Month-specific sea-surface temperature · Greece

Crete Sea Temperature in May

20.0°C

68.0°F

In May, sea-surface temperature near Crete has a historical monthly average of 20.0°C. This is not the reading for any particular holiday date.

Across 2023–2025, the lowest and highest yearly May monthly means were 19.3–20.6°C. These are not daily extremes.

Previous month

April · 17.9°C

Change into May: +2.1°C

Next month

June · 23.8°C

Change into next month: +3.8°C

Can you swim or snorkel in Crete in May?

At 20.0°C our temperature-only guide describes the water as cool water. Comfort depends on your cold tolerance, immersion time and wind. A historical average cannot determine whether conditions are safe on any given day.

Do you need a wetsuit?

A 3 mm shorty or full wetsuit will make longer snorkels more comfortable.

Which beach should you choose?

Look for a beach sheltered from the actual forecast waves and wind on your visit. Exposure, currents and entry conditions vary even where water temperatures are similar. Follow local warnings.

Check the current waves, wind and snorkeling forecast →

A live forecast does not predict a future May. Check again close to your trip.

Crete Sea Temperature: All 12 Months

Choose a month for available historical evidence, month comparisons and swim guidance. Missing history is clearly marked and never presented as a long-term normal.

January 18.1°C February 17.0°C March 17.3°C April 17.9°C May 20.0°C June 23.8°C July 26.4°C August 27.3°C September 26.4°C October 24.6°C November 22.5°C December 19.6°C

Data source and limitations

Source: Open-Meteo Marine API, MeteoFrance sea-surface temperature; 2023–2025. Marine model grid near 35.24, 24.81. Based on 3 yearly monthly means and 2232 recorded samples. Source methodology.

Modelled sea-surface temperatures do not establish underwater visibility, wildlife, calm currents or safe entry.