Island Overview
Sunday 2 August brings another dry, warm day across Crete. Not a drop of rain is forecast from Chania to Sitia, and sea temperatures sit between 25.5 and 26.6 degrees Celsius. The main variables today are cloud cover and wind, which split the island into two distinct experiences.
North Coast vs South Coast
The north coast runs partly cloudy to fully overcast. Chania is under full cloud with a modest high of 27 degrees. Heraklion reaches 29 degrees with occasional breaks in the cloud, but the meltemi is at its strongest here, with gusts up to 26 km/h. Hersonissos and Malia sit at around 28 degrees, partly cloudy, with winds near 18 km/h. Seas along the north are choppy: Chania records the largest waves today at 1.28 metres and Malia reaches 1.0 metre.
The south coast tells a different story. Ierapetra and Makrigialos are under mainly clear skies, with light winds of 10 to 12 km/h and wave heights of just 0.2 metres. Temperatures reach 29 to 30 degrees and the Libyan Sea is calm. The far east adds another dimension: Agios Nikolaos and Elounda peak at 31 degrees, the warmest readings on the island today, with gentle waves in the sheltered Gulf of Mirabello.
Cretan Highlands
The White Mountains above Chania and the Psiloritis massif behind Rethymno offer a cooler alternative to the coast. Expect temperatures 8 to 12 degrees below coastal readings at altitude. The Samaria Gorge is open; an early start is advisable to avoid the midday heat at the lower canyon.
Sea State, Wind and UV
The UV index peaks between 8.1 and 8.35 island-wide, firmly in the very high band. Sun protection is essential between 11 AM and 4 PM: SPF 50 and a hat at minimum. The meltemi is most assertive along the central and western north coast. Away from there, conditions are noticeably calmer, with light winds in the east and south keeping both the air and the water settled.
Swim Verdict
South coast beaches are the standout pick today. Ierapetra and Makrigialos offer flat, warm water under clear skies, with sea temperatures around 26 degrees. Agios Nikolaos and Elounda are a solid alternative: air temperatures at 31 degrees, light winds, and a calm bay. Swimmers on the north coast at Heraklion or Chania should expect chop and may prefer sheltered coves. Rethymno is manageable but not the most comfortable option today.
Practical Tip
On north-coast beaches, the meltemi typically builds through late morning. Plan your swim before 10 AM for the calmest conditions, or consider the drive south if your schedule allows. The south coast is roughly 90 minutes from Heraklion but delivers a noticeably different day at the beach.
