What's the weather like in Kefalonia in May?
Temperature
May on Kefalonia, one of the Ionian islands, sees the summer season start to get into swing. Temperatures warm up and more people flock to the island to enjoy its natural beauty. In the daytime, temperatures rarely fall below the average of 18°C and can easily reach highs of 22°C. However, after the sun sets the temperature can drop to 12°C, so you should bring a jacket or cardigan with you if you're going out to one of the island's restaurants for dinner.
The end of May is typically 2°C warmer than the beginning and record highs at this time of year have reached 31°C. The lowest May temperature recorded here is 8°C, on the first day of the month, but temperatures this low are unusual.
Rainfall
Rainfall takes another dive in May on this attractive Greek island of Kefalonia. It is generally the last wet month before the dry spell over summer. Just 20mm of precipitation is expected here in May over seven days 10mm less than in April and the chance of rain decreases over the month, occurring from around one in four days to one in seven.
Visitors should note that thunderstorms are likely towards the beginning of the month, so bring your umbrella. The humidity can fluctuate from mild to high throughout May, though there are usually light or moderate breezes to keep things feeling fresh. Occasionally, seasonal meltemi winds will blow in from the Aegean Sea, but these are more frequent in the high summer months. Skies are often cloudy, clearing up as the month progresses.
Sunshine Hours
The amount of daily sunshine rises two hours from the previous month, to a radiant twelve hours a day, and will keep increasing over the summer. Meanwhile, the sea temperature warms up a healthy 3°C from April to an average of 19°C, so water sports lovers will be happy on the waves. The sea temperature is set to rise further over the summer months.
Hotels in Kefalonia in May
Hotel Kefalonia Bay Palace
The Hotel Kefalonia Bay Palace is a chic yet laid back five star hotel in the marina resort of Aghia Efimia, close to the award-winning Myrtos beach. You can choose between an elegantly furnished room or a luxury villa with a private pool, which both enjoy wonderful sea views. The rooms are styled with a contemporary design in a warm palette and hand-made wooden furniture. Each air conditioned room comes with a large balcony or terrace, TV, minibar, safe, radio, telephone, free internet access, kettle and a bathroom with a hairdryer, bathrobe and slippers. Guests can also order from 24 hour room service.
The hotel's location makes it a great base to explore the beautiful surroundings of Kefalonia. Alternatively, relax onsite and take advantage of its free WiFi, swimming pools, spa, Jacuzzi, hammam and separate saunas for men and women. It's perfect for families, as kids will be entertained for hours at the dedicated children's pool and playground.
Kaminia Beach Cottage
For a couple looking for a tranquil romantic getaway, the Kaminia Beach Cottage in Ratzakli is ideal. Walking distance from the renowned turtle beaches of Kaminia and Mounda, it enjoys spectacular views over Mounda bay and the Ionian Sea. This charming one level, one bedroom property is tucked away in a secluded position so you won't be overlooked.
Decorated in a minimalist contemporary style, it has an en suite shower room, open plan lounge with TV and music system, fully equipped kitchen area and patio doors leading to a furnished terrace. It boasts its own private infinity-edged swimming pool, where you can spend all the time you want swimming or relaxing in the sunshine. There is a purpose built barbecue for a chilled out evening cooking dinner al fresco, while you admire the impressive seascape views. Take a stroll to the beach tavernas or visit Skala, just a short drive away, for a lively day or evening out.
Beaches in Kefalonia in May
Petani Beach
The sand and fine pebbles of Petani Beach meet the turquoise sea and are overlooked by lofty cliffs in this naturally exquisite area. It is located in the peninsula of Paliki, 12 miles west of Argostoli. Visitors will find beach umbrellas and sunbeds here, as well as shower and toilet facilities. If you're looking for refreshments there are a number of seafront restaurants where you can sit and watch the sunset. Families with young children should be aware that the water becomes deep quickly and there are often large waves.
Makris Gialos Beach
Makris Gialos Beach lays in an attractive bay, easily accessible from Argostoli, just over two miles away. With its clean blue waters and golden sands, surrounded by tall pine trees, it is one of the island's most popular beaches. There are a number of interesting rock formations to explore and plenty to do, including an array of water sports. Or you can simply sit back with a beverage from the beach bar and enjoy the sunshine.
Bars and Restaurants
Picnic
For the perfect brunch or light lunch, head to Picnic in the northern town of Antipata. Here you can enjoy a range of breakfast options, plus fresh sandwiches and deli delights. Parking is available and the venue is happy to accommodate groups and parties. Take a seat outside for an alfresco taste of their pancakes topped with fruit and local honey. On Sundays you may need to book, as visitors arrive from all around to sample their renowned Eggs Benedict.
Captain Nicolas
For a traditional Greek meal in Lixouri, visit Captain Nicolas. Enjoy a romantic sunset view over Vatsa bay and tuck into one of the biggest and best Greek salads on the island. The moussaka, fresh sea bass and sea bream also come highly recommended, as does the owner, who always makes an effort to welcome guests.
Things to do in Kefalonia in May
Melissanthi Cave
The beautiful Melissanthi cave and underground lake, close to Karavomilo, is a two mile long, 40m wide and 36m high wonder of nature and a rare geological phenomenon. Step into this cave and admire this stunning natural work of art, adorned with stalactites. An underground tunnel will lead you to the crystal blue-green waters of the lake, which you can explore on a guided boat tour. The underground lake was officially discovered in 1951 but was featured in ancient myths about Pan and the Nymph Melissanthi, who supposedly committed suicide and fell in the lake when Pan did not reciprocate her love. The lake includes an islet which is said to contain Pan's sanctuary.
Archaeological Museum of Argostoli
Clay artefacts discovered in Pan's sanctuary are among the fascinating items displayed in the Archaeological Museum of Argostoli located in the island's capital. These include a figure of Pan, a disc depicting dancing nymphs and a plate depicting the procession of nymphs. Other relics in the museum's three impressive halls include flint tools from the Palaeolithic period, Middle Helladic pottery, gold coins from the Mycenaean era, bronze swords and an Egyptian scarab.
