Weather in Crete in August
August in Crete means high-summer conditions: hot and almost completely dry. Average highs reach 29°C / 85°F, with lows of around 23°C / 73°F. Nights stay warm, so air-conditioning helps. In the water, expect around 25°C / 77°F, warm enough for long swims. You're very unlikely to see any rain. Crete is big enough to have several climates, with a milder north coast, a hotter, drier south and snowy mountains in between. 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. The sun is strong from mid-morning onwards, even when a breeze makes it feel cooler. Get out early and late, and save the hottest hours of the afternoon for the water.
Swimming in Crete in August
August is a great month for swimming in Crete, with water temperatures around 25°C / 78°F. Of the best swimming months, July, August and September, this is the warmest. Try Elafonisi, Balos and Vai for clear water. The summer wind can churn up exposed beaches, so check which way it's blowing before you pick one. Beaches are at their busiest now, so go early or late in the day.
Crowds & Prices in Crete in August
August is one of the busiest months of the year in Crete, and the crowds show it. Hotel prices are at their highest, and flights and ferries cost more too. Around 15 August, when Greek families travel, ferries and rooms sell out. The crowds concentrate at Knossos, Balos and Elafonisi, so for a calmer experience, head for the south coast and the mountain villages. Book rooms, ferries and car hire well in advance.
What's Open in Crete in August
In August, ferries from Piraeus to Crete run often, with extra fast boats in the peak season. 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. Museums and sites are open on extended summer hours. The Samaria Gorge is open, from early morning.
Festivals & Holidays in Crete 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 Crete, 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 Crete?
August is a great time to visit Crete if you want long beach days, a warm sea and the island at its liveliest. Expect highs of around 29°C / 85°F and lows near 23°C / 73°F. 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 Crete in August?
Sunset in Crete is at around 8:25 pm at the start of August, around 8:10 pm in mid-August and around 7:50 pm by the end of the month, in Greek local time. The long evenings leave plenty of daylight after the heat of the day.
Is it windy in Crete 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 hike the Samaria Gorge in August?
Yes. The gorge is open, but it's busy in August and the hike is long and hot. Start early from Xyloskalo, carry plenty of water and remember that it ends at Agia Roumeli, where you catch a boat to Sfakia or Sougia.
Do I need a car in Crete in August?
It's the best way to explore. Crete is spread out, and buses mainly link Heraklion with the busiest beaches and villages, so a hire car lets you reach quieter corners. In August, book early, as rental cars can sell out.
Is August or September better for visiting Crete?
September, for most travelers. The sea is still warm, the crowds thin out after the first week or two and prices drop, while most businesses stay open. August is the choice only if you want the island at its busiest and liveliest.
Crete Weather by Month
