Weather in Kos in February
February in Kos means late-winter conditions: cool and often wet. Expect highs of about 15°C / 60°F and overnight lows near 10°C / 51°F. The sea averages about 17°C / 63°F, too cold for most people to swim. Expect rain on around 8 days and about 88 mm over the month, often in heavy bursts with dry spells between them. Strong northerly and southerly winds are common, and the sea can stay rough for days at a time. Kos is long and fairly flat, with sandy beaches along its coasts and a mountain ridge running along the south of the island. You get about 11 hours of daylight a day, so plan sightseeing for the middle of the day. Bring a warm coat, layers, an umbrella and shoes that can cope with rain. Sunny spells between the rain can be beautiful, with clear air and long views. Plan outdoor time around the middle of the day, when it's at its warmest.
Swimming in Kos in February
The sea around Kos averages about 17°C / 62°F in February, which is cold for swimming, though a few hardy locals still take a dip. For warm-water swimming, aim for July, August and September, when the sea is at its best. Beaches such as Paradise Beach and Tigaki are lovely for a walk, even when the water is too cold to swim. Beaches are empty and unstaffed in winter, so swim only in calm conditions. A wetsuit makes a big difference if you want to get in.
Crowds & Prices in Kos in February
You'll have Kos largely to yourself in February. Rates for rooms and car hire drop to their yearly lows. With so few visitors, the atmosphere is genuinely local, and people have time to chat. It's a good time to see everyday life, away from the summer bustle. 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 Kos in February
Ferries to Kos from Piraeus run all year, but less often in February, and rough seas can cancel sailings. Direct international flights run mainly from spring to autumn, while flights from Athens operate all year. The main town stays open all year, but beach resorts close and many hotels shut for the winter. Museums and archaeological sites are open on winter hours.
Festivals & Holidays in Kos in February
February is usually carnival season, known as Apokries, with parties, costumes and parades in the weeks before Lent. Clean Monday, the first day of Lent, falls in February or March and is a public holiday, marked with kite flying, picnics and meatless feasts. Locals in Kos 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 February a Good Time to Visit Kos?
Yes, if you're after a quiet, local-feeling trip. In numbers: highs of about 15°C / 60°F, lows of 10°C / 51°F and rain on around 8 days in a typical February. In February, Kos is ideal for cycling around Kos Town, museums and long lunches, with few other visitors around. Don't come for swimming or nightlife, though. For sun and sea with fewer crowds than summer, choose June, September, October or November.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Kos in February?
Through February, sunset in Kos moves from around 5:35 pm to around 6:05 pm in Greek local time, as the evenings get longer. In mid-February, expect it at around 5:50 pm. With short days, plan outdoor sightseeing for the morning and early afternoon.
Does it rain a lot in Kos in February?
February is still part of the wet season, but rain usually comes in short bursts with passing weather fronts rather than for days on end. Expect a mix of grey, windy days and bright, clear ones. Pack a waterproof layer and keep ferry plans flexible in case a storm disrupts sailings.
Can I visit Kos Town in February?
Yes. You can explore Kos Town any time of year. In February it's quiet, with few visitors, and some tourist shops and cafés close for the season, but it feels authentic and peaceful. The ancient agora and the Castle of the Knights sit right in the center.
Do I need a car on Kos in February?
It helps. Buses run on a much thinner timetable in February, and some routes stop completely, so a hire car is the easiest way to explore. Rental rates are low off-season, but fewer agencies are open, so book ahead.
Is February or March better for visiting Kos?
March is usually the better choice. Days are longer, the weather starts to turn springlike and the island goes green, while February is still firmly winter. Neither month is for the beach, and in both many tourist businesses are still closed.
Kos Weather by Month
