Karpathos Beaches
Karpathos island of infinite beauty, where everything is still almost in its natural state, where Eolo dwells constantly caressing, lashing and transforming the coasts and beaches like a skilled sculptor, an island in the middle of the great Aegean where history, nature and tradition are still very rooted.
In recent years, a holiday in Karpathos has become one of the most coveted desires of lovers of Greece, especially of Italians who flock to the island every summer season.
A varied territory where the peaks and jagged coasts are not lacking, with a sea in our opinion among the most beautiful of the Greek Islands with its ancient villages where you can still breathe that true Greek atmosphere and where the pride of belonging to a land is still at the top of the value scale.
In this article we want to give you a trace of the beaches to visit during your holiday in Karpathos and enjoy so much generosity of this wonderful part of the world.
Christou Pigadi Beach
Christou Pigadi beach which in Greek means Well of Christ, can be found in a southwesterly direction about fifteen kilometers from the town of Pigadia. It owes its curious name to the spring water that comes directly from the bowels of the earth. Two coasts, one smaller and one a little bigger, reaching a length of a few kilometres. Both are sandy and the sea that bathes them is transparent and blue, with a seabed that descends slowly, therefore perfect for families with children. They are equipped with sunbeds and umbrellas, while there is a small kiosk for something to eat or drink. It can be reached by following the road towards the airport, turning left at a certain point and following the road signs.
Araki Beach
Araki beach is truly a lost paradise. It is located in the southern part on the east side of Karpathos about ten kilometers from Pigadia. A beach made of small stones and in this regard if you are delicate do not forget the rock shoes, a clean and emerald colored sea. The area is exposed to the winds but don't be intimidated, it will be a wonderful day of relaxation and absolute peace. The seabed is a great opportunity for snorkelers as the underwater life in this part is very fervent. It is equipped with sunbeds and straw umbrellas, while as far as food and drinks are concerned, there is no refreshment point, so remember to bring everything you need. To get there, just follow the signs for Arkasa and then take about two hundred meters of dirt road and you will arrive in this corner of Eden.
Vananda Beach
We find Vananda beach near the Diafani village in the north east of the Karpathos island. A coast of small stones bathed by clear waters and perfect for those who love to enjoy long swims. Vananda beach is not among the most sought after perhaps because it is extremely wild, there is no trace of civilization here, if you decide to spend the day there, take care to bring yourself a drink, something to eat and something to shelter you from the sun. Behind it is a source of natural drinking water dedicated to those who have preserved this corner of Karpathos until the end of their days. Definitely perfect for those who want silence and want to escape the frenzy and mass tourism. It can be reached either on foot with a nice half-hour walk from Diafani, or with a vehicle along a dirt road.
Kato Lakko Beach
Kato Lakko beach, like almost all the beaches in the north of the Karpathos sland, is still very wild and has a genuine flavour. Right in the middle between the Achata beach and the Kira Panagia beach on the east side, it is located in a beautiful bay surrounded by thick Mediterranean scrub and has a coast of gold-colored sand mixed with a few pebbles, with a sea Emerald. Not equipped at all, it is the ideal place for those who want to stay in contact with Mother Nature but above all want to find her, and yes because reaching her is not that simple. First of all it is necessary to have a suitable vehicle and never as in this case a 4x4 is essential, or if you have rented a normal car you can get up to a certain point, leave the vehicle and continue on foot. Finally, the laziest, by sea with one of the excursions that are organised. The best time to visit Kato Lakko beach is in the morning as being enclosed in the mountains it has no sun in the afternoon hours.
Michaliou Kipos Beach
Michaliou Kipos beach is near the Diakoftis village in the southeast part of Karpathos, Pigadia the capital is about sixteen kilometers away. A pretty little bay with a dark sandy coast with shallow blue waters, a paradise for families with small children. It remains quite isolated as a result of zero services so if you want to spend a few hours there you need to bring everything from food to water and above all something to shelter from the sun. The peculiarity of Michaliou Kipos beach are its spectacular tuff cliffs covered with shell fossils that frame the beach. Reaching it is quite challenging as it can only be reached on foot by land, taking a path that ends in a canyon to be crossed to then reach the fantastic beach.
Psoraris Beach
Psoraris beach is located in the southwest of the island about twenty kilometers from Pigadia. A favorite place for naturists, it has a long coastline of golden sand with clean and intense blue waters. It is certainly perfect for those who love nature as its wild side has not yet lost it. Obviously no trace of civilization, no sunbeds or umbrellas and much less kiosks where you can find something to eat and drink, so if it is included in the list of beaches to see in Karpathos, keep in mind to bring everything you need if you want to spend the whole day there.
