Surabaya in August

August weather, activities, events & insider tips

August Weather in Surabaya

31°C (88°F) High Temp

23°C (73°F) Low Temp

38 mm (1.5 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is August Right for You?

Advantages

Dry season advantage - August falls in musim kemarau with significantly less rain than December-March, making it ideal for exploring outdoor attractions like Suramadu Bridge and Kenjeran Beach without constant downpours
Festival season peaks - Bulan Kemerdekaan (Independence Month) brings city-wide celebrations, traditional competitions, and street performances that showcase authentic Javanese culture tourists rarely experience
Comfortable evening temperatures - After 6 PM, temperatures drop to 24-26°C (75-79°F) creating perfect conditions for exploring Tunjungan Street night markets and riverside dining along Kalimas without oppressive heat
Peak season for local specialties - August marks gudeg season when jackfruit is freshest, and many warungs offer special Independence Day menu items like nasi tumpeng and traditional jajanan pasar

Considerations

Midday heat intensity - Temperatures combined with 70% humidity create feels-like temperatures of 35-37°C (95-99°F) between 11 AM-3 PM, making outdoor sightseeing uncomfortable without strategic planning
Independence Day crowds - August 17th week brings domestic tourism surge and traffic congestion around major attractions, with hotel prices increasing 40-60% compared to July
Intermittent afternoon storms - While brief (20-30 minutes), sudden thunderstorms can disrupt outdoor plans and create temporary flooding in lower areas like Wonokromo district

Best Activities in August

Traditional Batik Workshop Tours in Kampung Batik Jetis

August's lower humidity compared to rainy season makes indoor batik workshops more comfortable, plus Independence Month brings special patriotic pattern demonstrations. Many workshops offer 3-hour sessions where you create traditional motifs used in August 17th celebrations. The cooler morning temperatures (23-25°C/73-77°F) are perfect for the 1.5 km (0.9 mile) walking tour through the kampung's narrow alleys.

Booking Tip: Book 5-7 days ahead as domestic tourists increase during Independence Month. Sessions typically cost IDR 200,000-350,000 per person including materials. Morning slots (8-11 AM) are most comfortable before midday heat peaks.

Culinary Street Food Tours in Genteng District

August brings special Independence Day menu items and the freshest seasonal ingredients for iconic East Javanese dishes. Evening tours (6-10 PM) take advantage of cooler temperatures and busy night market atmosphere. Local favorites like rawon, rujak cingur, and lontong balap are at their seasonal best with fresh herbs and vegetables.

Booking Tip: Evening tours typically cost IDR 300,000-500,000 per person including 8-10 food stops. Book through operators offering small groups (maximum 8 people) for authentic warung experiences. See current tour options in booking section below.

East Java Traditional Market and Mosque Circuit

August's dry weather makes the 4 km (2.5 mile) walking circuit between Pasar Genteng, Ampel Mosque, and surrounding Arab Quarter ideal for exploration. Independence Month brings special ceremonial displays and traditional craft demonstrations. Early morning visits (6-9 AM) avoid peak heat while experiencing authentic local life during Ramadan preparation season.

Booking Tip: Self-guided or with local guides typically costing IDR 150,000-250,000 for half-day tours. Start before 8 AM to complete outdoor portions before temperature peaks. Guided tours provide cultural context for Islamic traditions and Javanese customs.

Suramadu Bridge and Madura Island Day Trips

August's clearer skies provide optimal views of the 5.4 km (3.4 mile) bridge and better conditions for exploring Madura's salt fields and bull racing venues. Dry season means reliable ferry connections and comfortable temperatures for the outdoor cultural sites. The bridge observation deck offers spectacular sunset views without rainy season haze.

Booking Tip: Full day tours typically cost IDR 400,000-650,000 including transport and entrance fees. Book tours that depart early (7 AM) to maximize time before afternoon heat. Licensed operators provide air-conditioned vehicles essential for comfort.

Trowulan Archaeological Site Exploration

August's dry conditions make the 30-minute drive to this ancient Majapahit capital ideal, with clear access to outdoor temple ruins and minimal mud concerns. The 2 km (1.2 mile) site circuit is comfortable in morning temperatures, and Independence Month often features special historical reenactments showcasing Indonesia's pre-colonial heritage.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours cost IDR 350,000-500,000 including transport from Surabaya and guide services. Morning departure (8 AM) essential to complete outdoor exploration before 32°C (90°F) temperatures. Museum portions provide air-conditioned relief.

Mangrove Conservation Education Tours

August marks peak season for mangrove ecosystem tours in Wonorejo, with lower water levels providing better wildlife viewing opportunities. The 2-hour boat tours showcase conservation efforts while staying cool on the water. Educational centers offer air-conditioned learning spaces during midday heat peaks.

Booking Tip: Tours typically cost IDR 100,000-200,000 per person for 2-3 hour experiences. Morning slots (8-11 AM) or late afternoon (4-7 PM) provide optimal temperatures and wildlife activity. Book with operators emphasizing environmental education.

August Events & Festivals

August 17

Indonesian Independence Day Celebrations

City-wide festivities include traditional competitions (panjat pinang, lomba makan kerupuk), military parades, and cultural performances throughout Surabaya. Major celebrations occur at Tugu Pahlawan and Balai Kota with free public access to traditional music, dance, and food festivals.

Throughout August

Surabaya Cultural Festival

Month-long celebration of East Javanese traditions featuring batik exhibitions, traditional puppet shows (wayang kulit), and gamelan performances. Multiple venues across the city showcase local artisans and offer hands-on cultural workshops for visitors.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight, breathable cotton or bamboo fiber clothing - synthetic materials trap moisture in 70% humidity and become uncomfortable quickly

SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen - UV index of 8 requires reapplication every 2 hours for outdoor activities

Compact umbrella or light rain jacket - afternoon storms last 20-30 minutes but can be intense with little warning

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - wet surfaces from brief storms can be slippery, especially around traditional markets

Insect repellent containing 20-30% DEET - August's warmth increases mosquito activity, particularly in evening hours

Electrolyte powder or tablets - high humidity and temperatures can lead to faster dehydration than expected

Light cardigan or long sleeves - air conditioning in malls, restaurants, and museums can be quite cold (18-20°C/64-68°F)

Waterproof phone case or bag - protecting electronics during sudden downpours and humid conditions

Hand sanitizer and tissues - increased importance in crowded traditional markets and street food areas

Small towel or handkerchief - useful for wiping sweat and hands in humid conditions throughout the day

Insider Knowledge

Visit major outdoor attractions like Tugu Pahlawan between 7-10 AM when temperatures are 23-26°C (73-79°F) and lighting is optimal for photos, avoiding the midday tourist crowds and intense heat

August 17th week accommodation prices spike 40-60%, but booking Sunday-Wednesday stays during this period can save 20-30% compared to weekend rates while still experiencing Independence celebrations

Local warungs serve the best seasonal specialties between 11 AM-2 PM when ingredients are freshest, but avoid this timing for outdoor dining - opt for air-conditioned spots during peak heat hours

The new Trans Semanggi BRT extension opened in 2024 provides air-conditioned transport to major attractions, saving money on taxi rides and avoiding traffic during Independence Month celebrations

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities between 11 AM-3 PM when combined temperature and humidity create dangerous heat index levels above 37°C (99°F), leading to heat exhaustion

Underestimating Independence Day impact on transportation and accommodation - August 15-19 sees massive domestic tourism surge requiring advance planning and higher budgets

Wearing inappropriate footwear for wet conditions - August's brief but intense storms create slippery surfaces that catch unprepared tourists off-guard, particularly around traditional markets