August is peak summer holiday season for Brits; families jump at the chance for some quality time away during the school holidays, and sunseekers are tempted abroad by the warm temperatures just across the Channel in Europe.
From sun-kissed Mediterranean islands to tropical Caribbean shores, we’ve rounded up the best destinations for a balmy August getaway.
Costa Brava, Spain
Average temperature: 27°C
Flight time: 2 hours
With a beautiful stretch of coastline boasting glorious beaches and family-friendly resorts, Costa Brava is an easy-pleaser for a dose of short-haul sunshine in August. Both Lloret de Mar and Tossa de Mar have plenty going on, from lively pubs and restaurants to beachfront attractions, while elsewhere in Calella and Blanes, there are charming old towns, medieval castles and coastal hiking trails to be found. Foodies are sure to leave happy, too. Popular dishes include fried calamari and crab risotto, and the highly-rated local wine is wonderfully cheap.
Sicily
Average temperature: 26°C
Flight time: 2 hours
Sicily is a stunning part of Italy, characterised by rugged scenery and deep turquoise seas. Head here in August for all-day sunbathing sessions on honey-hued sand beaches and wonderfully warm dips in the sea. The highlight of a Sicilian holiday is a trip up Mount Etna, Europe’s tallest volcano. Either lace up your walking books and tackle the challenging hike or take the cable car or a 4WD tour to see the rivers of solidified lava and panoramic views from the summit. When you return to the bottom, treat yourself to a cannoli – a fried dough tube with a sweet filling of ricotta, sugar and vanilla extract.
Cyprus
Average temperature: 29°C
Flight time: 4 hours
Cyprus is a great choice for a fun-filled summer holiday; temperatures sizzle around the 30s, the water is crystal clear, and the island’s resorts are perfect for unwinding and having a good time. Many of the 4- and 5-star hotels have equipped themselves with luxurious spas where guests can enjoy a pampering session, or sports lovers can test their skills on one of the many golf courses. After dark, Ayia Napa is the place to be for hip-and-happening bars and clubs where you can dance until dawn, or enjoy a more laidback evening in Paphos’ enchanting old town.
Barbados
Average temperature: 29°C
Flight time: 8 hours
A holiday in Barbados soon reveals why this is one of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean! The beaches are a slice of paradise, with soft, warm sand and calm seas for swimming. Be prepared to share the water though, as the island is a prime location for jet-skiing, sailing and surfing. Scuba divers also come here to see the amazing coral reefs and marine life that thrive under the waves. If you can pull yourself away from the beach, head to historic Bridgetown for sightseeing and shopping, feast on gourmet cuisine in St James, or dance the night away in St Lawrence Gap.
Koh Samui, Thailand
Average temperature: 31°C
Flight time: 12 hours
While an August holiday in Thailand is off the cards in most regions due to the monsoon season, the west coast basks in balmy sunshine and tropical temperatures! Koh Samui is the largest of the Gulf Coast islands and is the place to go for luxury pampering. Take your pick of glamourous spa hotels along the beachfront and treat yourself to an indulgent Thai massage. Afternoons can be spent chilling at the beach, kayaking in the Ang Thong National Marine Park or filling up on sumptuous Thai street food.
Do you have a favourite August hotspot? Drop us a tweet @icelollyholiday and let us know!
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