Want to go to Madeira in August?
Find out if the region is right for you at this time of year, with our comprehensive guide to climate, travel conditions, crowds, prices, attractions and events.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We made our own choices, visited the area anonymously, and paid our bills in full.
Go to Madeira in August: quick answers
Is the weather good in Madeira in August? Is this a good time to visit?
August is the island’s peak tourist month. In our opinion, this is still a good time to visit Madeira. The weather is pleasant, with a mild, sunny subtropical climate. The island’s colors are revealed in the sunlight! Temperatures are ideal for enjoying outdoor activities, hiking, kayaking, canyoning and beaches. You’ll notice that all these natural landscapes are so sublime in Madeira! Perfect conditions to discover the island!
WHERE TO STAY IN Madeira
Our independent picks for the accommodation of your dreams:
Travelling to Madeira in August: summary of conditions
Temperatures
In August in Madeira, the thermometer averages between 22°C (71.5°F) and 24°C (75°F). These mild, pleasant temperatures characterize the island’s subtropical climate. The “calima”, an occasional episode of warm wind, can add a few degrees, but it’s not as frequent as on islands like the Canaries, for example.
Water temperatures
In August, you’ll find water temperatures hovering around 24°C (75°F), whether in the natural pools or on the ocean beaches. The stability of these temperatures, with a slight variation and rise during the summer, is a real advantage for enjoying refreshing bathing all year round! Note that the water temperature does not reach that of warmer waters in more tropical areas.
Crowds and prizes
August is considered a very high season in Madeira. Tourists are still numerous. At the height of summer, after the spring flowering of the gardens, there’s a plethora of things to see and do on the island. As a result, prices are higher than in previous months. Bear in mind that July and August are generally the months when the island is most visited, so prices are generally the most expensive. If you book your accommodation, flights and activities well in advance, you’ll have plenty of choice and good value for money, even in August.
Opening conditions
In August, all tourist attractions, restaurants and hotels are generally open in Madeira. It’s the height of the tourist season, so establishments benefit from the influx of visitors. All departments will be fully operational to welcome you in the best conditions! It’s rare, but some may close occasionally for annual vacations.
Length of day
In summer, you’ll enjoy long days with one of the most sunny periods of the year! In August, the days are slightly shorter than in July. Madeira’s sun rises around 7.20am and sets just before 9pm, leaving you over 13 hours to explore the island and its treasures. The number of hours of sunshine is between 9 and 10 a day.
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Best attractions in Madeira in August
The great thing about Madeira is that no matter what month of the year it is, we always have plenty to do and visit! As you plan your stay, you’ll find that very few activities become inaccessible. In August, as the climate is mild without temperatures rising too much, you can enjoy all the activities without worrying about the temperature rising! Museums, towns and villages, hiking, gourmet meals, swimming and nature are all on your list. A great program for:
- Nature activities: canyoning, kayaking, hiking…
- Discover the 2 islands of the Madeira archipelago or Porto Santo
- See the sunrise from Pico do Areiro
- Discover Porto Santo
- Swimming in the natural pools of Porto Moniz or Seixal
- Driving and admiring sublime views
- Strolling the beaches of Porto Santo
- See more and more species-specific dolphins and whales
- Visit botanical gardens in bloom such as the Monte Palace Tropical Garden
- Explore Funchal and its many museums
- Marvel at Madeira’s magical waterfalls
- Walking along a levada like 25 Fontes
- Surveying Porto Moniz
- Explore other towns and villages: Camara de Lobos, Ponta do Sol…
- Enjoy the contrast at Ponta de Sao Louranço
- And many more unsuspected wonders to discover…
Discover our tips on the best things to do in Madeira.
And lots of activities like these:
OUR FAVORITE ACTIVITY IN Madeira
Catamaran tour to see dolphins and Madeira’s giant cliffs.
Climate in Madeira in August – weather forecast
In August in Madeira, we enjoy the generally stable and pleasant weather, characteristic of the island’s subtropical climate.
