DinaIf you’re looking for a Greek island close to Athens that combines calmness, elegance and authentic Cycladic aesthetics, Kea Island (also known as Tzia) is one destination you should definitely add to your list. It’s the first island you encounter when departing from Lavrio port, and honestly, every time I visit, I’m amazed by how such a nearby island can feel so different from the city.
Kea Island offers that rare balance: close enough for a short getaway, yet far enough to truly disconnect. It’s ideal if you want an island escape without long ferry rides, crowds or the feeling of being rushed — just relaxed days, beautiful landscapes and a refined, understated vibe.
Kea Island (or Tzia) is not an island of noise or excess. You won’t find the buzz of Mykonos or the endless queues of Santorini here. Instead, Kea Island is made for those who value quality without exaggeration — for couples looking for a quiet getaway, solo travellers in need of a proper reset, and for anyone who wants to truly feel like they’ve escaped the city, without ever stepping on a plane.
How to Get to Kea Island (Tzia)
One of the biggest advantages of Kea Island is just how easy it is to get there. There’s no need to catch a flight or spend hours on a ferry. Departures are from Lavrio port, not Piraeus, which makes the whole journey noticeably quicker and more relaxed. The ferry crossing takes around one hour, with frequent routes—especially during the summer months. If you’d rather avoid last-minute stress and limited availability, it’s a good idea to book your ferry tickets in advance.
If you’re travelling from Athens International Airport, Lavrio port is only about a 30-minute drive, which makes Kea Island one of the easiest Greek islands to reach. It’s one of the rare cases where getting from the airport to an island feels genuinely effortless. The same applies if you’re coming from central Athens — depending on traffic, the drive takes between 30 and 60 minutes. In practical terms, you can leave home in the morning and be swimming at a beach on Kea Island within two hours.
✨ My Pretty Travels tip: If you’re visiting Kea Island on a weekend or during July and August, booking your ferry tickets in advance is almost essential. Not only will you secure your spot on the boat, but you’ll also enjoy the trip with peace of mind — which, honestly, makes all the difference.
First Impressions of Kea Island (Tzia)
As soon as you arrive, you realise that Kea Island isn’t trying to impress. It doesn’t need to. It feels authentic, calm and quietly sophisticated — with a slightly wild edge, in the best possible way.
The hills drop dramatically into the sea, the roads have character, and the villas and hotels are carefully designed, stylish without being overdone. Kea Island is made for people who appreciate quality without the flashy wrapping.
And there’s something else you notice almost immediately: the crowd. Plenty of young people, but not the “party-every-night” type. Lots of couples, yet without the chaos you find in places like Paros. It’s a beautiful mix of people, relaxed, effortless, and easygoing.
When to Visit Kea Island: The Best Times of the Year
Kea Island is one of those destinations where seasonality really makes a difference — and each period has its own charm.
May & June are ideal if you’re looking for great weather, calm surroundings and beautifully clear seas. The island feels relaxed, easy-going and wonderfully balanced.
July & August are livelier and slightly more expensive, as expected. That said, Kea Island never feels overwhelming or chaotic, even at peak season — it simply becomes more social and vibrant.
September & October are, personally, my favourite months to visit Kea Island. The sea is still warm, there are fewer people around, and prices are noticeably better. Everything feels calmer, softer and more authentic.
Winter and why not? Kea Island is perfect for couples or anyone craving peace and quiet, long walks, and that rare feeling of having an island almost to yourself.
How to Get Around Kea Island
In one word: car.
Getting around Kea Island is much easier if you have your own vehicle. Public transportation is very limited, and the island’s roads are often narrow, sometimes unpaved, and full of uphill stretches and winding turns.
That said, it’s not intimidating at all — it’s simply island life. You drive slowly, you take your time, and almost every turn comes with a view that makes you want to stop and take photos. Exploring Kea Island by car is part of the experience, not a hassle.
The Best Beaches in Kea Island (Tzia)
Poisses Beach is one of those places that instantly makes you slow down. From the moment you step onto the sand, everything feels calmer. It’s a large, open beach with clear waters and plenty of space, which makes it ideal for families, couples, and anyone who simply wants a relaxed swim without noise or crowds.
Access is easy, the atmosphere is laid-back, and you’ll rarely struggle to find a spot to lay your towel. If you’re looking for an effortless beach day on Kea Island, Poisses is always a safe and satisfying choice.
