Top 14 Best Beaches To Visit In August

August transforms the world's coastlines into perfect playgrounds, making it prime time to discover the best beaches to visit in August. From Aruba's pristine Eagle Beach to Greece's captivating Halkidiki shores, this month offers ideal conditions across continents.

Whether you're drawn to Santorini's dramatic black sands at Perivolos Beach, Maui's legendary Kaanapali stretch, or the turquoise paradise of Veligandu Island in the Maldives, August delivers consistent sunshine and warm waters. For those seeking European charm, Italy's Fegina Beach and France's Plage Publique de Castel await your discovery.

Adventure calls from Thailand's Railay Beach and Indonesia's surf-perfect Canggu, while tropical escapes beckon from the Philippines' Boracay and Vietnam's pristine Mỹ Khê Beach in Da Nang. Get ready to pack your sunscreen and create memories that will last a lifetime.

1. Eagle Beach, Aruba: Caribbean Perfection

Eagle Beach defies every beach cliche you've ever heard. The sand here isn't just white—it's powdered sugar that never burns your feet, even under the August sun at 86°F. I still remember my first morning walk here at sunrise, watching sea turtles emerge from the surf to nest in the dunes. That moment made me understand why locals call this their sacred space.

You'll recognize the iconic Fofoti trees immediately—those wind-sculpted beauties that appear on every Aruba postcard. The beach stretches for 1.2 miles, giving you room to find your perfect spot even during peak August crowds. Smart travelers arrive early to claim space under the natural palapas, where Caribbean breezes keep you cool all day.

The water here remains calm year-round, making it perfect for families. Unlike other Caribbean destinations that suffer from August storms, Aruba sits below the hurricane belt, ensuring your vacation stays sunny and dry.

2. Perivolos Beach, Santorini: Volcanic Drama

Perivolos Beach challenges everything you think you know about Greek islands. The black sand here tells the story of ancient volcanic eruptions, and during August's peak heat, this dramatic shoreline becomes almost too hot to walk barefoot. Pack proper beach shoes—locals learned this lesson generations ago.

The beach stretches endlessly along Santorini's southeastern coast, offering space that smaller island beaches simply can't match. I've watched countless sunsets from the blue-timber chairs at Lava Taverna, where traditional moussaka tastes even better with your toes buried in warm volcanic sand.

August brings perfect swimming conditions, with crystal-clear waters that contrast beautifully against the dark shore. The thermal properties of black sand mean the sea stays warmer here than at traditional beaches, extending your swimming season naturally.

3. Kaanapali Beach, Maui: Hawaiian Royalty

Kaanapali Beach earned its three-mile reputation through pure consistency—every single stretch delivers postcard-perfect conditions. The western exposure means you'll witness some of the Pacific's most spectacular sunsets, with Lanai and Molokai providing dramatic silhouettes across the channel.

August brings ideal ocean conditions here, with gentle trade winds keeping temperatures comfortable even during Hawaii's warmest month. The snorkeling at Black Rock rivals any paid excursion—tropical fish gather in the protected cove just steps from your beach chair.

Free parking fills quickly, but validated spots at Whaler's Village cost around $10 for the day, a small price for convenient access to shops and restaurants. Local tip: The beach widens significantly near the Sheraton, giving you more space to spread out during busy August afternoons.

4. Veligandu Island Beach, Maldives: Adults-Only Paradise

Veligandu Island operates as an adults-only resort, transforming 22 acres into the ultimate romantic escape. The entire island serves as your private beach, where powder-soft sand meets turquoise waters so clear you can count fish from your villa deck.

During my stay, I discovered the magic happens at sunrise—stepping onto your villa's deck at 6 AM reveals reef sharks feeding peacefully in the shallows. This daily spectacle occurs so regularly that resort staff simply accept it as part of the island's natural rhythm.

The all-inclusive packages here start around €300 per person daily, covering everything from fresh yellowfin tuna grilled beachside to unlimited boat excursions around North Ari Atoll. August's calm conditions make snorkeling effortless, with visibility extending beyond 30 meters on most days.

