Where to stay in Kea: The best areas and 17 accommodations

Kea, or Tzia as most people call it, is the closest Cycladic island to Attica, and for this reason, it has a special connection with Athens. Many choose it for a weekend getaway, others stay for the entire August, but almost everyone ends up returning.

The choice of area plays a significant role in how your holiday will unfold. Korissia is the port and the most practical spot, Ioulida is the capital with its medieval atmosphere, Vourkari is the cosmopolitan harbour with tavernas, and Otzias offers tranquillity next to one of the island's most beautiful beaches.

In this article, you will find a detailed breakdown of the four main areas, their advantages and disadvantages, as well as specific accommodation suggestions to book your stay without stress.

What to see and do in Kea

Kea is located at the westernmost edge of the Cyclades, in the Gulf of Attica, which makes it the only island in the complex not served by Piraeus but by the port of Lavrio. The ferry journey takes about an hour, making it an ideal destination even for a long weekend. The distance from Lavrio is approximately 20 nautical miles, while Kea itself covers about 131 square kilometres, quite large for an island that remains relatively quiet touristically.

Historically, Kea was known in antiquity as Keos and had four city-states: Karthaia, Korissia, Ioulida, and Piiessa. Today, significant ruins are preserved in ancient Karthaia, near Poisses, while in Ioulida, you will see the famous Lion of Kea, an archaic sculpture carved into the rock around 600 BC. Access to the lion is via a short hike of about 20 minutes from the centre of Ioulida.

Access to the island is mainly by ferry from Lavrio, with frequent routes during the summer, which become significantly less frequent in winter. There is no airport in Kea, so travel is exclusively by sea. Many visitors arrive with their own cars, which is very helpful as the island is quite large and the distances between settlements are greater than on other small Cycladic islands.

Kea's beaches have their own uniqueness, as several are sheltered and protected from the wind, such as Otzias and Gialiskari, while others like Koundouros and Kampi have a more organised character with sunbeds and beach bars. Spathi, in the southeast, is one of the most impressive with its long sandy beach, but it requires about 45 minutes of driving from Ioulida due to the dirt road.

Regarding food, Kea is famous for its local products, especially thyme honey and almonds, while in many tavernas, you will find the traditional 'ladenios', a type of pie with tomato, onion, and oregano that resembles pizza. In Vourkari, you will find the island's most renowned fish tavernas, while in Ioulida, more traditional flavours prevail in narrow streets with views.

Seasonality in Kea is pronounced. In July and August, the island fills up, mainly with Athenians due to its close proximity, while in spring and autumn, it is more suitable for hiking, as it boasts one of the densest networks of trails in the Cyclades, over 100 kilometres of marked routes. In winter, activity is mainly limited to weekends.

Kea is mentioned in mythology as the birthplace of the nymph Kea, while in antiquity, it was renowned for its laws, among them a strict rule that compelled elderly citizens to drink hemlock when they reached seventy, so as not to burden the island's resources, a story mentioned by Strabo himself. Today, few traces of this strictness remain, as the island is known for the hospitable disposition of its residents and its relaxed pace of life.

The distance between Korissia and Ioulida is approximately 6 kilometres, while to Otzias it is about 8 kilometres, and to Koundouros, at the southern tip, it reaches 20 kilometres, distances that justify the need for a car. Kea's trail network follows old cobbled paths that connected settlements before the road network, with a notable route being from Ioulida to Xerokambos and the ruins of ancient Karthaia, a journey of about three hours with views of the Aegean.

Beyond Karthaia, it is worth visiting the Monastery of Panagia Kastriani, with panoramic views, as well as taking a stroll through the old watermills near Otzias, witnesses to an era when Kea produced oak galls for tanning.

The best areas to stay in Kea

Korissia

Korissia is the island's arrival point and for many visitors, it also becomes their base of stay, especially if they have a car and want easy access to the port. It has its own beach within the settlement, and several tavernas and cafes along the waterfront.

It is also the area with the highest concentration of accommodation on the island, from simple hotels to apartments with sea views.

Advantages:

• Close to the port, ideal if you arrive or depart early
• Beach within the settlement
• Plenty of dining and shopping options

Disadvantages:

• Less picturesque than Ioulida
• Some areas can get busy with cars in summer

Recommended accommodations:

1. Hotel Karthea
A hotel right on Korissia beach with private sea access. It offers simple but clean rooms, ideal for families.

• Average cost: approximately 90€ per night

2. KEOS by the Sea
Modern apartments with sea views, a few minutes' walk from the port. Highly rated by visitors for its location.

• Average cost: approximately 130€ per night

3. Kea Island
Holiday homes near Korissia port, with a fully equipped kitchen, suitable for longer stays.

• Average cost: approximately 120€ per night

4. Villa Cavo d' Oro
Villa with private space and spacious outdoor areas, suitable for groups or families seeking more privacy.

• Average cost: approximately 180€ per night

5. Kea Bliss
Contemporary accommodation with views of Korissia bay, in a quiet spot just outside the village centre.

• Average cost: approximately 140€ per night

6. Leo House Kea
Small apartment with good reviews, suitable for couples who want to stay near the port without a high cost.

