Kea

Kea is an island in Greece. Generally quiet and rustic, its proximity to Athens makes it a popular destination for holidaying Greeks.

• 37.6424.341 Ioulis - The capital of the Island. A picturesque, rustic town accessible only on foot (cars must be parked outside), and set on the side of a hill.
• 37.6596824.3124022 Korissia - The port where the ferry from Lavrio docks. It has a number of nice restaurants on the waterfront, which become busy prior to the departure of the ferry.
• 37.58099424.2782723 Koundouros
• 37.67512524.3503674 Otzias - Coastal city with nice small beach. 2-3 hour uphill hike with great views to Ioulis.
• 37.66583324.3283335 Vourkari - Once a small fishing village, Vourkari has become one of Kea's most attractive waterfront settlements.

  

Kea can be reached from Lavrio on the Greek mainland by ferry. The ferry takes around 1 hour, runs several times per day (more frequently in summer), and is able to transport vehicles. The ferry docks at Korissia on Kea.

Kythnos can also be reached by ferry from Kea.

The closest airport is Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport, close to Athens on the Greek mainland.

A road network links the various towns on the island together, and cars may be rented in the port of Korissia. The roads in the island are narrow and winding to cover the hilly terrain, and only the major roads between towns are paved. To reach some of the smaller beaches, driving on dirt roads is necessary.

The steep hills, narrow roads and hot summer of Kea make it an uncomfortable place to cycle, but some hardy travelers have been known to tour it on bike.

37.6408924.348041 Lion of Κea. Carved from a single block of local stone around the 6th century BC, the Lion of Kea is the island's most famous monument. Resting peacefully on a hillside just outside Ioulida, the enigmatic sculpture has inspired legends for centuries and is one of the finest surviving examples of Archaic Greek monumental sculpture.  (updated Jul 2026)

37.64096724.3404482 Archaeological Museum of Kea. Located in Ioulida, the museum displays artefacts spanning thousands of years of the island's history. Highlights include prehistoric pottery from Ayia Irini, ancient sculptures, inscriptions and everyday objects that illustrate Kea's important role in the Cyclades from prehistoric through Roman times.  (updated Jul 2026)

37.561524.33073 Ancient Karthea. One of the finest archaeological sites in the Cyclades, Ancient Karthea occupies a spectacular coastal location reached by hiking trail or boat. The remarkably preserved remains include temples dedicated to Athena and Apollo, a theatre, defensive walls and parts of the ancient city overlooking the Aegean Sea.  (updated Jul 2026)

37.66888924.3258334 Ayia Irini Archaeological Site. This important Bronze Age settlement flourished during the Cycladic and Mycenaean periods and is one of Greece's most significant prehistoric sites. Excavations have uncovered houses, streets, fortifications and sanctuaries that reveal over 4,000 years of continuous occupation.  (updated Jul 2026)

37.66551224.3959785 Monastery of Panagia Kastriani. Perched dramatically on cliffs above the sea, this 18th-century monastery is Kea's most important religious site. According to tradition, a miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary was discovered here, and the monastery remains an important pilgrimage destination while offering magnificent coastal views.  (updated Jul 2026)

37.6166124.3031866 Tower of Agia Marina. The remarkably well-preserved Tower of Agia Marina is a 4th-century-BC Hellenistic watchtower in Kea’s interior, between the ancient cities of Korissia and Poiessa. Rising beside the small church of Agia Marina, it stands at a crossroads of ancient routes and is considered one of Greece’s finest surviving ancient square towers.  (updated Jul 2026)

37.6749924.351521 Otzias Beach. Kea’s longest beach is a broad, sandy bay with shallow water, natural shade and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. Partly organized, it is a convenient choice for a full day by the sea.  (updated Jul 2026)

35.238723.72222 Gialiskari Beach. Close to Korissia and Vourkari, Gialiskari is a small, attractive sandy beach with calm, clear water. Its easy access and nearby cafés make it ideal for a quick swim or a low-key beach day.  (updated Jul 2026)

37.580924.27853 Koundouros Beach. Koundouros is one of Kea’s best-equipped beaches, with sunbeds, beach bars and a choice of water sports nearby. It is a popular, sheltered bay for families and visitors looking for comfort and services.  (updated Jul 2026)

37.599624.2774 Pisses Beach. Pisses is a long, sandy beach on the west coast, framed by hills and backed by tamarisk trees. With clear water, a peaceful setting and a nearby taverna, it suits visitors seeking a quieter, more traditional beach day.  (updated Jul 2026)

37.64724.40165 Spathi Beach. Spathi is a beautiful sandy beach on Kea’s more remote eastern coast, reached via a partly unpaved road. Its clear, deep water and rugged surroundings make it a fine choice for those willing to travel farther from the island’s main villages.  (updated Jul 2026)

37.639324.290016 Xyla Beach. Around 4 km south of Korissia, Xyla is a striking beach with exceptionally clear water and a more natural feel. The approach includes a dirt road, so bring supplies and check road conditions before setting out.  (updated Jul 2026)

37.658124.31387 Korissia Beach. Situated beside Kea’s main ferry port, Korissia is the island’s most convenient beach for a swim on arrival or before departure. The sandy shore and calm water are within easy walking distance of shops, cafés and accommodation.  (updated Jul 2026)

37.1966124.475128 Sykamia Beach. Sykamia is a peaceful northern beach, valued for its clear water and secluded setting below terraced hills. It is best for visitors with a car who prefer a quieter swim away from the island’s livelier bays.  (updated Jul 2026)

37.5600824.331099 Karthaia and Poles Beaches. These two beautiful sandy-pebbly beaches lie beside the ancient ruins of Karthaia and are reached on foot via hiking trails. The effort is rewarded with clear water, dramatic scenery and a memorable swim among one of Kea’s most important archaeological landscapes.  (updated Jul 2026)

37.555524.3255210 Kaliskia Beach. Kaliskia is a small, unspoiled beach with emerald water and welcome natural shade from trees. It is a rewarding stop for independent explorers, particularly when combined with the walk to ancient Karthaia.  (updated Jul 2026)

37.5791124.3585111 Agios Filippos Beach. Agios Filippos is a quiet, remote beach of sand and fine pebbles, accessible by boat or on foot. Its isolation and crystal-clear water make it a good choice for those seeking a more adventurous day by the sea.  (updated Jul 2026)

There are a number of Scuba diving sites close to the island, including some wrecks.

Kea’s extensive network of signed stone paths makes hiking one of the island’s most rewarding activities, linking beaches, villages, springs and archaeological sites. For an easy-to-moderate half-day walk, follow Route Leon from Ioulida to Otzias Beach. The roughly 5-km route takes 1½–2 hours, descends through dry terraces and oak-dotted countryside, and passes the famous Lion of Kea, a large archaic sculpture carved into the rock. Start early or walk in the late afternoon, then finish with a swim or lunch at Otzias Bay. Bring water, sun protection and sturdy shoes; the uneven stone paths can be slippery in places.

A more dramatic option begins at Stavroudaki, in the island’s southeast, and descends to ancient Karthaia and the secluded beach at Kaliskia. Allow around one hour for the downhill walk and longer for the return climb, with extra time to explore the temple ruins, theatre and sea views. There are few facilities along this route, so carry sufficient water and snacks, check the weather, and arrange transport to and from the Stavroudaki trailhead in advance. Avoid walking during the hottest part of summer days.

Restaurants and Taverns can be found in Ioulis, Korissia and Vourkari.

Acorn cookies are a signature snack of the island, which get their name because they are made with acorn flour. They can be found shops across the island.

• Lavrio - 1 hr by ferry
• Kythnos