August is the height of the summer season, with sunny, largely dry weather and the year’s warmest sea temperatures. Clement conditions make the setting for some great outdoor festivals around Ireland, alongside a spate of outdoor activities that showcase the country at its absolute best, whether that is hiking the Wicklow Way in the east, diving off the coast of Connemara, or sea kayaking along Northern Ireland’s stunning seaboard.
Ireland in August: A Comprehensive Travel Guide
Weather in Ireland
Ireland, while boasting a rich tapestry of culture and landscapes, isn’t geographically vast enough to support markedly different regional weather systems. Instead, the island experiences a more unified climate, particularly during the summer months. August, generally speaking, tends to be one of the most delightful months to visit Ireland in terms of weather. It often presents some of the year’s warmest temperatures, offering a generous helping of sunshine and relatively little rainfall. However, it’s worth noting that even the warmest days in Ireland might feel comparatively cool to visitors from hotter climates. Average highs typically hover around 66°F (19°C), which, while pleasant, is a far cry from the sweltering heat experienced in other parts of the world.
Water temperatures also peak during August, providing the most inviting conditions for swimming. However, with temperatures ranging from 59°F to 63°F (15°C to 17°C), the water might still prove too chilly for some to take a dip! Whether you find it refreshing or bracing, the sea around Ireland in August offers a unique experience.
Killarney & Southwestern Ireland Weather
The southwestern corner of Ireland, encompassing the enchanting town of Killarney and its surrounding areas, enjoys a similar weather pattern to the rest of the country in August. The good news is that monthly average highs remain at their warmest point of the year, reaching around 64°F (18°C). While this might prompt visitors from warmer regions to keep their long sleeves handy, it’s considered quite pleasant by local standards.
Sea temperatures are also at their highest in August, not only for this region but for all of Ireland. This makes it an appealing time to explore the coast, despite a slight increase in rainfall compared to other months. Interestingly, as August progresses, the southwestern region can sometimes experience marginally cooler temperatures than the northern and eastern parts of the country. This subtle shift makes it a dynamic time to visit, with varied microclimates to discover.
Dublin & Eastern Ireland Weather
By Irish standards, August is considered a warm month in Dublin and the eastern region of the country. Average highs reach around 66°F (19°C), while lows dip to approximately 54°F (12°C), making it arguably the warmest period in all of Ireland. However, despite the balmy temperatures, August also sees an increase in average monthly rainfall, making it one of the wetter months of the year. It’s always wise to keep an umbrella or raincoat close at hand when exploring this part of Ireland during August. Be prepared for both sunshine and showers!
Belfast & Northern Ireland Weather
August in Belfast and Northern Ireland is also considered a warm month, although air temperatures tend to be slightly lower than in July. Expected average highs reach 64°F (18°C), with lows around 52°F (11°C). The number of sunshine hours per day remains fairly consistent, averaging around four. While August isn’t the driest month in Belfast, with an expected 3 inches (8 mm) of precipitation, it still offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor exploration. Pack accordingly and be prepared for changeable conditions!
Crowds & Costs in Ireland in August
August marks the peak of the tourist season in Ireland. This isn’t necessarily due to the weather being at its absolute best, but rather because it coincides with the summer holidays for many people. Consequently, prices for accommodation and various activities tend to reach their highest levels of the year. With all schools across the country on summer break for the entirety of August, families are more likely to travel during this time, adding to the already significant influx of tourists.
It’s essential to book your accommodation well in advance if you plan to visit Ireland in August, especially if you’re heading to destinations known for hosting festivals. Securing your place to stay is crucial, as is pre-booking any tours or activities you’re interested in. Planning ahead is key to avoiding disappointment and ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip during this busy period.
