Why Visit Ireland in August?

Ireland is a country that has everything you could want from a holiday location, including but in no way limited to; historical museums, Medieval castles, as well as plenty of adventure activities to sink your teeth into. In August, you get 15 hours of daylight on average a day. If you’re only staying for a short break, visiting in August ensures you get the most out of your time here.

Spend the mornings up a mountain or exploring a unique landscape like the Burren, and spend the rest of your day soaking in the culture and ambience of the local area. As August is within the peak tourist season in Ireland, museums and historic monuments usually have longer opening hours, making it even easier to squeeze more into your vacation.

Although Ireland does have a reputation for having unpredictable weather no matter the season, the summer months, for the most part, tend to be dry and warm. In August, the average temperature is between 15 and 16 °C (59 – 61 °F), which makes it the perfect time for adventure. Starting your day before sunrise ensures you enjoy the most spectacular dawn views. One spot to savour the sunrise is the Giant’s Causeway in Co. Antrim, a famed natural wonder in Northern Ireland. Watch the sunrise over the ocean, beams glistening in the water. The bonus is that you beat the crowds there and have an exclusive experience for yourself. After soaking up the breathtaking scenery, wander along the Causeway Route, leading you to even more splendid views along its path.

If you’re exhausted from exploring, you can relax with a pint in a quaint pub, wherever you may be staying! After a long day of rambling, is there anything better than a nice, chilled pint of Guinness outside while the sun beats down on you? Or if Guinness isn’t to your taste, Ireland’s craft breweries and gin distilleries have been going from strength to strength for the past number of years, and there are many local options available in most pubs that you won’t get in many more places.

Look at our guide to Irish gin to help you choose which gins to try while in Ireland.

August showcases the country at its greenest. The countryside has rolling hills, picturesque coastal areas, and vibrant vegetation. It’s a chance for nature lovers to explore Ireland’s captivating surroundings, including the iconic Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, and the Giant’s Causeway. Visiting these idyllic locations in August almost guarantees you gorgeous views sprawling across the Atlantic Ocean. Ireland in August is a fantastic time to drive along the Wild Atlantic Way to enjoy shoreline strolls and soak in the panoramic views.

Furthermore, August is an incredible time to see the wildflowers in bloom. The Irish countryside comes alive with colourful flora set against lush greenery. The landscape is dotted with bursts of colour, creating a stunning environment that nature enthusiasts will adore. If you’re hiking along coastal trails such as the Cliffs of Moher, the sea campion is a particular wildflower to look out for in August. As the name suggests, it grows most commonly near the seaside and is a native species to Ireland. Wildflowers such as bell heathers, honeysuckle and mayweed are also in full bloom in August. A great place to view them in all their glory is on the breathtaking mountains and hillsides, which are blanketed in these eye-catching wildflowers.

Whether driving through the countryside, hiking along coastal paths, or exploring the lakes and mountains, Ireland’s scenic beauty in August is a feast for the eyes.