What's the weather like in Crete in August
August is a great month to visit Crete on holiday. The month is almost as hot as July while boasting the warmest sea temperatures of the year across the whole Greek archipelago.
Temperature
During August, average daytime temperature is similar to July's and stays at around 26 degrees Celsius. Daytime high peaks typically reach up to 29 degrees with lows rarely going below 21 degrees.
Average Sea Temperature
Seawater temperature rises up to a perfect 25 degrees, the warmed it gets during the year.
Average Sunshine Hours
The sun shines practically for 12 hours each day, while clouds are a rare sight.
Rain
There is virtually no rainfall across the whole island of Crete during August, with total monthly precipitation barely registering 1 mm and rain expected only once through the course of the month.
Sirocco and Meltemi
The Sirocco wind that blows from the Sahara desert can bring about uncharacteristically high temperatures during the day, and can even carry dust storm particles all the way to Crete. These sandy winds are mostly an inconvenience and don't pose too much of a risk to tourists (unless you have breathing issues, in which case remain indoors until the storms have passed). Another wind that passes over the island but signals pleasant rather than unpleasant conditions is the north-western wind known as meltemi, which is cool and refreshing.
Crete Hotels in August
Grecotel Amirandes
Grecotel Amirandes is an exquisite 5-star luxurious resort that is often praised as being one of the best hotels in Crete. The Amirandes features beautiful bungalows, suites, guestrooms and lavish villas to suit a wide range of tastes. The hotel has ten bars and restaurants and a fully equipped, world-class spa along with dozens of pools. You'll probably never leave
Mike Hotel & Apartments
The Mike Hotel & Apartments in the coastal village of Maleme is a complex consisting of several buildings that cater to budget-savvy tourists. All rooms and self-catering apartments include dark wood furniture and elegant design. The hotel also has a 174 square metres pool with a children's section and an overarching pool bridge pooh sticks anyone?
Corali Studios & Portobello Apartments
Corali Studios & Portobello Apartments are two uniquely intertwined resorts in the popular village of Elounda. The Corali is comprised of 20 self-catering studios that overlook Elounda's beach. These fully furnished studios are budget priced and offer an ideal base for exploring Elounda. The Portobello features 15 apartments with large balconies and a definite focus on luxury. These apartments have separate kitchen, toilet and bathroom facilities.
Crete Beach for August
Hatzivolakas Beach
Located in the untouched Chrissi Island across a secluded bay in Crete, Hatzivolakas is a pristine beach that is wonderfully secluded and perfect for snorkelling. The beach has shallow water and incredible visibility. It is also fairly off the beaten track, so naturists flock here during peak season.
Makrigialos Beach
On the other side of the spectrum, Makrigialos beach is a popular beach that offers all kinds of amenities. The beach is child-friendly and good for people with disabilities, with special facilities and comprehensive lifeguard services. Despite the busy nature of the beach, Makrigialos boasts a blue flag and is considered one of the cleanest in eastern Crete.
Bars and Restaurants
Babel
Babel is a popular bar restaurant at Elounda. Overlooking the harbour and always busy, the Babel is a firm favourite with tourists and locals alike.
Porto Rino
Boasting numerous awards, Porto Rino is one of the most famous restaurants on the island. The restaurant has gained widespread fame for its traditional Mediterranean dishes such as homemade pizzas and excellent seafood dishes. Porto Rino is always busy, so book ahead.
Things to do in Crete in August
Parasailing
is available at most lively beaches such as Platanias and Aghia Marina near Chania, and proves popular with people who want to dip their toe into the water sports pool as opposed to diving right in. In Crete, parasailing is often done with the help of a strong winch boat and the sail typically carries two and sometimes even three people.
Water Skiing
refers to a diverse range of water sports including jet skiing, wakeboarding, barefoot skiing, banana boats and more. Every type of water skiing (including the local favourite "crazy sofas") is available in Crete. A well known beach for water sports as well as family friendly amenities is Amoudara, with Blue Flag status and wooden ramps and walkways for easy access.
Day Of The Panagia
After Easter, the next most popular annual religious holiday is the Assumption of the Virgin Mary into Heaven, known locally as the Day of the Panagia or dekapentaugustos. Celebrated each year on the 15th of August, the Dekapentaugustos (literally meaning 15th of August) involves tons of folk celebrations, fireworks, public feasts and lots of dancing in the streets.
Chania Rock Festival
The Chania Rock Festival takes place late July/August at the beautiful city of Chania. The festival caters to hard and punk rock fans, with bands and tribute bands coming to the island to perform during the month. The festival is not continuous, as bands come and go between intervals, and can last for weeks, with a dozen or more bands (including some well-known names such as Grave Digger and Lucky Funeral) come to perform at Chania.
