Limnionas Beach
With its white sand, turquoise waters, and refreshing lack of tourists, Limnionas Beach is where you can plop yourself directly into one of the postcard seascapes for which Greece is famous. Set in a cove along Limnionas Bay, the beach is protected from strong winds and rough seas, making it a haven for boat excursions and snorkeling.
The basics
Located along the coastline north of Kefalos on the Dodecanese island of Kos, this idyllic stretch of sand offers crystalline water for swimming and snorkeling, views over the coast of Kos and across the Aegean Sea to the nearby island of Kalymnos, and a scattering of beach clubs to rent loungers and umbrellas. Fishing boats moor in the harbor and offer day trips and fishing excursions along the coastline. The cove is also home to a few waterfront cafés and restaurants serving fresh seafood and local dishes.
The island of Kos is only 4 miles (6.4 km) from Turkey's coast, so it’s easy to make a day trip to Turkey from here. Join a boat tour departing from Bodrum or an excursion around the three Dodecanese Islands—Kos, Tilos, and Nisyros—that sets sail from Kos.
Things to know before you go
- With its lack of development, Limnionas Beach has largely remained under the tourist radar, so is an ideal spot to relax away from the crowds.
- Beach clubs along the waterfront rent loungers, deck chairs, and umbrellas.
- Although some beach clubs have a small concession stand that may also sell beach basics, it’s a good idea to bring a hat and sunblock with you.
- The beachfront cafés and restaurants serve lunch.
- The beach is not accessible to wheelchairs.
How to get there
Limnionas Beach is about 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) north of the village of Kefalos and 27 miles (43 kilometers) from the main town of Kos. The island of Kos is in the Aegean Sea north of Rhodes, and ferries run between the two islands. Otherwise, reach the island via a boat tour departing from Bodrum or one of the other islands in the Dodecanese.
When to get there
The island virtually shutters in winter, but in summer it’s a more popular destination for those who want to experience a relatively unspoilt Aegean island. The sun can be unforgiving at midday, so be sure to protect yourself with sunscreen and stay in the shade if relaxing on the beach.
The Sister Island of Nisyros
Kos is one of a trio that makes up the Dodecanese Islands, along Tiros and Nisyros. The latter is a volcanic island known for its thermal hot springs, bubbling with mineral-rich waters popular for their therapeutic effects.