Is Kariani a good destination for a family beach holiday?
Yes, Kariani is considered an excellent choice for a family holiday. The main beach features a long stretch of soft, golden sand and calm, shallow waters, making it safe for children to play and swim. The atmosphere is generally relaxed and quiet, geared towards families rather than large parties. Many accommodations in the area are family-friendly, and you can find amenities like playgrounds and restaurants that welcome children.
What is the beach at Kariani actually like? Is it sandy?
Paralia Karianis (Kariani Beach) is a long, wide beach known for its golden sand. While mostly sandy, there can be some pebbles mixed in, but it's predominantly a comfortable sandy shoreline. The beach stretches for several kilometers, offering plenty of space for visitors.
Can you swim at Kariani beach? What is the water like?
Absolutely. The water at Kariani Beach is known for being crystal-clear, calm, and relatively shallow, especially near the shore, which makes for excellent swimming conditions. The beach is often praised for its clean waters, contributing to its reputation as a great spot for a relaxing swim.
Are there sunbeds and umbrellas available at Kariani Beach?
Yes, parts of Kariani Beach are organized with sunbeds and umbrellas, which are typically provided by the local beach bars. In most cases, you can use the sunbeds for free with the purchase of a drink or a snack. There are also large sections of the beach that are unorganized, where you can freely set up your own umbrella and towels.
Are there hotels or apartments right on the beach in Kariani?
Yes, there is a good selection of beachfront accommodations in Kariani. You can find apartments, villas, and small guesthouses located just steps from the sea, many offering balconies with direct sea views. These options are very popular, so it's a good idea to book in advance, especially for the peak summer season.
What's the best time of year to visit Kariani for a beach holiday?
The ideal time for a beach holiday in Kariani is from June to September. During these months, the weather is consistently warm and sunny, and the sea temperature is perfect for swimming. July and August are the peak months with the warmest weather, while June and September offer pleasant conditions with potentially fewer crowds.
How does Kariani beach compare to Paralia Ofriniou (Touzla)?
Kariani Beach and Paralia Ofriniou (often called Touzla) are neighboring beaches and share a similar long, sandy coastline. Paralia Ofriniou is generally more developed and can be livelier, with a wider selection of restaurants, shops, and a more bustling promenade. Kariani is often considered the quieter, more relaxed alternative, making it ideal for those seeking tranquility, while still being just a short drive from the amenities of Ofriniou.
Is Kariani a party destination or is it quiet?
Kariani is predominantly a quiet and peaceful destination, known for its relaxing atmosphere. The nightlife is low-key, centered around casual beach bars and tavernas where you can enjoy a drink by the sea. It is not considered a party town. For more vibrant nightlife, visitors often head to nearby towns like Paralia Ofriniou or Asprovalta.
How do you get to Kariani Beach from Kavala or Thessaloniki?
The most convenient way to reach Kariani from either Kavala or Thessaloniki is by car. The drive from Kavala is approximately 55-60 km and takes about 45-50 minutes. From Thessaloniki, the distance is around 110 km, with a travel time of about 1 hour and 20 minutes. While public transport options exist via bus, they often require a transfer (e.g., in Eleftheroupoli when coming from Kavala) and take significantly longer.
Is Kariani Beach usually crowded?
Kariani Beach is popular, especially during July and August weekends, but because of its extensive length, it rarely feels overly crowded. You can always find a quiet spot, particularly if you walk away from the main beach bar areas. It is generally considered less crowded than the more famous beaches of Halkidiki.
Is the water at Kariani beach warm enough for swimming in June or September?
Yes, for most people the sea is warm enough for swimming in both June and September. In June, the water temperature is typically around 22-23°C (72-73°F), which is refreshing and pleasant as the air temperatures rise. By September, the sea has been warmed by the summer sun and is still very comfortable, often warmer than in June.
Besides the beach, what else is there to do near Kariani?
While Kariani is focused on beach life, it serves as a good base for exploring the wider region. You can visit the archaeological sites of Amphipolis (including the Lion of Amphipolis) and Philippi, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city of Kavala, with its historic old town, castle, and aqueduct, is also a popular day trip, located less than an hour's drive away.
