Late spring (May to mid-June) is the loveliest moment: warm enough to swim in the afternoon, the bougainvillea in Chianalea is in full flower, and the summer crowds have not yet arrived. Hotel prices are reasonable.
Peak summer (mid-July to August) is hot and busy. Marina Grande beach fills up and the alleys of Chianalea can be slow walking after dinner. Book accommodation months ahead.
Autumn (September to October) brings warm seas, lighter crowds, and the swordfish season at its end — a fine time for a quieter trip.
Winter is mild but quiet. Many Chianalea restaurants close from November to Easter, and the swimming is over. The compensation is the dramatic light on the Strait and the chance to have the village more or less to yourself.