Kefalonia weather

Kefalonia sits on the west coast of Greece and is widely known for its beaches and landscape. 

You may have already come across some pictures as you’ve been researching, though nothing beats the real thing! The greenery around the island, the turquoise waters, and beautiful sands are just a few reasons to visit. But when you consider the culture, cuisine, villages, and hidden gems you can discover, we’re sure you won’t need any more persuading.

Weather during January

January is a winter month in Europe and whether you choose to holiday in Kefalonia at this time of year will very much depend on your expectations of a holiday. Some advantages of a break so early in the year will be the peace and quiet, plus you'll get a very good deal on your accommodation and flights.

The sky is normally cloudy and there’s a chance of rain for 12 days of the month, with most occurring at the beginning. There will be 6 hours of sunshine with calm breezes, so you won’t want to spend all day at the beach. If you’re holidaying in January though, the beach probably isn’t the main attraction for you.

Luckily there are plenty of things to do in Kefalonia, such as visiting the Archaeological Museum of Argostoli – home to exhibits, excavation findings, and artefacts – ideal for a cloudy day and a history buff’s delight.

If you do want to brave the beach, even just for a stroll, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Though the sea won’t be warm enough for swimming at 16°c, the soft sands of Makris Gialos or Ai Helis make these beaches perfect to walk along.

Pack your case wisely and you can enjoy the island come rain or shine.

See our full analysis of the Kefalonia weather during January

Weather during February

With 1 day less of rain and an extra hour of sunlight, February brings a little improvement over January. The average temperature at 10°c is still cool, but with a beautiful island to keep you busy, we’re confident a holiday this month will be pleasurable.

Making the most of the outdoors no matter the weather means you’ll experience so much that Kefalonia has to offer – visit Agios Georgios Castle – a remarkable piece of Venetian architecture that will give you an insight into its history, and beyond the castle you’ll get some picturesque views of the beauty that surrounds it.

The sea will be too cold to swim in but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a walk along the shore – Skala Beach is sandy and surrounded by pine trees. If you head there at sunset you’ll be able to soak up those romantic vibes.

February’s climate can be changeable so remember to pack your warmer clothes and a raincoat too. As long as you’re open to your plans changing if the weather does, nothing will stop a trip this month.

See our full analysis of the Kefalonia weather during February

Weather during March

The climate improves from March onwards and one of the appealing things about Kefalonia is that you get a great amount of daily sunshine – this month gives you 8 hours and while the sun is not at its hottest of the entire year, you’ll have enough time to do a variety of things every day.

You may see rain during your stay as it’s forecast over 10 of the 31 days, but if you are well prepared with your clothing and essentials your holiday will not be impacted.

If you do get a spot of rain head to Lakovatios Library and Museum. You’ll find a charming mansion that is home to thousands of books, as well as 1 floor of the building dedicated to the museum and outside the building, you’ll be met with beautiful garden surroundings. Located in the town of Lixouri, you can easily spend the day here strolling around to discover churches, the harbour, shops, and restaurants.

With temperatures ranging from 12-14°c it can still feel a little chilly at times, but as the month progresses, you’ll find it increases by a couple of degrees.

The sea hasn’t warmed up yet so those looking to go swimming should opt for accommodation with a heated pool.

See our full analysis of the Kefalonia weather during March

Weather during April

April sees a lot more hotels, restaurants and entertainment venues open up as they prepare for the busy season. If you want access to a variety of facilities and activities without the crowds, then this month is ideal for you.

The average temperature is around 15°c, reaching highs of 17°. With 10 hours of sunlight, the days will be long and enjoyable to fit in a whole host of activities.

You may get some cloud and showers over the month, as well as calm breezes sweeping over the island, though this usually improves towards the end of the month.

Although the sea is still pretty cool at 16°, this might be comfortable enough to let the waves wash over your feet as you take a stroll along the sand. Visit Platis Gialos – a sandy beach enclosed in a beautiful bay of green hills and vegetation. Its clear shallow waters mean little ones can dip their toes in safely, as well as the more active having a go at volleyball or beach games.

Kefalonia is steeped in history and a lot of tourists plan their holiday for a time of discovery. If that sounds like you then don’t miss a trip to Agios Gerasimos Monastery. Located in Valsamata village, it is a stunning building both inside and out.

See our full analysis of the Kefalonia weather during April

Weather during May

The colder months are behind us now and May sees the warmer weather pushing through. Highs of 22°c and average temperatures at 18° mean you’ll be able to spend longer at the beach, especially now the number of rainy days reduces to 7 over the whole month and the hours of sunshine climbs to 12 per day.

The sea is a comfortable 19° and this may be warm enough for you to go swimming or try water sports.

Visit Megali Ammos Beach – it is blue flag awarded, has smooth sand, clear waters, and offers sun lounger and umbrella hiring services. If you want the beach on your doorstep, you’re in luck because it is surrounded by hotels and apartments.

