Kinsale Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Kinsale.
Climate overview of Kinsale
Temperatures in Kinsale, County Cork, Ireland, shift moderately through the seasons. The warmest month is August at 19°C (66°F), and the coolest is February at 10°C (50°F).
The city has a wet climate, receiving around 1060 mm (42 in) of rainfall per year. December is the wettest month. Sunshine peaks in May, when the city sees around 6.5 hours of sunshine per day.
Kinsale Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Kinsale - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Kinsale
In Kinsale, seasonal changes bring about a moderate variation in temperatures. On average, daytime temperatures range from a pleasant 19°C (66°F) in August to a chilly 10°C (50°F) in February.
Nighttime temperatures range from 14°C (57°F) in August to 6°C (43°F) in February.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Kinsale
Kinsale has a notably wet climate with abundant precipitation, recording 1060 mm (42 in) of rainfall per year. The wettest period in Kinsale occurs in December, which receives around 111 mm (4.4 in) of precipitation. During the driest month, May, Kinsale experiences moderate rainfall, totaling 71 mm (2.8 in). The consistent precipitation levels throughout the year contribute to a relatively stable climate. For more details, please visit our Kinsale Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Kinsale
In Kinsale, summer days are longer and more sunny, with daily sunshine hours peaking at 6.5 hours in May. As the darker season arrives, the brightness of the sun becomes less. December sees a soft sun for only 1.9 hours per average day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Water Temperature in Kinsale
The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 8°C (46°F) in March to 16°C (61°F) in August.
Water temperature over the year
Humidity in Kinsale by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Kinsale.
The city experiences its highest humidity in December, reaching 85%. In April, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 71%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in Kinsale
The average wind speed over the year ranges from 4 m/s (8 knots) to 6 m/s (12 knots). It is lower in June, July and August and higher in January, February, March and December. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit Kinsale
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: July and August
- Warmest weather: July, August and September
- Most sunshine: May
- Warmest water temperature: July, August and September, although the water may still feel cool.
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Kinsale
What is the best time to visit Kinsale?
July and August typically offer the most optimal weather in Kinsale. In contrast, January, February, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions.
What temperatures can I expect in Kinsale?
Daytime highs range from 10°C (50°F) in February to 19°C (66°F) in August. Nighttime lows range from 6°C (43°F) to 14°C (57°F).
How much rain does Kinsale get?
Annual rainfall is around 1060 mm (42 in). December is the wettest month with 111 mm (4.4 in), while May is the driest with 71 mm (2.8 in).
How sunny is Kinsale?
Kinsale receives around 1,435 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 194 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 56 hours.
Kinsale 3-Day Forecast
Kinsale on the map
Kinsale is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
Where to go in July - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Cork
19°C (66°F) Kilkenny
20°C (68°F) Dublin20°C (68°F) Kenmare
19°C (66°F) Galway20°C (68°F) Killarney19°C (66°F) Westport19°C (66°F) Doolin18°C (64°F) 
Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
Go to Dingle in Ireland
Dolphins, Whales and breathtaking views. The colorful fishing village Dingle in Ireland has it all and this town is a must for your bucket list.
An Irish adventure like no other in Killarney National Park
Head down to the South West part of the country, County Kerry, to the small town of Killarney. If you want to experience what Ireland is really all about
Horseback riding in Ireland
Ireland is the most ideal place in the world for horseback riding. Combine this with the most hospitable people you will ever encounter and you have an unforgettable dream trip to add to your bucket list.