The beaches on Kos are some of the best the Greek islands have to offer. Though, given that there are quite a few, we’ll try to help you pick out the best ones for your trip. Which one should you choose for your children? Will you find nudist beaches on Kos? Here’s our selection of the best beaches of Kos.
Paradise Beach
The most popular beach on Kos
Paradise Beach is located in a cluster of popular beaches, near Kefalos. It lies less than 40 minutes away from the city of Kos and about 10 minutes from the Kos Airport. The beach is long, sandy and full of attractions. You have equipment rentals, clubs, restaurants, cafes, car parks and more. Its descent into the sea is relatively shallow, so it’s also suitable for children.
Of course, we have to underline one thing: it’s a wonderful beach and all, though its attractiveness also brings a lot of sunbathers. Too many, to be more direct about it. So if you’re looking for peace and quiet, there’s practically no chance of that during the high season. If you don’t mind that and you’re down to just have some fun, it’s great. Otherwise, let’s keep looking.
Tigaki
A sandy beach on Kos
This is a lovely little beach right next to its namesake village – there’s also the Alikes salt lake nearby, known for the fact that you can see flamingos there, just like on Cyprus.
As for the beach, you can find equipment rentals and a couple of cafes on site – there’s also a nudist section on its western end. It’s also a good viewpoint for watching the hills of the surrounding islands, Pserimos and Kalimnos.
Marmari
Beach on Kos
Another beach on the north coast of Kos, close to Tigaki. Basically a continuation of the previous beach, as it’s only 1.8 miles away. You’ll find the town centre nearby, as well as some restaurants and hotels. It’s a more peaceful beach than the popular few – the type of tranquillity of lounging under a tree amidst golden sands.
Agios Stefanos
A popular beach on Kos
Another beach on Kefalos Bay, near Paradise Beach. The main characteristic of Agios Stefanos is that there’s actually a ruin of an old basilica on the beach. There’s also a small church on an islet which you can reach by boat (or by swimming 180 metres if you can).
Of course, the beach itself is great too. There are equipment rentals on site, including stuff for water sports too, so you can make use of the local winds. You’ll also find restaurants.
Cavo Paradiso, Paralia Paradisos
The most beautiful beach on Kos?
Don’t confuse Cavo Paradiso with Paradise Beach, as it’ll be much harder to get to Cavo than its popular namesake. We’d recommend a 4×4 hired car – if you don’t want to or can’t hire one, then the nearest reasonable car park is at the Chapel of John the Baptist, slightly over 2 miles from the beach, so a 40-minute walk with some beautiful views along the way.
The beach is quiet, peaceful, there are rarely more than a few people here. It’s a recognised nudist beach on Kos, so don’t be surprised to see some butts. There’s also a small equipment rental and a cafe. It’s, in our opinion, one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Kos.
If you’re using a map and you don’t have a 4×4, we’d actually recommend you take the longer one – it’ll be safer for the car.
Mastichari
A beach in the north of Kos
This is a beach taking up well over a mile, located by the village of Mastichari. Its northern part is directly adjacent to the town. It’s well equipped and you’ll find plenty of cafes and restaurants on the side of the town. It also means you’ll have no issue with parking. The views here are magnificent and the beach itself is also lovely.
Kardamena
Crowds, crowds, crowds
Kardamena is a sizable harbour town on Kos, plus there is a popular beach in the centre. It’s full of restaurants, services, cafes, rentals – there’s basically everything but peace and quiet here. Therefore, if you like a good party or you simply just don’t care about having to squeeze in, this is a perfect beach. If you value tranquillity above all else, we’d recommend you choose another beach. Like, for instance…
Limnionas
A small and quiet beach on Kos
This is a small cove in the western part of the island. It’s not as popular as the other beaches on Kos, so it’s a great spot to find some peace. The beach is a mix of sand and pebbles – it’s got a magical atmosphere and the nearby taverns offer some really good seafood. The car park is also right next to the beach.
Paralia Thermes
Hot springs on Kos
On Kos, you can also find hot springs directly in the sea – the beach is entirely natural. The coast is rocky, so do bring some appropriate shoes. It’s an ideal place to visit in the low season, as there’ll be less people and the waters will counteract the chilly weather. Do be mindful that the smell of the water can be a bit peculiar here because of the sulphur, so think about taking a shower afterwards. 🙂
Of course, the locals couldn’t miss out on the opportunity, so there are equipment rentals here too.
Camel Beach, Turkey
Beaches close to Kos
Have you already been to every main beach on Kos? Want something new? Why not take a ferry from Kos to Turkey and visit one of the Turkish beaches nearby? A ferry ride takes about 45 minutes and costs €20 per round trip. You can also visit the nearby Rhodes this way, though a ferry ride one-way takes 3 hours.
Nudist beaches on Kos
Where to sunbathe naked on Kos?
There are many nudist-friendly beaches or, at least, sections of beaches on Kos. The nicest are the Cavo Paradiso in the south or a spot on Tigaki. You can also find the Exotic Beach near the Paradise Beach, it’s also naturist-friendly.
You’ll likely find sections randomly on various beaches, as it’s a rather welcoming place for nudists.
What should you bring to the beach?
Necessary equipment
In general, the best sandy beaches on Kos are all close to town centres, so you won’t need much preparation. Even if not, then there are shops and equipment rentals near the most popular beaches too. If you want to save money, we recommend taking your own sunscreen, water, a hat and towels. If you’re going to the hot springs or anywhere pebbly, bring appropriate footwear.
Map of the best beaches on Kos
Which ones are you hitting up this summer?
1) Paradise Beach
2) Tigaki
3) Marmari
4) Agios Stefanos
5) Cavo Paradiso
6) Mastichari
7) Kardamena
8) Limnionas
9) Paralia Thermes
See also:
