Weather in Kea in November
November in Kea means late-autumn conditions: mild and fairly changeable. Average highs reach 19°C / 66°F, with lows of around 12°C / 53°F. In the water, expect around 19°C / 66°F, bracing, and too cool for many swimmers. There are typically 5 rainy days, with around 66 mm of rain in total. Kea is the closest Cycladic island to Athens, and its hills are greener than most, dotted with oak trees. The summer winds ease, and the light turns soft and golden. Daylight lasts about 10 hours, so plan sightseeing for the middle of the day. Bring layers, a warm sweater and a light waterproof, as the weather can turn. The weather can change from one week to the next, so pack for both warm and cool days. The light is softer than in summer, which makes it a lovely time for photos and walks. Plan outdoor time around the middle of the day, when it's at its warmest.
Swimming in Kea in November
Swimming in Kea in November is possible but bracing, with the sea at around 19°C / 67°F. The best time for swimming is July, August and September, with August usually the warmest. 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. If you feel the cold, a wetsuit top makes a difference.
Crowds & Prices in Kea in November
Tourism in Kea slows right down in November. Prices are at their lowest of the year, although fewer hotels are open. Go midweek if you can, as weekends bring visitors from Athens. With so few visitors, the atmosphere is genuinely local, and people have time to chat. Tavernas that stay open cater mainly to locals, which is often when the food is best. You can usually book at short notice.
What's Open in Kea in November
Ferries to Kea from Lavrio run all year, but less often in November, and rough seas can cancel sailings. Most hotels, restaurants and bars close for the winter, and only a few places stay open for locals. Museums and archaeological sites are open on winter hours. Cash is useful, as smaller places may not take cards. Check opening days before setting out, as some places open only at weekends.
Festivals & Holidays in Kea in November
21 November, the Presentation of the Virgin Mary, is marked with church services, and it's also Armed Forces Day. November is olive harvest season, when families gather to pick olives and the first new oil of the year appears. Locals in Kea mark these dates in the traditional way, and visitors are welcome to join in. Beyond that, it's a month of everyday life, with locals filling the cafés and tavernas in the evenings.
Is November a Good Time to Visit Kea?
It depends on what you want. In November, Kea is peaceful and inexpensive, but the season is over, the sea is too cool for most swimmers and the weather can turn. Expect highs of around 19°C / 66°F, lows near 12°C / 53°F and rain on around 5 days. It's fine for a quiet break or a quick getaway from Athens. For a proper beach holiday, go in June, September or October.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Kea in November?
In early November, the sun sets in Kea at around 5:25 pm. By mid-month it's around 5:15 pm, and by the end of November around 5:05 pm. All times are Greek local time. With short days, plan outdoor sightseeing for the morning and early afternoon.
Is the weather bad in Kea in November?
Not all the time, but it's more unsettled. November brings more rain, stronger winds and shorter days, and rough seas disrupt ferries more often. Between weather fronts there are still plenty of calm, sunny days that are pleasant for walking. Pack layers and a waterproof, and keep your ferry plans flexible.
Is Kea a good weekend trip from Athens in November?
Yes, if you want peace and quiet. Ferries from Lavrio run all year, and the island's walking trails and stone villages are lovely in November, but many hotels and tavernas close for the winter. Book somewhere that's open and check ferry times, as bad weather can cancel sailings.
Do I need a car on Kea in November?
Yes, if you want to see more than the port. Bus services are limited in November, and a car makes it easy to reach villages, beaches and viewpoints. Rental rates are among the lowest of the year, but fewer agencies are open.
Is November or December better for visiting Kea?
It depends on your plans. November is usually a little milder, but most tourist businesses have closed. December is cooler and wetter, but brings a festive atmosphere, with Christmas lights and decorations. Neither is a beach month, so choose by your dates.
Kea Weather by Month
