Overview
Kea is located in the northernmost of the Cyclades chain, lying just over 12 miles from the magnificent Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion. It’s a rugged island, with a mountain ridge running down the east side. The interior is largely barren, although nearer the coast you’ll find vineyards and orchards.
The picturesque capital, Ioulis, lies in the centre of the island. It’s a car-free zone, so even the well-to-do Athenians who have their holiday retreats there have to leave their cars outside. The island still has an artistic, somewhat ‘hippy/chic’ vibe, resembling the Hydra of the 60s and 70s – traditional Cycladic culture sits side-by-side with international tastes and trends.
Ormos Polais/Poleis/Poles is a beautiful, secluded cove on the SE of the island.
Navigation
Ormos Polais lies in a remote location on Kea’s SE coast, 3 miles NE of Ak. Tamelos.
Be aware of an islet in the mid-bay, which is linked to the shore by a reef. The best anchorage lies to the east of this, in 3-4m. The bottom is mainly sand and weeds, so in places, the holding isn’t great. The Meltemi can cause some turbulence and swells, so only use it in light northerly wind conditions at most.
General Information
There’s also a small and delightful cove, a little to the south, between Polais and Cape Tamelos. It’s a wonderful anchorage spot as the shore is almost always deserted. The sandy bottom offers good holding, but it’s only suitable in calm weather.
Beaches
There’s a short, secluded beach at this remote location, where, even in the peak season, you may well find yourself completely alone. In fact, the only time you’re likely to find yourself surrounded by neighbouring craft is during summer weekends, when visitors from Athens flock to Kea, usually with motor yachts, for some rest and recreation.
Places of Interest
You won’t have to go far to see some spectacular ruins here, as high above the bay you’ll find terraces which include remnants of the massive terrace walls of the ancient city of Karathia, and the recently excavated foundation of a Doric temple of Apollo. A path from the beach has recently been created to make them easier to access.
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