There will be a mild breeze and lows of 12° so if you prefer it a little warmer in May, travel towards the end of the month as temperatures continue to rise.

Venturing further from the beach, you might be interested in a guided boat tour or maybe renting a kayak and making your own adventure.

As the season progresses, more and more facilities and activities will be available so there will be a lot to choose from as the warmth builds.

See our full analysis of the Kefalonia weather during May

Weather during June

As the weather continues to improve, June sees overall temperatures in the mid 20’s. We suggest bringing a light jacket just in case it drops to the mid-teens, but from now your luggage should consist of shorts, t-shirts, and summer dresses.

Thanks to only 5 days of rain forecast over the entire month, June is one of the driest and most pleasant times to visit. Travel now to avoid the crowds that come over the next few months, especially if you don’t like the hustle and bustle of a busy island.

A beach day will no doubt be on the cards, and with 13 hours of sun per day you can certainly work on your tan. Lourdas Beach is a perfect location. Surrounded by greenery and mountain views, it offers clean white sand and clear waters that make for an idyllic setting to relax the day away. At 23°c the sea is ideal for swimming, snorkelling, or engaging in water sports. With plenty of tavernas now open, you’ll be able to refuel during the day too.

A beautiful place to visit if you prefer sightseeing to sitting on the beach is Assos – with not many tourists and a laid-back atmosphere, you can enjoy this village at your own pace. For the more active there are hiking trails to castles, with the chance to witness some breathtaking views.

See our full analysis of the Kefalonia weather during June

Weather during July

An increase in temperature this month inevitably means an increase of tourists – families taking their holiday during the school break, sunworshippers, and those who want to discover the culture of a beautiful island – July is certainly a busy time.

Reaching highs of 29°c it’s safe to say that summer has arrived, so pack your suncream and beachwear and head to the world famous Myrtos Beach. Located in the north, it is easy to see why it is awarded the blue flag each year – clear blue waters, hill views, and clean sand and pebbles are just a few reasons. Keep in mind that it may get busy on this popular stretch so you will need to bring your own umbrella if you arrive a bit later because there are only a handful to hire and no natural shade.

If you do find the sun a little too much during the afternoon, we’d recommend visiting Drogarati Cave, showcasing its formations of stalactites and stalagmites, history buffs will admire the cave that is believed to be 150 million years old.

With calm breezes coming from the Aegean Sea and rain being rare in July, this is an exceptional month to take your holiday.

See our full analysis of the Kefalonia weather during July

Weather during August

Much like July, you'll get some glorious weather in August. 13 hours of sunshine per day guarantees you’ll be able to fit in a variety of activities, or maybe you have one thing in mind for your holiday and that’s to relax on the beach. With temperatures in the high 20’s and the sea being an inviting 26°c it's no wonder the beaches are so popular.

Xi Beach is a unique sight with its red-coloured sand, clear waters, and white cliffs. There’s something for everyone here too – loungers for those that want to sunbathe, water sports for the more adventurous, and shallow waters which are safe for smaller children. If you need to take a break from the crowds, head to either end of the beach where you will find it a little quieter. There’s also an array of beachside bars that means you can spend a full day here.

Slight winds do give some respite from the heat and you may get a little cloud towards the end of the month, though you’ll still need to ensure you use high-factor suncream, wear a hat, and drink plenty of water.

If you’re thinking of doing something different then take a trip to Koutavos Lagoon where you can take in all the nature and wildlife, walk over the bridge that overlooks the lagoon and bay, and even jump on a pedal or electric boat as a fun way to enjoy the surroundings.

See our full analysis of the Kefalonia weather during August

Weather during September

From the summer peak of July and August, there are a few changes this month. You could see lows of 16°c and 5 days of rain over the 30 (which let’s face it, still isn’t a lot). 

If you’re not a fan of the bustling crowds, you’ll be pleased to know that it quietens down in September as schools reopen. There will still be tourists dotted around and overall the climate will remain pleasant.

Foki Beach is a splendid part of the island and September is the perfect time to visit. Consisting of small pebbles and clear waters, along with natural landscape, caves, and coves to explore, you’ll get a sense of relaxation here and with 10 hours of sun and highs of 26° we’re pretty sure you could spend the day soaking up the rays.

The sea is warm enough at 25° and while there aren’t any water sport facilities here, you can enjoy swimming and snorkelling.

The views are stunning and this beach would suit someone who loves to take pictures, so grab your camera and beach gear. Making a complete day of it, you could stop off at Fiskardo, a fishing village that is best reached by boat and offers lots of eateries and places to relax.

Looking for something a little more active, Kefalonia guarantees you’ll find somewhere to explore. For instance, you could visit Mount Ainos National Park for its many hiking trails that can lead you to some of the most amazing views of the island, with nature and wildlife to discover along the way.

