Andros has a typical Mediterranean climate but with its own unique characteristics. Because of its position and mountainous geography it receives more rainfall in winter than many other Cycladic islands. This rainfall creates the lush green valleys natural springs and waterfalls that make the island famous.
The warmest period falls in July and August when temperatures frequently reach 30 degrees Celsius. The coolest period is January and February when daytime temperatures hover around 13 degrees.
During summer visitors can expect brilliant sunshine clear blue skies and very little rain. However summer also brings the Meltemi wind. This strong northerly wind keeps the island comfortable during extreme heat but it can also make certain coastal areas quite breezy.
Wind direction and temperature play a huge role in how you experience the island. Knowing what to expect will help you choose the right side of the island for swimming or the right month for walking.
This guide provides long term climate information to help you plan your trip. A live weather forecast is also displayed above for current conditions.
Andros Weather at a Glance
The weather on Andros changes significantly throughout the year. The island is hottest during July and August which are also the driest and sunniest months. Rainfall is most likely between November and March keeping the hillsides green.
The strongest winds occur in mid summer when the Meltemi blows from the north. The sea is warm enough for swimming from late May until late October.
| Month | Typical conditions | What it is good for |
| January | Cold wet and quiet | Winter walking and local life |
| February | Cold with showers | Enjoying nature and quiet villages |
| March | Cool and getting greener | Early hiking and seeing wildflowers |
| April | Mild sunny and pleasant | Hiking and exploring nature |
| May | Warm sunny and calm | Walking and early season swimming |
| June | Hot clear and low wind | Beach days and swimming |
| July | Very hot sunny and windy | Summer beach holidays |
| August | Very hot sunny and windy | Peak summer holidays |
| September | Warm calm and warm sea | Swimming hiking and sightseeing |
| October | Mild with occasional rain | Late swimming and autumn hiking |
| November | Cool wet and quiet | Late season walking |
| December | Cold rainy and quiet | Festive local life |
Andros Weather by Month
January
January is typically the coldest and wettest month on the island. Daytime temperatures average around 13 degrees Celsius and snow occasionally falls on the highest mountain peaks. The island is very quiet with only permanent residents going about their daily routines. This month is suited for dedicated winter walkers who come prepared for rain and chilly winds. Most tourist businesses and beach tavernas remain closed.
February
February remains cold and wet with temperatures similar to January. You can expect frequent showers mixed with occasional bright clear days. The landscape begins to wake up from winter with early almond blossoms appearing in the valleys. It is still too cold for swimming or sunbathing. Visitors during February are usually Athenians coming for a quiet weekend getaway or nature enthusiasts enjoying the dramatic winter scenery.
March
March brings the start of spring. Temperatures rise slightly to around 15 degrees Celsius. The island is incredibly green and wildflowers cover the hillsides. Rainfall decreases but showers are still common. The sea remains far too cold for swimming at around 15 degrees. This is a brilliant month for serious hikers who want to explore the extensive network of trails without the intense summer heat.
April
April sees a noticeable shift towards warmer weather with average highs of 19 degrees Celsius. The sun shines more frequently and the island looks spectacular with full flowing waterfalls and blooming valleys. It is an excellent time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The sea is still brisk at 16 degrees so only brave swimmers tend to go in. Easter often falls in April bringing a lively atmosphere to the villages.
May
May is a beautiful shoulder month. Average temperatures reach a very comfortable 24 degrees Celsius. The days are long sunny and mostly dry. The ferocious summer winds have not yet started making it a peaceful time to explore. The sea temperature rises to 19 degrees which is refreshing but comfortable enough for a quick swim. May offers the perfect balance of warm weather and quiet beaches before the peak season begins.
June
June marks the beginning of proper summer weather. Daytime highs reach 28 degrees Celsius and rain is extremely rare. The sea warms up to a pleasant 22 degrees making it perfect for long swims. The Meltemi wind is usually quite mild in June compared to later in the summer. This makes June one of the finest months to visit if you want hot beach days without the strongest winds or the largest crowds.
