Playa de Kalamies

Introduction

We venture into the heart of the Dodecanese to discover one of those hidden gems that Greece jealously guards: Playa de Kalamies on the beautiful island of Kalymnos. While the island is world-famous for its stunning cliffs and climbing routes, it also harbors coastal corners of serene and authentic beauty, perfect for those who, like us, seek the essence of Mediterranean tranquility away from the bustle of crowds. Playa de Kalamies is precisely that: an intimate cove, a refuge of peace where time seems to stand still and the blue of the Aegean merges with the gold of the sand and the green of the surrounding vegetation.

From the first moment we set foot on Playa de Kalamies, we knew we had found a special place. It is not a grand or extravagant beach; its charm lies in its simplicity and the genuine atmosphere it exudes. It's the kind of beach where locals come to relax, where families enjoy its calm waters, and where one can effortlessly disconnect from the outside world. With the sea breeze gently caressing our faces and the rhythmic sound of the waves as the only soundtrack, we prepared to immerse ourselves in the complete experience this corner of Kalymnos offers us.

How to Get to Playa de Kalamies

Getting to Playa de Kalamies is part of the adventure and, at the same time, surprisingly simple once we are on the island of Kalymnos. First, the journey to Kalymnos itself usually involves a ferry. Most travelers arrive via Kos, which has an international airport. From the port of Mastichari in Kos, ferries and 'dolphins' (hydrofoils) depart regularly for Pothia, the capital and main port of Kalymnos. The journey is short and picturesque, offering the first spectacular views of the Aegean.

Once in Pothia, Playa de Kalamies is located at a very manageable distance, making it accessible to almost everyone. We recommend several transportation options to reach this little paradise:

By Rental Car or Motorcycle

This is, without a doubt, the option that gives us the most freedom and flexibility to explore not only Kalamies but the entire island of Kalymnos at our own pace. In Pothia and other tourist locations like Myrties or Massouri, we will find numerous car rental agencies and, especially, scooter rentals. The roads in Kalymnos are generally good, although with some curves and slopes, which adds an adventurous touch to the drive. Playa de Kalamies is well signposted, and the journey from Pothia is only about 10-15 minutes, following the coastal road north. Parking, although informal, is usually easy to find near the beach, often next to the local taverna.

By Taxi

If we prefer not to drive or if we arrive directly from the port with luggage, taxis are a comfortable and relatively economical option for short distances in Kalymnos. We will always find taxis available at the port of Pothia, and the driver will know perfectly well how to get to Playa de Kalamies. It's a good option if we're looking for a quick, hassle-free transfer.

By Local Bus

Kalymnos has a local bus system that connects Pothia with the island's main beaches and tourist villages. Although the frequency may not be as high as on other larger islands, it is an economical and authentic way to get around. We must check the updated schedules at the Pothia bus station or at accommodations, as they may vary depending on the season. The bus stop may not leave us right on the sand, but very close, requiring a short walk to the cove.

Regardless of how we decide to get there, the path to Playa de Kalamies is already a prelude to the beauty that awaits us. The views of the sea and the rocky landscape of Kalymnos are constant, and every turn brings us closer to that longed-for feeling of peace we seek in this Greek destination.

The Sand and the Water

Stepping onto Playa de Kalamies, the first thing that caught our attention was the particularity of its surface and the astonishing clarity of its waters. We are not facing a fine white sand beach in the Caribbean style, but rather a cove with a much more Mediterranean and authentic charm, combining different textures under our feet and a visual spectacle in the sea.

The Type of Sand and Ground

The ground of Playa de Kalamies is what we would classify as mixed. A medium-grain sand predominates, with a soft golden tone that warms pleasantly under the Greek sun. However, this sand mixes harmoniously with small pebbles and cobblestones, especially at the shoreline and in some water entry areas. This combination gives it a rustic and natural character, very typical of Aegean beaches. For those not used to pebbles, sandals or water shoes can be useful, although we found the mix to be quite comfortable and adds an interesting touch to the tactile beach experience. The presence of larger rocks at the ends of the cove also contributes to the underwater biodiversity and scenic appeal.

The Water Quality

But if there's something that truly captivated us about Playa de Kalamies, it's the quality of its waters. They are, without exaggeration, of a crystal-clear transparency that irresistibly invites a swim. The color of the sea varies from a bright turquoise in the shallower areas to an intense, deep blue beyond the shore. The clarity is such that we can easily see the seabed, even several meters deep, making it an ideal place for snorkeling. It's no wonder that