As I stepped onto the sun-drenched shores of Kalymnos, I was immediately captivated by the island’s diverse and picturesque beaches. From the soft sandy stretches of Massouri to the pebbly coves of Myrties, Kalymnos offers a beach for every taste. The crystal clear waters of the Aegean lapped gently against the shore, inviting me to dive in and explore the underwater wonders that have made this island famous.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Kalymnos:
- 🏨 4-Star: Kantouni Beach Boutique Hotel
- 🛏️ 3-Star: ELENA APARTMENTS
- 💸 Cheap: Sunset Dreams Spyros
- 🏢 Apartament: Arginonta Beach Apartments
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Atlantis Hotel
- 🏩 For Couples: Blue Dawn Kalymnos
Kalymnos island is a beach lover’s paradise, with each part of the island offering its own unique coastal charm. Whether you’re lounging on a sunbed at Kantouni, sipping a cold drink at a beach bar in Masouri, or enjoying a meal at a traditional taverna overlooking Telendos Island, the beaches of Kalymnos never fail to impress. From the bustling port town of Pothia to the secluded shores of Palionisos, I was eager to discover all the sandy and pebbly treasures this Aegean gem had to offer.
Beautiful Beaches in Kalymnos: Quick Overview
- 🏖️ For sun-seekers and families: Masouri Beach
- 🌅 For sunset lovers and wave enthusiasts: Kantouni Beach
- 🏞️ For nature lovers and tranquility seekers: Palionisos Beach
- 🧗♂️ For rock climbers and adventure enthusiasts: Arginonta Beach
- 🍽️ For beach-goers and foodies: Myrties Beach
- 🚤 For island hoppers and day-trippers: Melitsahas Beach
- 🏊♀️ For swimmers and water sports enthusiasts: Emporio Beach
- 🌿 For those seeking seclusion and natural beauty: Linaria Beach
1. 🏖️ Masouri Beach: For sun-seekers and families
Sandy Paradise: Masouri Beach is one of the longest and sandiest beaches on Kalymnos, offering a perfect setting for sun-seekers and families. The soft golden sand is ideal for building sandcastles or simply lounging in the sun.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere: With its calm, shallow waters and gentle slope, Masouri Beach is perfect for families with children. The beach is well-organized with sunbeds, umbrellas, and beach bars, providing all the necessary amenities for a comfortable day out.
Stunning Views: Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Telendos Island across the water, creating a picturesque backdrop for beach activities and sunset watching.
Convenient Location: Situated in the most popular tourist area of Kalymnos, Masouri Beach is easily accessible and surrounded by numerous tavernas, cafes, and shops, making it a great all-day destination.
Best Hotels Near Masouri Beach
- ELENA APARTMENTS: Comfortable apartments located in a convenient area of Kalymnos, offering a home-away-from-home experience for travelers. Features include well-equipped kitchenettes, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi, making it ideal for both short and extended stays.
- Hotel Philoxenia: A welcoming hotel offering a blend of traditional Greek hospitality and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving local cuisine, and easy access to nearby attractions and beaches.
- Oasis Hotel: A peaceful retreat set in lush surroundings, providing a true oasis for relaxation. The hotel features an outdoor pool, garden views, and comfortable rooms, perfect for those looking to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of Kalymnos.
2. 🌅 Kantouni Beach: For sunset lovers and wave enthusiasts
Spectacular Sunsets: Kantouni Beach is renowned for its stunning sunsets, making it a favorite spot for romantic evening strolls and photography enthusiasts.
Wave Action: Unlike many of Kalymnos’ calmer beaches, Kantouni is known for its waves, attracting those who enjoy a bit more excitement in their beach experience.
Long Stretch of Sand: This expansive sandy beach provides ample space for visitors, even during peak season, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all.
Vibrant Atmosphere: With several beach bars and cafes lining the shore, Kantouni Beach offers a lively atmosphere, perfect for those who enjoy socializing and beach parties.
Best Hotels Near Kantouni Beach
- Kantouni Beach Boutique Hotel: A luxurious 4-star hotel located just 50 meters from the beach. It offers a range of amenities including a swimming pool, private beach area, and water sports activities. The hotel features a restaurant, Kymata Restaurant Cocktail Bar, and serves a highly-rated American and buffet breakfast. With its excellent location and top-notch facilities, it’s perfect for those seeking a premium beach vacation experience.
- Kantouni Blue Sea: A beachfront property offering comfortable accommodations with sea views. While specific details are limited in the search results, its location suggests easy access to the beautiful Kantouni Beach and potentially water-related activities.
- Casa Mar on Kantouni Beach: This property is situated on Kantouni Beach, likely offering direct beach access to guests. While detailed information is not provided in the search results, its beachfront location makes it an attractive option for beach lovers and those seeking a relaxing coastal stay.
3. 🏞️ Palionisos Beach: For nature lovers and tranquility seekers
Secluded Beauty: Nestled between two mountains in the northern part of Kalymnos, Palionisos Beach offers a serene and unspoiled natural environment.
Crystal Clear Waters: The beach boasts some of the clearest and cleanest waters on the island, with a unique color that sets it apart from other Kalymnos beaches.
