High season has arrived on the island, and with it, some of the best weather of the year: a gorgeous 13 hours of sunshine each day on average, and temperatures regularly topping 80°F. It’s no wonder that all traveler services from hotels to boat tours are running at full throttle (and at their highest tariffs). It’s getting too hot now to prioritize much beyond beaches and tavernas—although if you want to brave the heat to explore, cultural activities abound.
## Weather in Santorini during June
June in Santorini heralds the arrival of truly stunning weather, making it a highly desirable time to visit this captivating Greek island. Average daily temperatures during this month range from a comfortable 66-81°F (19-27°C). The sun shines generously for over half of each day, gracing the island with an average of thirteen hours of sunshine. The likelihood of rain significantly diminishes in June, effectively becoming almost negligible. You can expect only around 0.2 inches or 5mm of rainfall throughout the entire month.
The seawater temperature also begins to climb, reaching around 21°C (70°F). However, a fascinating phenomenon occurs due to the time it takes for the sun to thoroughly warm the water. If you take a dip off one of Santorini’s beautiful beaches in June, the water temperature will surprisingly be quite similar to what you’d experience in October.
It’s important to be aware that the island can sometimes be affected by the Meltemi winds during June. These are northerly winds that can blow persistently for several consecutive days. The Meltemi can have a dual effect. On the one hand, they can provide a welcome respite from the intense summer heat, injecting a sense of freshness into the air. On the other hand, they can also make the sea conditions somewhat rougher.
## Crowds and Costs in June
The price you pay for enjoying Santorini’s incredible June weather is the influx of other visitors who are drawn to the island for precisely the same reasons. From June onwards, for the next three months, Santorini enters its peak tourist season. Consequently, prices for virtually everything on the island will be at their highest levels for the entire year. This price increase is particularly evident in the cost of hotel accommodations.
Prepare for significantly larger crowds compared to the preceding month of May. Simply strolling through the charming, time-worn streets of Fira or Oia will take considerably longer due to the increased foot traffic. Securing a coveted restaurant table with that perfect panoramic sea view might prove challenging, as every available seat will likely be occupied. Moreover, be prepared for fellow tourists to inadvertently step into your carefully composed photographs, as many visitors will be seeking the same iconic shots. However, by venturing slightly further away from the most popular tourist hotspots, you can still discover pockets of relative tranquility, even during this busy period.
## Where to Go on Santorini
Pack your beach towel and venture to one of Santorini’s exquisite stretches of sand. The beaches on Santorini are characterized by their unique black sand and small pebbles, features that only add to their distinctive beauty. The majority of the beaches are located on the eastern side of the island, a departure from the west coast, which is renowned for forming the dramatic caldera.
Kamari stands out as a highly popular black sand beach, boasting a hotel situated directly on the sand. Other appealing sandy beaches with nearby hotels include Perissa and Perivolos. A visit to the strikingly beautiful and aptly named Red Beach is a must. This beach is composed of small red stones and offers crystal-clear waters. Also consider a visit to the long and lovely Baxedes Beach, located close to Oia.
For those seeking to escape the crowds, a trip to the far southwestern tip of the island, beyond the archaeological site of Akrotiri and towards Akrotiri Lighthouse, provides an opportunity to discover less crowded areas. Here, you’ll find secluded beaches such as Kambia Beach, White Beach, and Black Beach.
## What to Do on Santorini
With the beautiful, warm weather that June brings, sunbathing on the beach and swimming in the island’s famously clear waters are the quintessential activities. Consider indulging in some sea kayaking or embarking on a cruise around the island’s picturesque coastline and the impressive volcanic caldera.
If you are looking for a break from water-based activities, explore the island’s fascinating archaeological sites, such as the ancient Minoan city of Akrotiri. Alternatively, escape the heat with a visit to one of Santorini’s renowned wineries. Many wineries offer tours and tastings, providing a delightful sensory experience. One of the best wineries to visit is Santo Wines, which is located near the village of Pyrgos.
## June Events
**Feast Day/ Holiday of St. Pnevmatos (Holy Spirit):** This holiday creates a three-day weekend centered around the movable feast day of this saint. It’s a popular vacation time for locals, who often travel from the mainland cities to the islands during this period. As a result, all the islands become quite crowded, and ferries to the islands tend to be fully booked on Thursday and Friday, with return journeys on Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday. The specific weekend on which this holiday falls depends on the date of Orthodox Easter.
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