Agrilopotamos Beach
An almost secret corner of Karpathos, Agrilopotamos beach is also located in a southwesterly direction ten kilometers away from the capital Pigadia. Soft light sand, an intense blue sea with clear and transparent waters it would seem like a paradise, in reality it is but only for those who love kitesurfing or windsurfing as given its position it is very subject to the winds. No sunbeds or umbrellas, but on the other hand you will find a kiosk where you can drink and eat something. A beach only for Eolo fans. Reaching it is not difficult, just follow the main road and the road signs indicating the direction.
Agios Nikolaos Beach
Agios Nikolaos beach is less than four kilometers from Spoa village in the northeastern part of Karpathos island. A coast of white pebbles which, in contrast with the turquoise colors of the sea, make the scenario almost fairytale. Its position right in the middle of high mountains shelters it from the winds and therefore makes it perfect for a day at the beach with beautiful and long swims or if you are a lover of the seabed, you can dedicate yourself to interesting dives. Around some tamarisk trees that shelter during the hottest hours. It is not equipped but behind it is the village of the same name which offers some genuine taverns where you can savor the local delicacies. From the of Agios Nikolaos beach you can also take a boat that goes around some isolated beaches where you can find absolute privacy. Getting there is easy, from Pigadia head north east following the Spoa village and then follow the signs. The road is very scenic among thick and luxuriant vegetation that alternates with stupendous views of the Aegean.
Achata Beach
Achata beach is about fifteen kilometers from Pigadia on the east side in the southern part of the Karpathos island. A beach well known for its extraordinary beauty that attracts so many people especially during the summer period that it is quite crowded. If you prefer a little more silence and not having so many people around you, go there early in the morning when everyone is still in the arms of Morpheus. A beach of sand mixed with gravel, crystal clear waters and a sea with iridescent colors that go from emerald to turquoise with a seabed that unfortunately descends very quickly therefore not really suitable for children (keep your eyes peeled in this regard). Its position shelters it from the wind that generally blows strongly on Karpathos thanks to its high cliffs of clear rock that protect it on which lush vegetation grows that completes this splendid picture of Mother Nature. Achata beach is ideal for snorkelers due to its lively marine fauna and flora. It is well organized with sunbeds and umbrellas, while to eat or drink something fresh a typical tavern will be able to fulfill your every desire dictated by your stomach. Reaching it is easy, just follow the signs for the village of Amperi and then turn right up to a large parking lot and you will have arrived.
Kira Panagia Beach
Even the Kira Panagia beach is positioned to the east of the Karpathos island about half not far from the Achata village. Also very sought after during the summer season and at the weekend it is also overrun by the locals who enjoy a quiet day at the beach. We find it in a pretty cove with a semicircular shape surrounded by white cliffs that mix with colorful oleander trees and bougainvilleas. Small ravines on the rocks to be explored if you love discovery. The Kira Panagia beach has a coast of medium-sized gray pebbles, an amazing sea with a variety of shades from blue to emerald and a seabed that we can say is a real playground for snorkelers. Thanks to its stacks, it is always protected from the wind. The peculiarity of the beach is given by its white church with the red dome that you will find in every photograph of the visitors who have chosen Karpathos for their holidays in Greece. From the top of the church you can enjoy a breathtaking panorama. The beach is equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas and a few taverns where you can sit and fill your belly with excellent fresh fish and traditional dishes. For the do-it-yourselfers, a convenient mini-ket. Very simple to get there, just follow the road signs keeping the capital as a reference point.
Apella Beach
The noble but rightly of Apella beach is located in the middle of the island on the eastern side, eighteen kilometers from Pigadia. A wonderful bay to say the least that is cited as one of the most beautiful in the whole Aegean. Three hundred meters of coast of soft, almost white sand mixed with a few pebbles, a transparent and generally flat sea, blue and turquoise waters. Around this little corner of Eden there are maritime pines and rocks that amplify its beauty. Let's say that given its popularity during the summer season it is sometimes almost unlivable, both by land and by sea with excursions it is invaded by many people but, despite everything, it still remains one of the places not to be missed during your holiday in Karpathos. As always, our advice to be able to enjoy it to the fullest is to get up early and go in the morning but it wouldn't be bad either at sunset where you can also enjoy a natural spectacle to immortalize in the perfect photo. The Apella beach is equipped with sunbeds and umbrellas, while for eating there is only one tavern. If you love freedom, a section of Apella is completely free so you can spread out your towel where you prefer but above all where you will find a place. In the center a formation of rocks hides tender starfish which we recommend you admire but do not touch otherwise the you will die. To reach Apella beach you have two options: one by land following the road signs, the other by sea with one of the organized excursions that depart from Pigadia every day.