5. Fegina Beach, Italy: Cinque Terre Charm

Fegina Beach represents everything magical about Italy's Cinque Terre region—dramatic cliffs, pebbled shores, and that unmistakable Mediterranean light that photographers spend fortunes trying to capture. The beach sits in Monterosso al Mare, easily reached by train from La Spezia in under 25 minutes.

August brings peak season energy, with rows of green loungers and orange umbrellas creating a vibrant foreground against ancient cliffs. The rental fees run about €25 for a full day setup, but the small free section near the rocks offers equally stunning views for budget-conscious travelers.

Pack aqua shoes—the mix of pebbles and sand requires proper footwear for comfortable walking. The water here stays refreshingly cool even during August heat waves, providing perfect relief after exploring Cinque Terre's hillside villages.

6. Praia do Guincho, Lisbon: Atlantic Wild Beauty

Praia do Guincho embodies Portugal's untamed Atlantic coastline, where massive waves and constant winds create conditions that challenge even experienced surfers. Located 30 minutes west of Lisbon, this beach attracts locals who understand its moods and respect its power.

The dramatic setting—golden sand dunes backed by Sintra's mountains—provides some of Europe's most cinematic beach experiences. August brings the year's most consistent surfing conditions, with waves reaching double overhead on the best days. The northern section offers protection from winds, making it suitable for swimming when conditions allow.

Bar do Guincho serves ultra-fresh seafood right on the sand, with clams and octopus caught that morning by local fishermen. The restaurant's rustic charm matches the beach's wild character perfectly—no pretense, just honest flavors and Atlantic views.

7. Patong Beach, Phuket: Tropical Energy

Patong Beach pulses with an energy that either captivates or overwhelms—there's rarely middle ground. August falls during Thailand's green season, bringing dramatic afternoon thunderstorms that clear quickly, leaving behind refreshed air and even warmer seas.

The beach transforms throughout the day—morning calm gives way to jet ski action, followed by evening aerobics sessions that turn the entire shoreline into an outdoor fitness party. You'll hear music, laughter, and multiple languages blending into Phuket's signature soundtrack.

Smart travelers embrace the monsoon patterns: plan beach activities for early morning and late afternoon, using midday rain breaks to explore Patong's markets and massage parlors. The seafood here costs a fraction of Western prices—fresh fish dinners run about 300 baht ($8) at beachfront restaurants.

8. Plage Publique de Castel, France: Riviera Elegance

Plage Publique de Castel brings Nice's sophisticated beach culture within reach of every traveler. The pebbled shoreline and clear Mediterranean waters create an authentic French Riviera experience without the exclusive price tags of private beach clubs.

The beach's location near the famous Promenade des Anglais means you're steps away from Nice's cultural attractions and local markets. August brings perfect swimming conditions, with water temperatures reaching their yearly peak and gentle Mediterranean breezes providing natural air conditioning.

The diverse crowd here reflects Nice's cosmopolitan spirit—locals mix freely with visitors, creating an inclusive atmosphere that welcomes everyone. Beach rental equipment costs around €15 for a full day, but the scenic beauty and prime location make every euro worthwhile.

9. Canggu Beach, Indonesia: Surf Paradise.

Canggu Beach captures Bali's perfect balance of laid-back village charm and world-class surf breaks. August marks the heart of Bali's dry season, delivering consistent offshore winds and sunny skies that create ideal conditions for both beginners and experienced surfers.

The black volcanic sand here tells the story of Indonesia's dramatic geology, while the endless waves provide entertainment whether you're riding them or watching from shore. Beach breaks mean you don't need to worry about dangerous reef cuts—just pure, clean waves rolling in sets that seem to never end.

Local warungs serve fresh coconut water for 15,000 rupiah ($1) and authentic nasi goreng for 25,000 rupiah ($1.70), making beach days incredibly affordable. The yoga studios scattered around Canggu offer drop-in classes starting at 100,000 rupiah ($7), perfect for balancing surf sessions with mindful stretching.

10. Anse Intendance, Seychelles: Untamed Beauty

Anse Intendance demands respect—this is not a beach for casual swimmers, but rather a place to witness the Indian Ocean's raw power. The 800-meter stretch of pristine white sand sits beneath towering granite formations that have defined Seychelles' landscape for millions of years.

