Best time to visit: Kea offers visitors a warm, dry climate throughout the year. An ideal destination for sailing from May through to September, August is the hottest (and busiest) month on the island.
Key cruising areas: There are plenty of areas to cruise around the island. Vourkari bay is a lovely anchorage and quay that attracts yachts and sailboats due to its protection from strong prevailing winds. The bay of Polais is a lesser known, quieter place to visit and an excellent place to explore the ancient walls of Karthaia. For a popular yachting hotspot, spend a few days in the bay of Kavia. If you would like to venture further afield, Kea is an excellent place to begin or end a charter through the Cyclades region – the nearby islands of Serifos and Kythnos are ideal destinations for a day trip or as part of a longer itinerary.
Don't miss: Soak up the island’s history. The Archaeological Museum has many artifacts on display that were found during excavations around the island, including those from Ancient Karthea and the prehistoric settlement of Agia Irini. There are many ancient ruins to discover on Kea, each with its own myths and legends. One of the most popular ones is the Stone Lion – just moments away from the capital of Ioulida.
Best spots for wining and dining: Overlooking the marina in Voukari, Seirios is a fine-dining option on the island and offers a daily menu of fresh fish. For a traditional meal, To Steki in Ioulida is a family-run restaurant that specializes in serving Greek staples made from local ingredients. Offering drinks and light snacks, Kylix is a beautiful wine bar with an excellent selection of craft beers – a must-visit for a nightcap.