Weather in Anafi in December
December in Anafi means early-winter conditions: cool and often wet. Daytime highs average around 15°C / 60°F, and nights drop to about 11°C / 52°F. Rain falls on around 9 days, with about 82 mm in total, usually in bursts rather than all-day drizzle. Sea temperatures average around 18°C / 64°F, bracing, and too cool for many swimmers. Strong northerly and southerly winds are common, and the sea can stay rough for days at a time. Anafi is a small, remote island east of Santorini, with rugged hills and very little shelter from the wind. Days bring around 10 hours of daylight, so plan sightseeing for the middle of the day. Pack a warm jacket, layers and a waterproof, plus shoes that can handle wet paths. Weather can change quickly at this time of year, so check the forecast before a long day out. Plan outdoor time around the middle of the day, when it's at its warmest.
Swimming in Anafi in December
At around 18°C / 64°F, the sea in Anafi is swimmable in December if you don't mind a chill. For warm-water swimming, aim for July, August and September, when the sea is at its best. There are no lifeguards or beach services out of season, so swim with care. Quieter coves around the coast are often just as beautiful as the famous beaches. A short wetsuit helps if you feel the cold.
Crowds & Prices in Anafi in December
Tourism in Anafi slows right down in December. Prices are at their lowest of the year, although fewer hotels are open. Christmas and New Year bring some Greek visitors home, but it stays quiet. Tavernas that stay open cater mainly to locals, which is often when the food is best. Book ahead anyway, as the few places that stay open are small.
What's Open in Anafi in December
In December, ferries between Piraeus and Rafina and Anafi run on a reduced winter timetable, and storms sometimes cause cancellations. Only a handful of rooms and one or two tavernas stay open, and some days almost nothing is. Archaeological sites and museums keep shorter winter hours. Most sites close on 25 and 26 December. It's worth calling ahead to restaurants, as off-season hours can be irregular.
Festivals & Holidays in Anafi in December
On 6 December, Saint Nicholas, patron saint of sailors, is honored in harbors across Greece, and decorated boats appear alongside Christmas trees. Christmas is celebrated with church services, carols sung door to door by children and festive sweets like melomakarona and kourabiedes. In Anafi, as across Greece, these traditions are very much alive. Beyond that, it's a month of everyday life, with locals filling the cafés and tavernas in the evenings.
Is December a Good Time to Visit Anafi?
It depends on what you want. In December, Anafi is peaceful and inexpensive, but the season is over, the sea is too cool for most swimmers and the weather can turn. In numbers: highs of about 15°C / 60°F, lows of 11°C / 52°F and rain on around 9 days in a typical December. It's fine for a quiet break or exploring its remote Chora. For a proper beach holiday, go in June, September or October.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Anafi in December?
In early December, the sun sets in Anafi at around 5:05 pm. By mid-month it's around 5:05 pm, and by the end of December around 5:10 pm. All times are Greek local time. With short days, plan outdoor sightseeing for the morning and early afternoon.
Does it get stormy in Anafi in December?
December is one of the stormiest months in the Aegean. Strong winds and bands of rain come through regularly, and the worst storms can cancel ferries for a day or more. There are calm, bright days in between, and snow at sea level is very rare. If you're traveling by ferry, allow a buffer day before any flight home.
Is December a good time for walking on Anafi?
Yes, on dry days. Walking in December can be very rewarding, with clear air and empty paths, but days are short, trails can be muddy after rain and the wind can be strong on exposed ground. Start early, carry a warm layer and check the forecast. The walk to Kalamiotissa Monastery beneath the great rock of Kalamos is the island's classic hike.
Do I need a car on Anafi in December?
No. Anafi is small enough to explore on foot, and the distances between the harbor, village and beaches are short. In December, seasonal minibuses and beach boats usually don't run, so be ready to walk and bring sturdy shoes.
Is December or January better for visiting Anafi?
December has the edge for atmosphere, with Christmas decorations and New Year celebrations, while January is quieter still, with Epiphany on 6 January. The weather is similar: cool, changeable and occasionally stormy. Both suit travelers who want the island at its most local.
Anafi Weather by Month