September is a great month to enjoy the summer vibes before the seasons change. Travelling towards the end of the month will see the prices come down and the last of the crowds disperse.

See our full analysis of the Kefalonia weather during September

Weather during October

Being slightly cooler in October you’d be forgiven for thinking it may not be the month for a holiday – but in reality, it is one of the best times!

Highs of 21°c are possible, with average temperatures ranging between 18 and 20°. The sun is present for 8 hours per day and the sea is a comfortable 23°, so why not head to Poros Beach. It is made up of pebbles and shingle, and the water is clear – making it ideal for snorkelling. It is a narrow beach, but that shouldn’t hinder your experience during this month as there won’t be too many tourists around.

It is worth noting that from late October some accommodation and businesses close, though you’ll still have plenty of things to do and if you book in advance, you’ll get some brilliant deals.

If you like a laid-back atmosphere then October is ideal, gone are the crowds and instead you’ll get the chance to mingle with the locals on the island. Exploring outdoors and booking trips or activities can be done up until the end of the month or just into early November.

A great way to get around is by hiring a bike – the climate is cool enough now to be able to spend your days outside without too much risk of burning or sweltering in the heat.

If you do get a cloudy day, head to Casa House Museum. Here you’ll be given a tour by the creator, showcasing an impressive collection salvaged from the 1953 earthquakes. Located in the attractive village of Karavomylos, those looking for a much quieter getaway will find this part of Kefalonia is perfect.

See our full analysis of the Kefalonia weather during October

Weather during November

There are some tourists who enjoy all different types of getaway and those that may holiday multiple times of the year. If you’re lucky enough, then make November one of the months you visit Kefalonia.

You’ll probably want to pack a jumper for the chilly times and a coat in case it rains (it’s possible for 7 days over the month). You will get 7 hours of sun at highs of 17°c which is impressive compared to the temperatures in the UK.

Going to the beach is promising, even in November, and although the weather may be a little unpredictable, there will still be chance for a few hours spent on the sand if you go well prepared.

Antisamos can be a beautiful sight this month with its green hills and vegetation, along with its turquoise waters. While the facilities may be limited, if you take a blanket and a picnic, you’ll have a great time here. For some, at 20°, the sea will still be pleasant enough for a swim.

For the movie buffs amongst us, you may be excited to learn that some scenes from Captain Corelli’s Mandolin were filmed at this very beach.

If the beach isn’t your thing, you could take a trip to Lixouri – one of the largest towns in Kefalonia and one that has a more Greek feel to it. As a working town, you’ll find lots of shops and places to spend your day roaming around, as well as enjoying the harbour. It will be undoubtedly quieter than the summer months, but that will only allow you to immerse yourself in the charm and atmosphere of this beautiful part of the island.

See our full analysis of the Kefalonia weather during November

Weather during December

Winter makes its mark this month and although the temperatures drop, it is still a great time to visit and will be a lot milder than the winter you’re used to in the UK.

Daytime temperatures average at 10°c with highs of 13° so you’ll need to pack jumpers and swap your shorts for trousers. Being one of the coldest months of the year you may experience moderate to high winds and rain – as long as you’re prepared for the weather though, December still has its perks.

There will be a sense of calm on the island because it won’t be heaving with tourists and if you plan in advance, you won’t be stuck in queues or fighting for a spot on the beach.

Granted, you probably won’t want to spend the whole day on the beach, but there’s nothing stopping you renting a car to go beach hopping. By this we mean driving to some of the most popular places and taking in all the views that you wouldn’t necessarily be able to see due to the crowds.

You’ll see some of the greenest landscape in the winter thanks to the rainfall giving it its lush colour. The sea will most likely be too cold for a full swim at 17°, but letting the waves lap over your feet as you take a stroll is something most of us love to experience.

Finding accommodation with a heated pool would be a great idea in December and you should be able to get a good price while it’s out of season. Just bear in mind that there may be fewer flights available during the winter.

Remember when we mentioned the perks of visiting Kefalonia in December? Well, one of the main ones is the cuisine – residents and business owners tend to have a lot more time to prepare regional recipes and use traditional ingredients, so you won’t want to miss out on sampling some of the local delicacies. If you’re a foodie like me, you could even try a different eatery every day and find your favourite dish!

Pack well, keep your options open and take a laid-back approach when travelling in December – you really won’t be disappointed.

See our full analysis of the Kefalonia weather during December

Kefalonia is a wonderful place to visit no matter what month of the year. It really does depend on the kind of holiday you prefer. Some will enjoy nothing more than to soak up the sun at the beach every day in the height of summer, whereas others may want to explore the island when it’s a little cooler.

If you plan ahead, you’ll find plenty of accommodation in the towns and villages, as well as a variety of activities to spend your trip exactly how you want to.