August in India means thunderclouds, muddy streets, and weekend plans washed away by sudden showers. But what if you could swap all that for crisp blue skies, sun-drenched coastlines, and destinations where the only water you’ll see is in a cocktail or an infinity pool? Whether you’re longing for a peaceful island escape, a European cultural getaway, or a desert safari that doesn’t involve soggy shoes — this is your cue to skip the storm and book a ticket to someplace dry, bright, and brilliant.
Here’s your detailed guide to the best places to travel in August to avoid the rain — all outside India, of course.
Almería, Spain
Almería isn’t just Spain’s driest city — it’s one of the driest in all of Europe, receiving barely 200 mm of rainfall annually. Located in Andalusia, this southeastern coastal gem is more desert than Mediterranean cliché. Think rugged cliffs, empty beaches, and cinematic views (the region has served as a filming location for everything from spaghetti westerns to Game of Thrones).
In August, Almería stays hot (around 30°C), dry, and relatively crowd-free compared to Spanish hotspots like Barcelona or Ibiza. Explore the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, wander through Moorish fortresses, or just relax with sangria by the sea.
Best For: Offbeat beach lovers, desert romantics, and history buffs who hate umbrellas.
Aruba
Aruba is your Caribbean Plan A when the rest of the tropics are prepping for hurricane season. Sitting safely outside the hurricane belt, Aruba boasts 300+ sunny days a year, and August is particularly ideal for travel. Humidity is low, showers are rare, and the turquoise waters are as Instagram-worthy as you’ve imagined.
The island itself is a mix of Dutch colonial charm, cacti-filled desert interiors, and postcard-perfect beaches. Whether you’re snorkeling in Baby Beach, exploring flamingo-laden private islands, or strolling through Oranjestad’s candy-colored streets — Aruba gives you the Caribbean dream without the storm stress.
Best For: Beach seekers, honeymooners, and monsoon-haters craving uninterrupted sunsets.
Scandinavia (Norway, Sweden, Denmark)
If the thought of sweating it out in a European heatwave doesn’t appeal to you, head north — way north. Scandinavia in August is what summer dreams are made of: mild temperatures, minimal rain, and up to 18 hours of daylight. Yes, really.
Norway’s fjords are stunning, Sweden’s archipelagos are buzzing with culture, and Copenhagen is at its liveliest with open-air concerts, food festivals, and long, lazy canal-side afternoons. The best part? The rainclouds are (mostly) gone by August, making it ideal for hikes, road trips, or simply doing nothing in scenic perfection.
Best For: Nature lovers, solo travelers, and sun-seekers who prefer 20°C over 40°C.
Namibia
Namibia isn’t just dry in August — it’s bone-dry and breathtaking. This southern African nation, dominated by the Namib and Kalahari deserts, experiences virtually no rainfall during its winter (June to August). That means clear blue skies, crisp air, and uninterrupted access to some of the world’s most surreal landscapes.
Climb the blood-red dunes of Sossusvlei at sunrise, go on a wildlife safari in Etosha National Park, or wander through the eerie ghost town of Kolmanskop. Every moment feels cinematic — and gloriously dry. Pack a light jacket for chilly desert nights and get ready for serious travel bragging rights.
Best For: Safari fanatics, stargazers, and travelers who want to avoid crowds and clouds.
Fiji
While the South Pacific is a mixed bag in August, Fiji stands out as one of the most reliable sunshine spots. August is part of Fiji’s dry season, offering balmy days (25–27°C), calm seas, and little to no rain — the ideal combo for beach bums, divers, and anyone with a soft spot for hammocks.
With over 300 islands, you can choose your own adventure: party in Nadi, relax in the Mamanuca Islands, or snorkel with manta rays near Yasawa. It’s luxurious, remote, and practically engineered for an August escape. Plus, it’s visa-free for Indian passport holders.
Best For: Honeymooners, solo island hoppers, and anyone who deserves a real break.
Croatia
The Dalmatian Coast shines in August — literally and figuratively. With 12+ hours of sunshine per day and average highs of 30°C, Croatia gives you that idyllic Mediterranean summer without the eye-watering prices of Italy or the French Riviera.
Yes, Dubrovnik gets busy (thanks, Game of Thrones), but smaller towns like Zadar, Rovinj, and Korčula offer dry weather, fewer tourists, and the same stunning Adriatic vibes. You can island-hop, eat your weight in seafood, and sip local wine as the sun sets over stone walls and sea cliffs.
Best For: Culture lovers, coastal explorers, and budget-friendly Europe seekers.
Pacific Northwest, USA
Seattle, Portland, and the surrounding coastline are famously moody — but not in August. This is their golden month: the rain takes a break, the air is crisp and clean, and everything from forest trails to urban rooftops feels alive with summer energy.
Take a ferry to Bainbridge Island, explore Oregon’s rugged coast, or kayak through Seattle’s inlets. It’s the kind of trip where you can hike a volcano by morning and sip craft beer by sunset. No monsoon ponchos required.
Best For: Indie travelers, outdoor lovers, and anyone who wants fresh air and fewer tourists.
Mauritius & Seychelles
August may be winter in the southern hemisphere, but that just means cooler, comfortable temperatures in Mauritius and Seychelles — and significantly less rainfall. While you won’t get scorching heat, you will get stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and sea breezes that make you want to stay forever.
Avoid the high season crowd, enjoy off-season deals, and explore coral reefs, botanical gardens, and mountain viewpoints without worrying about cloudbursts ruining your day. These Indian Ocean gems are tailor-made for relaxed luxury with just enough adventure.
Best For: Couples, nature lovers, and tropical travelers who want good weather without the chaos.
Summing Up
You don’t have to wait for “better weather” — it already exists, just not in your backyard. Whether you’re dreaming of Caribbean coasts, European culture, or African deserts, there’s a dry August destination out there with your name on it. Plan ahead, pack light (but bring sunscreen), and leave the rain behind — both literally and metaphorically.
Because sometimes, the best way to survive the monsoon… is to escape it entirely.
