Beirut in August

August weather, activities, events & insider tips

August Weather in Beirut

30°C (87°F) High Temp

24°C (76°F) Low Temp

0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is August Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect beach weather - August is peak summer with zero rainfall and constant sunshine for swimming and water sports along the Mediterranean coast
Extended daylight hours - sunset around 7:30 PM gives you maximum time for rooftop dining and outdoor exploration of neighborhoods like Gemmayzeh and Mar Mikhael
Festival season - Beirut International Film Festival, Baalbeck International Festival, and numerous outdoor concerts take advantage of the guaranteed dry weather
Ideal hiking conditions in nearby mountains - while the city swelters at 30°C (87°F), Mount Lebanon peaks stay 8-10°C (14-18°F) cooler with crystal clear visibility for day trips

Considerations

Intense heat and humidity - midday temperatures feel like 35°C+ (95°F+) with 70% humidity making walking tours exhausting between 11 AM-4 PM
Higher accommodation prices - August is peak season with hotel rates 40-60% higher than shoulder season months, especially beachfront properties
Crowded beaches and attractions - local summer holidays mean popular spots like Pigeon Rocks and Brazzaville are packed with families, especially weekends

Best Activities in August

Mediterranean Coastal Swimming and Beach Clubs

August's zero rainfall and 26°C (79°F) sea temperature create perfect conditions for beach activities. The coastal breeze provides relief from city heat. Local beach clubs offer day passes and are less crowded on weekdays. Morning swims before 10 AM avoid peak sun intensity (UV index 9).

Booking Tip: Day passes at beach clubs typically cost $20-40 USD. Book online for popular spots or arrive by 9 AM for walk-ins. Many offer complimentary shuttle from downtown. See current beach tour options in the booking section below.

Mount Lebanon Mountain Escape Tours

When Beirut hits 30°C (87°F), mountain villages like Ehden and Bcharre stay around 22°C (72°F). August's dry weather means perfect visibility for cedar forests and hiking trails. The contrast provides essential heat relief and mountain air quality is exceptional during summer months.

Booking Tip: Full-day mountain tours typically range $60-90 USD including transport and guide. Book through licensed operators with air-conditioned vehicles. Tours usually depart 8 AM to maximize cool morning hours. See current mountain tour options in booking section below.

Rooftop and Terrace Evening Experiences

August's late sunset (7:30 PM) and warm evenings create ideal conditions for rooftop dining and terrace bars. The heat makes air-conditioned indoor venues less appealing, pushing nightlife outdoors. Mediterranean breeze kicks in after 6 PM, making rooftop experiences comfortable until late night.

Booking Tip: Reserve rooftop restaurants 2-3 days ahead in August. Dinner typically costs $25-45 USD per person. Many venues offer sunset packages 6-8 PM. Rooftop bars often have minimum spend requirements $15-25 USD. Check current rooftop tour options in booking section below.

Early Morning Historical District Walking Tours

Beat the heat with 7-9 AM walking tours through Downtown, Gemmayzeh, and Achrafieh. August's clear skies provide excellent photography conditions, and early morning temperatures around 24°C (76°F) make walking comfortable. Streets are quieter before the heat drives locals indoors.

Booking Tip: Morning walking tours cost $25-35 USD and should start no later than 8 AM in August. Book with operators providing water and shade breaks. Tours typically last 2-3 hours. See current walking tour options in booking section below.

Air-Conditioned Museum and Gallery Tours

August heat makes indoor cultural activities essential during midday hours (11 AM-4 PM). Museums like Banjul and Sursock offer relief while exploring Lebanese heritage. Many galleries schedule special August exhibitions to attract heat-weary visitors seeking indoor entertainment.

Booking Tip: Museum entry typically costs $5-10 USD. Many offer combo tickets for multiple sites. Private guided museum tours range $40-60 USD for half-day including transport. Best visited during peak heat hours 12-3 PM. Check booking section below for cultural tour packages.

Sunset Coastal Drive and Cliff Exploration

August's reliable clear weather and late sunset create perfect conditions for coastal drives to Raouche and Pigeon Rocks. Evening temperatures drop to comfortable 26°C (79°F) with sea breeze. The golden hour lighting on Mediterranean cliffs is spectacular during summer months.

Booking Tip: Sunset coastal tours typically cost $35-50 USD including transportation. Tours start around 5 PM to catch golden hour. Many combine with dinner reservations at seaside restaurants. Book tours with convertible or open-air vehicles when available. See current coastal tour options in booking section below.

August Events & Festivals

Throughout August

Baalbeck International Festival

Lebanon's premier cultural festival featuring international artists performing at the ancient Roman temples of Baalbeck. August typically hosts the most prestigious performances with perfect weather guaranteeing outdoor concerts proceed as scheduled.

Mid to Late August

Beirut Nights Summer Concert Series

Outdoor concerts in various Beirut venues taking advantage of August's zero rainfall. Features mix of Arabic and international artists with venues like Forum de Beyrouth hosting major acts.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight linen or cotton clothing - avoid synthetic fabrics as 70% humidity makes them uncomfortable

SPF 50+ sunscreen and lip balm - UV index reaches 9 with strong Mediterranean sun reflection

Wide-brimmed hat and quality sunglasses - essential for midday outdoor activities

Comfortable walking sandals with good grip - marble and stone surfaces become slippery with sweat

Light cardigan or wrap - air conditioning in malls, restaurants, and museums can be aggressive

Insulated water bottle - staying hydrated is crucial, and many venues charge premium for water

Portable phone fan or cooling towel - invaluable during midday walking between air-conditioned spaces

Electrolyte supplements - high heat and humidity lead to significant salt loss through sweating

Moisture-wicking undergarments - cotton underwear stays damp and uncomfortable in humid conditions

Beach cover-up and flip-flops - spontaneous beach visits become essential for heat relief

Insider Knowledge

Locals take afternoon siestas 1-4 PM during August - many small shops close, so plan shopping and errands for morning or evening hours

Hotel rooftop pools often allow day-use access for $15-25 USD even if you're not staying there - a cheaper alternative to beach clubs

Supermarket prices for water spike in August - buy large bottles at local mini-marts for 30-40% less than tourist areas

The Beirut municipality runs free shuttle buses between major hotels and public beaches on weekends during August - ask hotel concierge for schedules

Avoid These Mistakes

Booking outdoor activities or walking tours after 10 AM - the heat becomes genuinely dangerous for extended sun exposure by midday

Underestimating water needs - tourists frequently need medical attention for dehydration; drink 3-4 liters (0.8-1 gallon) daily minimum

Wearing dark colors - black and navy clothing absorb heat making the 30°C (87°F) temperature feel like 35°C+ (95°F+)