Weather in Anafi in July
July is the height of summer in Anafi: hot and almost completely dry. Temperatures typically peak at around 28°C / 83°F in the afternoon and fall to about 23°C / 74°F at night. Nights stay warm, so air-conditioning helps. Sea temperatures average around 23°C / 73°F, comfortable for swimming. You're very unlikely to see any rain. Anafi is a small, remote island east of Santorini, with rugged hills and very little shelter from the wind. The meltemi, the northerly wind of the Aegean, blows on many days and takes the edge off the heat, though it can also whip up dust and rough seas. Days bring around 14½ hours of daylight, leaving long, light evenings. Bring loose, light clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, strong sunscreen and sunglasses. When the wind picks up, a light windproof layer is handy for evenings by the water. Plan sightseeing for the early morning or evening, and keep the midday hours for the beach or a shaded taverna.
Swimming in Anafi in July
July is a great month for swimming in Anafi, with water temperatures around 23°C / 74°F. Swimming season is well underway, though the water keeps warming until August. On windy days, choose a beach sheltered from the north, where the water stays calmer. Quieter coves around the coast are often just as beautiful as the famous beaches. Popular beaches fill up by late morning, so arrive early.
Crowds & Prices in Anafi in July
Even at its busiest in July, Anafi stays small-scale, though rooms and ferry seats sell out. Prices for rooms, car hire and ferries are at their yearly high. Staying slightly outside the main town usually means better value and more space. Early mornings and late afternoons are the quietest times at popular sights. Book early, as the best-value rooms go first.
What's Open in Anafi in July
Ferries to Anafi from Piraeus and Rafina run at full summer frequency in July, but they sell out, so book ahead. Everything is open, from hotels and tavernas to beach bars and boat trips. Shops in tourist areas often stay open into the evening. Opening hours are long, with many tavernas serving until late. Boat trips and excursions run regularly, weather permitting.
Festivals & Holidays in Anafi in July
July is the start of the panigyri season, when villages celebrate their saints' days with music, dancing and long tables of food, often late into the night. Saint days such as Prophet Elias on 20 July bring feasts to chapels across the country, often on hilltops. Locals in Anafi mark these dates in the traditional way, and visitors are welcome to join in. Summer evenings are the time for festivals, open-air cinemas and late dinners outdoors.
Is July a Good Time to Visit Anafi?
July is a great time to visit Anafi if you want long beach days, a warm sea and the island at its liveliest. Expect highs of around 28°C / 83°F, lows near 23°C / 74°F and almost no rain. It suits families on school holidays and anyone who loves a busy summer atmosphere. It's less ideal if you dislike crowds or high prices. For a calmer trip with the sea still warm, consider June, September or October instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Anafi in July?
Sunset in Anafi is at around 8:40 pm at the start of July, around 8:35 pm in mid-July and around 8:25 pm by the end of the month, in Greek local time. The long evenings leave plenty of daylight after the heat of the day.
How hot does Anafi get in July?
July is one of the two hottest months, with long, sunny days and almost no rain. The meltemi wind often takes the edge off the heat, but on calm days the midday sun is fierce, and heatwaves can bring a few days of extreme heat. Plan sightseeing for the morning or evening, and drink plenty of water.
Is July a good time for walking on Anafi?
Only early in the morning or late in the day. July is hot, most paths have little shade and the midday sun is fierce. Start at dawn, carry plenty of water and wear a hat. 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 July?
No. Anafi is small enough to explore on foot, and the distances between the harbor, village and beaches are short. In July, some beaches may also be served by small boats or a seasonal minibus, and it's worth bringing a hat for the walks.
Is July or August better for visiting Anafi?
July is usually slightly better. Both months are hot, busy and expensive, but August is the absolute peak, especially around the 15 August holiday, when Greek families travel and ferries and rooms sell out. If you must go in August, book everything early.
Anafi Weather by Month
