☀️ Heatwave on the islands and the meltemi, how to adjust your schedule
A strong heatwave on the Greek islands together with the famous meltemi wind can make your holidays either exhausting or simply smarter and better planned. Timing, hydration, shade and safe routes, all in one practical travel guide. For even more planning ideas, you can also check the travel tips hub on Go With Georgia.
⏰ When to be out and about during a heatwave on the islands
In a strong heatwave on the Greek islands, the whole rhythm of the day changes. From about 12,00 to 17,00, locals disappear from streets and alleys, and it is not by chance. These are the hours when the sun is truly harsh, even if the meltemi wind makes it feel cooler.
Plan your walks and errands early in the morning or after 18,00, when the light is softer and the temperature starts to drop. If you are also moving around by ferry, have a look at my guide Ferry travel for beginners , especially if you will be boarding boats in the middle of a heatwave.
💧 Hydration and sun protection that actually works
The combination of a heatwave on the islands and meltemi wind can be tricky,
because you feel fine while your body dehydrates faster than you think.
Always carry a
insulated tumbler for water or iced drinks
and fill it up before you leave your room or the taverna.
For your skin, a reliable high protection sunscreen like
Vichy Capital Soleil SPF50+
works very well for face and body,
especially if you have sensitive skin.
If you like having everything together in one pouch,
a complete Face the Sun sunscreen set is a great idea for island holidays,
even if you put it together from different products.
🏖️ Shade, clothing and getting a tan without burning
The beach is calling, but during a heatwave on the islands you need a little strategy. Choose natural shade whenever you can, like trees or rocks, and wear a hat, sunglasses and a light long sleeved shirt or cover up.
If you want that holiday glow without baking for hours in direct sun,
you can try a product like
Ultra Dark Self Tanning Mousse
for a deep but controlled tan,
while keeping your skin protected.
For more ideas on how to fit all this in your luggage,
you can also read
Only carry-on, how to travel light
.
🌬️ Meltemi, routes and safety in your daily plan
The meltemi can save you from the sensation of heat, but in reality it often means extra fatigue, faster dehydration and more demanding driving conditions, especially if you are using a scooter or ATV. Have a look at the guide Scooter, ATV and bicycle on the islands to plan your rides safely.
A solid
Xiaomi 10000mAh powerbank
is essential in your day bag,
because a heatwave on the islands without battery on your phone
means no maps, no calls
and no access to useful information when you need it.
🧳 Extra prep for a heatwave on the Greek islands
Before you leave, make a small list of “just in case” items: sunscreens, after sun, basic painkillers, plasters, electrolytes. In my guide mini travel first aid kit for the islands you will find a detailed breakdown of what is worth packing.
If you are travelling during peak heatwave periods, consider getting travel insurance as well. You can read more about options and cost in the article World Nomads travel insurance 2026 .
🧭 In short, how to deal with a heatwave on the islands
- Plan activities for early morning or late afternoon, avoid the midday hours.
- Always carry water in an
insulated tumbler
and refill it often.
- Use a
high protection sunscreen
and reapply throughout the day.
- For a holiday tan, prefer a
self tanning mousse
instead of burning in direct sun.
- Keep your
powerbank
charged so you never lose access to maps or calls.
- Use the travel tips on Go With Georgia to plan ahead so the heatwave on the islands finds you prepared, not surprised.
