Weather in Santorini in August
Expect hot, almost completely dry weather in Santorini in August, the height of summer. Expect highs of about 28°C / 82°F and overnight lows near 23°C / 74°F. Even after dark it stays warm, so a room with air-conditioning makes a difference. You're very unlikely to see any rain. Sea temperatures average around 24°C / 75°F, warm enough for long swims. Santorini is a volcanic island with little shelter or shade, and the caldera rim is often windier than the beaches below. 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. You get about 13½ hours of daylight a day, 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 Santorini in August
Expect the sea around Santorini to be about 24°C / 76°F in August, comfortable for long swims. Of the best swimming months, July, August and September, this is the warmest. Good spots include Perissa and Kamari. When the meltemi blows, north-facing beaches get rough, so head for sheltered bays on the south side. Popular beaches fill up by late morning, so arrive early. No wetsuit needed.
Crowds & Prices in Santorini in August
August brings peak crowds to Santorini. Hotel prices are at their highest, and flights and ferries cost more too. 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 Oia at sunset; for more space, visit Pyrgos and Megalochori or walk the caldera path early in the morning. Book accommodation and ferries months ahead.
What's Open in Santorini in August
Ferries to Santorini from Piraeus and Rafina 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. Museums and sites are open on extended summer hours.
Festivals & Holidays in Santorini in August
15 August, the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, is the biggest summer holiday, with church services and village festivals everywhere. Many Greeks return to their home villages in August, and panigyria, village feasts with live music and dancing, run late into the night. Locals in Santorini 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 August a Good Time to Visit Santorini?
Yes, August is worth it for sun, swimming and a lively summer buzz in Santorini. Expect highs of around 28°C / 82°F, lows near 23°C / 74°F and almost no rain. The trade-off is crowds and peak prices, so book early and plan around the busiest spots. If you'd rather have the same warm sea with more space, June, September or October would be a better choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Santorini in August?
Sunset in Santorini 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. Oia is the most famous place to watch it, but it gets very crowded, so Fira and Imerovigli along the caldera are good alternatives. Arrive at least half an hour early to find a spot.
Is it windy in Santorini in August?
Often, yes. August is the height of the meltemi, a strong, dry northerly wind that blows across the Aegean on many summer days, sometimes for several days in a row. It keeps the heat bearable, but it can make exposed beaches rough and delay fast ferries and small boats. South-facing beaches are usually more sheltered.
Is August a good time to walk from Fira to Oia?
Only early in the morning or late in the day. August 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 path follows the caldera rim and takes around three to four hours.
Do I need a car on Santorini in August?
Not necessarily. Buses link Fira with the main beaches and villages in August, and taxis are available, though they're busy. A car, scooter or ATV gives you more freedom to explore quieter corners, so book one early.
Is August or September better for visiting Santorini?
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.
Santorini Weather by Month
