The Islands of Greece
Ionian Islands (West Coast)
Located off the western Greek coast, the Ionian Islands have a mountainous terrain and dramatic limestone features. The main islands include:
- Corfu (Kerkyra): Lush and fertile, opposite the Albanian coast.
- Paxos, Lefkada, Ithaca, Kefalonia, Zakynthos: More rugged, with dramatic relief and sheltered bays.
- Kythira: Administratively Ionian but geographically separate, offering isolated coastal beauty.
Aegean Islands (East Coast)
Aegean islands are grouped into several clusters:
- Cyclades: About 30 islands forming a circle around Delos. Ideal for island-hopping, though weather can be challenging.
- Dodecanese: Including Rhodes, Kalymnos, Karpathos, and Patmos. These islands lie near the Turkish coast, featuring a mix of volcanic and limestone terrain.
- Sporades: Found near northern Evia. Skyros, Skopelos, and Skiathos offer lush greenery and calmer conditions.
- Northeast Aegean Islands: Thasos, Samothraki, Lesvos, Chios, and Samos are close to Asia Minor, with dramatic rock formations and cultural richness.
Crete (South)
Crete stands apart as Greece’s largest island and arguably the best destination for long-distance sea kayaking expeditions. With 1,050 km of coastline, Crete offers a mix of wild camping, hidden coves, sea caves, and multi-day routes in all seasons.
The rugged terrain of Crete is split into several mountain ranges:
- Lefka Ori (White Mountains)
- Psiloritis (Mount Ida)
- Dikti
- Thripti
- Asterousia Mountains (south-central Crete)
Thanks to its geographic isolation and geological complexity, Crete provides some of the most remote, challenging, and rewarding routes in Greece. For serious paddlers (4* level or higher), Crete, Karpathos, Kasos, Kythira, and Antikythira offer truly unforgettable adventures.
Weather Conditions for Sea Kayaking in Greece
Winter (November–March)
In winter, low-pressure systems bring moisture and mild temperatures, especially on the Ionian coast. However, in northern Greece and higher elevations, cold winds like the Boreas can bring icy conditions. The sirocco winds may bring occasional warmth from the south.
Typical January averages:
- Athens: ~10°C
- Thessaloniki: ~6°C
- Heraklion (Crete): ~12°C
Summer (April–October)
This is the prime kayaking season:
Afternoon sea breezes provide some relief along the coast.
Hot and dry, with sea temperatures around 27°C (80°F).
Meltemi winds, especially in the Aegean and around Crete, bring strong northern gusts—important to factor in when planning routes.