July
July is peak summer. Temperatures frequently exceed 30 degrees Celsius and the sun shines for up to 13 hours a day. The landscape dries out becoming golden brown. This month brings the start of the Meltemi a strong northerly wind that blows across the Aegean. The wind cools the air making the intense heat feel much more manageable. The island gets busy especially at weekends with visitors seeking hot weather and warm seas.
August
August is the hottest driest and windiest month. Temperatures stay above 30 degrees Celsius but the Meltemi wind is usually at its strongest. This wind is a defining feature of August on Andros. While it provides excellent natural air conditioning it also means the eastern and northern beaches can have large waves. The sea is at its absolute warmest reaching 25 degrees. The island is at its busiest during this holiday period.
September
September is widely considered one of the most enjoyable months. The intense heat softens to around 27 degrees Celsius and the Meltemi wind begins to drop. The sea retains all the heat from the summer making swimming incredibly pleasant. It is a fantastic time for combining beach days with hiking as the afternoon temperatures are much more forgiving. The summer crowds fade away leaving a relaxed atmosphere across the island.
October
October offers mild weather with highs around 23 degrees Celsius. The sea remains warm enough for swimming early in the month. As October progresses the chance of rain increases and the first autumn showers help turn the island green again. This is a very popular month for walking holidays especially with the annual hiking festivals taking place. It is a quiet authentic time to experience the island.
November
November marks the transition into winter. Temperatures drop to around 18 degrees Celsius and the weather becomes much more unpredictable. Rain is frequent and the days grow significantly shorter. The sea cools down rapidly. Most seasonal businesses close their doors for the winter. This month appeals only to those who want complete isolation and do not mind packing waterproof clothing for their walks.
December
December is a true winter month. Temperatures hover around 14 degrees Celsius and the sky is often cloudy. Rainfall is heavy which is vital for replenishing the mountain springs. The atmosphere in the main towns is festive for the holidays but tourist areas are entirely dormant. The weather is generally too cold and wet for typical holiday activities.
Wind and Meltemi in Andros
The Meltemi is a dry northerly wind that blows across the Aegean Sea during the summer months. It usually starts in July reaches its peak in August and begins to die down in September. Because Andros is located in the northern Cyclades it takes the full force of this wind.
The Meltemi is actually a welcome relief. Without it the summer heat would be unbearable. It acts as natural air conditioning keeping the air clear and the temperatures comfortable even under the blazing August sun. However visitors should know how it affects daily plans.
The wind blows from the north and north east. This means beaches on the eastern and northern coasts take the direct impact. Famous eastern beaches like Achla Zorkos and Vitali can become very wavy and the wind can whip up the sand. On a very windy day these exposed areas are not ideal for relaxing.
Fortunately Andros has a mountainous spine that protects the western coast. When the Meltemi is howling on the east the western beaches like Batsi Agios Petros and Golden Beach remain calm and sheltered. The water there stays flat making it perfect for families and relaxed swimming. Knowing which way the wind is blowing allows you to pick the right beach every single day.
For hikers the wind provides a fantastic cooling effect. However if you are walking along high exposed mountain ridges the gusts can be surprisingly powerful. Always take care on sheer drops when the Meltemi is strong.
The wind can also affect sea travel. Ferries travelling from Rafina on the mainland cross the Cavo Doro strait which is famous for strong currents and high winds. While large modern ferries handle the waves very well smaller boats might experience bumpy rides. In cases of extreme gale force winds ferry services can occasionally be delayed or suspended. Always check with your ferry operator if the forecast predicts exceptionally high winds.
Finally remember that a sunny day can still feel quite chilly if you are standing in a strong northerly breeze.
Weather for Activities
Beach days
For the most comfortable beach days you want temperatures above 25 degrees Celsius and plenty of sunshine. June July August and September provide exactly this. The key factor is the wind. On days when the northerly winds are strong head to the western coast for calm conditions and flat water. If the wind is low you can enjoy the wilder eastern beaches. The lack of rain in summer means your beach plans are rarely ruined by the weather.
