The Peloponnese has nothing to envy from island destinations as it exhibits its own unique beauty and beaches which are famous not only in Greece but also abroad. Every year more and more Greeks and tourists in general choose the Peloponnese to discover its amazing places, spend their holidays and dive in its crystal clear waters, making it one of the most popular holiday destinations. From the popular Messinia to its most hidden quarters, the Peloponnese covers all tastes for beaches and most importantly….all you need is your car to reach them.
1. Voidokilia beach, Messinia
Located in Messinia, 10 kilometers from Pylos, Voidokilia is one of the most famous and photographed beaches of the Mediterranean and not without a reason. It is famous for its perfect semi-circle, horseshoe shape, its golden sand and interplay of turquoise and blue colors of the water. Crystal clear shallow waters and white sand make up a paradise-like landscape, ideal for families and children. However, in order for visitors to enjoy their dives there, they should be properly prepared, carrying some water, umbrellas and anything else needed since the beach is not organized. Don’t miss going up to the old Navarino Castle (built in 13th c.) and see the impressive view of the beach from above. In addition, it is one of the most important wetlands in Europe, as a saltwater lagoon, included in the Natura 2000 network for protected biotopes.
2. Mavrovouni, Messinia
Mavrovouni beach is located at a distance of one kilometer from the center of Finikounda, on the road from Kamaria to Finikounda, south of the Prefecture of Messinia. It is one of the best beaches in the Peloponnese, with transparent blue waters and golden sand, that stretches for two kilometers and ends at the location of Anemomilos. It is not organized except for the Windmill section where visitors will find umbrellas, sunbeds and water sports services.
Be careful, though, not to confuse it with other beaches with the same name as there are many locations in the Peloponnese, with the most famous but less spectacular one that of Mavrovouni beach in the prefecture of Laconia.
3. Kalogria beach, Achaia
Kalogria coast is located in Achaia, 45 kilometers from Patras and 250 kilometers from Athens, extending over a golden sandy beach of 9 kilometers. Its landscape enchants visitors with its crystal clear waters, velvety sand and the Strofilia pine forest that covers 20,000 acres along the beach. Its waters deepen gradually and not abruptly, which makes it ideal for families and children. The beach is awarded with the Blue Flag and it is also organized in three areas including beach bars, sunbeds, umbrellas and water sports, such as parasailing and windsurfing.
4. Foneas beach, Mani
Foneas beach is one of the hidden beauties of Messinia and western Mani. It is undoubtedly a favorite destination of the locals and visitors of Messinia. Lush green trees, azure waters and white pebbles resemble a paradise on earth, under the shadow of the imposing cliffs that surround the beach. At a distance of 4 kilometers the traditional settlement of Kardamili is located, which is worth visiting for an afternoon stroll through the stone alleys and quaint shops. On the beach there are not any particular services other than a canteen operating in the summer months, offering refreshing drinks.
5. Kyparissi, Lakonia
On the north-eastern side of Laconia and 60 kilometers north of Monemvasia, Kyparissi beach lies. It actually consists of two beaches, Agia Kyriaki, with imposing rocks and colorful pebbles and Megali Ammos, with black and white pebbles and tamarisk trees for shade. Although it is about 4 and a half hours from Athens, the fatigue of the journey is compensated when visitors see the picturesque landscape surrounding the sea. Kyparissi village that spreads out around these two beaches is ideal for a quiet Greek holiday or a weekend away from everything mundane and tiring.
6. Simos, Elafonissos
Last but not least and actually most special is the beach of Simos in Elafonissos, the most famous beach of the Mediterranean. Visitors can reach it either taking the ferry boat from the beach of Pountas, or by water taxis from Neapolis. Simos beach has been fairly described as the “Maldives of Greece” and we couldn´t agree more. Turquoise waters and a feast of colors, white sand, natural sand dunes that exceed 10 meters in height and rare sea lilies are all that make it one of the most stunning beaches in the world. At a distance of 50 meters from the beach there is camping and in the port a variety of taverns serving delicious fresh dishes and local cuisine.
