Is the winter, i.e., February a bad time to go to the Greek islands? Are hotels cheaper? Are most restaurants open.

The climate is not like the Caribbean. It will most likely be cool in the islands, and I would imagine that most resort hotels would be closed, as well as restaurants. The hotels that are open would, IMO, be less expensive.

An exception might be Crete, whose southern coast could be warm enough to swim.

All said, I probably would not go to the Greek islands in Feb. unless I primarily wanted to see the scenery and be "away from it all."

I think "cool" is an understatement. It can be very cold, actually. Also on Crete, with the possible exception of the southern coast as grandmere said. Just to be clear, I am talking about winter-coat-cold.

A friend once spent a winter on Santorini and told me that it even snowed briefly one night. That's how cold it can get. And those houses aren't at all winterized since they're designed for warmer weather use. So be prepared!

I was in Crete very early March two years ago, actually got there on 28 Feb. It was quite warm. Chania was nie but pleasantly cool in the evenings. A light jacket sufficed. Prices were reasonable and it was not very crowded.

I am so happy to finally find someone who traveled to greece in March! I am going to be there March 13-21 and I have almost changed my mind because all I am hearing is negative things about the weather. I realize swimming is out of the question but surely there will be things to do. I want to visit santorini as well as Athens.
Any advice? What is the best way to island hop?
Thanks so much
Swimmom2
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The warmest area of Crete in March will be the southern coastline, perhaps around Agia Galini or Matala would be pleasant. It's possible that you will experience high winds, however.

Island hopping by ferry is the most common method, although some of the islands have scheduled flights from Athens. From Crete you will be able to get a ferry from Iraklion to Santorini. The timetable will be cut back to a winter schedule, but once you're there you'll be able to determine the current departure times. You won't regret taking in Santorini, it's spectacular views are not easily forgotten.

Swimmom2, just go and hope for the best. I never plan based around weather because you never know what you're gonna get. This part March was supposedly one of the wettest and coldest on record for many parts of Greece...so many next March you'll be due a nice one!