Messenia is a region in the southwestern Peloponnese, Greece, that boasts some of the most stunning beaches and coves in the Mediterranean. Whether you are looking for cosmopolitan and crowded, isolated and serene, or world-class and famous, you will find a beach that suits your taste and mood in Messenia. Here are some of the best beaches and coves of Messenia that you should not miss seeing.
Voidokilia Beach
Voidokilia Beach is one of the most photographed and praised beaches in Greece, and for good reason. It has a unique shape of a perfect semicircle, resembling the Greek letter omega (Ω), and a fine white sand that contrasts with the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea. The beach is surrounded by a natural landscape of sand dunes, olive trees, and rocky hills, creating a sense of isolation and tranquility. Voidokilia Beach is also part of the Natura 2000 network, as it is home to many rare species of flora and fauna. You can access the beach by car from Pylos or Gialova, or by boat from Navarino Bay.
Kalogria Beach
Kalogria Beach is located in the picturesque village of Stoupa, in the Mani Peninsula. It is a long and sandy beach with crystal clear water and a lively atmosphere. The beach is well-organized with sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, changing rooms, and water sports facilities. There are also many cafes, bars, restaurants, and shops along the beachfront, offering a variety of options for food, drinks, and entertainment. Kalogria Beach is ideal for families, couples, and friends who want to enjoy a relaxing and fun day by the sea.
Foneas Beach
Foneas Beach is a hidden gem in the Mani Peninsula, between Kardamyli and Stoupa. It is a small and secluded pebbly beach with emerald green water and a stunning scenery. The beach is framed by steep cliffs and lush vegetation, creating a sense of privacy and serenity. The most distinctive feature of Foneas Beach is a large rock that divides the beach into two parts and offers a natural shade. You can reach the beach by car from Kardamyli or Stoupa, or by boat from nearby coves.
Divari Beach
Divari Beach, also known as Golden Beach or Costa Navarino Beach, is located near Pylos, opposite the island of Sfaktiria. It is a long and sandy beach with shallow and calm water, ideal for families with children and windsurfers. The beach offers a spectacular view of the Navarino Bay and the island of Sfaktiria, where you can see the ruins of an ancient fortress. Divari Beach is also part of the Natura 2000 network, as it hosts many migratory birds and endangered sea turtles. You can access the beach by car from Pylos or Gialova, or by boat from Navarino Bay.
Peroulia Beach
Peroulia Beach is located in the village of Koroni, in the southeastern part of Messenia. It is a sandy beach with clear blue water and a relaxing ambiance. The beach is partly organized with sunbeds and umbrellas, but there are also plenty of free spots for those who prefer more space and privacy. There are also some taverns and cafes near the beach, where you can enjoy some local delicacies and refreshments. Peroulia Beach is perfect for those who want to escape from the crowds and enjoy a peaceful day by the sea.
Romanos Beach
Romanos Beach is located in the village of Romanos, near Pylos. It is a wide and sandy beach with warm and clean water
and a magnificent view of the Ionian Sea. The beach is partly organized with sunbeds, umbrellas, showers,
and water sports facilities, but there are also many natural spots for those who seek more tranquility. There are also some
luxury hotels and resorts near the beach, offering high-quality services and amenities. Romanos Beach is suitable for
those who want to experience a combination of comfort and nature.
Kalamata Beach
Kalamata Beach is located in the city of Kalamata,
the capital of Messenia. It is a long
and pebbly beach with crystal clear water
and a vibrant atmosphere.
The beach is fully organized with sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, changing rooms,
and water sports facilities. There are also many cafes, bars, restaurants, and shops along the beachfront, offering a variety of options for food, drinks, and entertainment. Kalamata Beach is ideal for those who want to enjoy a cosmopolitan and lively day by the sea.
Delfinia Beach
Delfinia Beach is located in the village of Methoni, in the southwestern part of Messenia. It is a small and secluded sandy beach with turquoise water and a breathtaking scenery. The beach is named after the dolphins that often visit the area, creating a magical spectacle for the visitors. The beach is also close to the impressive castle of Methoni, which is worth a visit for its historical and architectural value. You can access the beach by car from Methoni or Finikounda, or by boat from nearby coves.
Kalo Nero Beach
Kalo Nero Beach is located in the village of Kalo Nero, near Kyparissia. It is a sandy beach with clear and shallow water, ideal for families with children and nature lovers. The beach is partly organized with sunbeds and umbrellas, but there are also many free spots for those who prefer more space and privacy. The beach is also part of the Natura 2000 network, as it is one of the main nesting sites for the endangered loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) in Greece. You can access the beach by car from Kyparissia or Pyrgos, or by train from Athens or Patras.
Zaga Beach
Zaga Beach is located in the village of Koroni, in the southeastern part of Messenia. It is a sandy beach with clear and calm water and a relaxing ambiance. The beach is partly organized with sunbeds and umbrellas, but there are also plenty of free spots for those who prefer more space and privacy. There are also some taverns and cafes near the beach, where you can enjoy some local delicacies and refreshments. Zaga Beach is perfect for those who want to escape from the crowds and enjoy a peaceful day by the sea.
Summary
Messenia is a region in the southwestern Peloponnese, Greece, that boasts some of the most stunning beaches and coves in the Mediterranean. Whether you are looking for cosmopolitan and crowded, isolated and serene, or world-class and famous, you will find a beach that suits your taste and mood in Messenia. Here are some of the best beaches and coves of Messenia that you should not miss seeing:
| Beach | Location | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Voidokilia Beach | Pylos or Gialova | Semicircular shape, white sand, turquoise water, natural landscape, rare species |
| Kalogria Beach | Stoupa | Long and sandy, crystal clear water, lively atmosphere, well-organized, many options for food and drinks |
| Foneas Beach | Kardamyli or Stoupa | Small and secluded, pebbly, emerald green water, stunning scenery, large rock for shade |
| Divari Beach | Pylos or Gialova | Long and sandy, shallow and calm water, spectacular view of Navarino Bay and Sfaktiria island, migratory birds and sea turtles |
| Peroulia Beach | Koroni | Sandy, clear blue water, relaxing ambiance, partly organized, some taverns and cafes nearby |
| Romanos Beach | Romanos | Wide and sandy, warm and clean water, magnificent view of the Ionian Sea, partly organized, luxury hotels and resorts nearby |
| Kalamata Beach | Kalamata | Long and pebbly, crystal clear water, vibrant atmosphere, fully organized, many options for food, drinks, and entertainment |
| Delfinia Beach | Methoni or Finikounda | Small and secluded, sandy, turquoise water, breathtaking scenery, dolphins, close to Methoni castle |
| Kalo Nero Beach | Kyparissia or Pyrgos | Sandy, clear |