• Average cost: approximately 85€ per night

7. Porto Kea Suites by Sandglass
Hotel with suites directly on Agios Georgios beach in Korissia, featuring a swimming pool and organised sun loungers area.

• Average cost: approximately 160€ per night

Ioulida

Ioulida, or Chora, is Kea's capital and looks more like an Aegean village than a typical Cycladic Chora, with pronounced medieval architecture, narrow streets, and covered passages. It doesn't have direct sea access, which distinguishes it from the other settlements.

It is an ideal base for those who want to enjoy evening strolls, local restaurants, and a more authentic picture of Cycladic life, with a car being essential for reaching the beaches.

Advantages:

• Beautiful architecture and atmosphere
• Many good restaurants and bars
• Close to the Lion of Kea and hiking trails

Disadvantages:

• No beach, a car is needed
• Difficult access with luggage due to stairs

Recommended accommodations:

8. Kea Village Suites & Villas
Suites and villas with traditional aesthetics, built near Ioulida with island views.

• Average cost: approximately 150€ per night

9. ARIA Kea Sunset Homes
Homes with sunset views, near Messada, a quiet option for couples.

• Average cost: approximately 170€ per night

10. Cycladic Villa with Sea View
Traditional villa with sea view, excellent reviews, suitable for those who want privacy near Chora.

• Average cost: approximately 190€ per night

11. Authentic Kea Island House
Traditional house with Cycladic style, quiet location, ideal for those seeking an authentic accommodation experience.

• Average cost: approximately 135€ per night

Vourkari

Vourkari is a small, picturesque harbour a few kilometres from Korissia, known for its fish tavernas and lively atmosphere in summer. Many sailing boats anchor here, giving it a more cosmopolitan feel compared to other areas of the island.

It is a good choice for those who want to combine a peaceful stay with good food and easy access to Korissia port.

Advantages:

• Excellent fish tavernas
• Picturesque harbour with a peaceful atmosphere
• Close to Korissia and several beaches

Disadvantages:

• Limited accommodation options
• More expensive due to demand in summer

Recommended accommodations:

12. Aigis Suites Kea
Boutique hotel in Vourkari with excellent reviews, elegant suites, and personal service.

• Average cost: approximately 175€ per night

13. Ydor Hotel & Spa by Sandglass
Hotel with spa, swimming pool, and bay views, one of the most comprehensive accommodations on the island.

• Average cost: approximately 210€ per night

14. Villa Faros Vourkari Kea
Villa with a private pool and panoramic views of the harbour, suitable for families or groups of friends.

• Average cost: approximately 250€ per night

Otzias

Otzias is a small seaside settlement on the northeastern side of Kea, known for its sheltered, wind-protected beach with pine trees reaching the sand. It's a quieter option, away from the hustle and bustle of Korissia.

Nearby is also the Monastery of Panagia Kastriani, one of the island's most important monasteries, accessible by a short car ride.

Advantages:

• Quiet, family-friendly atmosphere
• One of the best beaches on the island
• Good choice for avoiding crowds

Disadvantages:

• Distance from Ioulida and the port
• Limited options for evening entertainment

Recommended accommodations:

15. Holiday Rooms
Simple rooms with a garden and outdoor pool, a few steps from Otzias beach.

• Average cost: approximately 95€ per night

16. Thalatta Thalatta
Villa in the Kastri area, with a private pool and sea views, ideal for quiet family holidays.

• Average cost: approximately 220€ per night

17. Kymo Kea
Holiday home near the beach, with spacious outdoor areas and views of Otzias bay.

• Average cost: approximately 145€ per night

Practical tips for your stay

• Book your ferry early. Lavrio-Kea routes fill up quickly on summer weekends, especially if you're travelling with a car.
• Consider renting a car. The island has long distances between settlements, and public transport is limited.
• Ask about hiking trails. Kea has a dense network of marked routes, ideal for spring and autumn.
• Book a table in Vourkari early in the evening. Popular fish tavernas fill up quickly during the summer months.
• Visit ancient Karthaia at a relaxed pace. The hiking access takes about an hour, and it's best to avoid midday hours in summer.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Kea from Athens?

The journey is by ferry from Lavrio, lasting about an hour. Lavrio is about an hour's drive from Athens.

Do I need a car in Kea?

Yes, it is highly recommended, as the distances between settlements and beaches are considerable and public transport is limited.

Which area is best for families with children?

Otzias and Korissia are considered more suitable due to their organised and sheltered beaches.

Is there an airport in Kea?

No, access is exclusively by ferry from Lavrio.

When is the best time to visit Kea?

June and September offer good weather without the large crowds of July and August.

Where should I stay if I want to be close to nightlife?

Korissia and Vourkari have the most tavernas, bars, and cafes open until late.

Conclusion

Kea is not an island for a quick exploration, but for holidays that combine nature, history, and a relaxed pace of life. The choice of area primarily depends on whether you want immediate sea access, a picturesque atmosphere, or a peaceful escape.

Whichever area you choose, the short distance from Attica allows you to easily return, making Kea an ideal destination even for short trips.

See also our guides for where to stay in Diakopto and where to stay in Kastellorizo.