Weather Lowdown
The hot, dry days continue into August in Agios Nikolaos, which is the month with the most daylight hours and the highest ocean temperatures. This month also sees the most tourists out of the year, crowding the beaches and looking to soak in the last rays of summer sun before school and work start again. The average daily temperature for this time is 25°C (about 77°F), nearly perfect weather for being outside and seeing the sights of the resort that is a part of the island of Crete.
In the evening and overnight hours, the lows only drop down to 18°C (around 64°F), still warm and pleasant and a welcome respite from the heat of the day. The highs get up to a pretty hot 31°C (about 88°F), ideal for cooling off in the crystal blue waters surrounding the town. Check the local forecast before heading out for the day to know for sure what to expect temperature-wise.
Your suitcase should definitely have short-sleeve shirts, tank tops, shorts, and capris. Depending on your cold tolerance, you may even want a light jacket or sweater for those evening hours outside, enjoying a drink outdoors or strolling along the beach. Be sure to bring along the sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect your skin from the sun and prevent sunburn. This time of year sees over 12 hours of sunshine each day, ample time for getting out and exploring.
The rainfall for this time is only 21 mm and it falls over 4 days, almost guaranteeing you mostly dry days during your stay. Don't worry about bringing your umbrella or poncho; more than likely you won't even need them. The average sea temperature jumps up one degree from July, making this month the warmest in regards to ocean temperatures. Typically, the ocean water gets up to 25°C (about 77°F), plenty warm for getting in to swim or enjoy some watersports.
Where to Stay
The Lato Hotel provides a quiet getaway in Agios Nikolaos with its green landscaping, simple accommodations, and private setting. The rooms are large and open with neutral décor and offer the ideal place to rest and rejuvenate after a day sightseeing or simply sitting around the hotel's pool. All the rooms include air conditioning, mini-fridge, television, free Wi-Fi, hairdryer and kettle.
If you're looking for luxury in your August stay, choose the Sensimar Minos Palace Hotel and Resort. The hotel provides guests with open spaces and amazing sea views, while still offering convenient access to town, only 2.5 km away. Choose one of the special romance packages and up the ante on your getaway with your special someone. Room options include the sea view room, suite, or bungalow, or upgrade to the sea view suite with private pool.
Consistently ranking high with visitors and guests, Hotel Ikaros offers simple and affordable accommodations with useful amenities. The rooms all have kitchenettes, air conditioning, refrigerators, Wi-Fi, and room service. The hotel's restaurant, bar, and lounge have amazing, sweeping views of the Mirabello Bay and the town. With extra-friendly staff members to cater to your needs, Hotel Ikaros exemplifies Greek hospitality.
Things to Do
The highlight and centerpiece of the town of Agios Nikolaos, Lake Voulismeni has been nicknamed the bottomless lake thanks to its great depth. The lake is surrounding by sloping green hills where you can enjoy the view and watch the ducks and fishing boats on the water. A park sits at one peak above the lake, and has a restaurant and café to enjoy the view.
With the warm sea temperatures in August, it's the ideal time to try stand-up paddleboarding. Numerous rental shops are located up and down the coast and several of the beaches and resorts also have rental stands. You can also try a SUP excursion, such as the Paddle Board Yoga outing from Greek Holidays Travel that includes SUP, yoga, swimming, and sightseeing.
The more adventurous can opt for kite-surfing or windsurfing with Nissakia Surf Club, located right in Agios Nikolaos. The company helps surfers of all ages and experience levels learn the art of surfing or hone their skills. You can take classes or simply rent the equipment and go out on your own. After a day of water fun, come back to the club for a meal in the restaurant and café.
Hit the Beach
Vai Beach is located on the east end of the island of Crete and is one of the most popular stops for visitors to the island. The beach sits in front of the largest palm forest on the island. It has plenty of sand to sit on and enjoy the weather and warm water that averages 25°C (about 77°F) this time of year. Amenities include a parking lot, wooden walkways, umbrella and lounger rentals, restaurants, paid toilets, and showers.
Found in the heart of Agios Nikolaos, Ammoudi Beach is another popular stop for locals and tourists alike thanks to its many amenities and amazing views of Mirobella Bay. The Ammoudi Club that oversees the beach offers free admission, lifeguards, changing rooms, showers, Wi-Fi, and safe boxes. Other amenities available for an extra fee include sunbeds, umbrellas, water sport rentals, and food and drink.
Eating and Drinking Out
The Bajamar Cocktail Bar offers fun drinks and a party atmosphere for an exciting night out. The cocktails are handcrafted and specially made and the interior has a chic design with low lighting and lounge-like environment. The outdoor seating area and bar offer an awesome view of the ocean and town and is the ideal place to enjoy a warm August night.
For a fun party night out with friends or just a chill time drinking and enjoy the sites, check out the Tu Tu Cocktail Bar. Located overlooking the marina and sitting on the beach in Agios Nikolaos, the nightlife hot spot is also open all day from breakfast on if you're looking for a hangout between sightseeing. Along with yummy cocktails and beers, you can also get delicious pizza and pasta dishes.
The perfect spot for a breakfast, lunch, or a mid-day snack, the Ano Kato café sits high above the lake in Agios Nikolaos. From the outdoor patio, you get sweeping views of the lake and the town. The family-friendly place has sandwiches, quiches, baklava, milkshakes, and fresh-made desserts. Kids will love the board games and cards to play with during the meal.
