Independent guide, not an official siteBoat trips, beaches and villagesUpdated October 2026
Sunbeds and umbrellas on the beach at Kardamaina, Kos

Kardamena beach (Kardamaina) and the best beaches nearby

Kardamaina's own beach is long and easy: sunbeds, shallow water near the shore and cafes behind it. For a change of scene, the south coast has more beaches towards Kefalos.

Photo: Michal Osmenda from Brussels, Belgium, CC BY-SA 2.0

By Kardamaina.com editors · Updated

Kardamaina’s beach is the main reason families choose the town. It runs along the seafront for a long stretch, with sunbeds in front of the cafes and quieter sections as you walk away from the center.

Our top pick: Kos 3-Island Cruise with Lunch, Swimming and Audio Guide

Kardamaina beach

The beach is sand mixed with fine pebbles, with shallow water close to the shore. Walk along the shore away from the busiest section and you will find more space, particularly early in the day. Most of the beach is organized with rented sunbeds, but there is usually room to lay a towel.

Pack water shoes. Some stretches have pebbles and, as anywhere on a rocky coast, the occasional sea urchin by the rocks near the harbour.

Beaches nearby

The south coast of Kos has other beaches within a short drive. Agios Stefanos, with ancient basilica ruins and a small island just offshore, and Paradise Beach are popular choices towards Kefalos, roughly 20 to 30 minutes by car. Check opening rules and parking on the day.

From the sea

Boat trips from Kos and Kardamaina stop in sheltered bays for swimming, often with lunch on board. They are a good way to reach beaches that have no road access.

Top rated

Kos 3-Island Cruise with Lunch, Swimming and Audio Guide

Swimming stops at islands near Kos. 4.7/5 from 537 reviews.

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Kos Pirate Cruise: 3 Islands, Swimming and Lunch

A family-friendly boat day with swimming and a waterslide. 4.6/5 from 3,259 reviews.

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Why book online

  • Free cancellation on most tickets, usually up to 24 hours before
  • Reserved time slot: no queue at the ticket desk
  • Mobile ticket on your phone
  • Reviews from verified travelers

When to go and what the weather is like: see the best time to visit. To pick a hotel near the sand, see hotels in Kardamaina.

Frequently asked questions

Is Kardamaina beach good for children?

Generally yes. The water is shallow near the shore and the beach is wide and easy to reach from the town. As anywhere, check conditions and supervise children, especially on windy days.

Are there sunbeds on Kardamaina beach?

Yes, in the season. Sunbeds and umbrellas are usually rented by the day from beach kiosks and sunbed operators; prices vary, so ask before you sit.

Are there other beaches near Kardamaina?

Yes. Towards Kefalos on the south and west coast there are beaches such as Paradise Beach and Agios Stefanos. They are reached by car, taxi or on a boat trip.

Is the beach busy?

It is quietest in the morning and in May, June and September. July and August are the busiest months.

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