Weather in the Algarve in August

August in the Algarve means full-blown summer: long, hot days with average highs around 28°C (82°F). It’s peak season, so expect big crowds, buzzing nightlife, and higher prices on flights and accommodation. If you like it hot, busy and don’t mind spending a bit more, it’s a solid time to go. Read on for what to expect from the weather in the Algarve in August – plus ideas for things to do and tips on how to travel to Portugal.

Highlights of the Algarve weather in August

• Part of the summer peak season, August experiences some of the highest temperatures of the year.
• The sea is at its warmest — perfect for swimming and water activities.
• Rainfall is extremely rare, with an average of just 5mm falling through the month. 
• Enjoy up to 14 hours of daylight and balmy evenings — ideal for early morning hikes through to late evening strolls, al fresco dining, and beach parties.

Planning to visit the Algarve in August? Take inspiration from our customisable Portugal itineraries and read our year-round travel guide.

Is August a good time to visit the Algarve?

Given its popularity, many folks consider August to be a great time to visit the Algarve. Whether it’s a good time for you to visit depends on your personal preferences.

First up, the pluses, of which there are many. August’s hot, dry, sunny weather makes it the ideal time to visit the Algarve if you're seeking a classic summer vacation. By which we mean sunbathing, beach games, water-sports and soaking up bars and night clubs.

With temperature highs often exceeding 28°C (82°F) during the day, and sea temperatures sitting around 21°C (70°F), August offers perfect conditions for beach lovers. 

It’s also a great time to visit to experience festivals and events, including music and cultural festivals alongside beach parties. 

Travelling with kids? Note that many resorts and popular destinations are geared up for families in August, with kids' clubs, family-friendly tours, and activities catering to younger visitors.

On the flipside, bear in mind that as August is peak season, popular sites and beaches can be very crowded, and accommodation and other tourist services will be at their priciest.

Also note that temperatures can rise rather high, especially in inland areas, which some visitors might find uncomfortable.

All things considered, if you’re looking for a quintessential summer beach holiday, August is an excellent time to visit the Algarve. If you prefer it quieter and cooler — and possibly cheaper — consider visiting in the late spring or early autumn shoulder season months.

Still not sure where to head in summer? Discover more of the best places to visit in August.

Average temperatures in the Algarve in August

Come August, the Algarve experiences average daytime highs of around 28°C (82°F), often climbing higher in inland areas. 

With night-time temperatures usually around 18°C (64°F), the evenings are pleasantly warm — ideal for al fresco dining.

The sea is at its warmest in August, too, with average temperatures around 21°C to 23°C (70°F to 73°F). This makes it an excellent time for swimming, snorkelling, and enjoying other water-based activities.

Want a fuller picture of the weather? Read up on the weather in Portugal in August beyond the Algarve.

You might also want more detail on how to get to Portugal and when to go to Portugal around the year.

What about the crowd and costs?

As you’ll already be aware, August sees the Algarve at the height of its summer high season. Along with July, it’s the busiest month to visit, with June seeing slightly fewer visitors, and crowds tailing off through September.

With higher visitor numbers and high demand, you can expect to pay more for flights and accommodation. 

Editor’s tip: if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly holiday, and want to try to escape the crowds, consider heading off the tourist trail in Portugal. This is also a great way to implement sustainable tourism in the Algarve.

Unforgettable customisable Portugal itineraries

If you fancy seeing a rewarding range of Portugal, consider taking a trip that’s been curated by a Rough Guides’ local expert.

Enabling you to forgo the faff of planning and booking, they can be 100% tailored to your preferences to create your perfect trip.

