August is the hottest, most humid month, with the warmest sea of the year and the small chance of a brief shower on the green islands. It's peak turtle season and festival time — Baía das Gatas on São Vicente is unmissable if you love music.
Weather in August
| Average high | 28°C |
| Average low | 24°C |
| Sea temperature | 26°C |
| Rainfall | Light breeze |
| Wind | ≈8 hrs |
| Daily sunshine | ≈8 hrs |
These figures reflect the eastern beach islands of Sal, Boa Vista and Maio, which are hottest and driest. The green, mountainous islands — Santo Antão, Fogo, São Nicolau and Brava — are a few degrees cooler and can be cloudier and wetter, especially at altitude.
What’s on in August
The Baía das Gatas festival (São Vicente, August full moon) is a huge open-air music event.
Wildlife: Peak turtle nesting on Maio, Boa Vista and Sal.
Crowds & prices
Busy; the Baía das Gatas festival packs out São Vicente. For the bigger picture across the year, see our guide to the best time to visit Cape Verde.
What to do in August
Whatever the month, you can pair a beach island such as Sal or Boa Vista with something more active — hiking on Santo Antão, the Pico do Fogo climb, or watersports on Sal. Not sure where to go? Compare islands in our guide to which island to choose.
Frequently asked questions
Is August a good time to visit Cape Verde?
Hot, humid and festival time. August offers around 28°C by day and a 26°C sea, so it’s generally good for a beach trip. See the notes above on crowds and what’s on.
Can you swim in Cape Verde in August?
Yes — the sea sits around 26°C in August. Choose sheltered bays for swimming, as open beaches can have strong currents.
What is the weather like in Cape Verde in August?
Expect around 28°C by day and 24°C at night, a sea of about 26°C, light breeze rainfall and ≈8 hrs.