Peaceful Atmosphere: Due to its remote location, Palionisos Beach remains relatively uncrowded, providing a tranquil escape for those seeking peace and quiet.
Scenic Drive: The journey to Palionisos Beach is an adventure in itself, with a scenic route offering breathtaking views of the island’s rugged landscape.
Best Hotels Near Palionisos Beach
- Sylvia's houses: A charming accommodation option offering a home-like atmosphere. While specific details are limited in the search results, these houses likely provide a more authentic and local experience for visitors to Kalymnos, perfect for those seeking a cozy and personal stay.
- Sunset Dreams Spyros: As the name suggests, this property likely offers stunning sunset views, making it ideal for romantic getaways or those seeking picturesque scenery. The “luxury boutique” description indicates a high-end, intimate setting with personalized service and attention to detail.
- The traditional house-Skalia,kalymnos: This accommodation appears to be a traditional Greek house, offering guests an authentic local experience. Located in Skalia, it likely provides a peaceful retreat away from more touristy areas, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture and lifestyle of Kalymnos.
4. 🧗♂️ Arginonta Beach: For rock climbers and adventure enthusiasts
Climbing Paradise: Located near some of Kalymnos’ most famous climbing spots, Arginonta Beach is a favorite among rock climbers and adventure seekers.
Mixed Terrain: The beach features a combination of sand and pebbles, with impressive rock formations nearby, creating a diverse and interesting landscape.
Natural Shade: Aged trees along the beach provide natural shade, offering a cool respite from the sun for climbers and beachgoers alike.
Scenic Beauty: Set in a sparsely inhabited bay surrounded by green hills, Arginonta Beach offers stunning views and a sense of being immersed in nature.
Best Hotels Near Arginonta Beach
- Arginonta Beach Apartments: Located near Arginonta Beach, these apartments offer a comfortable stay with easy access to the sea. The property likely features self-catering facilities, making it ideal for guests who prefer more independence during their stay. Its proximity to the beach makes it perfect for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts.
- Arginonta Valley: Situated in the Arginonta Valley, this accommodation offers a unique setting away from the coastal areas. It’s likely surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, making it an excellent choice for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat. The location may also appeal to hikers and rock climbing enthusiasts, given Kalymnos’ popularity for these activities.
- Katerina's Studios Arginonta: These studios in Arginonta likely offer a more personal, intimate accommodation experience. They probably feature basic self-catering facilities and a local, authentic atmosphere. The location in Arginonta suggests proximity to both beach and mountainous areas, providing guests with diverse options for activities and exploration during their stay.
5. 🍽️ Myrties Beach: For beach-goers and foodies
Gastronomic Delights: Myrties Beach is lined with traditional tavernas and cafes, offering a wide variety of local cuisine and fresh seafood right on the beachfront.
Pebbled Beauty: The beach is covered in smooth, small pebbles, creating a unique and comfortable surface for sunbathing and relaxing.
Panoramic Views: From Myrties Beach, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Telendos Island, adding to the picturesque setting.
Local Charm: Less crowded than some of the more touristy beaches, Myrties offers a more authentic Greek island experience, attracting both locals and visitors.
Best Hotels Near Myrties Beach
- Effies House: A cozy and homely accommodation option, likely offering a personal touch to guests’ stays. While specific details are limited, Effie’s House probably provides a more intimate and authentic local experience, perfect for travelers looking for a home-away-from-home atmosphere in Kalymnos.
- Atlantis Hotel: A well-established hotel in Kalymnos, potentially offering a range of amenities suitable for various types of travelers. The hotel might feature comfortable rooms, on-site dining options, and possibly leisure facilities like a pool or fitness center. Its name suggests it could be a larger property, capable of accommodating families or groups.
- Argo Studios: Located in Mirties, these studios likely offer self-catering accommodations with basic kitchen facilities. The location in Mirties suggests proximity to the beach and local amenities. This type of accommodation is often favored by independent travelers or those planning longer stays who appreciate the flexibility of preparing their own meals.
6. 🚤 Melitsahas Beach: For island hoppers and day-trippers
Island Exploration: Melitsahas Beach serves as an excellent starting point for boat trips to nearby islands and hidden coves, making it perfect for day-trippers and island explorers.
Sandy Shores: This long, sandy beach offers comfortable sunbathing and swimming conditions, with clear waters ideal for snorkeling.
Convenient Location: Situated near the village of Myrties, Melitsahas Beach is easily accessible and offers a range of amenities, including rental apartments, tavernas, and cafes.
Water Activities: The beach is well-suited for various water sports and activities, catering to those who enjoy an active beach experience.
Best Hotels Near Melitsahas Beach
- Anna Studios: Located in Melitsahas, these studios likely offer self-catering accommodations with basic kitchen facilities. The location suggests proximity to the beach, making it an attractive option for beach lovers and those seeking a more independent stay experience.
