For travellers seeking sunshine, adventure, wildlife encounters or quality time with loved ones, August is one of the best times of year to embark on a long-haul escape. Whether you're travelling as a family, planning a romantic retreat, searching for guaranteed sunshine or dreaming of an unforgettable safari experience, there are plenty of exceptional holiday destinations around the world that are at their very best at this time of the year.
From the tropical shores of Bali and Mauritius to the vibrant culture of Barbados and the wildlife-rich plains of Kenya, these are some of the best long haul destinations in August from the UK based on the opinions of our well travelled holiday experts here at Elegant Resorts.
Best Long Haul Destinations in August For Families
When it comes to the best long haul holidays in August for families, Bali is hard to beat. August falls within Bali's dry season, bringing warm sunshine, lower humidity and ideal conditions for exploring the island's incredible landscapes and coastline. Families can enjoy a wonderful combination of beach relaxation, outdoor adventures and cultural discovery, making it one of the most rewarding long haul destinations in August.
Bali really offers something for every age group. Younger travellers can spend their days building sandcastles on golden beaches and swimming in calm waters while older children and teenagers can discover the island's diverse wildlife and enjoy activities ranging from snorkelling to paddleboarding. The island's welcoming atmosphere and family-friendly culture make it particularly appealing for those travelling with children.
One of the finest places for families to stay in Bali is the Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay. Set along a beautiful stretch of coastline, the resort provides direct beach access and exceptional facilities for both children and adults. A particular highlight is the Jimba Kids Club, which offers a safe and fun filled environment for young guests aged between five and twelve years old. Designed to celebrate Bali's rich cultural heritage, this unique kids club features interactive activities that encourage creativity, learning and fun.
Every day introduces a different themed adventure, from the popular 'Pirates of Jimba' and 'Master Chef' experiences to the exciting 'Castaway' beach day. While children are fully entertained, parents can take advantage of some well-deserved downtime. Whether relaxing on the beach, indulging in a rejuvenating spa treatment or learning new culinary skills at the resort's cooking school, there are plenty of opportunities to unwind and make the most of some down time. For families seeking sunshine, culture and adventure, Bali firmly earns its place among the best long haul destinations in August.
Best Long Haul Destinations in August For Couples
For couples looking to escape to paradise, Mauritius is one of the best long haul destinations in August. This idyllic Indian Ocean island combines spectacular natural beauty with luxury accommodation, world-class wellness experiences and endless opportunities for romance.
August is an especially good time to visit Mauritius thanks to its pleasant tropical climate. Temperatures are slightly cooler than during the island's summer months, creating ideal conditions for exploring the diverse landscapes in the surrounding region. Couples can enjoy scenic hikes through lush mountains, discover glorious hidden waterfalls and take in breathtaking coastal views without the intense heat often associated with tropical destinations.
Mauritius is also renowned for its luxurious resorts, many of which feature stunning beachfront or overwater accommodation. Days can be spent unwinding in award-winning spas, strolling hand-in-hand along pristine beaches or enjoying unforgettable sunset experiences overlooking the Indian Ocean.
For the ultimate romantic escape, One&Only Le Saint Geran stands out as one of the finest resorts on the island. Located on its own private peninsula, this exceptional retreat offers an unrivalled combination of luxury, privacy and personalised customer service. Couples can enjoy elegant accommodation, a spectacular private beach and access to a world-class spa designed to promote relaxation and wellbeing.
Dining is another highlight here, with a collection of outstanding restaurants serving everything from fresh seafood to international cuisine. Beyond the resort, couples can take advantage of a wide range of activities including snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, exploring vibrant coral reefs or embarking on a romantic boat trip along the coast. Whether you are celebrating a honeymoon, anniversary or simply enjoying some quality time together, Mauritius remains one of the best long haul holidays in August for couples.
Best Long Haul Destinations in August For Sun
Travellers in search of guaranteed sunshine should look no further than Barbados. Blessed with warm temperatures, golden beaches and a vibrant cultural scene, this Caribbean gem is one of the most luxurious long haul destinations in August for those wanting to combine relaxation with authentic island experiences.
August is a particularly exciting time to visit Barbados as it coincides with the spectacular finale of the island's famous Crop Over Festival. This historic celebration showcases the very best of Bajan culture through colourful street parades, energetic calypso music, elaborate costumes and delicious Bajan cuisine. The atmosphere across the island is party-like and infectious, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to experience Barbados culture at its most vibrant.
Alongside the celebrations, Barbados offers everything travellers could want from a luxury sunny holiday. Crystal-clear waters provide excellent conditions for swimming and snorkelling, while catamaran cruises offer a romantic way to explore the coastline. Couples can also enjoy unforgettable experiences such as swimming alongside sea turtles, discovering hidden coves and relaxing on some of the Caribbean's most beautiful beaches.
For a truly memorable stay, The Sandpiper is one of the island's most sought-after boutique hotels. Known for its warm hospitality and intimate atmosphere, this elegant retreat provides guests with direct access to a stunning private beach where they can spend their days unwinding beside the sea or take advantage of the many activities arranged by the knowledgeable on-site team.
From watersports and sailing excursions to bespoke island experiences, there are countless ways to enjoy Barbados beyond the beach. Combined with its consistently sunny weather and lively cultural calendar, it is easy to see why Barbados ranks among the best long haul destinations in August from the UK.
Best Long Haul Destinations in August For a Safari
For wildlife enthusiasts, few experiences compare to witnessing the Great Migration in Kenya's Masai Mara. August is widely regarded as one of the very best times to visit this iconic safari destination, making it one of the best long haul holidays in August for travellers seeking adventure and extraordinary wildlife encounters.
During August, millions of wildebeest and zebra continue their dramatic migration across East Africa, with many making the perilous crossing of the Mara River. These unforgettable moments attract wildlife lovers from around the world and create some of the most spectacular safari viewing opportunities on the planet.
The dry season conditions in August further enhance the experience. Sunny days and sparse vegetation make it easier to spot wildlife, while animals frequently gather around water sources, increasing the chances of memorable sightings. Visitors can expect to encounter lions, elephants, cheetahs, leopards, giraffes and countless other beautiful species throughout the reserve.
For an exceptional safari experience, Angama Mara offers a truly remarkable base. Perched high above the Great Rift Valley, the lodge boasts breathtaking views across the Mara and provides direct access to some of Kenya's most productive wildlife viewing areas.
The expert on-site team can arrange extraordinary safari experiences tailored to individual interests, from game drives and guided walks to unique photographic opportunities. Guests can also participate in photography tutorials back at base, making it an excellent choice for anyone hoping to capture the incredible wildlife and landscapes of the Masai Mara. For travellers seeking an unforgettable safari adventure, Kenya remains one of the finest long haul destinations in August.
Plan Your Tailor Made Long Haul Holiday in August
Whether you're searching for a family adventure in Bali, a romantic escape to Mauritius, sunshine-filled days in Barbados or an extraordinary safari in Kenya, there are countless opportunities to enjoy the best long haul destinations in August when you book a getaway with Elegant Resorts.
Our Luxury Travel Specialists are on hand to help create a tailor-made long haul holiday in August that perfectly matches your individual requirements. Using their first-hand destination knowledge and extensive travel expertise, our team can craft unique itineraries designed around your interests, preferences and travel style. Get in touch today and let us help you plan a bespoke luxury escape that is every bit as individual as you are.