Kalamata, the capital of Messinia, is one of the most beautiful coastal cities in Greece, and its beach is famous not only for the endless walks, but also for the clear blue waters that cause its visitors to dive! But if you want something different, the countless beaches of Messinia will meet your every need. Cosmic and crowded, isolated or adjacent to the seaside resorts of the area, even world-class beaches like Voidokilia of Pylos, other organized and other deserted are sure to win you – besides its natural beauties, Messinia is famous and for its stunning coastline.
An Avis car rental opens up a world of idyllic beaches, providing easy access to secluded sun-soaked shores and coastal paradises.
Voidokilia
Voidokilia beach, located in the Peloponnese’s southwest region, has transformed into a top summer attraction, drawing numerous visitors due to its unique natural beauty and connection to ancient mythology. The horseshoe-shaped beach, facing the Ionian Sea, is part of the EU Natura 2000 network, which offers environmental protection. The nearby Gialova lagoon, one of Europe’s most important wetlands, adds to the area’s appeal.
The beach is believed to be referenced in Homer’s “Odyssey” and has connections to various ancient figures and locations, such as Nestor’s Cave. Although Voidokilia beach attracts crowds during peak summer months, it remains a non-serviced beach due to its Natura 2000 classification. Visitors must bring their own amenities and adhere to environmental protection requirements. The beach can be accessed from Pylos, with two main routes leading to the pristine location.
Finikounda
Facing the largest Messinian Oinousses island, Schiza, this idyllic beach is known for its cleanliness, earning it the prestigious Blue Flag award. The beach features warm, shallow turquoise waters and soft sand, making it an ideal destination for families with young children. With the nearby settlement providing all necessary amenities, visitors can easily access everything they need for a perfect day at the beach. Finikounda Beach is a popular choice for local vacationers, and its welcoming atmosphere ensures a lively, bustling ambiance throughout the day.
Almyros beach
Almyros Beach, one of Kalamata’s most popular and bustling beach destinations, is nestled just 6 kilometers east of the city, right before the turn-off to the scenic Messinian Mani region. This lively beach is characterized by white pebbles and provides visitors with sun loungers, umbrellas, charming cafes, and vibrant beach bars for an unforgettable experience.
Water sports enthusiasts will be thrilled with the array of activities available, including water skiing and windsurfing, while a beach volleyball court caters to those looking for some friendly competition. The mesmerizing scenery at Almyros Beach is truly captivating, with turquoise waters mirroring the surrounding olive and palm trees that extend to the shoreline. In contrast, the imposing Taygetos mountain range stands tall, and the city of Kalamata serves as a picturesque backdrop.
Mikri Mantinia
Mikri Mantinia, a magical pebbled beach located just 10 km from Kalamata, is an idyllic Blue Flag awarded destination where the majestic Taygetos mountain range meets the crystal-clear sea. The beach’s white pebbles and cool streams at the bottom of the sea make it a haven for visitors seeking respite on hot summer days.
Numerous bars, cafes, and tavernas line the shore, offering freshly prepared food and stunning views of the azure waters. The seaside settlement of Mikri Mantinia has evolved into a bustling tourist resort, boasting a variety of hotels and guesthouses.
Sandova
Located just 12 km east of Kalamata, Santova Beach is a lively and cosmopolitan destination along the southeastern coast of the Messinian Gulf. Known for its vibrant beach bars, pulsating DJ sets, and evening beach parties, this sandy oasis attracts visitors from near and far. The beach features fine sand with small pebbles at the water’s edge, making it perfect for swimming or lounging.
Santova Beach offers an array of amenities, including sun loungers, parasols, showers, and changing cabins. For the more active visitors, water sports stations and beach volleyball courts are available. With a mix of organized and free areas, Santova Beach caters to every traveler’s preference, making it a popular seaside destination for fun, relaxation, and entertainment.
Kalogria
Kalogria Beach, situated in Stoupa and 40 km from Kalamata, is a family-friendly tourist destination known for its stunning white sand and clear blue waters. This 150-meter-long and 40-meter-wide beach is the busiest and most organized in West Mani, attracting both foreign and local visitors.
Packed with amenities, including umbrellas, sunbeds, beach volleyball courts, bars, tavernas, and water sports, Kalogria Beach is idea for both young people and families with children. Stay late to enjoy the magic of the colorful suntset as the ball of fire dips into the horizon.
An interesting fact it that the area was once home to Nikos Kazantzakis, who lived here with the legendary hero of his novel, Alexis Zorbas. Visit the northern end of the beach to see their former house, or explore the “Kazantzakis cave” at the southern end, where the author found refuge for reading and writing.
Foneas Beach
It is the most beloved of the lesser known beaches of West Mani, as it is well hidden at the end of a path between the trees. It is untouched by tourism, essentially disorganized (with only one canteen with tables in the summer months), has white pebbles and turquoise waters. Its characteristic is a large rock that separates it into two and gives natural shade. The most … flexible and adventurous can climb it and then dive into the deep waters. At the beach of Fonea the well-known Gorge of Phoneas or else the gorge of Neapountis, which begins to form from the Vaidenitsa Monastery and ends after about 8 km on the crystal-clear beach.
Stoupa
Stoupa Beach, known as the second busiest beach in Western Mani after Kalogria, offers golden fine sand, turquoise waters, and countless sun loungers and parasols. Located just next to Kalogria and in front of Stoupa’s main street, this vibrant beach attracts tourists with its crystal-clear waters, refreshed by underwater rivers flowing from Mount Taygetos.
The resort has transformed from a small coastal village to a bustling destination, catering to holidaymakers with a seafront promenade lined with restaurants, souvenir shops, and various amenities, including car and bike hire. Visitors can explore the less crowded northern end of the beach, where small private bays offer more space, or take a bike ride along the picturesque coastal track from Stoupa to Agios Nikolaos.
Velika Beach
Velika Beach is located in the southwest of Messinian Bay, 20 kilometers from the city of Kalamata. The beach is surrounded by a reed stretch and spans over 2.5 kilometers, providing a relaxing and beautiful atmosphere for tourists and locals alike. The beach features golden sands and shading trees, which make it a popular spot to cool off and unwind in the waters of the Messinian Gulf. A pleasant café sits at the beach’s edge, offering visitors a stunning view of the bay while sipping their coffee. The Velika River flows through the beach into the sea, enhancing the beach’s picturesque setting.
Petalidi beach
Situated near the harbor of its namesake village, built upon the ruins of Ancient Aipeia, the charming 300-meter-long Petalidi beach offers a delightful blend of colorful pebbles and a sandy seabed in its crystal-clear blue waters. Just 20 km from Klamata, visitors can enjoy natural shade from surrounding trees and savor their coffee at a traditional seafront café with stunning views.
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