On the coast
Close to the sea, you’ll enjoy a warm, sunny atmosphere, with a refreshing sea breeze to temper the heat. The days are still long and bright, even if daybreak comes a few minutes later. These are ideal conditions for enjoying beaches and water sports.
In the mountains
In the higher elevations, the climate is slightly cooler and more variable. The air is crisper, and it’s not unusual to see a few clouds clinging to the peaks, creating spectacular scenery. However, you’ll find that the sun remains predominant, offering perfect conditions for hiking and exploring. On the whole, we like Madeira’s August climate mild and stable, with very few sudden variations. Rainfall is rare, and humidity is moderate, making for a comfortable stay. The weather is sunny and a little drier, creating ideal conditions for enjoying both the coast and the mountainous interior.
August temperatures in Madeira
Weather in Funchal
- Average daytime temperatures: 23°C (73.5°F)
- Average night-time temperature: 20°C (68°F)
Temperature in Porto Moniz
- Average daytime temperatures: 23°C (73.5°F)
- Average night-time temperature: 20°C (68°F)
Temperature in Porto Santo
- Average daytime temperatures: 23.5°C (74.5°F)
- Average night-time temperature: 20°C (68°F)
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING YOUR CAR AT Madeira
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Take a car with a good engine for hilly roads, but not too big for manoeuvring.
- There’s plenty of demand and few cars, so book early.
Rain and Wind
In August in Madeira, rainfall is really unusual. When it does rain, it’s often short, light showers that don’t last long. These very brief, light rains do not generally affect tourist activities.
- Amount of rain in Funchal: 0mm
(over 0 days on average) - Rainfall in Porto Moniz: 7mm
(in less than 1 day on average) - Rainfall in Porto Santo: 0mm
(over 0 days on average)
Madeira never snows in August. The island enjoys a mild subtropical climate, and summer temperatures rule out any possibility of snowfall, even in mountainous areas.
As with all destinations with lots of vegetation and windy spells, when the climate gets drier and temperatures rise, there can be a risk of fire. However, this is still very rare in Madeira.
Sunshine
In August, Madeira enjoys generous sunshine. The days are still long and sunny, with few clouds. You can expect 9 to 10 hours of sunshine a day, just like in July, which is ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and beaches. You’ll be able to plan your day as you see fit, and take the time to explore the surrounding area without being too limited by the length of the day.
Water temperature – swimming in Madeira in August
In August, you’ll experience a slightly higher water temperature, in the ocean or in Madeira’s natural pools, of just over 24°C (75°F). Although the island is better known for the beauty of its natural pools than for its beaches, there are a few very pleasant ones. These lava-surrounded pools with views of the lush cliffs are the perfect place for a swim. This temperature can be considered cool for swimming, but acceptable for some swimmers. The ocean remains relatively stable throughout the year, with moderate variations as the area is not tropical. Some people may find the water comfortable, while others may find it cold, depending on their personal sensitivities.
Under these conditions, August is definitely one of the best months to swim in Madeira.
- Water temperature in Funchal: 25°C (77°F) on average
- Average water temperature in Porto Moniz: 23.5°C (74.5°F)
- Porto Santo water temperature: 25°C (77°F) average
Crowds and other conditions
August is unsurprisingly a high-season period in Madeira, as all conditions are truly ideal. The crowds are as large as in July, with many tourists taking advantage of the summer vacations. Prices tend to be higher for accommodation, activities and sometimes catering. We recommend booking in advance to obtain the best options and rates. Despite the crowds, we find the destination a pleasant place to visit, thanks to its many natural and cultural attractions.
Water sports and nature
As well as magnificent hikes to the mountain peaks and along the levadas, Madeira also offers great outdoor experiences for those looking for a little adrenalin while admiring nature. We particularly enjoyed canyoning and kayaking. But there are other choices. Here is our selection:
- Beginner canyoning – see options
- Intermediate canyoning – see program and availability
- Kayak – see options
- Coasteering (jumping into the sea!) – see program and availability
- Surf lessons – see availability
A lot of fun!
