While new Greek islands regularly pop up with "undiscovered" tags attached, the island of Kea is perhaps one of the most unexplored of the lot. Wild and dramatic with a quiet, secret nature, Kea is well known to local Greeks (especially from Athens), but the wider world has yet to catch onto its untamed and organic beauty.
Both rugged and verdant in equal parts, Kea is the true example of island life. It feels cut off and remote, home to untouched traditions and fascinating culture. The island is made up of small villages and hamlets closely woven by rustic-tiered fields and groves of native olives, flora and fauna. Small villages such as Ioulida, nestled in the mountainous interior, offer a glimpse into a slower pace of life and traditional Cycladic charm. With island hopping and anti-trend spots rising on visitors' agendas, Kea is set to have its time in the spotlight. Here is the ultimate guide to the underrated Greek island of Kea.
The best hotels on Kea
One & Only Kea Island
The newest outpost for the One&Only brand, Kea Island is a show-stopping all-villa resort located just 30 minutes by speedboat from Athens. This undiscovered hideaway offers guests a luxurious escape in the Cyclades, featuring private infinity pools with boundless Aegean Sea views in each villa. Guests will also find an elevated clifftop pool, contemporary Greek cuisine showcasing fresh island produce, and a holistic wellness experience with the largest One&Only Spa. Based around the local village of Ioulida, villas are carefully built into the hillside, all designed to immerse you in authentic Mediterranean living. This inspiration continues with the amphitheatre-like open-air lobby and open-kitchen restaurant Atria. The hotel embodies the magic of Kea and its traditions in ultra-luxury form.
Address: One&Only Keá Island, Keá Island 840 02, Greece
Website: oneandonlyresorts.com
Porto Kea Hotel & Spa
Porto Kea Suites Hotel is the ultimate laid-back spot if you want to take things at your own pace. The hotel boasts a beachfront location directly opposite Korissia Beach, allowing guests to easily slip between refreshing dips in the Aegean Sea and the hotel's two pools. Relaxation is the main objective here, with guests unwinding at the on-site spa, complete with a steam room, hydro-massage shower, sauna and treatment rooms. Each of the 35 suites is decorated in a blend of modern neutrals and traditional Cycladic styles, ensuring a soothing home base for exploring the island's beauty.
Address: Korissia 84002, Kea (Tzia), Cyclades Islands, Greece
Website: portokea-suites.com
Kea Mare Luxury Villas
Located in Vourkarion, Kea Mare Luxury Villas is a tranquil and traditional take on Greek hospitality. This escape is home to stunning views of the Aegean, accented by the bright blues we all know and love in Greece. While the Aegean's turquoise hues and fiery sunsets are the main attraction from your private balcony, the location on land is just as breathtaking. It's just a short distance from the centre of Vourkari, with its many restaurants and bars, but the serene villas allow guests to escape the crowds and fully unwind.
Address: Kea Mare Luxury Villas, Vourkari 840 02, Greece
Website: keamare.gr
The best things to do in Kea
Hike to Karthea Archeological Site
Learning about Kea's archaeological history is a must when visiting the island. The archaeological site of Ancient Karthea, once the most important city-state on Kea Island, offers a glimpse into a civilization that thrived for over 1300 years, from the 8th century BC to the 6th century AD. Located on the southeastern coast overlooking the Bay of Poles, the site is accessible by foot along a scenic hiking trail. Here, you can explore the foundations of the Doric Temple of Athena and the archaic Temple of Pythion Apollo.
The Archaeological Museum of Kea
Nestled in Ioulida, Kea's capital, the Archaeological Museum offers a first-hand glimpse into the history of the island, where you can see artefacts spanning the Neolithic period to the Roman era. Explore the origins of Kea's four ancient city-states, Karthea, Korissia, Poieessa and Ioulida, and don't miss the famed collection of Middle Cycladic figurines: rare terracotta depictions of women with bell-shaped skirts unearthed from the prehistoric settlement of Agia Irini. The museum even features a section dedicated to 19th-century scholar Konstantinos Manthos, whose writings provide a window into Kea's past.
Address: Antoniou Lazaridou, Kea 840 02, Greece
Explore the depths of Kea’s oceans
A diving residency with Agulhas and the diving centre at One&Only Kea Island is the perfect way to explore the depths of the island's water. Refine your skills and explore the wonders beneath the Aegean's surface – this diving experience takes guests around Kea’s Underwater Historic Sites (KUHS), a marine-protected area encompassing three shipwreck dives: the HMHS Britannic (the sister of Titanic), the Burdigala, and the Patris. These wrecks lie in depths suitable for both beginners and more advanced divers, ranging from 20 to 40 metres. The ban on fishing in this protected area means there is a plethora of marine life to discover.
