Naxos in October: Weather, Sea, Wind and What Is Open
Naxos in October is the quiet end of the season. Daytime highs average 23°C, the sea still holds around 21.5°C after the summer, the meltemi has mostly gone, and the beaches that were busy in August are almost empty. The trade off is shorter days, a few rainy spells and a slower island that gradually closes up for winter as the month goes on.
Key takeaways
- Highs average 23°C and nights 17.4°C, with warm days reaching 26.5°C and cool nights dropping to about 13.5°C.
- The sea averages 21.5°C, cooler than the 23.5°C of September but still comfortable for a swim, especially in the first half of the month.
- Expect around 7.5 hours of sunshine a day and about 6 rainy days, often short showers rather than long wet spells.
- Most tourist businesses on Naxos stay open until the end of October, but smaller places close earlier, so the first half of the month is the safer choice.
In this article
October weather in Naxos: the numbers
October is still warm on Naxos, but it is no longer summer. The average temperature is about 20°C, with daytime highs around 23°C and nights around 17.4°C. The warmest days can still reach 26.5°C, while the coolest nights can drop to about 13.5°C.
- Average high: 23°C
- Average low: 17.4°C
- Average sea temperature: 21.5°C
- Sunshine: about 7.5 hours a day
- Daylight: about 11 hours
- Rainy days: about 6
- Average wind speed: about 23 kph
Compared with Naxos in September, the change is clear: highs drop from about 27°C to 23°C, the sea loses about 2°C and you get two hours less sunshine a day. It is still warm enough for the beach at midday, and much more pleasant than summer for walking and exploring.
Sea temperature: can you still swim?
Yes, most people do. The sea around Naxos averages 21.5°C in October, with readings between about 18.9°C and 24.2°C. The water holds the summer heat much longer than the air, so the first two weeks are usually the most comfortable for swimming. By the end of the month the sea feels fresh, similar to late May.
At Mikri Vigla, the shallow north bay is lovely for a swim on calm mornings, while Sahara on the south side is better for long walks on the sand. When the wind picks up, the north bay becomes the kite and windsurf zone, so for a sheltered swim head south to Pyrgaki or the coves of Alyko. Our Mikri Vigla beach guide explains the two sides of the cape.
Wind in October
The meltemi, the strong north wind of July and August, weakens in September and has mostly passed by October. The average wind speed on Naxos in October is around 23 kph, but it comes in spells rather than steady days. Some days are completely calm, others bring a stronger breeze with a passing weather front.
For kitesurfers, October is a gamble. There can still be good sessions, but the wind is less reliable and not every school stays open through the month, so check dates before you travel. If wind is the main reason for your trip, June to September is the safer window, as our kitesurfing and windsurfing guide explains.
Rain and shorter days
October is when the dry season ends. Naxos averages about 6 rainy days in the month, often a short shower or a stormy afternoon rather than days of steady rain, and the sky usually clears quickly afterwards.
Daylight drops to around 11 hours and the sun sets a little earlier every week. Plan your beach time for the middle of the day and keep the late afternoon for a walk up the cape to watch the sunset over Paros.
What is open in October
Most tourist businesses on Naxos operate from mid May until the end of October. In Naxos Town and the larger beach areas, restaurants, shops and car rentals keep working through most of the month. In smaller places, including quieter beach areas, some tavernas and beach bars close earlier as visitor numbers fall.
In practice, the first half of October feels like a calmer September, while the last week feels more like the start of winter. If you want everything open, choose early October. If you want silence and do not mind cooking some of your own meals, late October has its own charm.
Why October suits Mikri Vigla
Mikri Vigla is a quiet place even in summer, and in October it becomes one of the most peaceful corners of the island. You get long empty beaches, warm afternoons on the veranda and a slow pace that suits couples, walkers and anyone who wants to rest after a busy year.
A self catering room makes a real difference at this time of year, when fewer tavernas open in the evening. Most of our studios and apartments have a kitchen or kitchenette and a private veranda, so a simple dinner with a sea view is always an option. See our rooms and our guide on how to get to Mikri Vigla.
Planning an October stay? Send us your dates through the booking form or contact us directly, and we will confirm availability for the end of the season.
What to pack for Naxos in October
- Swimwear and a light towel for the warm days
- A light jacket or sweater for the evenings
- A windproof layer for walks on the cape
- Comfortable shoes for walking and village visits
- A small umbrella or rain jacket, just in case
- Sunscreen, because the October sun is still strong
Frequently asked questions about Naxos in October
Is October a good time to visit Naxos?
Yes, especially the first half of the month. Highs average 23°C, the sea is around 21.5°C and the island is much quieter than in summer. Most tourist businesses stay open until the end of October, while some smaller places close earlier.
Is the sea warm enough to swim in October?
For most people, yes. The average sea temperature is 21.5°C, and the water is warmest in the first weeks of the month, when it still holds the heat of the summer.
Does it rain in Naxos in October?
Sometimes. Naxos averages about 6 rainy days in October, often short showers or a stormy afternoon. Long periods of rain are more typical of the winter months.
Is Naxos windy in October?
Less than in summer. The meltemi has mostly passed and the average wind speed is around 23 kph, with a mix of calm and breezy days.
Sources
- Greeka, Naxos weather by month
- Seatemperature.org, Naxos sea temperature in October
- Weather and Climate, Naxos climate overview
By the team at Studios Kontos, Mikri Vigla, Naxos. We write about what we live every day on the island.
