August continues the sizzling summer pattern as the hottest, busiest month in Crete. In terms of weather, August is very similar to July, often pushing the extremes of heat. Average highs are around 29–30 °C (84–86 °F), but many days climb well above 30 °C, especially in the first half of the month. During heatwaves, inland areas and cities can reach 40 °C (104 °F) or more. Nights remain warm and balmy, typically around 23–24 °C (73–75 °F), so it's still t-shirt weather even at midnight. Rain is virtually non-existent, August often has 0 mm of rainfall just like July. The skies are crystal clear, and the sun is intense – by now the landscape is very dry, and wildfires can be a hazard during particularly hot, windy spells.
The Meltemi winds often persist through August. They can peak in strength in late July and early August, so you might encounter several days of strong winds (mainly in the north and on the Aegean side). When these winds blow hard, ferry schedules between islands can be disrupted, but Crete's size means internal travel is less affected – you might just see windsurfers flocking to spots in the east. In calmer periods, the heat can feel quite still and heavy, especially in urban areas. The sea is at its warmest in August – averaging 25 °C (77 °F) or even slightly above in some shallow bays. This is peak swimming season, even at night the sea remains relatively warm, and beach evenings are a joy as many people enjoy moonlit swims.
Practical tips: In August, plan your activities around the heat – for example, if you want to hike the Samaria Gorge or explore a mountain cave, start at dawn to avoid the searing mid-day temperatures. Always carry water and wear lightweight cover-ups or use an umbrella on the beach during peak sun hours. August is also when many locals take holidays, so popular beaches and towns can be very busy, it may be wise to book restaurants or accommodations in advance. For those seeking tranquility, consider exploring off-the-beaten-path villages or quieter parts of the island.
'This is an image of the Biosphere Reserve or a Geopark:' - Attribution: Sebastian Mierzwa