Where to Go in Ireland in August
Ireland in August offers a wealth of opportunities for exploration and adventure. Whether you’re drawn to the dramatic coastlines, the rolling hills, or the vibrant cities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Killarney & Southwestern Ireland Destinations
Given Ireland’s relatively dry and sunny August weather, visitors are naturally inclined to spend as much time as possible outdoors. The far southwest of the country provides an excellent starting point for this kind of exploration. In Co. Kerry, you can embark on mountain and coastal hikes along the legendary southwest peninsulas. Consider tackling sections of the Kerry Way (Iveragh Peninsula), the Dingle Way (Dingle Peninsula), or the Beara Way (Beara Peninsula, shared with Co. Cork). These trails offer stunning views and a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region.
Another enticing option is to visit one of the many islands located just off the mainland coast. Take a boat trip to the rocky Skellig Islands near Dingle to witness a unique landscape. Or visit the wildlife paradise of Cape Clear in Co. Cork, where you might be lucky enough to spot basking sharks, seals, and dolphins. Alternatively, journey to the otherworldly and traditional Aran Islands near Galway, where you can experience a distinct culture and way of life.
Dublin & Eastern Ireland Destinations
While the temptation of Dublin’s seaside town of Dún Laoghaire and its August festival is strong, the countryside in the eastern region is an equally compelling choice for activities. The Wicklow Way, for example, boasts some of the most delightful hiking trails in the whole region. This area offers a remarkable selection of picturesque destinations, including idyllic villages like Enniskerry, crashing waterfalls like Powerscourt Waterfall on the enchanting Powerscourt Estate, wooded hills, and ancient monastic ruins like Glendalough Abbey.
The eastern coastline is also adorned with gorgeous sandy beaches. Some, like Loughshinney, are conveniently located within Co. Dublin and are easily accessible from the city. Others, such as Rosslare Strand, are situated near the ferry terminal where arrivals from Wales disembark. Beyond Dublin, consider visiting the historic city of Kilkenny, which hosts a fabulous arts festival in August, or Waterford, home to the wonderful Altogether Now Festival.
Belfast & Northern Ireland Destinations
Begin your exploration of this region’s phenomenal natural beauty with an essential trip to the Causeway Coast. Here, you’ll find the UNESCO-listed Giant’s Causeway, a sprawling expanse of thousands of interconnecting basalt columns, forming one of the most spectacular coastal attractions imaginable.
Alternatively, venture to the mythical Rathlin Island, where the exiled Scottish leader Robert the Bruce once sought refuge. Or experience the country’s northernmost point with a hike to Malin Head, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
For a longer, more immersive hiking experience, consider the Ulster Way, a 636-mile (1,024-km) loop that traverses almost all of Northern Ireland. This is one of the UK’s longest and loveliest hiking routes. Try the Lough Bradan-Gortin or the Gortin-Moneyneany sections for some of the best vistas along the entire walk, as well as stretches that wind through Northern Ireland’s largest mountains, the Sperrin Mountains.
What to Do in Ireland in August
The possibilities for activities in Ireland during August are as diverse as the landscape itself. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, you’ll find something to suit your interests.
Killarney & Southwestern Ireland Activities
All outdoor activities are particularly appealing in August, given the favorable weather conditions. Whatever you choose to do, keep in mind that August is a lively month in this region, with numerous festivals taking place. Regattas, or major sailing events, often serve as the focal point for simultaneous music and food-themed festivities. And with water temperatures at their highest point of the year, beach time is definitely in order.
Swimming at some of the country’s finest sandy beaches, which grace the many southwestern peninsulas, is a delightful activity. Consider visiting Keem Bay on Achill Island, Co. Mayo, or Coumeenole Beach near Dunquin in Co. Kerry.
Hiking is another popular option, with trails winding around the Iveragh Peninsula (on the Kerry Way) or the Dingle Peninsula (on the Dingle Way). Cycling is equally enjoyable, and you can experience much of the best of this western coastline by following the Wild Atlantic Way, with a focus on the snaking peninsulas, craggy islands, and colorful coastal villages of Co. Mayo.
Take advantage of the warm waters to try some sea kayaking. The Donegal region is widely regarded as one of the best places in the world for this activity. Diving is also a great option, with Killary Harbour in Connemara, Co. Galway, being a particularly brilliant spot, along with several locations in Co. Cork.
