Kos · Beaches
Kos has sand on almost every coast, from the long, shallow shores of the north to the wide bays of the Kefalos peninsula.
Our favourites
SandOrganised
A wide sandy bay on the south coast with sunbeds, a few bars and clear water. It is the best known beach on the Kefalos side of the island.
By road, with parking above the beach.
The meltemi blows in from the north in summer, and this south-facing bay is usually sheltered from it.
Kefalos peninsulaStay in Kefalos
SandEasy-going
A long bay below the village of Kefalos, with tavernas along the road behind it. Offshore lies the small islet of Kastri, with its chapel.
By road from Kefalos village.
Boats leave from the small harbour for trips along the coast.
Kefalos peninsulaStay in Kefalos
Pick your kind of day
SandEasy-going
A sandy beach beside the ruins of an early Christian basilica, facing the islet of Kastri. A few umbrellas and a taverna, but it rarely feels crowded.
By road, with a short walk down to the sand.
Kefalos peninsulaStay in Kefalos
SandOrganised
A long sandy beach running along the seafront of the resort town. The water is calm, and you can see the island of Nisyros on a clear day.
On foot from the town centre.
Central KosStay in Kardamena
SandOrganised
A broad, shallow beach on the north coast, with fine sand and a long row of sunbeds. Behind it lies the Alyki salt lake, where flamingos sometimes feed.
By road, or by the cycle path from Kos Town.
Walk or cycle to the end of the beach where it is quieter.
Central Kos
SandOrganised
A long, open beach on the north-west coast with room to spread out. The wind makes it a popular place for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
By road.
Mornings are calmer. The wind usually builds in the afternoon.
Central Kos
SandEasy-going
A sandy beach beside a working fishing harbour, with tavernas on the waterfront. Ferries to Kalymnos leave from the port.
By road, a short walk from the harbour.
Central KosStay in Mastichari
Sand & pebblesOrganised
The closest beach to Kos Town, with a wide strip of sand and pebbles and a row of cafes behind. There are views across to Kalymnos.
A flat cycle ride or a short drive from town.
Kos TownStay in Kos Town
PebblesWild
A small pebble cove below a cliff, where hot spring water runs into a pool of stones beside the sea. You bathe in the warm water and then cool off in the waves.
By road, then a short walk down to the cove.
Go early in the morning, before the tour groups arrive.
Kos TownStay in Kos Town
SandEasy-going
A long sandy beach on the south-west coast with a view across the bay to the hills of the peninsula. It has very little development, so it is usually quiet.
By road and track.
Bring water and snacks, as there is little on the beach.
Kefalos peninsula
Wind and sea change by the day. On windy days swim on the sheltered side of the island, and watch for red flags.