Getting Around Kea — Car, Bus and On Foot

Kea’s main roads are paved and the island is compact enough to explore by car in a day. The public bus connects the port to Ioulida and several beaches in summer. Most remote beaches require a car or high-clearance vehicle.

Car and Scooter Hire

Hiring a car is the most practical way to explore Kea independently. Several rental agencies operate from Korissia port — collect on arrival and return before your departure ferry. A standard hatchback covers all main roads; for unpaved tracks to remote beaches (Xyla, Sikamia and others), a 4×4 or high-clearance vehicle is recommended.

Scooters and ATVs are also available. The roads are quiet outside July and August, but some mountain roads are narrow and steep with blind bends — drive accordingly.

Public Bus

A public bus operates from Korissia port, connecting to Ioulida (about 8 km, roughly 20 minutes). In summer, services extend to Vourkari, Gialiskari, and Otzias. The schedule is posted at the port bus stop and at the main square in Ioulida. The bus is reliable for the main route and useful for day trips without a car; for remote beaches and sites off the main circuit, it is not a practical option.

Taxis

A small number of taxis operate on the island and can be found at the port or in Ioulida, or arranged through accommodation. Taxi numbers are available at the port information point. In high season, pre-booking for early morning transfers (to catch a ferry or start a hike) is advisable.

On Foot

Ioulida is entirely car-free and navigable on foot. The coastal path from Vourkari to Gialiskari is about 2 km. The trail network (80+ km) connects most parts of the island for those willing to walk — see the hiking page for details.

Practical Tips

• Book car hire in advance for weekends in July and August — agencies sell out
• Fill up with petrol at Korissia; the island has limited fuel points elsewhere
• The bus schedule changes seasonally — check at the port on arrival
• Unpaved tracks to remote beaches require care; a 4×4 is recommended
• Cycling is possible on main roads but the hills are demanding