Swimming
The swimming season reliably runs from late May to late October. The sea is coolest in May at around 19 degrees Celsius but it warms up nicely as summer progresses. By August the water temperature reaches 25 degrees. Air temperature also matters because coming out of the sea into a strong wind can feel cold. Sheltered bays offer the most pleasant swimming experience during mid summer.
Hiking and walking
Andros is famous for its extensive trails. The best weather for walking is found in spring and autumn. April May September and October offer temperatures between 19 and 25 degrees Celsius which is ideal for physical exertion. During July and August the heat is intense and there is little shade on the rocky paths. If you must hike in peak summer start very early in the morning to avoid the midday sun and always prepare for high UV levels.
Boat trips and sailing
Boat trips depend entirely on sea conditions. Calm days in June and September offer the smoothest sailing. During July and August the Meltemi wind can create choppy waves making small boat trips uncomfortable or impossible on the exposed coasts. Local captains know the waters perfectly and will alter routes to stay in sheltered areas when possible. Always check the latest local information before booking a sea excursion.
Sightseeing and photography
Exploring the beautiful villages and ancient sites is most enjoyable in the mild weather of May June and September. The light during these months is spectacular for photography. Mid summer heat can make wandering around stone villages exhausting during the afternoon. The strong summer wind also brings very clear air which removes haze and provides incredible visibility across the Aegean Sea.
Best Time to Visit for Weather
The best time to visit depends entirely on what you want to do. The island offers completely different experiences depending on the season.
Best months for hot beach weather
If your priority is lying on the sand and soaking up the heat July and August are the prime months. Temperatures sit firmly around 30 degrees Celsius and rain is almost non existent. You will get maximum sunshine hours. You just need to plan your beach trips around the wind heading west when the northerly breezes are strongest.
Best months for swimming
For the best swimming experience September is exceptional. The sea has spent the entire summer absorbing heat so the water is incredibly warm. The outside air is still hot but the fierce winds of August have usually calmed down. June is also fantastic for swimming offering clean fresh water and long sunny days before the peak crowds arrive.
Best months for hiking
Andros is a fantastic destination for walkers but the summer heat is too punishing for long treks. The absolute best months for hiking are April May and October. In spring the island is covered in green vegetation and the waterfalls are spectacular. In October the temperatures are mild and the light is beautiful making it perfect for the annual walking festivals.
Best months for sightseeing
If you want to explore the capital villages monasteries and museums you need comfortable temperatures. May June and September are ideal. The weather is warm enough to feel like a holiday but cool enough that walking up steep village steps will not leave you exhausted.
Best months for fewer crowds and milder weather
For travellers who want a peaceful experience with pleasant weather May and October are the best choices. You avoid the extreme heat and the strong winds of summer. You also avoid the busy Athenian weekend crowds. The weather is generally sunny and mild giving you the freedom to explore the island at a slow relaxed pace.
What is the weather like on Andros?
The island has a Mediterranean climate. Summers are hot dry and sunny with strong cooling winds. Winters are mild but wet which keeps the landscape incredibly green compared to other islands in the region.
What is the hottest month?
July and August are the hottest months. Daytime temperatures consistently reach 30 degrees Celsius and often go higher during heatwaves. The sun is extremely strong during this period.
What is the coldest month?
January and February are the coldest months. Temperatures typically sit around 13 degrees Celsius during the day and drop significantly at night. Snow can occasionally fall on the higher mountains.
Does it rain much?
It rains more here than on most other Cycladic islands but almost all the rain falls between November and March. Summer months are exceptionally dry with virtually no rainfall in July and August.
When is the best time to visit for sunshine?
For guaranteed sunshine June July and August are perfect. You will experience clear blue skies and up to 13 hours of bright sunlight every single day.
Is Andros good for hiking in summer?
Peak summer is generally too hot for serious hiking. There is very little shade on the trails. If you want to walk July and August are not ideal unless you start at dawn.
Is Andros suitable for a beach holiday in October?
Early October can still offer good beach weather with warm seas. However the weather becomes more unpredictable later in the month with higher chances of clouds and rain showers.
