About Kea

Kea is famous for its extensive network of hiking trails, which take you through lush landscapes to hidden beaches, ancient landmarks, and stunning viewpoints.

About Kea

Kea, also called Tzia, is a serene island that provides an authentic Greek experience, far from the usual tourist crowds. Wander through the charming village of Ioulida, set on a hillside with breathtaking sea views, and uncover historical treasures like the Lion of Kea and the Temple of Apollo.  Savour fresh seafood at quaint waterfront tavernas or unwind on the golden shores of Koundouros and Spathi beaches.

How to Get To Kea

Flights

Kea doesn’t have an airport, and the nearest one is Athens International Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos,” which operates domestic and international flights year-round. From Athens Airport, reaching Lavrion Port is straightforward, where you can catch a ferry to Kea.

Ferry Travel

Kea is easily accessible from Athens thanks to a regular ferry connection. Ferries to Kea depart exclusively from Lavrion Port, conveniently located within reach of Athens. The crossing takes about one hour, providing a comfortable and scenic journey across the Aegean Sea. This short ferry ride makes Kea an ideal getaway for those looking to escape the city and enjoy the tranquillity of an island atmosphere without the long travel time. With frequent schedules, visiting Kea from Athens is both convenient and enjoyable.

Travelling to Kea from Santorini, Paros, Naxos, and other islands?

Ferries are the sole transportation option for reaching Kea from other islands. There are no direct flights between these islands and Paros, so you must transit through Athens if you prefer flying.

Helicopter Transfers

Helicopter transfers provide a swift and scenic way to travel between islands or from mainland Greece. Enjoy breathtaking aerial views and arrive at your destination quickly, bypassing traditional transportation delays.

Private Boat Transfers

Private boat transfers can transport you directly to your villa’s doorstep for ultimate flexibility and privacy. You can then explore nearby islands or secluded beaches at your leisure.

VIP Travel Assistance

Enjoy comprehensive VIP travel assistance, including airport transfers, luggage handling, and personalized concierge services. Our dedicated team ensures a seamless experience from arrival to departure, allowing you to focus on enjoying your island getaway.

 

Getting around Kea

It is recommended that guests rent a car for their stay on Kea. The island is significant, and public transportation is quite limited. While taxis are available, they often hesitate to travel to the more remote off-road destinations. Additionally, many roads in Kea are unpaved, making scooters a less safe option.

Towns & Villages on Kea

Korissia

Korissia is the island’s main port and the ideal starting point for excursions. It is situated at the edge of a large natural bay and provides a well-sheltered harbour.

The beautiful church of Aghia Trias is the first sight greeting you as the boat’s hatch lowers. Also known as Livadi, Korissia is a village built along the hillside where ancient Korissos once stood. It features traditional Cycladic architecture. In Korissia, you will find a variety of shops, restaurants, cafes, bars, accommodations, and a public parking lot, making it a convenient and lively hub for visitors.

Loulis

As the boat nears the port, you can see Ioulis, the Chora of Kea, spreading across the tops of three hills in the background, warmly welcoming you. Ioulis, the current capital of Kea, serves as a critical point of reference for the island’s rich history. Prepare for a stroll through this enchanting village, filled with tightly packed traditional white houses, red-tiled roofs, and newer, colourful homes. Discover arches with “stegadia,” the iconic Cycladic galleries, narrow stone-paved alleys lined with white steps, numerous chapels, and charming little shops scattered throughout.

Vourkari

Just 2 km from Korissia, past Gialiskari, the coastal road brings you to the famous Vourkari, a charming fishing village that has recently transformed into a lively cosmopolitan town. In its sheltered bay, dozens of boats and sailboats anchor, and sailing races from the Saronic Gulf often conclude here.

Enjoy fresh fish, seafood, and local delicacies at the delightful taverns along the shore, stroll to Aghia Irini, or relax with a coffee or a drink at the local cafes and bars. You can also explore unique souvenirs and fine contemporary art in the galleries. Vourkari is a vibrant village that remains lively both day and night.

Otzias

In recent years, Otzias has become one of Kea’s fastest-growing and famous villages. With a range of accommodations and tourist services, it is the perfect destination for a family vacation. The bay at Otzias provides several great swimming options, including a large, organized sandy beach and smaller secluded bays nearby.

Kondouros

Koundouros, once known as Nirissos in ancient times, is one of Kea’s most well-developed tourist resorts. The village offers a variety of restaurants, accommodations, and charming restored stone windmills. In the surrounding area, a collection of beaches caters to all preferences—whether you’re seeking a lively, cosmopolitan beach, a spot for water sports, a safe anchorage for boats, or a secluded, tranquil shoreline.

 

Activities

Sports Events on Kea

The sports events in Kea provide the perfect incentive for sports enthusiasts to visit the island. Each year, the range of exciting activities on land and water continues to expand. Sailing competitions, including the Cyclades Regatta that starts from Kea, offer pure enjoyment for participants and spectators watching from the heights of Aghios Nikolaos Bay, which is filled with beautiful white sails.

The Simonidia events, a well-established series of athletic championships for all ages, are held every August. In addition, two of the most popular recent attractions are the Kea Run and Kea SUP races, both organized annually in May. Kea’s warm hospitality and stunning landscape make each event a unique celebration of sports and community.