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Website: oneandonlyresorts.com
Visit The Panagia Kastriani Monastery
Nestled on the north side of Kea Island, a 12-kilometre journey from Ioulida, lies the Panagia Kastriani Monastery. Perched atop Kastri Hill, the monastery's whitewashed buildings perfectly contrast with the deep blue Aegean Sea stretching out towards Andros Island. The local legend says shepherds following a mysterious light in the 1700s unearthed an icon of the Virgin Mary here. A small church dedicated to her, still standing today, became the heart of the monastery. In 1912, a larger church was constructed, and today a two-story building with guest quarters flanks the complex. A tall bell tower painted in the traditional Cycladic blue and white stands guard at the entrance.
Walk in Ioulida Old Town
Ioulida, the capital of Kea, is a place where time stands still. Begin your visit by walking down the cobbled streets that wind their way through the town, surrounded by the curves of bougainvillaea spilling over whitewashed walls. Wander deeper into the labyrinth to find the Alekos Fassianos Atelier – the historic building once the home and studio of the renowned Greek artist. Step inside to explore the cool artist's abode, where whitewashed walls are adorned with Fassianos's signature works – bold, colourful paintings that capture the essence of Aegean life and landscape.
The best places to eat and drink on Kea
Bond Beach Club
Occupying a prime spot on Kea Island's shores, Bond Beach Club at One&Only Kea Island offers a luxurious shorefront culinary destination and beach bar. Think sophisticated beach hangout, with soft, neutral tones and a buzzy atmosphere. Feast on dishes made with fresh Mediterranean ingredients with Asian influences, before kicking back to soak up the Aegean sun on the gorgeous sandy stretch beyond.
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Address: One&Only Keá Island, Keá Island 840 02
Website: oneandonlyresorts.com
O Paparounas, Ioulis
A local favourite, this restaurant is one of Kea's best foodie hotspots. Authentic and untouched, a spot on the terrace is the place to be, where tables lie in the shade of leafy trees. Sit and chat with locals who have been coming here for decades, and learn more about the island's deep-set culture. Tables offer perfect views over the village's mixed tones and terracotta roofs. The menu is laden with signature specialities such as fresh marinated anchovies, fried red mullet, and Lakerda (salted bonito) alongside local Kea meats.
Address: Ioulis 840 02, Greece
Telephone: +30 2288 022583
Cousteau All-Bay Stories
Set on the Agia Irini Peninsula, Cousteau All-Bay Stories offers fresh seafood in abundance set around whitewashed seating with a backdrop of rolling, layered hills. This is a spot where the food flows from the kitchen as freely as the wine is poured. Expect a collage of Aegean-inspired gastronomy: honey-braised octopus, seafood saganaki alongside Linguine alle Vongole and sea urchin black tagliolini are just a few of the stars on the menu.
Address: Vourkari 840 02, Greece
Website: instagram.com
4I Piatsa, Ioulida
Pass through one of the many painted arches at the centre of the Ioulida and you will find I Piatsa. A taverna that is always abuzz with locals eating, drinking and chatting, no matter the time of day. The taverna stands out on the cobbled small square with a bright orange render and ocean-blue shutters that accent each window. Enter and you will feel as though you’ve stepped into a Yiayia’s (grandmother) home kitchen, with rustic tiled floors and an exposed brick arch over the kitchen opening. The menu is full of hearty traditional Greek options cooked from the small kitchen at the back. Specialities include a hearty Moussaka and a traditional octopus stew, a must-try speciality on Kea.
Address: Ioulis 840 02, Greece
Telephone: +30 2288 022195
Eora Beach Bar & Restaurant, Gialiskari Beach
Run by owner Dimitris, Eora is a little pocket of elevated luxury on Gialiskari Beach. Covered by a woven roof, projecting a dappled light below, this spot echoes that laid-back feel found on other cult-classic spots across the Mediterranean. Situated a six mere steps from the water, it’s the place where you can set yourself up for the day when wanting to enjoy a day by the dulcet tones of the waves. The combination of neutral tones with mid-century furniture inside alongside elevated beach bar culinary classics mean it is often busy. Think craft cocktails with freshly-made seafood, sharing plates or a classic orzotto with local greens, perfect for any post-swim hunger.
Address: Gialiskari, Kea 840 02, Greece
Website: eorakea.com