- Blue Dawn Kalymnos: Situated in Melitsahas, just 100 meters from the nearest beach, this property offers a prime location for beach enthusiasts. It features accommodations with 1 or 2 bedrooms, suitable for groups of 2 to 4 guests. Amenities include terraces and balconies in some units. The hotel offers various activities such as cycling, hiking, snorkeling, diving, and fishing. Its proximity to the beach and range of activities make it ideal for active travelers and those seeking a seaside getaway.
- Pelagos Seafront Accommodation - Maria: As the name suggests, this accommodation is likely located on the seafront, offering guests direct access to the beach and beautiful sea views. While specific details are limited in the search results, its seafront location makes it an excellent choice for those prioritizing proximity to the water and scenic coastal views during their stay in Kalymnos.
7. 🏊♀️ Emporio Beach: For swimmers and water sports enthusiasts
Calm Waters: Located in a sheltered bay, Emporio Beach offers calm, crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and various water sports.
Traditional Charm: The beach is part of the small village of Emporios, providing a glimpse into traditional Greek island life.
Waterfront Dining: Several tavernas line the beach, offering fresh seafood and local specialties with stunning sea views.
Water Activities: The calm waters and spacious beach make Emporio an ideal spot for water sports enthusiasts, with opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling.
Best Hotels Near Emporio Beach
- Amimaya Apartments: Located on the island of Chios, these apartments likely offer a comfortable and self-catering accommodation option. While specific details are limited, the property probably provides a more independent stay experience, suitable for those who prefer to have their own space and basic cooking facilities during their vacation.
- Emporios Bay Hotel Chios: Situated in Emporios on the island of Chios, this hotel likely offers beautiful views of the bay. It probably features standard hotel amenities and might be suitable for those seeking a more traditional hotel experience with potential on-site dining options and services.
- Thea Apartments: Located in Pyrgi, one of the famous Mastichochoria (Mastic Villages) of Chios, these apartments offer a unique stay in a historic area. The accommodation likely provides self-catering facilities and may feature traditional architecture, giving guests an authentic experience of local life in this distinctive part of Chios.
8. 🌿 Linaria Beach: For those seeking seclusion and natural beauty
Natural Serenity: Linaria Beach offers a quiet and unspoiled environment, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and connect with nature.
Twin Beach: Often referred to as the “twin” of nearby Kantouni Beach, Linaria provides a more secluded alternative with similar beauty.
Family-Friendly: The calm waters and gentle slope make Linaria Beach suitable for families with children, while the peaceful atmosphere appeals to those seeking relaxation.
Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by natural landscapes and offering beautiful sea views, Linaria Beach is an ideal spot for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Best Hotels Near Linaria Beach
- Lykomides: This accommodation is likely located on one of the Greek islands, offering a comfortable stay for visitors. While specific details are limited in the search results, it probably provides a mix of traditional Greek hospitality and modern amenities, suitable for travelers looking for a relaxing island getaway.
- Vassiliki Residence Skyros Island: Situated on Skyros Island, this residence likely offers a unique and authentic Greek island experience. It may feature traditional architecture and decor, combined with modern comforts. The location on Skyros suggests a more secluded and less touristy atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
- Chriason Studios & Apartments: This property offers both studios and apartments, likely providing guests with self-catering options and more space than traditional hotel rooms. While the specific location is not mentioned, it’s probably situated in a Greek coastal area or island, catering to travelers who prefer a more independent and home-like stay during their vacation.
💡 Conclusion: Kalymnos – A Beach Lover’s Paradise
Kalymnos, one of the most beautiful islands of the Dodecanese, offers a diverse array of beaches that cater to every taste. From the popular Massouri Beach with its fine sand and crystalline waters to the secluded and remote beaches like Sikati Beach, the island boasts some of the best beaches in the Aegean. The west side of Kalymnos is home to many famous beaches, including the long beach of Kantouni with its fine pebbles and the pebbly beach of Myrties, which offers stunning views of the sunset and the nearby island of Telendos. For those seeking a beach close to the capital of Kalymnos, Therma Beach is a great option, located just a short distance from Pothia, the main port and capital of the island. Families with children often prefer beaches like Linaria, which offers a relaxing day at the beach with shallow waters and nearby restaurants and cafes. Adventure seekers can explore the hidden beaches around the island, accessible only by boat or hiking trails.
🤔 Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Kalymnos beaches?
The best time to visit Kalymnos beaches is from late May to early October when the weather is warm and ideal for swimming and sunbathing. July and August are the busiest months, so consider visiting in June or September for a more relaxed experience.
Are there any nude beaches on Kalymnos?
While Kalymnos is not particularly known for nude beaches, some secluded coves may be used unofficially for naturism. Always respect local customs and regulations.
What water activities are available on Kalymnos beaches?
Many beaches offer water sports such as snorkeling, diving, windsurfing, and kayaking. Kalymnos is particularly famous for its rock climbing opportunities near some beaches.
Is it easy to get around to different beaches on Kalymnos?
While some beaches are accessible by public transport or car, others may require a boat trip or a hike. Renting a car or scooter can be a good way to explore the island’s various beaches.
Are there facilities available at all Kalymnos beaches?
Popular beaches like Massouri and Myrties usually have facilities such as sunbeds, umbrellas, and nearby tavernas. More remote beaches may have limited or no facilities, so come prepared.