Koundouros Beach is easily one of the most iconic and must-visit beaches on Kea Island. This is what many people picture when they think of a chic Cycladic beach: crystal-clear waters that sparkle under the sun, organised beach bars, good service, and an atmosphere that feels polished without being pretentious.
It’s ideal if you’re in the mood for a more organised beach day — comfortable sunbeds, food and drinks nearby, and a lively yet tasteful crowd. One thing to keep in mind: parking can be tricky, especially in high season. Go early in the morning or later in the afternoon, and you’ll thank yourself.
Spathi Beach is for those who don’t mind a little adventure in exchange for seriously beautiful waters. If you enjoy scenic drives and the feeling of discovering something a bit more untouched, this beach will be right up your alley.
The sea here is stunning — the kind you swim in and never want to leave. Keep in mind that the road requires a bit of attention, with some dirt sections and sharp turns. Nothing dramatic if you drive carefully, but very much part of the experience.
Bonus:
If you love Cycladic islands with authenticity and beautiful beaches, you might also enjoy:
What to Do in Kea Island: Beyond the Beaches
If Kea Island has one strength beyond its beaches, it’s the way you experience it slowly — through walks, scenic drives and unplanned stops.
Vourkari is perfect for romantic dinners, cocktails by the sea, fresh fish and sunsets that turn the sky pink. If you ask me where to go one evening, this is always my answer.
Karthaia, the ancient city you reach by hiking, rewards you with both history and sea views. The trail itself is beautiful, and arriving at an archaeological site right next to the water feels truly special.
Ioulida (Chora) is the island’s main village — picturesque, amphitheatrical and ideal for getting lost in its narrow streets.
And finally, a mini road trip. Just drive. Kea Island is an island you experience through its routes, viewpoints and quiet moments along the way.
Where to Stay in Kea
On my latest trip to Kea, I chose to stay in Mitata — and honestly, it was one of the best decisions I made. The villa had an incredible view, and every morning felt like I was completely alone in the world — just me, my coffee and the Aegean. If you want a place that truly calms you, this is it.
Chora (Ioulida)
A beautiful, traditional hilltop village — charming to walk around, though it doesn’t offer sea views.
Where to Eat in Kea
Vourkari is the heart of Kea’s food scene: fresh fish, seafood, pasta dishes and local wine, all served in a relaxed setting with that easy-going island atmosphere that makes you want to stay longer.
3-Day Itinerary for Kea
3-Day Itinerary for Kea Island
This itinerary is perfect if you’re visiting Kea Island for a long weekend or a short escape from Athens. It’s relaxed, flexible, and leaves room to actually enjoy the island — not just rush through it.
Day 1: Arrival & First Impressions
- Arrival at Lavrio port and ferry to Kea Island
- Check-in and settle into your accommodation
- Slow stroll around Chora (Ioulida)
- Sunset drinks and dinner in Vourkari
Day 2: Beaches & Island Life
- Morning swim at Poisses Beach or Koundouros
- Lunch by the sea or back at your hotel
- Afternoon beach time or a short scenic drive around the island
- Dinner and relaxed drinks in Vourkari or near your stay
Day 3: Slow Morning & Departure
Coffee, final swim and drive back to Lavrio and return ferry
Kea FAQ
Yes. Kea Island is ideal for couples. It has a calm, elegant vibe, great sunset spots (especially around Vourkari), and plenty of beautiful beaches without the party crowds.
Kea Island has a relaxed nightlife, mostly bars and cocktails by the sea. You can enjoy a drink and good music, but it’s not an island for big clubs or dancing until sunrise like Mykonos or Paros.
Ideally 3 days is perfect for Kea Island, especially for a long weekend. If you want to explore more beaches, do a hike to Karthaia, and take things slower, 4 days is even better.
Kea Island has typical Cycladic prices, especially in July and August. Outside peak season, it can feel much more affordable, with better availability and slightly lower accommodation and dining costs.
You reach Kea Island by ferry from Lavrio port. The crossing takes around one hour, and Lavrio is about 30–60 minutes from central Athens (depending on traffic).
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Visit Kea at Least Once
Kea is one of those islands that doesn’t need much to win you over. It has a quiet, understated kind of luxury, beautiful beaches, stylish places to eat and drink, and distances that make exploring easy and stress-free. It’s close to Athens, yet far enough for you to genuinely feel like you’ve switched into holiday mode.
If you’re looking for an escape that has “a bit of everything” — without the crowds or the overwhelm — then Kea is definitely an island worth visiting at least once.
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