Photo of Kea

About Kea

Appealingly close to Athens, the island of Kea is amongst the most popular in the Cyclades, with visitors from Greece’s bustling capital city. Athenians have, understandably, kept this little gem largely to themselves — but the number of international visitors to Kea’s glittering coastline and mountainous interior is gradually growing. There are some wonderful accommodation options, too, with the best places to stay in Kea reflecting the island’s easygoing atmosphere and fascinating history.

Kea looks and feels very different from the rest of the Cyclades. The landscape varies from a spectacularly craggy coastline, to dry plains, followed by fertile hills and verdant valleys of orchards and olive groves. The architecture is earthier, and less stark than the rest of the group, too. Explore the dusty lanes of enchanting Ioulis, the capital, on foot, admiring ceramic-tiled roofs and arched passageways, as well as the remnants of the ancient city which lies beneath it. The ruined settlements of Kefala and Karthea will fascinate history buffs, whilst the village of Korissia, on a gorgeous natural harbour, is brilliant for days at the seaside.

Venture to the easternmost side of the island for birdwatching in ancient oak forests — the largest of all the Cyclades — or enjoy scuba diving amidst impressive shipwrecks and sailing on azure waters. Sunlit strolls between vineyards and olive groves are brilliant, and you can savour the island’s abundant fresh produce at the convivial communal tables of some of the best places to stay in Kea.

The Best Places to Stay in Kea

For Seaside Style

  • Porto Kea Suites, the only beach resort on the island, overlooks the sea at Korissia. Elegant rooms and suites are steps from the huge swimming pool and heated whirlpool, which sit just across the road from the sand and the hotel's popular beach bar. A romantic spot with a classic, indulgent feel and a reputation for excellent service. The Mediterranean restaurant is a real stand-out, too.
  • Keos Katoikies sits just along the bay from Korissia's harbour, perfect for marvelling at dramatic sunsets over the village. Low-rise modern buildings in mellow local stone house soothing guest rooms done in neutral greys and cream tone— all with private balconies. Tuck in to hearty buffet breakfasts of island delights before ambling along to the beach and into Korassia for cafés, shops and restaurants.

For Rural Bliss

  • Kea Villas, perched above Ioulis, promises some of the best views on the island. Self-catering suites are airy and contemporary, with polished concrete floors, white walls and ocean-facing terraces. Cook up a storm in your kitchen or head to the hotel restaurant for hearty fare after afternoons by the pool and hiking or cycling excursions. A relaxing rural escape, popular with families and friends.
  • Red Tractor Farm offers rooms and suites within charming stone cottages surrounded by private gardens and olive trees. Just 300 metres from the coast, this tranquil hideaway feels like a real oasis, with wood-burning fireplaces, whitewashed sitting rooms and shaded terraces. Multipe bedrooms are ideal for families. Tour the farm, follow walking trails and sample organic wine and acorn cookies from the farm itself.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Fly to Athens International Airport and hop aboard an hour-long ferry from the port of Lavrion, a small town on the southern side of Attica. You can then travel into town by bus or taxi.
  • There's plenty to see in Kea! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Expect hot summers, with temperatures reaching around 25 - 30°C between June and August, which is also peak season. For fewer crowds and cooler weather travel in April, May or late September, when you can also find great hotel deals. If you're planning to go hiking in the mountains, pack an additional layer even during the summer months — it can feel surprisingly cool.

STILL NOT SURE?

Weather

Monthly Weather in Kea

Best Hotels in Kea

  • Kea Villas Kea 24 rooms from £55

    Sailing  -  Great stopping point for sailing trips around the Greek Islands.
    Local markets  -  Explore the local markets of Ioulida.
    Fishing  -  Enjoy a fishing trip out from Kea.
    Back to Nature
    Swimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    The Cyclades are famed for fabulous panoramas and technicolour sunsets, and as rooms with views go Kea Villas can give most of the competition a run for its money. See More

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  • Red Tractor Farm Kea 8 rooms from £65

    Shops  -  Red Tractor shop (onsite) sells the farm's own acorn cookies, acorn oil, organic wine and other local products.
    Great walks  -  Beautiful walking trails around the coastline surrouding Korissia.
    Sailing  -  Perfect stopping point for sailing trip around the Aegean Sea.
    Local markets  -  Navigate through the bustling market of Korissia.
    Garden

    Tranquillity is the name of the game at Red Tractor Farm, a collection of miniature bungalows set amid olive trees on the edge of Korassia, Kea's small ferry port. See More

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  • Keos Katoikies Kea 15 rooms from £82

    Great walks  -  Beautiful walks along the surrounding Kea coastline.
    Local markets  -  Explore the local markets of Korissia.
    Full of character
    Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
    Air conditioningGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    Keos Katoikies is well-named. 'Katoikies' means 'sunset', and watching the sun go down over Korissia's harbour from the hotel's café-terrace becomes an evening ritual for most guests here. See More

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  • Porto Kea Suites Kea, Kea 35 rooms from £102

    Fishing  -  Take a sea fishing trip from the town of Korissia.
    Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
    Restaurant  -  Recommended.
    On the beach  -  In front of the hotel.
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    Porto Kea Suites is the island's only full-on international-standard resort hotel, but this complex of rooms and suites next to the beach doesn't rest on its laurels. See More

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  • One & Only Kea Island Pisses, Kea 63 rooms from £1733

    Families  -  Delight in a family-friendly stay where kids can enjoy creative activities and adventure at the dedicated Kids Only Club
    Hotel boats for hire  -  Embark on a private yacht charter to discover hidden beaches and neighbouring islands, perfect for a day of exploration
    Groups  -  Escape to a lavish all-villa resort, where private infinity pools & expansive sea views provide the perfect setting
    Beach Life  -  Enjoy vibrant tunes, fusion dishes, and barefoot luxury at the Bond Beach Club, a magnet for yacht revellers
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    An exclusive all-villa haven on the edge of the Aegean, close to Athens. The resort showcases chic Cycladic decor with hand-cut stone and marble accents. Guests can indulge in fine dining, a serene spa, and a vibrant beach club. A taste of true luxury with panoramic sea views and private pools. See More

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