Kea, Attica, Greece

Korissia Beaches

Overview

Korissia is your gateway to Kea, an island known for its exceptionally clear waters and authentic Greek island charm. While Korissia has a small area for a quick swim by the port, most visitors find the best beach experiences a short walk or ride away. The popular Paralia Gialiskariou (also called Gialiskari Beach) is an easy stroll from Korissia, offering a lovely introduction to Kea's beautiful coastline.

Kea presents a diverse range of beaches. Paralia Koundouros is the island's most famous Blue Flag beach, known for its excellent organization and cosmopolitan feel. Families often enjoy Otzias Beach, a large, sheltered bay with calm, shallow waters and traditional tavernas. For a quieter escape, the more remote Sikamia Beach provides a beautiful natural setting away from crowds.

These highlights offer just a glimpse of Kea's coastal beauty, characterized by inviting turquoise waters and a relaxed atmosphere. The island is ideal for those seeking a genuine beach holiday rather than a bustling party scene. Discover more stunning coves and shores by exploring our full guide to beaches in Kea.

FAQ

Is there a good beach right in Korissia town, or do I need to travel further?

Korissia has a small beach area by the port, which is convenient for a quick dip. However, for a more typical and enjoyable beach experience with clearer waters and more space, most visitors walk or take a short ride to nearby Gialiskari beach or explore other beaches around Kea island.
Paralia Gialiskariou
Paralia Gialiskariou

How far is Gialiskari beach from Korissia port, and is it walkable?

Gialiskari beach is approximately 1 to 1.5 kilometers (around 1 mile) from the main area of Korissia port. Many people find this a pleasant 15-20 minute walk. Alternatively, it's a very short drive by car, scooter, or taxi.
Paralia Gialiskariou
Paralia Gialiskariou

What are the best beaches on Kea for families staying near Korissia?

Gialiskari beach is a popular choice for families due to its relatively calm, shallow waters, sandy patches, and available amenities like sunbeds and a cafe. Otzias beach, a bit further but accessible by car, is also excellent for families with its long sandy stretch and tavernas.
Otzias Beach
Otzias Beach

Do I absolutely need to rent a car or scooter in Korissia to visit Kea's best beaches?

While you can reach Gialiskari beach from Korissia on foot, renting a car or scooter is highly recommended to fully explore Kea's diverse and often more secluded beaches. Public bus services on the island are limited, and relying on taxis for multiple beach trips can become expensive.
Paralia Gialiskariou
Paralia Gialiskariou

Is it common to find accommodation in Korissia with direct beach access or stunning sea views?

Many accommodations in Korissia offer sea views due to its hillside setting overlooking the port. For direct, walk-out-onto-the-sand beach access, you might look at properties closer to Gialiskari beach or in other coastal settlements on Kea. It's always best to check specific hotel descriptions and locations.
See the full list of accommodation options here.
Paralia Gialiskariou
Paralia Gialiskariou

What's the best time of year for a beach holiday in Korissia (Kea) regarding weather and crowds?

For the best combination of warm, sunny weather, comfortable sea temperatures, and fewer people, consider visiting from late May to June or from September to early October. July and August are the hottest and busiest months, particularly on weekends, as Kea is a popular getaway for Athenians.

Are most beaches near Korissia sandy, or should I expect pebbles?

The beaches on Kea offer variety. Gialiskari, the closest main beach to Korissia, is predominantly sandy with some small, smooth pebbles. Other popular beaches on the island like Otzias and Koundouros are known for being sandy, while some more remote coves can be pebbly or rocky.
Paralia Gialiskariou
Paralia Gialiskariou
Otzias Beach
Otzias Beach
Paralia Koundouros
Paralia Koundouros

Is it safe and pleasant to swim in the sea directly at Korissia port?

While the water in Korissia port is generally clear for a harbor, it is an active port with ferry and boat traffic. For a safer and more enjoyable swimming experience, it's recommended to go to dedicated beaches like nearby Gialiskari.
Paralia Gialiskariou
Paralia Gialiskariou

People Also Ask

Can I find organized beaches with sunbeds, umbrellas, and cafes near Korissia?

