Peloponnese, Western Greece and the Ionian, Greece

Monemvasia Beaches

Overview

Monemvasia offers a truly unique coastal experience, where medieval history meets the clear waters of the Aegean. Visitors are often surprised to learn they can swim directly from the castle walls at a spot known as Portello, a small gate leading to a deep-water swimming platform. The coastline presents a wonderful variety, from convenient pebble shores near the town to beautiful sandy bays a short drive away. This mix ensures every type of beachgoer can find their perfect spot.

For those seeking classic beach days, Pori Beach is the most celebrated choice, offering a long stretch of sand with fantastic views of the Monemvasia rock. Nearby, Ambelakia Beach is famed for its picture-perfect scenery. If you're staying in town, Kakkavos Beach provides a long, pebbly shore right by the causeway, while Paralia Mandraki is a smaller spot easily reached on foot. For a quieter sandy option, many visitors enjoy the shores of Xifias Beach, located just south of the town.

Exploring beyond the immediate area reveals some of the region's most stunning coastal treasures. A day trip to the nearby island of Elafonisos is highly recommended to experience the exotic beauty of Simos Beach, with its turquoise waters and magnificent sand dunes. While a few spots are walkable, renting a car is the best way to discover the full range of beaches this part of the Peloponnese has to offer. For more inspiration, be sure to explore our full guide to the area's best beaches.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Can you actually swim inside the Monemvasia castle?

Yes, you can swim right off the rocks of the Monemvasia castle. Look for a small gate in the sea walls called 'Portello'. It leads to a swimming platform with deep, clear water, offering a unique experience with incredible views up at the fortress. It's a favorite spot for those staying within the castle walls.

Are the beaches in Monemvasia sandy or pebbly?

Monemvasia offers a mix of both. You'll find pebbly beaches like Kakkavos, which is right by the modern town, and rocky swimming platforms within the castle. For sandy beaches, you'll need to travel a short distance. Pori beach, about 2 km north, is a long sandy beach, and Xifias, 7 km south, also has sandy stretches. Many of the best sandy beaches are a short drive away.

Pori Beach

Is Monemvasia a good destination for a family beach holiday?

Monemvasia can be great for a family holiday that combines history with beach time. While the castle itself involves a lot of walking, several nearby beaches are very family-friendly. Pori beach has shallow, gentle waters perfect for children. Plitra beach is also highly recommended for families due to its calm sea, amenities, and even a concrete ramp for accessibility. Kakkavos beach in the new town is also convenient for families with small children.

Pori Beach

Paralia Plitra

What's the best time of year to visit Monemvasia for swimming?

For the best swimming conditions, plan your visit between May and September. The water is comfortably warm during these months. July and August are the hottest and most crowded, but also have the most vibrant atmosphere. For a great balance of warm water and fewer crowds, the shoulder seasons of May, June, and September are ideal.

Can I find accommodation with direct beach access in Monemvasia?

While hotels inside the historic castle offer sea views, they don't have direct beach access. In the modern town of Monemvasia (also called Gefyra), you can find hotels and apartments right across from Kakkavos beach, a long pebble beach. For hotels on or very near sandy beaches, you would typically look in the areas around Pori or Xifias, which are a short drive from the main town.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Pori Beach

Do I need to rent a car to get to the best beaches in Monemvasia?

While you can walk to a couple of swimming spots from the new town, renting a car is highly recommended to explore the best beaches. Beautiful sandy beaches like Pori, Xifias, and those further afield like Plitra or the beaches of Elafonisos island are best reached by car. A car gives you the flexibility to discover more secluded coves and the wider region.

Pori Beach

Paralia Plitra

Are there organized beaches with sunbeds and umbrellas near Monemvasia?

Yes, there are several organized beaches. Pori beach has a section with sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, often around €8-€10 in high season, though some tavernas may offer them for free if you order food or drinks. Kakkavos beach, by the new town, also offers amenities. Further away, beaches like Tigania and Plytra are well-organized with sunbeds, beach bars, and other facilities.

Pori Beach

Is it worth the day trip from Monemvasia to Elafonisos for the beaches?

Absolutely. While Monemvasia has lovely beaches, Elafonisos is famous for having some of the most spectacular beaches in the Mediterranean, like Simos beach, known for its white sand and turquoise water. It's about a 20-30 minute drive from Monemvasia to the port of Pounta, followed by a short ferry ride. If you have a car and love stunning sandy beaches, the trip is highly recommended.

Simos Beach

Beaches for Every Taste

Sand Beaches in Monemvasia

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