Weather in Sikinos in March
March in Sikinos means early-spring conditions: mild and fairly changeable. Temperatures typically peak at around 16°C / 61°F in the afternoon and fall to about 11°C / 51°F at night. Sea temperatures average around 16°C / 61°F, too cold for most people to swim. There are typically 5 rainy days, with around 55 mm of rain in total. Weather fronts become rarer as the season goes on, and calm, clear days take over. Sikinos is a small, quiet island between Ios and Folegandros, with a hilltop Chora and few trees. Daylight lasts about 12 hours. Pack layers, including a warm sweater for the evenings and a light waterproof jacket. The weather can change from one day to the next, so check the forecast before planning a long day out. Mornings and evenings are noticeably cooler than the middle of the day. Make the most of the middle of the day, when it's warmest and brightest.
Swimming in Sikinos in March
The sea around Sikinos averages about 16°C / 61°F in March, 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 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 Sikinos in March
You'll have Sikinos largely to yourself in March. Prices are at their lowest of the year, although fewer hotels are open. Tavernas that stay open cater mainly to locals, which is often when the food is best. It's a good time to see everyday life, away from the summer bustle. Check that your accommodation is open before you travel, as many places close for winter.
What's Open in Sikinos in March
Ferries to Sikinos from Piraeus and Rafina run all year, but less often in March, and rough seas can cancel sailings. 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 March. Check opening days before setting out, as some places open only at weekends.
Festivals & Holidays in Sikinos in March
If Clean Monday falls in March, expect kite flying on hillsides and beaches, and meatless picnics. 25 March is Independence Day, a national holiday with school and military parades, and it's traditional to eat fried salt cod with garlic sauce. In Sikinos, these occasions are celebrated much as they are across the rest of Greece. Outside these dates, it's a good time to experience ordinary Greek life, from the weekly market to the evening stroll.
Is March a Good Time to Visit Sikinos?
March is a maybe for Sikinos. It's peaceful and green, and good for walking, but the season hasn't started, so few places are open and ferries are less frequent. In numbers: highs of about 16°C / 61°F, lows of 11°C / 51°F and rain on around 5 days in a typical March. It suits self-sufficient travelers who want solitude. For a more comfortable trip with everything running, come in June, September or October.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Sikinos in March?
In early March, the sun sets in Sikinos at around 6:15 pm. Clocks go forward an hour on the last Sunday of March, so by the end of the month sunset is around 7:40 pm. All times are Greek local time. Evenings cool quickly after sunset, so bring a layer.
Is March still winter in Sikinos?
March is the turning point. Early in the month it can still feel wintry, with cool winds and the odd storm, but spring usually arrives by the end of it. Wildflowers start to cover the hillsides, the days get noticeably longer and sunny days become more common, though evenings stay cool enough for a jacket.
Is March a good time for walking on Sikinos?
Yes, it's one of the best times. March is ideal for walking, with comfortable temperatures, green hillsides and wildflowers. Carry water and a light layer. The path from Chora to Episkopi, a Roman monument turned church, is the classic walk.
Do I need a car on Sikinos in March?
No. Sikinos is small enough to explore on foot, and the distances between the harbor, village and beaches are short. In March, seasonal minibuses and beach boats usually don't run, so be ready to walk and bring sturdy shoes.
Is March or April better for visiting Sikinos?
April, for most travelers. It's warmer and sunnier, wildflowers are at their best, and more hotels and tavernas reopen as the season begins. Greek Easter often falls in April, a wonderful time to be on an island, though it pushes up demand. March is quieter and cheaper, but more is still closed.
Sikinos Weather by Month