Agios Minas Beach
Agios Minas beach is perhaps one of the most remote and difficult to reach. Its position is in a north-easterly direction in the most inaccessible part of the whole Karpathos island but in our opinion an absolute must. Here mass tourism does not reach us and let's say thank goodness so at least it can preserve its natural beauty and remain uncontaminated. In the area of the Agios Minas beach, nature is the master, a large beach of flat dark stones that mix with a sea of clean and turquoise waters. It goes without saying that there are no deck chairs or umbrellas here, but you will find two traditional taverns where you can eat fresh fish and local delicacies. If you have delicate feet, don't forget your rock shoes, the pebbles, even if flat, are annoying. The most difficult part of Agios Minas beach is how to get there. By land with almost three kilometers of dirt road among ancient olive trees, cliffs on both sides that will make you hold your breath but with unforgettable views. Second option much more comfortable by sea. From Diafani there are organized excursions that also touch other wonderful coves.
Diafani Beach
And here we are at the extreme north of Karapathos on the east side where you will find Diafani beach. The homonymous village behind it is a perfect destination especially for trekking lovers, from here there are paths that will make you discover ancient areas where you can get lost in time (https://www.meraviglioseisolegreche.com/blog/curiosita/karpathos- -trekking-north-of-karpathos.aspx). A long beach of dark pebbles, clear and transparent waters, a blue and turquoise sea, sunbeds, umbrellas and a choice of typical tavernas, small bars for a quick meal and for DIY lovers mini markets and bakeries where you can find everything you need . The Diafani village is in an optimal position to venture out to discover the charming of Olympos village and to visit the wild island of Saria. To get there from anywhere you will be staying in Karpathos, the direction is towards the north following the road signs for the village that offers this large beach as well as many alternatives to fill the day.
Nati Beach
We find Nati beach in the same part of Agios Minas beach, more or less a kilometer apart. Remote, pristine, brutally wild and so difficult to reach that's why it is still almost intact. You can get here only if you want to, few people dare to go as far as Nati beach and one of the reasons why you have to go there is to enjoy a luxuriant and sincere nature but above all to escape the holiday frenzy of all the tourists who choose Karpathos as their holiday destination in the summer. A beach of coarse gravel with rocks almost everywhere, calm waters and with all shades of blue from light blue to dark cobalt towards the open sea. There are no comforts, you get by like experienced Robinson Crusoe but that's the beauty of it. If you want civilization, however, just reach Agios Minas beach where there are two taverns for eating and drinking. Since Nati beach is surrounded by cliffs, the sun disappears quite early so get there as soon as it starts to dawn to enjoy all the light possible. It can be reached either by sea from Diafani, by land as to get to the Agios Minas beach with a vehicle or on foot via a path that will take you almost an hour.
Agios Theodoros Beach
Agios Theodoros beach is positioned in the extreme southern part on the western side of Karpathos island right in the middle of Arkasa bay. Below the almost desert plain, it is wedged between high rock cliffs that shelter it from the impetuous winds. An idyllic place made up of a crescent-shaped coast with sand mixed with small pebbles, always calm and emerald-colored waters with a seabed that descends very quickly and mainly stony, therefore put on your rock shoes and if you are not skilled swimmers, be very be careful. A detail of the Agios Theodoros beach is the clay soil that will give you the opportunity to benefit from the properties of the clay for free, perhaps indulging in a relaxing and nourishing mud for your skin. Also nearby is a source of natural water, let's face it, a little chilly but which will help your blood circulation. Agios Theodoros beach is not equipped, you will have to bring everything yourself. Instead, it is perfect for snorkelers who can have fun discovering the lively underwater life. Getting there is easy, keep Arkasa as a reference point, pass it and after four kilometers you will find yourself in the middle of nowhere. Your point of reference will only be the tavern that you will see above the bay. Follow the road towards the gulf and you will arrive directly on the beach.
Arkasa Beach
Arkasa beach is in the southwest direction of Karpathos but you can also find it with the name of Agios Nikolaos (different from the one in the north, don't get confused). An expanse of golden sand with an often rough sea due to its open position and robust sea currents, the latter very strong in the left section but with transparent and clean waters. Just in front of Kassos island. Much loved by fans of sports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing where Eolo has the main role, it is equipped with umbrellas, sunbeds and a traditional tavern where you can find food and drink. Do not miss the sunset time, a show to be fully enjoyed. Getting there is within everyone's reach, if you have a rental vehicle look for the road that leads to the Arkasa village or if you are not autonomous from Pigadia with the local bus.
Pigadia Beach
Pigadia beach is in the southeast area of the Karpathos island and is the city beach of the capital. A long and wide coastline made of golden sand mixed with gravel, clear and transparent waters, an intense blue sea with a seabed that descends slowly, perfect especially for families with small children. It is one of the best equipped on the island with many sunbeds, umbrellas, games, beach bars where adults can enjoy all the comforts and relax while the little ones play until they drop. As for catering, you will only be spoiled for choice, many taverns where you can have a full meal, or bars for a quick snack and even the ovens where you can taste the spectacular cakes such as spanakopita or tiropita for which you will surely become addicted. For a break from beach life, a nice walk along the seafront perhaps reaching the much quieter of Vrontis or Ammos Xenonas beaches. Pigadia is the capital and a bit the navel of Karpathos so getting there will certainly not be a problem.
