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Kea Island

While it’s just an hour from Athens, Kea Island has remained a well-kept local secret, popular with Athenians who enjoy it for summer escapes or a relaxing weekend. Its accessed via ferry from the lesser-known port of Lavrio, which may be a bit more difficult to reach but worth the effort to enjoy the mainland’s closest Cyclades getaway, yet one that feels so much further away. Minus the big tourist crowds, enjoy relaxing on the beach, fantastic diving and snorkeling, exploring ancient ruins and dining on mouthwatering local specialties.

Things to do in Kea Island

  • Archaeological Museum of Ioulis

    Artifacts from the island’s most important archaeological site, Karthaia, can be viewed at this museum. Karthaia was first settled during the Late Bronze period, but it peaked in the Classical period. The temple of Athena and an ancient theater was discovered by a French expedition in the early 20th century and is now exhibited here. The museum houses a collection of historical times from the 7thcentury BC to 2ndcentury AD, with pottery, coins, sculpture and inscriptions from ancient Kea. There are also findings from the Neolithic settlement of Kefala and the Bronze age settlement of Agia Irini.

  • Monastery of Panagia Kastriani

    Located in a remote region some four miles east of Otzias, this monastery sits atop a rock rising above the sea and is considered the island’s most important religious center. It’s worth visiting for the view alone, but if you happen to be here on August 15th you can experience the big celebration to honor the Virgin Mary that includes food, wine and music.

  • The Beaches

    The main thing to do on Kea is to go to the beach. Mavrabeli is the most remote and uncrowded, accessed by boat or a walking path about five miles from Ioulida. Gialiskari is one of the island’s most popular beaches, a sandy by with clean, clear water and a number of tourist facilities. Koundouraki is a Blue Flag beach on the northwest coast of the island, popular with yachters. It’s especially scenic, protected from winds and features some restored stone mills as well as several taverns

  • Swimming, snorkeling and diving

    Swimming, snorkeling and diving are popular activities on Kea. The reef off Koundouraki is one of the country’s top diving spots, and those who enjoy exploring shipwrecks can dive down to view the HMHS Britannic, one of the world’s most renowned. It sunk in 1916 and was discovered by Jacques Cousteau in 1975. With an outstanding selection of tranquil, warm shallow bays, there are lots of opportunities for a leisurely swim or snorkel too.

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