Weather in Chania in August
In Chania, August brings high-summer weather that is hot and almost completely dry. Daytime highs average around 31°C / 88°F, and nights drop to about 22°C / 72°F. Even after dark it stays warm, so a room with air-conditioning makes a difference. Rainfall is close to zero. Sea temperatures average around 26°C / 79°F, warm enough for long swims. Chania sits beneath the White Mountains, and western Crete tends to be greener and wetter than the east of the island. The north coast often gets a cooling northerly breeze, while the south coast and inland plains feel hotter. Daylight lasts about 13½ hours, 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. Get out early and late, and save the hottest hours of the afternoon for the water.
Swimming in Chania in August
August is a great month for swimming in Chania, with water temperatures around 26°C / 78°F. This is when the sea is at its warmest all year. Try Balos and Falasarna for clear water. 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 Chania in August
August is one of the busiest months of the year in Chania, and the crowds show it. Prices for rooms, car hire and ferries are at their yearly high. The days around 15 August, a major Greek holiday, are the busiest of all, with ferries and rooms fully booked. On cruise-ship days, the main sights are busiest between late morning and mid-afternoon. The busiest spot is the Venetian harbor and Balos; for more space, explore the villages of the Apokoronas. Book accommodation and ferries months ahead.
What's Open in Chania in August
Ferries to Chania from Piraeus run at full summer frequency in August, but they sell out, so book ahead. The airport has direct flights from across Europe in the season, as well as flights from Athens. It's the full season, so hotels, restaurants, beach bars and excursions are all running. Archaeological sites and museums are on their longer summer hours. The Samaria Gorge is open, from early morning.
Festivals & Holidays in Chania in August
Many Greeks return to their home villages in August, and panigyria, village feasts with live music and dancing, run late into the night. 15 August, the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, is the biggest summer holiday, with church services and village festivals everywhere. In Chania, these occasions are celebrated much as they are across the rest of Greece. Summer evenings are the time for festivals, open-air cinemas and late dinners outdoors.
Is August a Good Time to Visit Chania?
August is a great time to visit Chania if you want long beach days, a warm sea and the island at its liveliest. Expect highs of around 31°C / 88°F, lows near 22°C / 72°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 Chania in August?
Sunset in Chania is at around 8:30 pm at the start of August, around 8:15 pm in mid-August and around 7:55 pm by the end of the month, in Greek local time. The Venetian harbor is a beautiful place to watch it.
Is it windy in Chania in August?
It can be. The meltemi, the northerly summer wind of the Aegean, often blows along Crete's north coast in August, making the sea choppy on north-facing beaches. It keeps the heat more bearable, though, and on windy days the south-coast beaches are usually calmer.
Can I visit Chania's Venetian harbor in August?
Yes. Chania's Venetian harbor is at its liveliest in August, but also at its busiest. Explore in the morning or after sunset, when it's cooler and the atmosphere is at its best. The walk out to the lighthouse at the end of the breakwater is a classic.
Do I need a car in Chania in August?
Not for Chania itself, which is easy to explore on foot. A car is the best way to reach Balos, Elafonisi and the White Mountains, as bus connections are limited.
Is August or September better for visiting Chania?
September, for most travelers. The sea is still warm and the weather still summery, but crowds and prices drop and the heat softens. August suits you only if you want the busiest, liveliest time of year.
Chania Weather by Month