Dublin & Eastern Ireland Activities
Hiking is a top choice of activity in August. The Wicklow Way showcases the very best aspects of Eastern Ireland, starting from Dublin’s southern suburbs. Alternatively, enjoy a relaxing walk and a swim at some of the region’s stunning sandy beaches, which line the entire eastern coast.
Remember that this region is also known as ‘Ireland’s Ancient East.’ For a fascinating insight into Ireland’s rich history without spending too much time indoors, visit the Irish National Heritage Park near Wicklow. This park offers a magical open-air setting where you can walk through 9,000 years of the country’s past. You could also explore spectacular ancient sites such as the huge circular megalithic tomb of Newgrange, in Co. Meath.
Quality diving is also available at the Muglins by Dalkey Island near Dublin. This rock, covered in seabirds for most of the year, hides some of Ireland’s best scuba diving beneath the surface. For a more relaxed experience, simply join in one of the August festivals taking place in Kilkenny or Waterford.
Belfast & Northern Ireland Activities
Hiking along some of the craggy Causeway Coast, including the stupendous stacks of basalt columns that make up the UNESCO-listed Giant’s Causeway, will likely be this region’s most popular activity in August. However, the hike that truly reveals this region’s stunning scenery is the 636-mile (1,024-km) Ulster Way. This trail takes hikers through high mountains, wild forests, and lonely lakes, as well as along the breathtaking coastline. Refer to the earlier section for the best sections of the Ulster Way to hike.
For a shorter but nonetheless thrilling walk, brave the vertiginous Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, which connects the wild island of Carrickarede to the mainland. Or, spot locations from the blockbuster TV series “Game of Thrones,” with many filming locations scattered throughout this region. Sights to check out in summer include the Downhill Strand in Co. Derry, and Tollymore Forest Park, in Co. Down.
The seas are warm and relatively calm, making them ideal for sea kayaking. In this regard, Northern Ireland leads the way with its stunning North Coast Sea Kayak Trail, stretching between Co. Londonderry and Co. Antrim and passing the Giant’s Causeway. Wind down after your adventures at one of the region’s August festivals, such as Féile an Phobail in West Belfast.
Events in August in Ireland
Ireland comes alive with a vibrant array of events and festivals throughout the month of August, offering something for every taste and interest.
**Altogether Now Festival, Waterford:** Held in Waterford over the August bank holiday weekend (the beginning of the month), this festival celebrates music, theater, dance, and comedy, and features workshops and topical debates.
**Féile an Phobail, Belfast:** This is Ireland’s largest community arts festival, taking place in West Belfast at the beginning of August.
**Beatyard, Dún Laoghaire:** A mini music festival held in the seaside town of Dún Laoghaire near Dublin.
**Kilkenny Arts Festival:** Spanning 10 days in early August, this world-class arts festival enlivens historical venues in the atmospheric city of Kilkenny.
**Kinsale Regatta Festival:** In Co. Cork, this major sailing event during the first week of August is combined with a vibrant festival atmosphere. Immediately afterward, the action moves to Schull, the site of another regatta, celebrated simultaneously with a festival on land.
**Cape Clear Storytelling Festival:** Celebrating the magical tradition of storytelling in Ireland in the beautiful surroundings of Cape Clear Island in Co. Cork at the end of August.
Suggested Ireland Itineraries for August Travelers
**Hiking & Island-Hopping in Cork & Kerry – 7 Days:** Explore the islands and peninsulas of Ireland’s southwest on this 7-day itinerary. Start out in the former smuggler’s landing port at the village of Baltimore, then head out for hikes along the coastline, up the stone steps of the island of Skellig Michael, and on the Blasket Islands.
**Beara Peninsula Guided Hike – 8 Days:** Explore the southwestern corner of Ireland on this 8-day guided hike of the Beara Peninsula. Follow trails between historic and natural landmarks, notably Bere Island, Dursey Sound, and Gleninchaquin Valley.
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