Summer is here, but many of us have yet to book a holiday to sunnier climes for a week or two of sunbathing, swimming in the sea or reclining by the pool. However, all is not lost – in fact, booking a last-minute holiday to enjoy in August is the perfect way to relax and unwind.

If you’re in need of a little inspiration, here are 10 fantastic holiday destinations to travel to in August

IBIZA

If you’d like a lively holiday with great music, an energetic atmosphere, and fabulous beaches, you can’t do better than Ibiza in August – the clubbing capital of Europe. However, Ibiza has so much more to offer than nightclubs: there are white sandy beaches, quiet coastal villages, and chic markets to enjoy, and you can visit them all without being disturbed by the all-night parties – even in the high season. Santa Eulalia, Es Cana and Portinatx are all resorts we love for their tranquillity, tradition and beauty, and are well worth a visit whether you’re travelling alone, as a couple, or as a family with very young children.

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MAJORCA

The largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, Majorca. It has something for everyone, making it ideal for a family holiday but also for couples wanting a quieter, romantic visit. Majorca has a party side to it, in the form of Magaluf.  Neighbouring Palma Nova is suited to families, while other highly rated resorts include Santa Ponsa, Cala D’or and Alcudia.

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PORTUGAL

For sun, sea and super beaches without having to fly too far, Portugal is a terrific holiday destination in August. We’ve described it here as ‘one of the most beautiful places on earth’. And it is – a blend of excellent golden sand beaches, whitewashed buildings, cultural landmarks and alluring towns and villages, not to mention golf courses. Praia Verde, Praia da Rocha and Porto de Mos in the Algarve are great spots for a beach holiday, as is Vilamoura, whilst Lisbon and Porto are go-to destinations for a city break.

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CORFU

This beautiful island is located just off the west coast of mainland Greece and is a real favourite with families searching for a blissful beach holiday as well as couples and groups of friends looking for a lively break. Lovers of sun, sea and sand will be thrilled by the range of Corfu – Sidari is highly recommended – while those wanting a faster pace of holiday will be entertained by loud and proud Kavos.

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GRAN CANARIA

Holidaymakers can never really go wrong with the Canary Islands in August, and Gran Canaria is one of the most popular of the islands. It delivers on every level – bustling regions and towns, a family friendly ambience, large and welcoming beaches, and plenty to see and do. Pick a resort to suit your taste; Maspalomas, Playa del Ingles and Puerto Rico are big hitters, but you’ll find Amadores and Playa de Mogan quieter and even a little on the sleepy side. The latter is a charming little spot, perfect for romantics.

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TENERIFE

Tenerife is a volcanic island and the largest of the Canaries. Here you’ll find black sand beaches, an incredible natural landscape and plenty of night-time activities. For thrill seekers, the Thai-inspired water park Siam Park should do the trick, with a huge range of attractions, including a 28m water slide, lazy river and The Volcano – a ride that plunges visitors into the dark before the start of a laser show. If you’re into nature then you will love Mount Teide National Park, where you can discover the volcanic landscape and visit the highest point in Spain.

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FUERTEVENTURA

Similar to Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura is famous for its no less than 150 beaches, boasting 150 of them. However, the island has a more laidback pace, which makes it the perfect place to unwind and really relax. Although Fuerteventura does boast a nightlife, it’s low key compared to other Canary Islands; Gran Tarajal in particular is a quaint resort that’s perfect if you value quiet evenings. If you really want to escape the hustle and the bustle then you can visit Playas De Jandia, a peaceful beach resort surrounded by natural landscape. For families, the Baku waterpark is a fun day out and makes a change from the beach.

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LANZAROTE

Lanzarote is a great all-rounder with its beaches, nightlife, and natural landscapes. For those who like to explore, Timanfaya National Park has stunning volcanic landscapes that are definitely worth a visit, as are the lava caves of Cuerva de los Verdes and Los Jameos del Agua. For nightlife, Puerto del Carmen has a lively scene, perfect for those looking to have a bit fun on holiday. For beach holidays, look no further than Playa Blanca, which has miles of white sandy beaches and clear waters making it ideal for families.

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COSTA BRAVA

As a holiday destination of excellence, Spain is still going strong and will always be popular with tourists because of its short flight times, sunny climate, and relaxed vibe. The choice of resorts seems endless, whether focusing on the mainland or the neighbouring Balearic Islands (Ibiza, Majorca, Menorca, Formentera). We’ve picked out Costa Brava here; part of the Catalonia region, it has an eye-catching coastline and pleasant regions such as Tossa del Mar and Lloret de Mar. The fabulous city of Barcelona is close by, too – why not spend a couple of days in the capital of Catalonia?

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MALTA

We love Malta, that hidden diamond of an island tucked away in the middle of the Mediterranean. Malta is a paradise of gorgeous beaches, little coves, ancient ruins and striking architecture, and luxurious lagoons in which to swim and paddle. If you’re holidaying with the kids, there’s still plenty to keep them entertained in Malta. Aside from water sports in abundance – scuba diving, jet skiing and kayaking – there is also the National Aquarium and Splash and Fun Water Park.

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