Weather in Sikinos in December
In Sikinos, December brings early-winter weather that is cool and often wet. Temperatures typically peak at around 15°C / 60°F in the afternoon and fall to about 11°C / 52°F at night. Sea temperatures average around 17°C / 63°F, cold enough that only hardy swimmers go in. Rain falls on around 9 days, with about 82 mm in total, usually in bursts rather than all-day drizzle. Winter here is shaped by the wind: storms sweep through regularly, often followed by calm, bright days. Sikinos is a small, quiet island between Ios and Folegandros, with a hilltop Chora and few trees. You get about 9½ 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. Short days and changeable skies are part of the appeal, with fewer visitors and a more local feel. Make the most of the middle of the day, when it's warmest and brightest.
Swimming in Sikinos in December
Swimming isn't really on the cards in Sikinos in December, with the water at around 17°C / 63°F. For warm-water swimming, aim for July, August and September, when the sea is at its best. Beaches are empty and unstaffed in winter, so swim only in calm conditions. The water is still wonderfully clear, even when it's too cold to stay in long. If you do go in, a wetsuit is a good idea.
Crowds & Prices in Sikinos in December
Tourism in Sikinos slows right down in December. Rooms are cheap, but only a handful stay open. Christmas and New Year bring some Greek visitors home, but it stays quiet. 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. Book ahead anyway, as the few places that stay open are small.
What's Open in Sikinos in December
Ferry links from Piraeus and Rafina to Sikinos continue through December, though with fewer sailings than in summer. Very little stays open: expect one or two tavernas and a few rooms at most. Archaeological sites and museums keep shorter winter hours. Most sites close on 25 and 26 December. Cash is useful, as smaller places may not take cards. It's worth calling ahead to restaurants, as off-season hours can be irregular.
Festivals & Holidays in Sikinos in December
On 6 December, Saint Nicholas, patron saint of sailors, is honored in harbors across Greece, and decorated boats appear alongside Christmas trees. Christmas is celebrated with church services, carols sung door to door by children and festive sweets like melomakarona and kourabiedes. Locals in Sikinos 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 December a Good Time to Visit Sikinos?
December is only worth it if you want total peace. Expect highs of around 15°C / 60°F and lows near 11°C / 52°F. Sikinos is at its quietest, with most rooms and tavernas closed, fewer ferries and changeable weather. It suits travelers who want to experience island life at its most local and don't mind simple comforts. For almost everyone else, June, September or October would be a far better time to visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Sikinos in December?
In early December, the sun sets in Sikinos at around 5:05 pm. By mid-month it's around 5:05 pm, and by the end of December around 5:15 pm. All times are Greek local time. With short days, plan outdoor sightseeing for the morning and early afternoon.
Does it get stormy in Sikinos in December?
December is one of the stormiest months in the Aegean. Strong winds and bands of rain come through regularly, and the worst storms can cancel ferries for a day or more. There are calm, bright days in between, and snow at sea level is very rare. If you're traveling by ferry, allow a buffer day before any flight home.
Is December a good time for walking on Sikinos?
Yes, on dry days. Walking in December can be very rewarding, with clear air and empty paths, but days are short, trails can be muddy after rain and the wind can be strong on exposed ground. Start early, carry a warm layer and check the forecast. The path from Chora to Episkopi, a Roman monument turned church, is the classic walk.
Do I need a car on Sikinos in December?
No. Sikinos is small enough to explore on foot, and the distances between the harbor, village and beaches are short. In December, seasonal minibuses and beach boats usually don't run, so be ready to walk and bring sturdy shoes.
Is December or January better for visiting Sikinos?
December has the edge for atmosphere, with Christmas decorations and New Year celebrations, while January is quieter still, with Epiphany on 6 January. The weather is similar: cool, changeable and occasionally stormy. Both suit travelers who want the island at its most local.
Sikinos Weather by Month
