Paralia Koundouros, often referred to as Pisses Beach, is a beloved beach destination located on the southwestern coast of the Greek island, Kea. It is approximately 11 kilometers away from Ioulida, the island's capital. The journey to Paralia Koundouros provides picturesque views of the surrounding landscape, making the trip as enjoyable as the destination itself.
This popular beach is nestled in a scenic valley filled with fruit and cypress trees, farms, and a vibrant array of flowers. The natural beauty of the area is complemented by the beach's clear waters and partly stony seabed, making it a charming spot for both locals and tourists.
Paralia Koundouros offers a variety of facilities for the convenience of its visitors. These include room rentals, the island's only organized camping site, showers, and bathrooms. Dining options are also available, with a tavern that serves delectable local dishes.
The beach is organized and offers sunbeds, a bar, and a restaurant for the comfort of its visitors. However, it is important to note that there is no lifeguard on duty. Despite this, the beach is particularly suitable for families with young children due to its shallow sloping seabed and fine sand.
One of the unique features of Paralia Koundouros is its ability to provide shelter from the strong northern wind, known as Meltemi, that often affects the island. This makes it a popular spot for surfers when the winds pick up, and for snorkeling and swimming when the waters are calm. However, due to the beach's popularity, there can be occasional instances of water contamination from fuel oil from the many yachts that visit the area.
Visitors can reach Paralia Koundouros by taking the tarmaced road from Corissa up through Kea. This is the recommended route as the alternative off-road route can pose challenges for small rental cars.
Paralia Koundouros is also a site of historical significance. It was once the location of an ancient city called Poiessa or Piiessa. The beach is home to ruins from another ancient city that used to be situated on top of a southern mountain. These ruins mark one of the boundaries of the valley, adding a layer of historical intrigue to the beach.
In summary, Paralia Koundouros offers a blend of natural beauty, convenient facilities, water sports opportunities, and historical sites, making it a top beach destination in Kea. Its popularity can lead to it being crowded, particularly during peak seasons, but this is a testament to its charm and appeal.
