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12 of the best beaches in Kos

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Famous as the birthplace of Hippocrates and home to the world-famous Asclepion, Kos is also a fantastic sea & sun destination in the Aegean Sea. All the diversity of this wonderful island in the Dodecanese (from historical sites and fantastic food to cycle lanes and groovy bars) is represented in the different styles of beach. Most are long and sandy and have excellent facilities (seafood tavernas, beach bars, water sports etc) and others are more secluded. So take your pick as we break down 12 of the best beaches in Kos.

 

 

Agios Stefanos beach

One of the most Instagrammable beaches in Kos. Agios Stefanos beach is essentially a continuation of popular Kefalos beach, in southwestern Kos, but it has its own unique characteristics that make it a must-visit. It boasts a mix of fine yellow sand/tiny pebbles and a cosmopolitan vibe, and is a favourite swimming spot for kids and water sports enthusiasts (there’s a scuba diving centre). But what gives Agios Stefanos beach its special touch are the views of the fortress-like islet of Kastri (you can swim or water bike there) and the remains of a 4th-5th century AD paleo-Christian church at one end of the beach. Don’t hesitate. Jump right on it.

 

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Sun, sea and culture at Agios Stefanos beach on Kos

Marmari beach

Another must on any beach holidays in Kos, Marmari is a white-sanded, 3km stretch of heaven that caters to all tastes. Located near the holiday resort of Pyli, it provides visitors with a wide range of experiences, from horseback riding on the beach (several farms in the area offer excursions) to kite- and wind-surfing (you can hire equipment) and other distractions for adults and kids. Splash around the shallow waters or hang loose at one of the liveliest beaches in Kos. It’s also a great sunset spot.

  • Amenities: Sunbeds & umbrellas, beach bars, water sports
  • Access: By road
  • Distance from Kos town: 14km

Find the certified water sport centres of Kos

Tigaki beach

On the northern side of Kos, Tigaki beach and its sprawling expanse of sand will captivate you with its crystal-clear water (Blue Flag-certified and shallow, ideal for kids) and chilled demeanour. Its plentiful amenities make it one of the most popular beaches in Kos, but you’d barely know it as its size prevents it from getting too busy. It’s also a favourite wind & kite-surfing spot, but if you want some isolation you’re just as likely to find it on the quieter parts of the beach. 

  • Amenities: Sunbeds & umbrellas, tavernas, beach bars, water sports
  • Access: By road
  • Distance from Kos town: 11km

Lampi beach

Lampi is a great option if you want a beach that's close to Kos town (just 3km from the centre). Everything you need for a fun day out is here: sand, shallow water, beach bars, water sports and more. And there are plenty of food and drink options around you, so you won’t feel like moving anytime soon – which is just as well because it’s also a great sunset spot. How about walking here (or better still cycling) from town?

  • Amenities: Sunbeds & umbrellas, beach bars, restaurants, water sports
  • Access: By road or foot
  • Distance from Kos town: 3km
     

Agios Fokas beach

This large expanse of sand starts from Psalidi, just outside Kos town, and continues south to the settlement of Agios Fokas. It’s another one that’s ideal to get to by bike (you can choose where to stop for a swim pretty much the whole way there) but it’s worth reaching Agios Fokas beach itself. It’s made up of dark pebbles and sand and is large enough to pick your spot and relax by the clear water. If on the other hand you’re after a little action, you can choose Psalidi beach. The wind & kite-surfing conditions are often great and there’s equipment to hire on the beach, as well as a diving centre and sunbeds and umbrellas if you prefer to chill.

  • Amenities: Sunbeds & umbrellas, beach bars
  • Access: By road
  • Distance from Kos town: 8km
     

Lagada beach

Lagada beach is essentially part of the continuous beachfront that lines Kefalos Bay, with fine golden sand and beautiful waters to swim in. You can take advantage of the amenities offered on the organised parts of Lagada beach or head the quieter patches. There’s a good reason it’s a favourite with couples. And right next door are Polemi (or Magic) beach and Psilos Gremos (Cavo Greco). Choices aplenty.

