Kea (also called Tzia) is an island of the Northern Cyclades very close to the mainland which has many assets. But what to see and do in Kea? Between the beach and the visit of archeological sites, stroll in the traditional villages, we give you our favorites to help you prepare your stay on the island.
The North of Kea: wild and green
We arrive to Kea by Korissia, the port of entry of the island, small and charming. There is nothing special to do there but many taverns, cafes or ice cream shops allow you to stop before taking the ferry.
Three kilometers to the north is the old fishing village of Vourkari, where many sailboats and luxury yachts are now moored. From there, in the evening, you can admire a beautiful sunset over the sea. The waterfront is lined with taverns and cafes. We recommend lunch or dinner at Aristo. This is a seafood restaurant renowned for its lobster pasta (34€/person). The Strofi Tou Mimi restaurant, at the end of the bay, is also famous for its fresh fish and seafood. It is moreover located in edge of sea and one dines the feet in sand, a true happiness. We also recommend Aigis Sunset Bar Resto which offers an exceptional view. The ideal place to have a drink in the evening at sunset.
Continuing a little further north, the path leads to the Agios Nikolaos lighthouse from where you can enjoy a beautiful panorama. The road then leads to Otzias, the starting point for many hikes.
To see : Ioulida, the capital of the island
The capital of Kea, Ioulida (also called Chora or Ioulis) is the jewel of Kea. A magnificent example of Cycladic architecture, the village of Ioulida, built in an amphitheater on the side of the mountain, is nestled in a setting of hills and greenery. It features whitewashed houses and neoclassical style buildings. Take the time to stroll around, to take the winding stairs at random, and to get lost in the narrow streets. The town hall, with its neoclassical architecture, is surrounded by cafes and taverns. A very pleasant place to stop in the shade.
From there, you can admire the view of the high green valleys planted with almond and oak trees as well as vineyards and vegetable gardens.
If you wish, you can visit the archaeological museum (open Tuesday to Sunday from 8:30 am to 3 pm, free) where pieces from the island’s ancient sites are exhibited.
The famous lion of Kea, a must see
From Ioulida, a path leads to the lion of Kea, an imposing lion lying down, carved in the rock, which watches over the capital. The trail to get there is easy, follow the signs for “Aρχαίοs Λέων” and allow about 15 minutes of walking. We cross some donkeys on the way. The main difficulty is the heat, the path not being shaded. This amazing feline, carved in the 7th century B.C., bears an enigmatic smile. It probably symbolizes the legendary lion that made the nymphs flee from the island, which was then called Hydroussa and was fresh and full of trees, thus triggering a catastrophic drought. Afterwards, the island became prosperous again and the lion became a symbol of fertility.
What to see, what to do on the island of the south of Kea ? Villages, beaches, coves and archaeological site
The contrast between the green north of the island and the south where the landscapes are more arid, is striking.
On the southeast coast, the Pisses valley opens onto a beautiful beach. Possibility of lunch by the sea. If you are in the mood for tasty grilled meats, stop by the tavern “To exehotiko tis Margaritas”.
Continuing along the coastal road, we arrive at Koundouros, a bay with beautiful houses built in the local style with dry stones, old mills restored with taste and many small coves. At the end of the road is the charming beach of Kambi.
On the southeast coast of Kea, from the village of Kato Meria, there is a hiking trail that will take you to the ancient site of Karthea (it takes 1h30 to go down and 2h to go up). The remains of the temples are still visible, on a wild beach.
The beaches of Kea
All around the island you will find numerous beaches and dozens of small coves. Some are easily accessible by bus or by road. Others require some effort to walk. Finally, some are only accessible by boat.
Check the wind direction before making your schedule for the day to find the most sheltered locations. The beaches of Otzias and Korissia are not ideal when the meltem rises.
Our favorite beaches in Kea
- Koundouros, a very nice beach (with also a free access part) where you can practice water sports and relax. You can easily stay there for the day (count 18€ for a parasol + 2 deckchairs – price 2021). This beach is nice for swimming. Family friendly, it is practical with children (showers, playground, shaded terrace to eat). Ideal for windy days because it is protected.
- Pisses is one of the most beautiful beaches of Kea, lined with trees, with clear waters.
- Otzias: a long sandy beach, partly developed and partly wild, lined with olive and almond trees. The clear and transparent water is perfect for swimming. This beach is very busy on weekends.
- The beach where the ancient city of Karthea was located is completely isolated (it is a long walk to reach it) and houses the ruins of an ancient temple.
- The beach of Gialiskari (between Korissia and Vourkari) is lined with pine and eucalyptus trees. Family friendly and lively, it is pleasant to lie down on the fine sand as well as to swim. You can eat at the trendy EORA beach bar located on the beach.
- Spathi, a large beach in the northeast of the island, at the foot of an arid and rocky landscape, with a sea of clear waters. The access road is a bit difficult.
- The wild beaches of Kalidonihi, Psili Amos and Sikamnia
Lodging in Kea
Several possibilities are possible, depending on your desires.
You will find many accommodations for rent in Kea on Booking. Whether it’s hotels, apartments or even villas.
If you want to stay in a place that is easily accessible from the port, on the seafront and lively in the evening (possibility to go to dinner on foot), we recommend Otzias or Vourkari.
However, if you prefer a quieter (but more isolated) place, choose Koundouros.
How to get to Kea?
By ferry
Kea has no airport, so the only way to get there is by boat. You can buy your tickets on line via the Ferry Hopper website.
This online booking platform has the advantage to be easy to use. But most importantly, unlike many other sites, there are no commissions or additional fees.
By sailboat or catamaran
If you want to visit Kea and its surroundings by sailboat, we recommend Click and boat which offers cruises in the Northern Cyclades from Lavrio, near Athens.
For all practical information (where Kea is located, how to get there, how to get around), see our article on Kea, a Greek island just an hour from Athens.
Laure M.
