Guaranteed Rate Field. That same weekend, the Chicago Air & Water Show begins, showcasing thrilling aerial and water performances along the lakefront. 

Don't miss Millennium Park, which hosts a vibrant array of outdoor events. If you're still around at the end of the month, make sure to experience Chicago’s renowned (and free) Jazz Festival, starting on August 29th—it's worth extending your trip into September for it.

8. Outer Banks, North Carolina

• Why visit in August? Honor pioneers, pirates, and enjoy stunning beaches. 

Few locations in the US carry as rich a history as this series of barrier islands off North Carolina's coast. Known as OBX, they offer a perfect August getaway, blending adventure and relaxation, nature and history, culture and delicious food.

Start by checking off your history list. In Kill Devil Hills, visit the site where Orville and Wilbur Wright made their groundbreaking flight that changed the world. Enjoy the quirky fun at the 18th annual free Watermelon Festival on August 1st, featuring a variety of unusual watermelon-themed events. Finally, commemorate the pirate Blackbeard's last battle at Ocracoke during the family-friendly Outer Banks Pirate Festival on the 7th and 8th.

When the festivities become overwhelming, escape to the stunning beaches spacious enough to accommodate high-season crowds. Relax under the sun, try windsurfing, or observe wildlife and fellow beachgoers. If you're seeking adventure, explore the approximately 3,000 shipwrecks that form the Graveyard of the Atlantic just offshore. Dive in—literally!

Top destinations to explore in August worldwide

Seize the opportunity of nature's peak season to experience some of the planet's most breathtaking events and places. In Africa, the Great Migration unfolds in full splendor. In South America, locals dance to the lively rhythms of Tango. And, of course, there are beaches and mountains that are simply awe-inspiring.

9. Maasai Mara, Kenya

• Learn more: Nairobi travel guide
• Why visit in August? To experience the grandeur of the Great Migration in all its glory.

The Maasai Mara offers a unique experience where summer crowds won’t diminish your enjoyment, making it one of the top destinations in August. The dry season coincides with the peak of the Great Migration, which is nature’s most breathtaking spectacle.

Going on a classic safari is a top item on many people’s bucket lists. Witnessing two million wildebeest, zebras, giraffes, and gazelles traversing the Mara Triangle is the ultimate way to fulfill that dream. Perhaps the most awe-inspiring—and harrowing—moment is the crossing of the notorious Mara River, where migrating herds face the peril of predators eager for a meal delivered to their territory. 

Numerous tour operators offer safari adventures on behalf of prominent hotel brands, giving you plenty of options. I personally preferred the smaller, community-oriented yet luxurious Ngerende Lodge. If luck is on your side, you might even witness the migration from the comfort of your own terrace. 

10. Queenstown, New Zealand

• Learn more: Queenstown travel guide
• Why visit in August? Experience summer skiing and skydiving on the opposite side of the globe.

In the Southern Hemisphere, it’s winter. There’s no better place to enjoy it than the adrenaline capital of New Zealand. Queenstown on the South Island is a paradise for winter sports, vibrant nightlife, and home to the best burger in the country.

Hit the slopes and take to the skies in the Remarkables Mountains, where breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu await. Experience the thrill of rafting and jetboating through the white-water rapids of the Shotover River. For the adventurous, ziplining, parasailing, and parapenting are all exciting options. Just a short distance away, Kawarau Bridge Bungy stands as the birthplace of modern bungee jumping.

For a more relaxed experience, the Skyline Gondola offers stunning mountaintop vistas without needing skis. Take the Queensland Trail around Lake Wakatipu and end your journey in downtown Queenstown, where you’ll find the stunning city gardens. Dining and wine options are, of course, top-notch—after all, this is New Zealand!

11. Buenos Aires, Argentina

• Learn more: Buenos Aires travel guide
• Why visit in August? Dance the tango day and night.

Tango fills the air in the streets of Buenos Aires, invigorating the chilly winter days of August. While many come to the city to witness Argentina’s renowned dance, joining in is even more thrilling.

On August 21st, the Buenos Aires Tango Festival and Championship takes center stage. This massive celebration will feature 2,000 dancers showcasing their skills across 35 venues. The city bursts with concerts and performances, while milongas pulse in dance halls, welcoming everyone to join the festivities until dawn. For more tango action, don’t miss the free shows at Plaza Dorrego in San Telmo on Sundays.

12. Seychelles

• Learn more: Victoria travel guide
• Why visit in August? Experience unparalleled beauty during the best month to savor it.

The Seychelles claim the title of the world’s most stunning islands. While the Maldives and Marshall Islands are beautiful, they pale in comparison to the Seychelles’ brilliance. It’s the Dry Season, bringing pleasantly cooler temperatures. But with daily highs around 80°F, it’s hardly an issue.

August brings a refreshing wind, perfect for windsurfing, kite surfing, and sailing. Sailing is an excellent way to explore the islands, and it's also the peak season for bird watching. Witnessing the awe-inspiring colony of 1.5 million sooty terns nesting on Bird Island is a must-see experience.

Beau Vallon in North Mahe serves as a fantastic base, boasting some of the island's most breathtaking beaches. It's also an ideal starting point for trekking through the rainforests of Morne Seychellois National Park and the stunning Morne Blanc Trail.

Data-driven recommendations from Dinogo

If seasonal events aren't on your agenda, why not explore data-informed destinations instead? These suggestions are derived from Dinogo's flight and hotel data, considering budget, weather, and popularity to help you steer clear of the crowds. For tailored recommendations based on your location and desired destination, check out the Best Time to Travel tool.

Explore more amazing travel destinations

Still feeling that summer travel urge? Dive into my guides for the best places to visit in June and July. Or look ahead to the refreshing month of September.