Flower gardens in Madeira
If, like us, you love flowers and beautiful trees and would like to visit Madeira, don’t hesitate and go there in August too! The weather is fine, temperatures are rising and so is the amount of sunshine. You’ll marvel at the colors of these fragrant flower gardens. Known as the island of flowers and eternal springtime, Madeira will fascinate you with its nature, adorned with its most beautiful flowers and fragrances at the height of summer! Our favorite garden is without a doubt the Monte Palace Tropical Garden in Funchal, where you’ll discover many unique species of flowers.
Dolphins and whales to watch
Good news for you: August is a great month for whale and dolphin watching! In addition to common dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, Atlantic spotted dolphins and blue and white dolphins, you may be lucky enough to see rough-toothed dolphins or Risso’s dolphins, which usually move in groups. Dolphins tend to congregate in shallower waters, closer to the coast, making it easier to observe them on boat trips. Whales, although present, spend more time in the depths of the ocean, which can make them a little more difficult to observe than dolphins. At this time of year, however, you can see sperm whales, pilot whales and beaked whales. Read our article on the subject.
Cultural tours
Madeira also offers a host of small museums. Most are in Funchal, but not all.
Among our favorites:
- Caniçal Whale Museum
- Museum in the Porto da Cruz sugar cane factory
- Blandy’s Wine Museum
- Madeira Story Experience
If you’re looking for authentic sightseeing, take Funchal, Madeira’s capital. It’s a charming blend of cultural richness, historical significance and lively atmosphere. The town’s history dates back to the 15th century, when it was colonized by Portuguese explorers. Today, the vestiges of its past can be seen in its historic buildings, churches and forts. Take time to explore the old town, visit its cathedral, stroll through its gardens, discover its markets and visit its many small museums! See all there is to do
August events in Madeira
Summer offers plenty of entertainment on Madeira Island. In August, the festivities continue:
- Madeira Wine Festival: this wine festival, held during the harvest season straddling August and September, is a tribute to this regional product, known the world over for its excellent quality. On the program: tastings, visits to cellars and vineyards, musical entertainment
- Madeira’s Traditional Canoe Regatta Festival: Funchal hosts another edition of the traditional fishing boat regatta. This competition features a 2.5km course, starting and finishing on Funchal’s quayside, all the way to Barreirinha beach in the old town.
- European Folklore Week: the event is organized by the Boa Nova folklore and ethnographic group, which aims to promote intercultural coexistence and pass on ethnographic aspects. It includes the participation of national and international groups
- The Madeira Wine Lounge: located in Funchal’s Praça do Povo, this is the place to go for wine and food tastings in a lively, musical atmosphere.
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August prices
Unsurprisingly, prices in August are the highest of the year, as you’re in the middle of peak season. You’ll have a wide choice of accommodation, from youth hostels to 5-star hotels, as well as activities. It is therefore difficult to give a budget. However, in August, tourists are very numerous throughout the month. Prices are also rising with the many local events mentioned above.
Other months
When to go to Madeira, other months…
- Madeira in January
- Madeira in February
- Madeira in March
- Madeira in April
- Madeira in May
- Madeira in June
- Madeira in July
- Madeira in September
- Madeira in October
- Madeira in November
- Madeira in December
Or read our article on when to go to Madeira.
PLAN YOUR STAY IN Madeira
Best of
Things to do in Madeira
Most beautiful viewpoints
Madeira’s most beautiful beaches
Most beautiful gardens
Natural pools
Most beautiful hikes
Most beautiful roads
Secret places
Practical advice
Getting around Madeira
Rent a car in Madeira
Driving in Madeira
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 6 days – 7 days – 10 days
SHE MADE THE TRIP Claire
