Weather Lowdown
July is the month that finally sees the temperature hit its peak high and the rain hit its peak low after climbing for the first half of the year. This is officially the start of the peak season months as the weather is at its most favorable conditions of the year. The average temperature throughout July is around 25 C (77 F) and is accompanied by a slight breeze from the North.
July begins with highs and lows of 29.4 C (85 F) and 22.2 C (72 F) as they continue their climb from February but near their peak of the year. The beginning of July has temperatures identical to that of the beginning of August as they begin to fall once they go over the hill. The probability of rainfall at the beginning of the month is at around 4 % chance as it will continue to fall gradually. Cloud coverage around the first week or so borders on 30 % so expect mostly clear skies.
As July moves forward at around mid month highs reach around 30.5 C (87 F) with a breeze that reaches its peak as well so for the most comfortable conditions visit around this time. The lows stay at 22.2 C (72 F) for the most part with minor fluctuations occurring gradually. Chance of rainfall finally hits its peak on around July 24th at 1 % which makes rain a non-factor around this time of year. Cloud coverage drops to 29 % (mostly clear) and stays on that course through the end of the month which allows for more hours of sunshine at 14 hours daily.
The end of July is not the end of the great weather as the highs finally reach the end of their journey upward peaking at 31 C (88 F) on around July 26th. The lows also hit their upward peak at 22.7 C (73 F) around this date so this is the hottest time of the month and of the year. The rainfall continues its pace through the end of the month at 1 % chance making the mid to end of July the driest time of the year.
The average amount of rainfall in July is 2 mm divided into 3 days and is the lowest amount of the year which is great for those who prefer hot days with no rain. If there is any rain around this time it will most likely be a short drizzle which comes and goes as quickly as a delicious Kos meal which you can eat if it happens to come down and you want a reason for some shelter.
As the temperature rises the average sea temperature also rises to 23.8 C (75 F) making for some nice and warm water to swim, scuba dive, and participate in water sports. The northern and north westerly winds hit their peak in July which makes the water perfect for some kite surfing or sailing. Also as the cloud coverage falls in this month to its lowest point the sky will be mostly clear giving way to the perfect scenery for a nice afternoon on the beach.
Where to Stay
Staying close to Kos Town in July is a difficult task to do in the peak season, but it is possible if you book in advance. For those last minute bookers your best bet would be to look for accommodation in other distant villages or cancelations occurring at the right time. That being said, Kos is a beautiful island with many places to stay of all types. Whether you want something small and personal like a bed and breakfast, something big and luxurious like a 5 star resort, or something casual like apartments, Kos has them all.
Stay at the Mayflower Apartments to be near the buzz of the main part of the island. These lovely apartments in the Tigaki area include a spotless swimming pool and a great lounge and bar area with reasonably priced drinks and snacks. There is also a fun Greek night guaranteed to get you in the holiday mood. The rooms are big enough to accommodate families or small enough for a romantic couple getaway.
For a room close to beautiful Lambi Beach stay at the Alice Springs Hotel. This hotel is a great location as it is close to the beach and close to Kos Town for all of your shopping needs. Rooms are air conditioned double or apartments and include a TV and cozy patio or balcony. The luxurious swimming pool is well complimented by an entertaining bar with great drinks, wifi, and satellite TV. What really makes this hotel great is their Aussie style steak and BBQ rib night in which they serve delicious food and inspire a fun environment.
Another pleasant hotel near Kos Town is the family run Afendoulis Hotel which is on a quiet street for ultimate relaxation but close enough to the city life. This hotel has rooms accessed by elevator complete with free wifi, TV, telephone, refrigerator, air conditioning, and a safety box. Some rooms also have an amazing sea view from their balcony, which is great for their price of 30 to 50 Euros per night.
Enjoy your stay in Kos at the highly reputable award winning Bahamas Hotel located near everything in Kos Town. The pool, bar and lounge are all excllent and although this hotel may not have all that a major resort would, the family run atmosphere is a huge bonus and will put you right at ease.
Hit the beach
The weather really becomes perfect for Kos in the peak season as the skies are mostly clear, the temperatures are high, and the rain is nonexistent. The beaches of Kos are beautiful year round but they really start to shine and come alive during the summer. Expect pristine white sand, sparkling turquoise waters, and towering cliffs filled with lush green vegetation.
A great beach to visit on your vacation in Kos is Xerokambos which is located on the southern coast of the island in an exotic area with no accommodation available. The fact that it doesn't have any hotels makes it the perfect getaway spot. There are sun beds and shady spots, plus parking.
Take a drive down to the south eastern coastline where you can find the marvelous Cavo Paradiso Beach. This beach is accessible by car through a small valley between hills, or you could cycle there. There may be a few scattered sun beds with parasols, and the surrounding cliffs create a striking backdrop, so don't forget your camera!
Where to Eat and Drink
Since Kos is a hot tourist spot it has many places to eat and drink with a variety of cuisines from across the globe. In peak season all villages will have some kind of restaurant, bar and grill, or café to choose from. Restaurants nearer to the waterfront may be booked with reservations some nights, but most of the time you will be able to find a place to sit. Nightlife will be booming on the beaches more so in Eastern Kos as that part of the island is more urbanised.
Visit the Olympia 2 restaurant located in the charming central Kos village of Zia for a truly authentic Greek dining experience. This restaurant is located in a wonderful location at the top of a hill on a rooftop enjoy a magnificent view of the sunset over the island. Choose from dishes such as lamb chops with fries or a Greek salad.
Try the Harama restaurant located in the coastal village of Mastichari. What sets this restaurant apart is the fun, friendly environment and super welcoming staff. The service is great and the food is outstanding such as the beef steak with pepper sauce or the Shrimp Saganaki.
Things to do
The great thing about July is that the peak season is in full swing, so there is a wide array of entertainment options. You can go sightseeing, enjoy the beach, the forest, nightlife, water parks, water sports, and much more.
You can head to the island of Nissyros for an exciting excursion to an active volcano. This island is only a ferry ride away from Kos where you will land at the Mandraki Village Port. This village has great places to visit such as the Virgin Mary Monastery and an ancient castle. The action really gets going as you head to the active volcano with gushing jets of hot water, hot springs, sulphur flames, and pumice stones. There is also a giant crater in which you can walk around and take great pictures.
For the best of Kos nightlife head to the 4 Roses Club Café located conveniently by the marina in Kos Town. This club founded in 1991 has been the go to choice for a fun party in Kos since it has opened by tourists and locals alike. Its chilled ambiance is great for breakfast or brunch as you watch the game, and its nighttime parties are great for those who love lighting effects and top hits from quality DJs. Also, if you don't enjoy the lively party inside move outside where there is a laid back bar area without all of the noise.
