Crete in September, seen from Plakias

Ask people who live on the south coast when they would choose to come here, and a lot of them say September. It is not hard to see why. The sea has had all summer to warm up, the heat on land starts to soften, and the island exhales after the rush of July and August.

This guide looks at Crete in September from our corner of it, Plakias, on the south coast of the Rethymno region. Much of it applies to the rest of the island too.

The weather in September

September is still summer here. Typical daytime highs around Plakias are 27–29 °C, with warm evenings and very little rain. The first half of the month often feels much like August; the second half brings slightly cooler nights and a softer light that photographers love.

Days are shorter than in June, but still long. You have time for a morning swim, a slow lunch, an afternoon at another beach and dinner outside without a jumper.

For the full picture across the year, see our guide to Plakias weather by month.

The sea: at its best

This is the headline. The sea around Crete is at or near its warmest in September, typically 25–26 °C off Plakias. It has lagged behind the air all year and now it has caught up. Swimming is easy for everyone, including children and people who feel the cold.

Visibility is usually very good, and the water off this coast stays clear through the season. The water temperature guide has the month-by-month figures and what to wear in the water.

Wind in September

Plakias is known for wind, mostly because of the north wind that blows in summer and comes down over the mountains onto the south coast in gusts. Those strong spells are most common in July and August. In September they often ease, and calm days become more frequent.

It is not a guarantee. Some Septembers have windy weeks, and later in the month the first south winds of autumn can bring swell onto the south-facing beaches. The practical advice is the same all season: swim in the mornings when you can, and have a second beach in mind. Our guide to the beaches around Plakias helps you pick.

Crowds

August is the peak of Greek and European holidays, and it shows. In September, especially after the first week, the island breathes out. You find parking at the beach, a table at the taverna without waiting, and room on the sand.

Accommodation is also easier to find. If you want to stay near the sea, look at where to stay in Plakias, which compares the areas.

What is open

Around Plakias, the season is still in full swing through September. Tavernas, cafés, supermarkets, beach facilities and car hire all run as normal. In villages across Crete it is also grape harvest time, and you may see vines being picked on the drive inland.

Towards the end of the season, in October, some businesses begin to close. If you are coming very late in September, that is not yet an issue.

Things to do around Plakias in September

September weather suits both beach days and exploring:

• Swim somewhere different every day. From the long town beach to the clear cove at Schinaria, there is a lot of variety within a short drive.
• Visit Preveli. The palm-lined river mouth at Preveli Beach is less crowded than in August, and the walk down and back up is more pleasant when the midday heat eases.
• Go inland. The Kourtaliotiko Gorge and the mountain village of Spili make an easy half-day away from the coast.
• Eat outside. Evenings are warm, and late dinners by the sea are one of the best parts of a September trip.

For a broader plan, our Plakias guide has simple one-day and three-day outlines.

Why September suits snorkelling and a first dive

If you have ever wondered what the reef looks like from the inside, September is a very good time to find out. A few reasons:

• Warm water. Relaxing is most of the skill of a first dive, and relaxing is easier when you are not cold.
• Clear, often calm water. The strong summer wind spells usually ease, which gives more calm mornings.
• Fewer people, more flexibility. With fewer visitors, it is easier to find dates that fit your trip.

For a first look from the surface, see snorkelling in Plakias. If you have never breathed underwater, try scuba diving needs no experience. Certified divers can see our dive sites.

A few practical notes

• Sun is still strong. Use sun protection and keep drinking water, especially on walks.
• Book the essentials. Early September is still busy enough that it is worth booking accommodation and a car ahead.
• Pack one warm layer. Evenings are warm, but a light layer is useful for the mountain roads and late in the month.

September is the month when Crete stops performing for visitors and simply gets on with a beautiful end of summer. It is a very good time to be here.