Ideas for May half term on Greek island

[BizzyMissy]

We would like to spend May half term (one week) in Greece. It will be me, DH and 9 year old DD. A couple of years ago we had one of our best May half terms ever in Chania, Crete. We stayed in an aparthotel on the beach, had brilliant weather (late 20s/early 30s), went to the botanical gardens and pottered around the old town of Chania. Although tempted to return, we'd prefer to try somewhere different where we've never been before. Although we realise we might not get the temperatures we had before, we still think a Greek island might be the best chance of at least mid 20s. We don't want to be in an isolated resort or AI as we like to break up the beach/pool time with some exploring and choose our own restaurants. We'd also prefer not to rent a car (happy to use taxis and public transport).

Does anyone have any suggestions? Thanks!

Rhodes is good we stayed there end of April to early May and we had a few cooler days. There's a lot to do on the island. Staying in the Southern end Kos is also a fun island but it's long so some resorts are better for some things than others

I agree that Rhodes could be a good option, Lindo has a good beach and the Acropolis to explore. Paphos Cyprus could be good for warm weather, and the tombs of the kings and other site I can't remember are really worth exploring. If you've ever fancied Santorini this could be a good time to go before the really big crowds hit - it is an absolutely stunning island, certainly the most beautiful out of the 9 or 10 Greek islands I've been to. Stay in Fira where the main bus station is and it's very easy to get around.

It’s a lovely time in Greece. I think you’ll be pretty sure of sun on any island although further south will be warmer. Mid 20s more likely than high. Sea and large pools will be chilly though unless heated.

If you like exploring and sightseeing then it probably needs to be a larger island, Rhodes is a good idea, Corfu, Zakynthos, Crete again (you could go to Elounda area this time and explore the sights round Heraklion). Naxos and Milos have sights but no direct flights. Santorini is very touristy even in May I suspect, though beautiful and unique. With a full week you could consider two bases - eg Santorini for 2/3 nights then a boat to another Cycladic island? Athens and a boat to one of its nearer islands? Corfu & Paxos?

Thanks All for your suggestions. Rhodes is definitely appealing - we'd all be interested in visiting the archaeological sites. Also love the idea of visiting a different part of Crete and yes, we could do two locations in a week (this year we were in Sicily at May half term and stayed in two places and it worked brilliantly). Off to do some reading!

We once tried Naxos, and it was a hit! It’s got these nice beaches and plenty of ancient sites to check out, so it kept everyone happy without feeling too touristy. The public transport was easy to use, so we didn’t need to worry about renting a car. It’s relaxed, but there’s always something to do. By the way, this whole trip reminded me of a time we explored Brisbane—stayed at a great Brisbane accommodation spot, and it had that same mix of chill and adventure. Both places make it easy to explore at your own pace.

We went to Corfu in May ht this year and the weather was perfect.
Lots to do and a fantastic water park if that’s your thing. (My 8 yr old said it was the best day of his life)