August falls during the southeast monsoon season, bringing consistent swells that attract surfers from across the Indian Ocean. The beach's exposed nature means conditions change quickly—always check the flag warnings before entering the water. When conditions calm, usually in early morning or late afternoon, the swimming becomes magical.

Between October and February, hawksbill turtles nest here under moonlit skies. Guides ask visitors to dim flashlights and respect nesting areas, ensuring these ancient creatures continue their timeless cycles undisturbed.

11. Boracay, Philippines: Powder Perfection

Boracay's White Beach delivers on every tropical fantasy you've ever harbored—4 kilometers of powder-soft sand that never heats up, even under the intense August sun. The three stations each offer distinct experiences: Station 1 for luxury, Station 2 for action, and Station 3 for budget-conscious relaxation.

August technically falls during Philippines' rainy season, but Boracay's unique microclimate often defies regional weather patterns. You'll experience fewer crowds and significantly lower prices, with resort rates dropping by 40% compared to peak season. The occasional afternoon shower brings welcome relief and dramatic skies for photography.

The famous sunset sailing experiences cost around 1,500 pesos ($27) per person, including drinks and hotel transfers. Local tip: Book directly with boat operators on the beach for better prices than resort concierges charge.

12. Halkidiki Beaches, Greece: Peninsula Paradise

Halkidiki's three peninsulas stretch into the Aegean like fingers reaching toward adventure. Each “finger” offers distinct character—Kassandra for developed resorts, Sithonia for wild beauty, and Athos for spiritual mystique.

Polychrono Beach perfectly captures Halkidiki's appeal—Blue Flag certified waters, traditional whitewashed villages, and tavernas serving octopus caught that morning. August brings festivals throughout the region, with traditional music and dancing that continue until dawn.

The driving route along Sithonia's coast reveals hidden coves accessible only to those willing to hike short trails through pine forests. These secluded spots offer privacy impossible to find at developed beaches, with crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling.

13. Mỹ Khê Beach, Da Nang: Vietnamese Gem

Mỹ Khê Beach earned Forbes magazine recognition as one of the world's six most alluring beaches, and August showcases exactly why. The 30-kilometer stretch of white sand and gentle waves creates perfect conditions for swimming, while the nearby Marble Mountains provide dramatic backdrop for sunset photography.

August falls perfectly within Da Nang's ideal travel season, with sunny skies and minimal rainfall making every beach day dependable. The water temperature reaches its warmest point, extending comfortable swimming hours from early morning through sunset.

Fresh seafood costs amazingly little here—whole grilled fish dinners run about 200,000 dong ($8), while fresh coconuts cost just 20,000 dong ($0.80). The beachfront restaurants serve authentic Vietnamese flavors with your toes literally in the sand.

14. Railay Beach, Krabi: Limestone Paradise

Railay Beach exists in its own world, accessible only by longtail boat due to towering limestone cliffs that isolate this peninsula from mainland Thailand. Phra Nang Beach, often considered Thailand's most beautiful, combines turquoise waters with dramatic rock formations that defy photography's ability to capture their scale.

August brings Thailand's green season, meaning occasional afternoon showers that clear quickly, leaving behind refreshed air and empty beaches. The limestone caves throughout the peninsula offer shelter during brief downpours, many containing ancient shrines and stunning stalactite formations.

Rock climbing here attracts enthusiasts worldwide—introductory courses cost about 1,500 baht ($42) for a full day with equipment included. The monkey population provides constant entertainment, but guard your belongings carefully—these clever primates can open zippers and water bottles with remarkable skill.

Your August Beach Adventure Awaits

The best beaches to visit in August offer more than just sun and sand—they provide gateways to cultures, adventures, and memories that will reshape how you think about paradise. Each destination calls with its own unique magic, from Aruba's turtle-blessed shores to Thailand's monkey-filled caves.

August's perfect conditions won't last forever, and these pristine coastlines await your footprints in their sand. Whether you choose the volcanic drama of Santorini, the untamed beauty of Seychelles, or the surf paradise of Indonesia, your perfect beach day is calling.

Pack your sunscreen, charge your camera, and prepare for experiences that will make every other August feel ordinary by comparison. The world's most beautiful beaches are ready—are you?