Visiting the Algarve in August

August in the Algarve is sizzling, both in terms of temperature and tourism. As the region’s hottest and busiest month, it’s a time when sun-seekers from across Europe converge on this southern coastal paradise. Not only do holidaymakers from Northern European countries like the UK, Ireland, and Germany flock to the Algarve, but it’s also the preferred vacation period for Southern Europeans, including the Portuguese, Spanish, and Italians.

This midsummer month brings an influx of visitors eager to soak up the sun, experience the vibrant culture, and revel in the stunning coastal beauty that the Algarve has to offer. In this article, we’ll explore what makes August in the Algarve so special and provide tips for making the most of your summer getaway in this popular Portuguese region.

Reasons to visit the Algarve in August

• It’s warm: If it’s sunshine you’re after, you’ll find plenty of it on the Algarve in August. With temperatures reaching as high as 40 °C (104 °F) during heatwave years, it’s hotter than anyone needs. You’ll need to keep this in mind when you go to the beach: this not only means wearing plenty of sunscreen, but bringing a sun parasol and drinking plenty of water as well.
• There’s a lot on: This is the Algarve’s busiest month, which has its pros and cons. While it does mean more people on the beach and in the restaurants, it also means that there’s a good buzz and there’s plenty to see and do. This isn’t the case all the time: for most of winter, and even October and April, it’s not uncommon for businesses to be closed.
• It’s the only time you can visit: For many people, especially those with kids, August is the only month that it’s feasible for the whole family to take a trip together.

What’s on in the Algarve in August?

Festa da Ria Formosa

Taste some of the best seafood on the Algarve, especially oysters. The event normally takes place in the evenings at Faro’s São Francisco Square between 19:00 and 01:00.

Portimão Sardine Festival

An important Algarvian festival that’s often missed by tourists, the annual sardine festival takes place every year in Portimão. This is a fantastic opportunity to see local Portuguese celebrate something that’s incredibly near and dear to them and to sample some great Portuguese cooking. Simply head to the Zona Ribeirinha (river front) and follow the smell of grilled sardines.

Olhão Festival do Marisco (Seafood Festival)

Another one for the seafood lover’s diary! Expect clams, shrimp, crayfish, lobster, crab and, of course, oysters!

Silves Medieval Festival

Travel back in time and discover what the Algarve was like during the medieval days, all set to the backdrop of Silves Castle. Expect knights, entertainers, good food, and a lot of belly dancers.

The Silves Medieval Festival normally takes place around mid August. For more information, including dates and times, visit the event’s Facebook page. 

Fatacil

Fatacil, the festival of all things Algarvian, returns to the Municipal Festival Grounds of Lagoa. Expect stalls selling locally made products and traditional Portuguese food, live music, and farmers exhibiting their prize sheep and goats.

Weather in the Algarve in August

August in the Algarve can be very hot. It’s not unknown for Algarve temperatures to reach 40°C (104°F), an even a couple of degrees over.

Even when temperatures in the Algarve soar as high as 40°C (104°F), not every part of the region experiences such extreme heat. The scorching temperatures are typically found inland. Coastal towns like Albufeira and Carvoreiro tend to be cooler, while the Algarve’s West Coast is often even cooler again. On average, you can expect temperatures to range between 24°C (75°F) and 35°C (95°F) during this time.

Have you visited the Algarve in August? How did you find it? Share your tips, reviews, and questions by leaving a comment below.