Diving in Kea

Kea is like an expansive underwater playground for diving enthusiasts thanks to its rich marine environment. The diverse morphology and biodiversity of the seabed, combined with the island’s historical significance as the site of numerous shipwrecks, create a fascinating setting for both experienced and amateur divers. The island also features a diving centre, where visitors can learn about diving tourism and arrange their personalized diving adventures.

Kea is encircled by a fascinating array of shipwrecks, including the Britannic—Titanic’s sister ship and a floating hospital—the French ocean liner Burdigala, the paddlewheel steamboat Patris, and a German Junkers 52 aeroplane from World War II. The Koundouros Reef, a large ledge in Koundouros Bay, offers one of Greece’s most spectacular diving experiences.

Walking trails

Kea is a walker’s paradise, boasting an extensive network of footpaths totalling 81 km, many stone-paved. These paths were once part of an ancient road network that connected city-states during the 7th and 6th centuries B.C. Along each route, you’ll find wooden signs with helpful information and small metal markers indicating the path numbers. Put on comfortable clothing and shoes, pack some supplies, and let the island unveil its hidden beauty as you explore.

 

Top Beaches on Kea

With its vast coastline, Kea offers even the most discerning visitor a variety of idyllic beaches featuring stunning crystal-clear waters. You’ll find organized beaches with unspoiled natural beauty, lively spots amid activity, secluded shores, and beaches accessible by both land and sea. There are also hidden gems waiting to be discovered, inviting visitors to explore their serene surroundings.

  • Saint Emilianos Beach
    • Adjacent to Koundouros, Agios Emilianos beach features a long stretch of golden sand that attracts numerous visitors during the summer months. Its crystal-clear azure waters invite swimmers to enjoy refreshing dips and exciting snorkelling adventures. Nearby taverns, cafes, and restaurants serve delicious specialities and ice-cold drinks, perfect for quenching your thirst after a day in the sun. Agios Emilianos is a popular beach destination for both tourists and locals alike.
  • Koundouros Beach
    • Koundouros beach is the second most cosmopolitan beach on the island, radiating the quintessential Cycladic charm. Yachts and features picturesque windmills frequent this popular beach resort, several taverns, a beach bar, and a waterfront café-restaurant, all complemented by sunbeds and umbrellas. Sheltered from northern winds, Koundouros attracts many visitors during the summer months while maintaining a tranquil atmosphere. The beach boasts a long stretch of sandy shoreline and crystalline emerald waters, perfect for relaxation and enjoyment.
  • Xyla Beach
    • Nestled in a picturesque setting, this stunning beach features golden sand, fine pebbles, and deep, clear waters, making it a remote paradise for unforgettable beach days. Visitors can swim in the crystal-clear waters, relax on the soft sand, soak up the sun, or unwind under straw umbrellas. Xyla Beach is an inviting retreat that attracts a diverse range of visitors, including naturists who appreciate its unique atmosphere of tranquillity and privacy.
  • Koundouros Beach
    • Koundouros beach is the second most cosmopolitan beach on the island, radiating the quintessential Cycladic charm. Yachts and features picturesque windmills frequent this popular beach resort, several taverns, a beach bar, and a waterfront café-restaurant, all complemented by sunbeds and umbrellas. Sheltered from northern winds, Koundouros attracts many visitors during the summer months while maintaining a tranquil atmosphere. The beach boasts a long stretch of sandy shoreline and crystalline emerald waters, perfect for relaxation and enjoyment.
  • Sikamia Beach
    • Beautifully secluded, this stunning unspoiled beach is perfect for swimming, diving, and snorkelling. Its long stretches of sand and pebbles, a rich seabed, and sapphire waters offer a picturesque landscape for relaxing getaways. Visitors can lounge on the beach, soak up the sun, swim through caves, and dive into the deep cerulean waters from Mytakas rock. This remarkable beach remains completely unorganized, providing the peace and tranquillity of a coastal paradise.
  • Kaliskia Beach
    • Surrounded by lush nature and the breathtaking Cycladic landscape, Kaliskia Beach is a remote haven of seclusion and tranquillity, offering unparalleled privacy and calm. Nestled in an unspoiled setting with a mix of sand and pebbles, this serene beach features emerald waters, making it ideal for those searching for complete isolation. A few tamarisk trees provide shade, allowing swimmers to escape the sun and relax while gazing at the endless indigo horizon.
  • Gialiskari Beach
    • Gialiskari is one of the island’s most popular beaches. It is known for its tranquil emerald waters and numerous amenities, including café bars and taverns, making it an ideal choice for families and children. Abundant tamarisk trees provide ample shade for swimmers, allowing them to comfortably relax while enjoying the stunning sunset after a fun day. Nestled within a picturesque cove, this beautiful beach is a haven of relaxation and tranquillity.

Many, many more…

 

How safe is Kea for visitors?

Kea is a safe destination with a low petty crime rate. This peaceful island, home to a small population, is known for the hospitality and friendliness of its locals. However, as with any travel destination, it’s wise to remain vigilant about your belongings and stay aware of your surroundings.

Your Luxury Villa Experience Awaits

Whether you seek relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, the Greek Islands offer an unparalleled destination for discerning travellers. Experience the epitome of luxury villa living with our exclusive accommodations and personalized services tailored to your every need. From seamless travel arrangements to unforgettable island experiences, let us create memories that last a lifetime on the beautiful Greek Islands.

For more information or to plan your next getaway, contact us today and discover the magic of the Greek Islands with our expert team.

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