Here are a few sample itineraries to spark inspiration:

• The Real Algarve Experience (7 days): based in the traditional fishing village of Olhao, this immersive trip will see you experience the Algarve in authentic style. With a focus on food and culture, you'll get to enjoy a private food tour, take a market-to-table cooking class, visit an olive farm, and enjoy a traditional sweet-making workshop. You’ll also spend time exploring the stunning islands of Ria Formosa lagoon.
• The Best of Portugal (12 days): taking in capital Lisbon, historic Porto, the lush Douro Valley, and the Algarve, this gives you the chance to explore historic sites in Lisbon and Sintra and sample world-class wine in the Douro Valley, with boat trips, beaches and UNESCO Heritage Sites aplenty.
• Discovering the Coast of Portugal (11 days): kicking off in picturesque Porto, where you’ll uncover historic sites and wineries, this diverse experience also includes Aveiro — known as the Venice of Portugal — the Algarve, national parks, charming traditional villages, and historic caves.

Explore more customisable Portugal itineraries.

Still haven't decided where you're going this summer? Explore our list of the best August holiday destinations.

What to do and see in the Algarve in August

Hot and sunny, August sees the Algarve exude peak season energy, offering a variety of activities that make the most of the summer weather. 

Here are some of the best things to do and see during this high season month.

Hit the beach

Chances are, if you’re planning to visit the Algarve in August, beaches will be on your mind. 

With the sea temperature at a balmy 21°C to 23°C (70°F to 73°F), and virtually no rain, you’ll be in seventh heaven, whether you’re keen to stretch out on the golden sand, or fancy enjoying water-sports action. Take your pick from water-skiing, windsurfing, paddle-boarding and diving.

Looking for a more secluded experience? Head to Praia de Odeceixe. Meanwhile, surfers will want to try Amado Beach.

Editor’s tip: in the market for an August beach break? Read up on the most beautiful beaches in Portugal.

Experience Portimão’s sardine festival

One of the most popular events in the Algarve, this begins at the end of July and runs into August.

Celebrating the region’s fishing traditions with lots of grilled sardines, music, and festivities, it’s a wonderful way to sample local food and culture at one fell swoop.

Editor’s tip: love seafood? Don’t miss Festival do Marisco in Olhão. It starts in the second week of August and runs for several days.

Step back in time at the Silves Medieval Fair

During a nine-day period in August, Silves — capital of the Algarve during the Arab occupation — time travels back to the Middle Ages.

Expect medieval-themed festivities — including jousting, juggling, acrobatics and historic re-enactments — along with artisan markets.

Visit wineries

The Algarve isn't just about beautiful beaches — it's also blessed with a bounty of excellent wineries.

Take a tasting tour to learn about the wine-making process and sample the goods in sublimely scenic surroundings.

Dance until dawn

This being peak tourist season, the Algarve has plenty to satisfy party lovers and clubbers in August.

For example, the towns of Albufeira, Vilamoura and Lagos offer vibrant nightlife with numerous bars, clubs, and beach parties that run until dawn. 

For more inspiration, read up on the best things to do in the Algarve.

Visit the Algarve in different months

To be better informed before booking your trip, find out what to expect of the weather in the Algarve around the year.

• January: with a temperature range of 8°C to 16°C (46°F to 61°F), this is the coldest month of year, with low-season tourist levels.
• February: similar to January, but slightly warmer, February remains quiet, though the beginning of the Almond Blossom season attracts more visitors.
• March: mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F), March is a great month for outdoor activities without the crowds.
• April: with a pleasant temperature range of 11°C to 20°C (52°F to 68°F), shoulder-season April sees more sun, less rain, and a rise in visitors around Easter.
• May: great beach weather begins in May, with warmer temperatures drawing more crowds, though it’s not nearly as busy as summer.
• June: with temperatures averaging 16°C to 25°C (61°F to 77°F), June is perfect for beach breaks and water sports, and heralds the start of peak season.
• July: July sees the Algarve turn hot, with average highs of  28°C (82°F). It also sits in the summer high season.
• September: September remains warm, but temperatures start to cool, and visitor numbers begin to taper off as the month wears on.
• October: with average daily highs remaining around 23°C (73°F), this shoulder-season month is ideal if you prefer cooler weather and smaller crowds.
• November: sitting in low season, November sees cooler temperatures, and is a great time to visit for the likes of golf and exploring the countryside.
• December: cool and quiet, low-season December offers average temperatures of 9°C to 17°C (48°F to 63°F).