Try several—each part of the coastline feels different.
Greek beach culture
Greeks often make a full outing of the beach, bringing chairs, umbrellas, drinks, food and watermelon. At an organised beach, you need less.
Our recommendations are mostly based on the quieter off-season. In July, beaches and parking may be busier. Greeks often arrive later, so an early start can help.
Platana
Newly restored, close to home, shallow at the start and relatively protected from wind.
Photo: Έλα στην Κύμη / Dimas Konstantinos Photography
Stomio
Easy to reach, long and not far away, with a lovely view from the water.
Kalamos
More beautiful, organised, with restaurants, a beach bar and Eleni’s restaurant. Around 30–40 minutes away.
Photo: George Papathanassiou via Greece.com
Korasida
Dramatic natural beauty and less built up. One restaurant by the beach. Around 30–40 minutes away.
Photo: john1958 via Greece.com
Thapsa
Often described by friends as the most magical beach in the area, but extremely difficult to reach by road.
Do not attempt the final road in a rental car; damage may not be covered by insurance. In summer, a traditional white-and-blue boat usually runs from Kymi Harbour on a day trip. Check the current boat name, dates and schedule locally.
Bring water, food and sunscreen. Do not rely on facilities being open.
Beautiful drive
The coastal road between Korasida and Kalamos is stunning and worth driving even without a full beach day.
Beaches we would personally skip
The beaches on either side of Kymi Harbour are not our favourites: one is too close to the harbour, and the other is small and more party-focused.
We also do not particularly like Mourteri. None are terrible; there are simply more beautiful choices nearby.