Yes, Gialiskari beach, very close to Korissia, is organized with sunbeds, umbrellas for rent, and a beach bar/cafe. Several other popular beaches on Kea, such as Koundouros and Otzias, also offer these types of facilities.
Paralia Gialiskariou
Paralia Gialiskariou
Paralia Koundouros
Paralia Koundouros
Otzias Beach
Otzias Beach

What is the typical water quality and swimming condition at Kea's beaches?

Kea is renowned for its exceptionally clear, turquoise waters, making it excellent for swimming and snorkeling. Most beaches are situated in bays, offering calm conditions. However, during July and August, the Meltemi wind can sometimes create choppier waters on north-facing beaches.

Is Kea (the island Korissia is on) better for a lively party holiday or a quiet, relaxing beach trip?

Kea is definitely geared towards a more quiet, relaxing, and authentic Greek island beach experience. It's favored for its natural beauty, charming villages, and laid-back atmosphere, not for large nightclubs or a party scene like some other Greek islands.

How does the Meltemi wind affect the beaches on Kea, and are there sheltered options near Korissia?

The Meltemi, a strong northern wind common in July and August, can make north-facing beaches windy and wavy. Gialiskari beach, near Korissia, offers decent shelter. Beaches on the southern or western coasts of Kea, or those in deep, protected coves, are generally calmer during Meltemi periods. It's wise to check daily wind conditions.
Paralia Gialiskariou
Paralia Gialiskariou

Are there any "hidden gem" or less crowded beaches on Kea that are worth the effort to reach from Korissia?

Beyond the popular Gialiskari, Kea has many coves and less frequented beaches like Spathi, Kalidonychi, or Sykamia. Reaching them usually requires a car/scooter and sometimes a bit of walking, but they offer a more tranquil experience. Asking locals for current favorites is always a good idea.
Paralia Gialiskariou
Paralia Gialiskariou
Paralia Spathi
Paralia Spathi
Sikamia Beach
Sikamia Beach

What's the general vibe of the beaches around Korissia and on Kea? Is it very touristy?

Beaches near Korissia, like Gialiskari, can be lively in summer but maintain a relaxed, family-friendly Greek atmosphere rather than feeling overly commercial or crowded like on some larger islands. Kea, in general, attracts visitors seeking authenticity and nature, so even popular spots retain a certain charm.

Compared to other Cyclades islands, what makes Kea's beaches (accessed via Korissia) unique or worth visiting?

Kea's beaches stand out due to their relative proximity to Athens, making them accessible for shorter trips. The island offers a more "under-the-radar" Cycladic experience with beautiful, clean waters, a good variety of sandy and pebbly beaches, and a less developed, more natural feel compared to some more famous neighboring islands. It's great for those seeking authenticity alongside lovely beaches.

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Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

Korissia: Weather Today

📅 Friday, April 24, 2026
Today is a mediocre day for a visit to the beach, better suited for a coastal stroll than a full day of lounging. While the sun will make appearances, the sky will remain partially filled with clouds, and the air stays quite crisp with a maximum temperature of 17.7 °C. You should be mindful of the sun, as the UV Index reaches 7.3, necessitating proper protection despite the cool breeze. The water is currently too cold for comfortable swimming at 17.0 °C, so it is best to stay dry. Expect some breezy conditions throughout the day that might make sitting on the sand a bit chilly. If you do head out, the sea will be relatively calm, but overall, it is not an ideal day for traditional beach activities.
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Air

Low / High12.3°C/17.7°C
Feels Like (High)16.7°C
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Sea

Sea Temperature17.0 °C
Wave Height0.6 m
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Rain

Rain Chance3%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset06:35/20:06
Sunshine Hours13.0 hrs
UV Index7.3
Cloud Cover34%
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Wind

Speed16.4 km/h
Gusts32.8 km/h
DirectionN

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