Tzia, or Kea, is a beautiful island in the Cyclades that is very close to Athens – you can reach it by ferry in just an hour. It has a rich and varied history, which is reflected in its different names – it was known as Hydrousa in ancient times for its abundant water sources, and as Tzia during the Turkish occupation for its resemblance to a goat. But this last name is also the one that has most captured its essence, as it reveals its wild and charming character. The identity of Tzia is shaped by its pristine natural landscapes, its crystal-clear waters, its lovely villages, and its unique countryside. And here is something interesting: Although Kea is part of the Cyclades, it has a forest of oaks in the heart of its hinterland, and a large part of the island is protected by the Natura network.
The most convenient way to travel to Kea is by taking a ferry from Lavrion port, which operates all year round and takes only an hour. You can also go from Piraeus, but there are not many direct routes and you often have to make a stop at another Cycladic island, such as Kythnos or Syros.
What are some activities to do on Kea Island?
Whether you like nature, culture, or adventure, Kea Island has something for you. Here are some activities that you can experience on the island.
1. Enjoy the clear and sparkling waters of Kea.
Tzia-Kea: Beach
There are beaches for every taste, from organized ones with easy access to more secluded and challenging ones for the adventurous. Here is a tip: check out the beach of the same name as the settlement. It is sandy, with shade from tamarisk trees, and has facilities and restaurants nearby.
Tzia-Kea: Otzias Beach
The well-known Otzias is a protected bay, with amazing blue waters, that offers everything you need and is easy to reach.
Tzia-Kea: Spathi Beach
Spathi is a serene beach that you can reach from a dirt road. Koundouros, however, is a busy beach with sand and shallow waters. Next to it is Koundouraki, the dream for water sports enthusiasts. There you will find Kea Water Sports, which provides a great selection of water activities – water skiing, waterboarding, inflatable games, etc.
Tzia-Kea: Gialiskari Beach
Gialiskari, a small beach with refreshing waters, trees, and beach bars, is also very “tempting”. Don’t miss Kampi, a calm bay next to a tiny settlement. Its tavern is ideal for a tasty meal after your swim.
2.Explore the enchanting seabed with the shipwrecks of the World Wars.
There are four known shipwrecks at the bottom of Tzia, not just one, two, or three. The most famous of all is the Britannic (also known as the sister ship of the Titanic). It was hit by a World War I mine while serving as a floating hospital. Its great depth of 117 meters makes it very challenging for beginner divers, but the rest of the wrecks are open to everyone.
Kea Divers (located in Vourkari and Koundouraki) will provide you with all the necessary information and skills to explore them. And if you can’t dive around the ship, don’t worry, you can enjoy underwater rides on the almost intact World War II Junker 52 plane that was built in 1897, at a depth of more than 60 meters. There are also more accessible shipwrecks, just 10 meters deep.
3. Visit Vourkari.
A small but “wonderful” fishing village, Vourkari is perfect for enjoying food and drink with a view of the sailboats. It is one of the most cosmopolitan places in Tzia, with the walk along the waterfront being a must.
4. Enjoy a lovely afternoon in Ioulida.
The capital of Kea is 8 km away from the port and it is really the highlight of the island. Colorful houses, usually two-story and many with tiled roofs and stone-paved alleys create a completely unique and special image that no other Cycladic island has for its capital.
Look for the following buildings: the neoclassical old school building, the Town Hall (built in 1902), and the small archaeological museum. As for the stone lion of Tzia, it has been welcoming visitors to the island since about 600 BC.
5. Pack your suitcase with some flavors from Tzia.
An essential thing to buy is the local loza, the “prosciutto” of the Aegean. The cheeses of Tzia are also famous – xirotyri, sour, and kopanisto. And more: honey, Tzia sausage, figs, and spoon sweets.
You can reach Kea Island by ferry from Lavrion port in just one hour. This is the most convenient and direct route from Athens. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Piraeus, but this option has fewer direct routes and often requires stops at other Cycladic islands like Kythnos or Syros.
Kea offers diverse beaches for all preferences. Popular options include Otzias, a protected bay with clear blue waters and excellent facilities; Koundouraki, ideal for water sports enthusiasts; Spathi, a serene beach accessible by dirt road; Gialiskari, featuring trees and beach bars; and Kampi, a calm bay with a nearby tavern. Each beach has its own unique character and amenities.
The Britannic, sister ship of the Titanic, lies at a depth of 117 meters on the seabed of Kea, making it very challenging for beginner divers. However, Kea Island has four known World War I and World War II shipwrecks in total. Kea Divers can provide training and guidance, and there are more accessible wrecks at depths of just 10 meters suitable for all experience levels.
Kea Water Sports, located in Koundouraki, offers a great selection of water activities including water skiing, waterboarding, and inflatable games. The beach of Koundouraki is specifically known as a hub for water sports enthusiasts seeking adventure on the island's crystal-clear waters.
Although Kea is part of the Cyclades, it stands out for having a forest of oaks in its hinterland and a large portion of the island protected by the Natura network. The island also boasts a rich history, pristine natural landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages that reflect its wild and unique character.
Vourkari is a small fishing village perfect for enjoying food and drink with views of sailboats in the harbor. It is one of the most cosmopolitan places on Kea Island, and a walk along the waterfront is a must-do experience for visitors seeking authentic local culture and dining.
