Things to do in Valencia in August: the beach, cool nights and day trips

August is Valencia's hottest month and, at the same time, its quietest. Many locals go on holiday, the city slows down and the beach becomes the centre of the day. The trick to enjoying it is simple: get up early, take cover at midday and go out when the sun goes down.

This guide covers what to do in Valencia in August, how to cope with the heat, which day trips are worth it and, at the end, Palau Alameda's agenda for the month, which updates automatically.

The essentials in 30 seconds

• Weather: highs of 31 °C, high humidity and nights of 23-24 °C.
• Pace: a quieter city and busy beaches.
• The ideal timetable: beach early, indoors at midday and out from sunset.
• Day trip: La Tomatina in Buñol, on the last Wednesday of August.
• Before you go: many businesses change their hours in August; check first.

The weather in August

August is the hottest month of the year: highs around 31 °C, high humidity and nights that barely drop below 23-24 °C. The sea is at its warmest, at 26-27 °C. From mid-month the first summer storms may arrive.

The beach without the crowds

• Go early: before 11:00 there is space and the sun is not yet too strong.
• Or late in the afternoon: from 19:00 the beach empties and the light is beautiful.
• Try other beaches: besides Malva-rosa, the southern beaches towards El Saler are quieter.

Indoor plans for the heat

The middle of the day calls for a roof and air conditioning: a museum, a covered market or a long lunch over a rice dish. Here are Valencia's historic markets and where to eat fish and seafood in Valencia.

The Albufera at sunset

When the sun goes down, the Albufera is the best plan outside the city: a boat ride across the lake and one of the most beautiful sunsets in the region. It is about 10 kilometres from the centre.

La Tomatina in Buñol

On the last Wednesday of August, Buñol, about 40 kilometres from Valencia, holds La Tomatina, a tomato fight that draws people from all over the world. Taking part requires a ticket and places sell out: if you want to go, buy well in advance.

Cool evenings outdoors

In August life starts at nightfall: dinners on terraces, a drink in the breeze and walks once the heat eases. On Paseo de la Alameda, Àtic, Palau Alameda's rooftop terrace, is a good place for dinner outdoors; in August it usually runs on summer hours, so check the opening hours before you go. Here are more plans for drinks in Valencia and things to do in Valencia at night. For early summer, see things to do in Valencia in July.

Tips for August

• Stay hydrated and avoid the sun from 12:00 to 17:00.
• Check opening hours: many shops and restaurants close or reduce their hours.
• Book a terrace for dinner: outdoor tables are the most sought after.
• Have a plan B for storms in the second half of the month.

Frequently asked questions

What is the weather like in Valencia in August?

It is the hottest month: highs of about 31 °C, high humidity, nights of 23-24 °C and the sea at 26-27 °C. There may be storms in the second half of the month.

Is August a good time to visit Valencia?

Yes, if you like the beach and outdoor nightlife. The city is quieter, although it is very hot at midday and some businesses close for holidays.

What to do in Valencia in August when it is hot?

The beach early or late in the afternoon, museums and markets at midday, the Albufera at sunset and terraces at night.

When is La Tomatina in Buñol?

On the last Wednesday of August, in Buñol, about 40 kilometres from Valencia. You need a ticket to take part.

Which beaches are near Valencia?

In the city, Malva-rosa, El Cabanyal and La Patacona; to the south, the beaches of El Saler and La Devesa, quieter and surrounded by nature.

What is on at Palau Alameda in August?

August's agenda is at the end of this article and updates automatically. Opening hours may change in August: check them before you go.