The climate of Malia
Positioned in
Greece,
Malia experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot summers, as described by the Köppen climate classification of Csa. Throughout the year, the weather patterns display a distinct rhythm, guided by the diverse climatological parameters.
Temperature variations are notable, scaling from an average low of 11.1°C (52°F) in
January to a warm 27.2°C (81°F) peak in
July. Even the coldest months rarely see temperatures drop below 11°C (51.8°F), while the hottest months confirm the Mediterranean climate with their steady climb above 24°C (75.2°F). In parallel to the temperature curve, relative humidity hovers around 70% for most of the year, providing a moisture-laden atmosphere.
Rainfall patterns divulge Malia’s distinct wet and dry periods. High precipitation dominates late autumn and winter, while summer is noticeably dry. Experiencing a peak of 65mm (2.56") rainfall in
December, the moisture quickly dissipates to a driest mark of 1mm (0.04") in
August, reflecting a Mediterranean rainfall cycle.
As for sunlight and sea temperatures, both parameters increase with the arrival of warmer months. Sea temperatures range from a moderate 16°C (60.8°F) in winter months such as January or
February to a warm 25°C (77°F) in August. Daylight extends from 10 hours in January and February to a bright 14.5 hours in
June.
The best time to visit Malia
Potential visitors need not fret about timing, as summers in
Malia provide the most promise.
June to
August holds the most appeal due to high temperatures coupled with low rainfall, sea temperatures at a welcoming 24°C (75.2°F) in
July and even warmer 25°C (77°F) in August, and an increased level of sunshine. The long daylight hours stretching up to 14.5 hours in June, and low cloud coverage makes these months ideal for outdoor activities.
The worst time to visit Malia
Contrarily, late autumn and winter prove less favorable for a visit. Characterized by high rainfall, climbing to a peak of 65mm (2.56") in
December, shorter daylight hours dipping to 9.8 hours in December and cooler sea temperatures dropping to 16°C (60.8°F) in
January, travel during these periods may be hindered by less-than-ideal weather conditions.
Spring weather in Malia
Coming out of winter, spring extends a gradual warm-up, with temperatures rising steadily, reaching 21.6°C (70.9°F) by
May. Accompanied by decreasing rainfall—from 29mm (1.14") in
March to 14mm (0.55") in May—and extended daylight hours, spring signals the onset of the dry, hot season. Sea temperatures rise steadily, hitting 19°C (66.2°F) by May, providing a comfortable backdrop for water activities.
Summer weather in Malia
Summer introduces
Malia at its best—with
July and
August both clocking in average temperatures above 27°C (80.6°F). Relative humidity stays constant around 68%, providing a comfortable heat level. Minimal rainfall, vast daylight hours, and warm sea temperatures characterize this period.
June grants the longest sunlight with 14.5 hours and July offers the warmest sea temperature at 24°C (75.2°F), energizing outdoor pursuits and seaside relaxation.
Autumn weather in Malia
Autumn's shift is marked by a cooling trend and increased moisture levels. Temperatures cool gradually from 27.4°C (81.3°F) in
August to 19.3°C (66.7°F) by
November. Sea temperatures, however, remain relatively warm, staying above 20°C (68°F) until November. Rainfall presence increases from
September onwards, culminating in a monthly average of 29mm (1.14") in November.
Winter weather in Malia
Winter is characterized by reduced daylight hours, cooler temperatures, and increased rainfall. While temperatures remain above 11°C (51.8°F) even in the coldest month—
January—rainfall reaches a high in
December with 65mm (2.56"). The shortest daylight hours are in December and January—9.8 hours and 10.1 hours, respectively--while sea temperatures could drop to 16°C (60.8°F) in January, marking the coolest period of the year.
Weather in January
The start of the year in
Malia,
Greece brings relatively cool days with the highest temperature recorded at 14.1°C (57.4°F).
January's weather reveals infrequent sunshine, suggesting most days could be overcast or partly cloudy.
Weather in January »Weather in February
February sees a slight increase from
January with the highest temperature rising to 14.7°C (58.5°F). A gradual increase in daylight hours illuminates
Malia's historic sites and beautiful landscapes. The average rainfall in February is lower than the preceding month, leading to fewer rainfall days.
Weather in February » Weather in March
March ushers in warmer weather with the top temperature recorded at 16°C (60.8°F). This month features a reduction in humidity, leading to more comfortable conditions. Enjoyment of outdoor activities is enhanced due to an increase in sunshine and daylight hours.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
In
April,
Malia's temperature jumps to 18.2°C (64.8°F), the highest so far this year. With decreased cloud cover, the soothing Greek sun becomes a more regular appearance. Rainfall continues to plunge, ushering in drier conditions, optimal for exploration of the city's many attractions.
Weather in April »Weather in May
May experiences a significant leap in temperature, recording peak temperatures at 21.6°C (70.9°F). The increment in temperature paves the way for more outdoor-friendly weather with extended hours of sunshine and daylight. Coastal activities start to become more popular as the sea temperature begins to rise.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June welcomes summer, reaching its highest temperature at 24.9°C (76.8°F). As expected, this summer month ensures more daylight hours, perfect for endless beach days and excursions. The city experiences the lowest rainfall and cloud cover in the year, reinforcing its summer appeal.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
Malia's temperature in
July peaks to the highest in the year, reaching 27.2°C (81°F). Summer is in full season, promising consistently warm and dry weather. With almost non-existent rainfall, it is the driest month of the year. These conditions set the perfect scene for celebrations, outdoor events, and beachside fun.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August records an insignificant change in the highest temperature from
July, with a peak at 27.4°C (81.3°F). Days are long and filled with bright sunshine, enabling endless exploration and adventure. Local and visiting sun lovers enjoy the warm sea temperatures.
Weather in August » Weather in September
Enjoyment of warm temperatures persist in
September, peaking at 25.5°C (77.9°F). The prolonged daylight and high sea temperatures continue to favor sea-related activities. Towards the end of the month, there is a notable drop in temperatures indicating the commencement of autumn.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October sees a noteworthy drop in the highest temperature to 22.3°C (72.1°F). This month the sea temperatures stay relatively warm, enhancing the allure of beach visits. A distinct increase in cloud cover and rainfall signals the onset of the rainier season.
Weather in October » Weather in November
Weather conditions in
November cool down further, with the maximum temperature recorded at 19.3°C (66.7°F). A steady growth in rainfall suggests the intensification of the wet season. Interestingly, both daylight hours and sunshine duration reduce, offering more opportunities for cozy indoor activities.
Weather in November »Weather in December
Malia's
December weather brings the year to a close with a high temperature of 16.1°C (61°F). Substantial rainfall with increased cloud coverage marks the return of the winter season. Despite the onset of winter, relatively moderate sea temperatures still allow for bracing coastal walks.
Weather in December »