Island Overview
A continuous layer of cloud sits over Crete on 12 November 2026, but the day is dry from Chania to Sitia. No precipitation is recorded or expected at any of the ten monitored locations. Temperatures are solidly mild for mid-November, with highs reaching 25.2°C at Malia and a cooler 21.6°C at Ierapetra on the south coast. Overnight lows remain comfortable between 16.4°C in Chania and 19.6°C in Rethymno and Hersonissos.
North Coast vs South Coast
The north coast shows the widest spread of conditions today. Rethymno and Heraklion carry the strongest winds, gusting to 26 and 25.6 km/h respectively, sufficient to raise small whitecaps but well short of levels that affect ferry schedules. Chania and Malia are near-calm at under 7 km/h, making those stretches feel considerably more sheltered. On the south coast, Ierapetra and Makrigialos record slightly cooler air temperatures, peaking at 21.6 and 21.7°C, but lead the island for sea warmth at 21.9 and 22.0°C. The Libyan Sea side is the place to be for warm-water swimming today.
Mountain Conditions
Above 800 metres, island-wide cloud is likely to thicken into low stratus over the White Mountains and around Psiloritis. Hikers planning higher routes should expect reduced visibility, damp air, and temperatures several degrees below coastal readings. No snow is forecast at this stage of the season, but summit approaches are not recommended today. Gorges and lower trails remain accessible.
Sea State, Wind and UV
Seas are calm to slight at every monitored point. Maximum wave heights range from 0.30 metres at Ag. Nikolaos to 0.84 metres at Chania, well within safe limits for swimming and boat excursions. The UV index peaks at 4.15 at Ierapetra and Makrigialos, placing it in the low-to-moderate band. Sunscreen is still worth applying for anyone spending several hours outdoors, though the cloud cover and low solar angle reduce actual exposure significantly.
Swim Verdict: Conditions Favourable
All monitored beaches are suitable for swimming today. Sea temperatures range from 20.9°C at Rethymno to 22.0°C at Makrigialos, warm enough for a comfortable dip without a wetsuit. Waves are small everywhere. The overcast sky takes some of the pleasure out of a beach session, but the water quality is there. For the warmest and calmest combination, the south coast from Ierapetra to Makrigialos is the standout choice.
Practical Tip for the Day
Drivers heading east along the north coast should account for gusts between Rethymno and Hersonissos, where winds reach 24 to 26 km/h on exposed sections of the E75. High-sided vehicles and motorcycles should reduce speed accordingly. If your itinerary is flexible, the south coast road between Ierapetra and Makrigialos offers a noticeably calmer drive with equally good sea views and the warmest water on the island.