  • Amenities: Sunbeds & umbrellas, snack bar, parking
  • Access: By road
  • Distance from Kos town: 40km

Paradise beach

Paradise beach lets its name do the talking. Another of Kos’ beaches located in Kefalos Bay, right after Lagada, it’s a dreamy stretch of golden sand and shallow, green-blue waters. One of the most popular beaches in Kos, Paradise beach attracts all age groups, especially families with kids. There are plenty of water sports options (kayak, parasailing, SUP, waterski, wake-board, jet-ski & fly-fish) and seafood tavernas. 

  • Amenities: Sunbeds & umbrellas, beach bar, water sports, parking
  • Access: By road
  • Distance from Kos town: 33km
Paradise beach Kos

 

Camel beach

Very close to Paradise beach but slightly harder to access (leave your car at the parking lot and walk down), Camel beach is one of the most picturesque beaches in Kos. It’s another gem in Kefalos Bay, with a marvellous stretch of fine, white sand and tiny pebbles. The sea here is especially clear, so pack your snorkelling gear (just be aware that it gets deep quickly). Otherwise, relax and let the sun go to work on you or take a walk along the shoreline. Don’t miss out on the nearby tavernas.

  • Amenities: Sunbeds & umbrellas, snack bar, nearby tavernas
  • Access: By road & short hike
  • Distance from Kos town: 30km

Take a boat tour to the beaches of southern Kos

Cavo Paradiso beach

Wild and rugged, with a long expanse of sand and green-blue water, Cavo Paradiso is found at the southerly point of Kos and is considered somewhat of a secret (getting there requires a walk from the main road unless you’ve got a sturdy car). The tall, rocky landscape will provide one of the most Insta-worthy snaps of your holidays in Kos. Just make sure to bring what you need as there are very few amenities here. It’s one of the loveliest beaches in Kos and ideal for anyone looking to get away from it. 

  • Amenities: Sunbeds & umbrellas, snack bar
  • Access: By road & hike
  • Distance from Kos town: 42km

Therma beach

Next to Agios Fokas lies a natural hot spring beach known as Therma, or Thermes (no prizes for guessing why). It’s one of the most singular beaches in Kos and certainly one of the healthiest (the springs are said to help with arthritis and rheumatism). The beach itself is made up of volcanic-black pebbly sand and is flanked by a large wall of rocks, with deep blue waters lapping its shores. The spring forms around a manmade pool right by the edge, with cool water seeping in. The road to the beach isn’t the best so you’ll need to leave your car and walk the final bit, but you’ll be rewarded for your efforts with a day at the spa. 

  • Amenities: Sunbeds & umbrellas, snack bar
  • Access: By road & short hike
  • Distance from Kos town: 12km

Kochilari beach

Located north of Kefalos bay, this sun-speckled slice of yellow sand and shallow water is special enough as it is. Now factor in that’s it’s also a popular wind/kite-surfing spot and you’ve got yourself a winner. And if you’re after somewhere a little more protected, just head over to Limnionas beach. It’s in an enclosed, windless bay that benefits from tranquil waters and amenities where you can have your seafood lunch right by the sea. 

  • Amenities: A few sunbeds & umbrellas, water sports
  • Access: By road
  • Distance from Kos town: 3.5km

Kardamena beach

One of the best beaches in Kos if you’re looking for a cosmopolitan vibe and all the amenities you could ask for. Kardamena beach is a no-brainer if you’re staying in lively Kardamena and caters to everyone (families, couples and friends), with beach bars, water sports and plenty of eating options by the sea. 

  • Amenities: Sunbeds & umbrellas, beach bars, restaurants, water sports
  • Access: By road
  • Distance from Kos town: 27km

 

12 of the best beaches in Kos

Kos is an island with a unique blend of ancient history, great facilities and long sandy beaches that offer everything from water sports and beach bars to seafood tavernas and just lazing under the sun. It’s a great option for beach holidays, with every kind of beach – resort, cosmopolitan, boho and secluded – on offer. Just don’t forget to pack your mask and flippers!

 

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