Ireland in August: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect
Climate Map for August
Average temperature across Ireland in August.
City Weather in August
| City | High | Low | Rain | UV | Feels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dublin | 20° | 12° | 68 mm | high | Cool |
| Cork (city) | 20° | 12° | 61 mm | high | Cool |
| Limerick | 20° | 12° | 87 mm | moderate | Cool |
| Galway | 19° | 12° | 94 mm | moderate | Cool |
| Tallaght | 20° | 11° | 72 mm | high | Cool |
| Waterford | 20° | 12° | 73 mm | high | Cool |
| Swords, County Dublin | 20° | 11° | 72 mm | high | Cool |
High / low are average daily temperatures (°C). “Feels” reflects how hot or cold it feels, allowing for humidity.
Eastern & Dublin (Leinster and East Coast)
A mellow stretch of weather often appears in August, the warmest month for Dublin, but the city will be bustling with local and international visitors. Cultural events - open-air concerts, Dublin Fringe events - draw crowds; transport can be slower and accommodation booked. If planning coastal walks or ferry trips to Howth or Dalkey, check morning tides and ferry timetables because occasional Atlantic swells can cause cancellations.
The Midlands & Shannon Basin (Central Plains)
August can be among the driest months in the central plains, often offering long calm mornings and warm afternoons ideal for paddling or fishing on Lough Derg. Cloud and drizzle still appear after Atlantic disturbances, but the most disruptive storms usually cross further west first. If you favour quieter travelling, aim for weekdays in August as locals also holiday in this month and small-town accommodation may be busier.
Southwest (Cork, Kerry, Ring of Kerry, Dingle Peninsula)
August keeps summer’s warmth and festival energy; many visitors travel the Ring of Kerry and accommodation can be hard to find at short notice. Sea-based wildlife cruises and lighthouse trips run frequently but rougher days do occur; if you’re island-hopping to Valentia or the Blaskets, expect some cancellations on windy days. Bring light layers for warm afternoons and a reliable waterproof for sudden coastal showers.
West Coast & Connemara / Galway / Clare (Aran Islands, Cliffs of Moher)
August is lively with festivals and fuller tourist services in towns and on the islands; sea temperatures are at their annual high but remain cool for swimming, which most do cautiously. The Cliffs of Moher and the Burren can get busy on clear days; try early mornings for quieter photography. For island visits, have a back-up plan if boats are canceled: ferries often run on calmer mornings but succumb to afternoon swell.
Northern & Northwest (Antrim Coast, Derry, Donegal)
August remains warm and busy; this is peak season for visitor services and boat operators on the Causeway Coast and around Donegal. The combination of long evenings and relatively settled weather makes it a good time for long coastal walks and late returns. If you plan to climb peaks such as Errigal, start early to avoid afternoon cloud build-up and keep rain gear handy.