Peloponnese, Western Greece and the Ionian, Greece

Nafplio Beaches

Overview

Many visitors wonder if you can swim directly in Nafplio, and the answer is a resounding yes. This historic city is not just a cultural gem but a true coastal destination, offering swimming spots right on its doorstep. You can easily walk from the charming old town for a refreshing dip at Paralia Arvanitias, the town's wonderfully convenient pebble beach, set in a stunning cove beneath the Palamidi fortress.

The coastline around Nafplio presents a delightful mix of shores, from pebbly coves to long, sandy stretches perfect for a full beach day. For a classic experience on soft sand, the most popular choice is the expansive Paralia Karathonas, a family-friendly bay with shallow waters. Those seeking dramatic scenery will find it at Kondyli Beach, widely considered one of the area's most beautiful, while the famous resort town at Tolo Beach offers a vibrant atmosphere on its long, golden shore.

Nafplio's unique appeal lies in this perfect blend of ancient history and seaside leisure, making it an ideal base for a holiday that combines culture with relaxation. The clear, calm waters of the Argolic Gulf welcome swimmers at numerous beaches, and while these are some of the highlights, many other beautiful spots await discovery in our complete guide. Whether you seek a quick swim after sightseeing or a full day on the sand, Nafplio delivers a memorable coastal experience.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Can you swim in Nafplio or do you need to travel for beaches?

You can definitely swim right in Nafplio. The town's main beach is Arvanitia, a pebbly cove located just a short walk from the Old Town, perfect for a quick dip. For a larger, sandy beach experience, Karathona Beach is a popular choice and is only about a 10-15 minute drive or a scenic 45-minute walk from Arvanitia. While Nafplio itself offers swimming, many visitors also explore nearby beaches like those in Tolo for a full beach day.

Paralia Arvanitias

Paralia Karathonas

Are the beaches in Nafplio sandy or pebbly?

Nafplio offers a mix of both. Arvanitia, the town beach, is mostly pebbles and small rocks, so water shoes can be handy. For wide, sandy shores, you'll want to head to Karathona Beach or Tolo Beach, both of which are very popular for their soft sand and shallow waters, making them great for families.

Paralia Arvanitias

Paralia Karathonas

Tolo Beach

Is Nafplio a good destination for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Nafplio is considered a great destination for families. While the main town offers a rich cultural experience, nearby beaches like Karathona and Tolo are particularly family-friendly. They feature long stretches of sand, shallow, calm waters perfect for children, and are well-organized with amenities like sunbeds, cafes, and watersports.

Paralia Karathonas

Tolo Beach

How do you get to the beaches from Nafplio's Old Town?

Arvanitia Beach is easily accessible on foot, just a 10-15 minute walk from most points in the Old Town. To get to the larger Karathona Beach, you can drive (about 10-15 minutes), take a local bus in the summer, or enjoy a popular 45-minute coastal walk that starts from Arvanitia. For beaches further afield, like in Tolo or Plaka, renting a car is the most convenient option, though public buses are also available.

Paralia Arvanitias

Paralia Karathonas

Are there hotels with private beaches or right on the beach in Nafplio?

While most hotels are in the Old Town, there are beachfront options in the wider area. In Nafplio itself, some hotels are located right on the seafront promenade, offering immediate access to the water, though not a traditional beach. For hotels directly on a sandy beach, you would typically look at nearby areas like Tolo or Plaka Beach in Drepano, where resorts like The Grove Seaside Hotel are located right on the sand.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Tolo Beach

What is the best time of year for a beach holiday in Nafplio?

For the best beach weather, plan your visit from late spring to early autumn, specifically from May through October. The peak summer months of July and August are the hottest and most crowded. For a balance of warm sea temperatures and fewer crowds, May, June, and September are often considered ideal.

Are there quiet or hidden beaches near Nafplio?

Yes, for a more secluded experience, you can find quieter spots. Neraki Beach is a small, unorganized cove located on the walking path between Arvanitia and Karathona. Further out, Kondyli Beach is a large, beautiful bay that is mostly unorganized, offering plenty of space. A walk over the rocks at the northern end of Kondyli leads to an even more secluded sandy cove.

Neraki Beach

Kondyli Beach

Should I stay in Nafplio or Tolo for a beach holiday?

Choose Nafplio if you want a base that combines stunning historical architecture, a charming Old Town with many restaurants and shops, and easy access to beaches. Choose Tolo if your priority is a dedicated beach resort town with a long, sandy beach right at your doorstep and a more traditional 'beach holiday' vibe. Tolo is only a 15-minute drive from Nafplio, so you can easily visit one from the other.

Tolo Beach

People Also Ask

What is the water like for swimming in Nafplio?

The waters of the Argolic Gulf around Nafplio are known for being very clear, clean, and generally calm, especially in the sheltered bays of Arvanitia and Tolo. Several beaches, including Karathona, Tolo, and Kondyli, have been awarded a Blue Flag for their high water quality. The sea is comfortably warm for swimming from late spring through early autumn.

Is Nafplio a good base for exploring other beaches in the Peloponnese?

Nafplio is an excellent base for exploring the beaches of the Argolis region. Within a short drive, you can reach Tolo, Kondyli, Plaka, and others. However, if you want to explore beaches further down the Peloponnese coast, such as those in Monemvasia or the Mani Peninsula, Nafplio might be too far for a day trip. For a broader Peloponnese beach tour, you might consider multiple bases.

Tolo Beach

Kondyli Beach

What's the vibe at Arvanitia Beach, the beach in town?

Arvanitia is Nafplio's town beach and has a lively, convenient vibe. It's a mix of pebbles and rocks set in a stunning cove beneath the Palamidi fortress. It's popular with locals and tourists for a refreshing swim after sightseeing. There is an organized section with a beach bar that plays music and offers sunbeds, but you can also find your own spot on the pebbles. In the evenings, it can be a social spot.

Paralia Arvanitias

Can you walk from Arvanitia Beach to Karathona Beach?

Yes, there is a very popular and scenic walking path connecting Arvanitia Beach to Karathona Beach. The unpaved coastal trail is relatively flat and takes about 45 minutes to an hour. It offers beautiful views of the Argolic Gulf the entire way and is a favorite activity for both locals and visitors.

Paralia Arvanitias

Paralia Karathonas