What's the Weather like in San Sebastian in August
Temperature
August in San Sebastian is typified by long stretches of bright, hot sunshine interspersed with a few scattered showers in the day. And wonderfully warm nights that can also turn to drizzle at times.
The maritime weather means there is always a little rain forecast in San Sebastian. But that doesn't seem to bother the thousands of people that travel to the area every year. This part of Northern Spain does traditionally have more moisture than places such as the Balearics. But with a more exclusive clientele and a far more up market feel, a little spot of rain cannot cast a shadow on such a sensational place to be.
Average temperatures of 21°C ensure every day has some warm weather in San Sebastian. And with peak temperatures reaching 25°C on an almost daily basis, there is definitely more good weather than bad. During August, temperatures have regularly reached over 30°C in San Sebastian, with the highest recorded temperature occurring in 2003 when the thermometer reached 39°C.
Rain
And though August is not as dry as July when it comes to average rainfall, the same number of days expect rain in August as they do in the month before only some of the showers may be a little stronger, reaching 110mm across the month.
Minimum temperatures remain at a very comfortable 16°C during August, and only fall by 2°C in the month following.
Sunshine Hours / Average Sea Temperature
On average, August boasts a full 11 hours of daily sunshine in San Sebastian. And all that beautiful sun ensures that the sea temperatures in this part of Northern Spain are at their warmest at this time of year. Temperatures are usually recorded at 21°C across the coast line, offering a fantastic climate for the sunbather, the surfer, the sailor or anyone who wants to enjoy the waters off this incredibly unique part of Spain.
San Sabastian Hotels in August
For those visiting San Sebastian on a budget, the Hotel Record offers some very cost effective accommodation. Though prices are at their peak in the month of August, they are still very favourable for this part of Spain. A family room offers ample space for a large party and the entire hotel is only a 15 minute walk from all the most popular beaches and amenities. The rooms are basic but well maintained and very clean. And with very friendly hosts who are always happy to point you to the best places to eat and things to do, this is a wonderful way to make San Sebastian far more affordable.
For those that come to San Sebastian to surf, the Surfing Etxea offers the ideal accommodation. This surfing hostel is situated directly in front of La Zurriola Beach, which means you can always see the state of the waves. And when you aren't out surfing, the amazing hosts at Surfing Etxea will have you hiking, long boarding, cycling, running or sitting back and enjoying the gastronomic delights of the region. When you stay at Surfing Etxea you join a community and have an experience you are never going to want to forget.
Hotel Niza is fabulous quirky hotel run by famous San Sebastián sculptor Eduardo Chillida - and the hotel truly reflects the artistic nature of its owner. The building still boasts many of its original features that date back over a century as well as displaying some more modern art alongside. This spacious accommodation has a pastel theme, which is perfect to accentuate the peaceful nature of the sea surrounding it. Take in the views of La Concha beach from the onsite Bar Biarritz or enjoy breakfast on the terrace. In the heat of the August sun, this hotel is truly exquisite.
San Sebastian Beach for August
Take one foot onto La Zurriola beach in August and you will be surrounded by the young, surfer crowd that flocks to San Sebastian at this time of the year. The maritime climate ensures fabulous waves for most of the year, and a great place to learn a new skill or show off old tricks. But it isn't just the water than has people flexing their muscles, football, volleyball and all other beach sports are usually in full flow. All you have to do is join in.
Isla Santa Clara is home to the smallest beach in San Sebastian, and the most exclusive. As the beach is only accessible by boat, it is far less crowded than the other beaches in the area. And at only 30 meters long, this stretch of sand is not that big. But it is still well equipped with its own bar, terrace and natural swimming pool. Just make sure you go when the tide is out, or there won't be any beach to speak of.
Bars and Restaurants
As the name suggests, you never have to miss a match when you go to Bar Sport. The bar TV's will display all the most popular games from back home, while you enjoy a nice drink and delicious pintxos in the welcoming atmosphere. On a San Sebastian bar crawl, this is the ideal place to stop off. Or if you just want to sit back and have a nice evening with friends, you could easily stay in Bar Sport all night.
The views, the service, the innovative presentation and the incredible flavours ensure Restaurante Akelare truly is a sensory delight. Be seen to your table which is sure to have a view over the Bay of Biscay, and be welcomed by very attentive and helpful staff. Choose from the variety of a la carte options or opt for the delicious tasting menu. This Michelin starred restaurant is really deserving of its reputation and is the ideal place for a very special meal in San Sebastian.
The Cote Bar Donostia is small, it is friendly and it serves the most delicious cocktails. And it should always be on your places to go when in San Sebastian. The staff are well versed in all types of mixology to ensure there's always something new to try. Well-chosen music livens up the atmosphere and ensures a range of different aged patrons are always trying to get in. It's the place to be seen and to see other people. Just make sure you get there early, you won't want to be the one that is left out.
Things to do in San Sebastian in August
A beautiful day in August is the perfect time to take a drive up to Donibane/San Juan from San Sebastian. Thanks to its close proximity to the French border, you can reach France by car or bus from San Sebastian in less than an hour. The journey along the coastline is exceptionally beautiful, and the change in culture makes it feel like you have been on a multi-location holiday. Yet you can still be back in time for dinner.
The Combs of Wind is the most famous statue from local Sculptor and hotel owner Eduardo Chillida which sits at the edge of La Concha beach. This wonderful homage to the Basque industry is a beauty in its own right. But it also sits on a site that offers some of the most sensational views of the surrounding area. Take in the depth of meaning of this incredible statue and enjoy the walk up the cliff to its location point. This is a wonderful way to spend time in San Sebastian and feel a little more cultured at the same time.
