If you plan a vaction in Crete-
you MUST check this:
Month-by-Month Weather vacation Guide
The official season in Crete runs from May 1st to the end of October, with beautiful sunny days and a vibrant beach atmosphere. However, April and November are also lovely for exploring, especially if you enjoy hiking, climbing, cycling, and other outdoor activities. While our hotel is fully operational during the main season, we shift to apartment rentals in the off-season when the pool is closed. We offer special rates for week-long or month-long stays for those wanting to experience Crete’s quieter side.
January – Winter in Crete
Average Temperature: 10-15°C (50-59°F)
Weather: January is wintertime in Crete, with cooler temperatures and a higher chance of rain. But still you can enjoy quite a few sunny days- and go out and explore the island.
What to Wear: Bring a raincoat or umbrella and a warm jacket, as the evenings can be chilly.
Beach Swimming: Swimming isn’t ideal, to say the list… the water is cold, and the water is rough. But the beaches are beautiful for brisk walks, you can enjoy walking on Kolimbary’s beach, Maleme, Chania promenade by the beach, where the landscapes feel almost mystical in winter light. When it’s cold our recommendation is always Therisso, a beautiful drive to a picturesque village with excellent meat restaurants.
February – Winter Continues
Average Temperature: 9-16°C (52-61°F)
Weather: February remains cool and rainy with occasional sunny spells.
What to Wear: Layer up with a warm jacket, and pack an umbrella for rainy days.
Beach Swimming: Most people won’t swim, though you may see the occasional brave soul. This is a fantastic time for beach hikes or exploring quiet, picturesque Chania.
March – Winter to Early Spring
Average Temperature: 12-18°C (54-63°F)
Weather: March signals the start of spring with more sunny days, though rain is still likely.
What to Wear: Light layers with a waterproof jacket or umbrella for unexpected showers.
Beach Swimming: The water remains cold, but beaches like Falasarna and Balos are peaceful and make great spots for picnics or walking.
April – Full Spring
Average Temperature: 15-20°C (59-68°F)
Weather: Mild and fresh, April brings more sunshine and fewer rain days. Winds in Afrata can be pretty strong, but it’s not daily! Windy days come and go…
What to Wear: Light layers with a sweater or jacket for cool evenings.
Beach Swimming: Still early for swimming, though you can see some brave people go in… consider that at April can be ideal for beach walks and photography at Elafonissi or Falasarna, especially sunsets… A great month for outdoor adventures in Afrata’s hills.
May – Spring to Early Summer
Average Temperature: 18-24°C (64-75°F)
Weather: May feels like early summer with pleasant warmth and blue skies.
What to Wear: Light clothing with sun protection (sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen).
Beach Swimming: The sea begins to warm, making it swimmable for many. It’s a perfect time to enjoy the beaches with fewer crowds.
June – Summer Begins
Average Temperature: 22-28°C (72-82°F)
Weather: Hot days and warm evenings with almost no rain.
What to Wear: Summer attire with sun protection essentials.
Beach Swimming: Warm waters at Elafonissi, Balos, and Falasarna are perfect for swimming, and the beaches are lively and beautiful.
July – Peak Summer
Average Temperature: 25-30°C (77-86°F)
Weather: High temperatures, abundant sunshine, and virtually no rain.
What to Wear: Summer clothing, sunglasses, a hat, and plenty of sunscreen.
Beach Swimming: The sea is at its warmest, ideal for full beach days at any of the famous beaches.
August – High Summer
Average Temperature: 25-32°C (77-89°F)
Weather: August remains hot with long sunny days.
What to Wear: Light summer clothing, sun protection, and water to stay hydrated.
Beach Swimming: Perfect beach weather. Crowds are at their peak, especially at Balos and Elafonissi.
September – Late Summer
Average Temperature: 22-30°C (72-82°F)
Weather: Warm, with pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
What to Wear: Light layers, sunglasses, and sun protection.
Beach Swimming: The water is still warm, making this an ideal time for beachgoers seeking a quieter experience.
October – Early Autumn
Average Temperature: 22-28°C (64-75°F)
Weather: Sunny days with cooler evenings, and some rain may return.
What to Wear: Light layers with a sweater for the evenings.
Beach Swimming: The sea remains warm enough for swimming, particularly in early October. Beaches are quieter, and sunsets are spectacular.
November – Autumn
Average Temperature: 15-20°C (59-68°F)
Weather: Cooler, with more frequent rain showers.
What to Wear: Layers and a waterproof jacket.
Beach Swimming: The sea begins to cool, and most people stop swimming. However, the beaches remain a beautiful spot for walks and autumn sunsets.
December – Winter Begins
Average Temperature: 12-17°C (54-63°F)
Weather: Cooler, with rain likely and shorter days.
What to Wear: Warm layers, rain gear, and a jacket.
Beach Swimming: Swimming is rare, but the beaches are peaceful for winter walks, especially in areas like Falasarna.
Summerise:
Crete’s year-round beauty and changing seasons offer something special each month. Whether it’s swimming, hiking, site seeing, shopping, or simply unwinding by the sea, there’s always a reason to experience Crete, no matter the season.