Lefkos Beach
Lefkos beach is oriented northwest thirty kilometers from the capital. To be precise, there are three bays one after the other which eventually form a long beach. Between them they are separated by strips of land with lush and providential pine trees behind them, a godsend during the hot summer hours. The most famous is Gialou beach, the smallest and also the least frequented one is Panagias Limani beach, both very popular with families with children for their gently sloping seabed, while the largest is called Fragolimniona beach. Coasts of soft sand dotted with rocks where colorful fish peep out, clean waters and a sea of crazy colors. They are equipped with sunbeds and umbrellas while the gastronomic proposal is divided between typical taverns or small bars where you can have a quick snack. The sunset in the bay is spectacular! The Lefkos beach together with its homonymous village, become more and more touristic every year and in less than no time they will become an important pole for holidaymakers. It can be reached very comfortably by following the road signs towards Lefkos.
Finiki Beach
Finiki beach is towards the southwest where the homograph village from which it takes its name is located. In a nutshell, it is the city beach near the small port and has a golden sandy beach right inside an inlet that protects it from the wind. It is small with limited umbrellas and sunbeds so there is a first come first serve rule. Behind the beach there are some typical taverns where you can taste local specialties and Greek cuisine, a small mini market for the more independent and some cafés where you can stop for a coffee and meet the locals from whom you can hear fantastic stories about your island. The atmosphere you breathe in Finiki is still authentic made of simple things and where tradition is still deeply rooted. Given its position, Finiki beach is well protected from the wrath of Aeolus and therefore perfect for a day at the beach with the whole family. To reach it from wherever you are, head southwest and follow the road signs for Finiki. Obviously being on the west side, even from here you can enjoy a spectacular sunset!
Diakoftis Beach
Daikoftis beach is located southeast of the Karpathos island not far from Pigadia airport. A place that is very reminiscent of exotic destinations thanks to its abundant Mediterranean vegetation that mixes with a coastline of white and gold sand, transparent waters, a clear turquoise sea and gently sloping seabed. It is quite subject to winds but when there is flat calm it is a real paradise for a wonderful day at the beach. The beach is divided in two by a promontory and therefore creates two points to relax and enjoy the Aegean. It is perfect for those who love to swim, take long walks on the shore and for snorkelers as the depths are full of small fish and various marine inhabitants. It is equipped with umbrellas, sunbeds and a tavern on the road before reaching the beach where you can find food and drink. It must be said that it is well known and during the summer also quite busy but still manages to maintain that relaxed air and give hours of peace blissfully sprawled out under the hot Hellenic sun. On the left side, naturist enthusiasts like to gather. To reach it, just follow the road signs indicating the airport.
Damatria Beach
Damatria beach is considered the most Caribbean of the Karpathos island and is located on the south east side about fifteen kilometers from the capital. Soft white sand mixed with small stones, a sea with bright colors that follow one another from turquoise to azure up to sparkling blue, backdrops that gently slope down and around a luxuriant vegetation that accentuates the difference of colors. On the left walking on the dry beach you can find beautiful coves where if luck turns on your side they could be just for you. Damatria beach is sheltered from the wind by a large rock wall, the perfect position for a peaceful day at the beach, while on the other side you can feel the wind when it blows, in fact it is invaded by kite surfing and windsurfing lovers. Snorkelers, on the other hand, will be able to take advantage of the right side where the marine fauna and flora are concentrated. It is equipped with umbrellas, sunbeds and many water sports to do with family and friends while, as regards the restaurant on the promontory, a classic tavern where you can taste dishes of classic Greek cuisine. Reaching it is easy, just go towards the airport and then follow the road signs.
Amoopi Beach
Amoopi beach is located in a south-easterly direction about eight kilometers from the capital Pigadia. A beautiful bay surrounded by cliffs that shelter it from the wind, making it the perfect spot for a peaceful day at the beach to relax and get a tan. Amoopi beach develops into two areas, a small one called Mikri Amoopi (mikry in Greek means small) with a beach of coarse sand bathed by a transparent sea where the presence of some rocks attract snorkelers, to the left of the gulf instead find the beach called Megalo Amoopi (megalo in Greek means big) with a coastline of fine clear sand and a sea with a gently sloping seabed perfect for families with small children. And again if you want to get away from the crowd, towards the north you will come across a stupendous cove called Pouliou Potami with particular caves to be explored. Amoopi beach is well equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, beach bars and taverns where you can fill your belly with the delicacies of Hellenic cuisine. It can be reached by following the road signs very easily.