Ireland in August: Travel Tips for Irish Summer
August is the peak of the summer season in Ireland and one of the best times to be here. The weather during this time is typically warm and sunny, which means that you can fill long days with exciting outdoor activities. There are plenty of things to do in Ireland. From hiking on the 131-km-long Wicklow Way and diving off the coast of Connemara to staring in wonder at the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher and covering at least some sections of the incredible 2,500-km Wild Atlantic Way— a holiday in Ireland in August has all the stuff that magical memories are made of.
- Peter Sam
Ireland Weather in August
Ireland’s weather in August is hot by the country’s standards. The average high temperature in the capital Dublin is 19°C and the lows average at around 13.3°C. The weather is just perfect to explore this fascinating city on foot. You may encounter some rain, but it should not stop you from exploring Dublin. In general, the weather in Ireland in early August is warmer. However, temperatures in Ireland may drop a little (but not dramatically) as the month progresses.
For a seasonal overview, check our travel guide on the best time to visit Ireland.
Weather in Ireland in August - Rainfall and Temperatures
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | 7 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 15 | 17 | 19 | 19 | 17 | 13 | 10 | 8 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | 3 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 5 | 5 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 45 | 45 | 50 | 52 | 59 | 63 | 67 | 67 | 63 | 56 | 50 | 47 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 38 | 38 | 40 | 41 | 45 | 50 | 54 | 54 | 50 | 47 | 41 | 41 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 70 | 60 | 70 | 50 | 50 | 70 | 50 | 80 | 60 | 80 | 60 | 80 |
| Jul | Aug | Sep | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | 19 | 19 | 17 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | 12 | 12 | 10 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 67 | 67 | 63 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 54 | 54 | 50 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 50 | 80 | 60 |
Why Visit Ireland in August
August is one of the most popular months of the year to visit Ireland. We have listed some reasons below.
- Festive spirit: Ireland has its fair share of fascinating festivals and events in August. These include the All Together Now Festival in Waterford, which features music, theater, dances and comedy; Kilkenny Arts Festival, a celebration of the arts in historical venues; and Kinsale Regatta Festival, an event dedicated to sailing and the festivities surrounding it. Check our more culture tours in Ireland.
- Dreamy weather: Ireland’s weather in August is as pleasant as it gets. Exploring the Emerald Isle can hardly get more pleasing than this.
- Waterways: The waters are at their warmest in August, ideal to go kayaking in the Donegal region and diving near Dalkey Island.
- Road trips: Take advantage of the long, warm days to hit the road. Ireland offers some incredible road trips such as the magnificent Wild Atlantic Way along with delightful shorter ones like those on the Copper Coast and in the Hook Peninsula.
- Great outdoors: Whether it is hiking the beautiful Dingle Way or feasting your eyes on the gorgeous sandy beaches along the country’s east coast, Ireland in August ticks all the boxes when it comes to enjoying the country’s outdoors.
Where to go and what to do
August is the month to enjoy the mountains, hills, rivers and beaches of Ireland. Swim off the stunning sandy beaches of the country’s southwestern peninsulas, like Keem Bay on Achill Island and Coumeenole Beach near Dunquin. Visit the remarkable Irish National Heritage Park and take a walk through the 9,000 years of the country’s history. Get amazed at ancient sites like the circular megalithic tomb of Newgrange. Have a look at our other history tours in Ireland.
Connemara’s lush August landscape is ripe for outdoor activities like fishing, hiking and horseback riding. It is also an ideal time to visit Killarney National Park, with its pretty lakes, charming parks and the 19th-century Muckross House, a mansion that once hosted Queen Victoria. Similarly, the Dingle Peninsula is the place to go if you want to spot dolphins. While you are there, drive around the scenic coast and try the area’s excellent seafood.
The Cliffs of Moher are a tourist hotspot, but the less touristy Slieve League in Donegal—one of Europe’s highest sea cliffs—are equally spectacular and August is just the month to see them. If you are looking for things to do in Dublin, visit the city’s majestic Christ Church Cathedral, stroll in the 22-acre Saint Stephen’s Green, drop in for a pint at the Guinness Storehouse, go on a kayaking trip to Dalkey Island or browse through Irish and European art at the National Gallery of Ireland.
What to bring
Although August is a warm month, you may need a jacket to ward off the evening and early morning chill—this is Ireland, after all. Also, pack a sturdy pair of trekking shoes and an umbrella for sudden showers.
August is among the most attractive months to explore Ireland. The weather conditions during this time are just perfect for outdoor activities, cultural tours and general city crawling.
Feel free to reach out to our travel specialists in Ireland if you are interested in a customized tour.
Check out our tours to Ireland in August.
