Chalkos beach
Chalkos is a small yet incredibly picturesque beach, nestled between coastal cliffs on the southern outskirts of Kythira. It lies just a few kilometers from the village of Kalamos and approximately 8 km southeast of the island's capital. Visitors are drawn to Chalkos for its atmosphere of relative seclusion, offering a tranquil escape from the world, paired with a certain degree of comfort amidst breathtaking landscapes. This blend of recreational advantages makes Chalkos widely regarded as one of the finest beaches on the island, despite its modest size.
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Beach description
Chalkos Beach, surrounded by coastal and sea cliffs with underwater grottoes, remains undeveloped and has retained its original wild charm, attracting a multitude of visitors. During peak season (especially on weekends), it can sometimes be challenging to secure a spot on this coveted shoreline.
The beach stretches a mere 200 meters, and the number of those desiring to relax here often exceeds the available space. Chalkos is particularly favored for its:
- Calm waters, which result from the absence of strong winds, thanks to the protection offered by the surrounding cliffs;
- Gentle entry into the water - a significant depth is reached only a few meters from the shore;
- Exceptionally clear and transparent turquoise-emerald waters, complemented by the coast's soft light sand interspersed with white and colored pebbles;
- A picturesque bay encircled by cliffs, providing a natural shade refuge from the heat.
The western edge of the beach, with its rugged cliffs, is a favorite among photography enthusiasts seeking dramatic shots set against the backdrop of the sea and rocks. The eastern edge of Chalkos is equally captivating for vibrant photography, where the towering coastal cliffs boast an incredible palette of orange and gray hues, contrasted by the emerald green of the lush vegetation.
When is the best time to go?
The best time to visit Kythira for a beach vacation is during the late spring to early autumn months, specifically from May to October. During this period, the weather is most conducive for enjoying the island's stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters.
- May and June: These months mark the beginning of the tourist season. The island is less crowded, and the weather is pleasantly warm, making it ideal for those looking for a more tranquil beach experience.
- July and August: These are the peak summer months in Kythira, with the highest temperatures and tourist numbers. If you enjoy a vibrant atmosphere and don't mind the crowds, this is the time to soak up the sun and enjoy the bustling beach life.
- September: As the summer winds down, the temperatures remain warm but the number of visitors starts to decrease. This is a great time for those seeking a balance between good weather and a more relaxed environment.
- October: Early October can still offer good beach weather, though the sea temperatures may start to cool. The island quiets down significantly, providing a peaceful beach holiday for late-season travelers.
Ultimately, the best time for a beach vacation in Kythira depends on your preferences for weather, water activities, and crowd levels. Each season offers a unique experience on this beautiful Greek island.
Video: Beach Chalkos
Infrastructure
Drive to Chalkos Beach by car and park in the designated lot. From there, a 500-meter walk down a narrow path, worn by the footsteps of fellow tourists, leads you to the stunning coastline.
- En route, consider renting sun loungers and straw umbrellas for a supremely comfortable beach experience.
- Perched on the cliffs above the beach, a charming cafe and bar offer the perfect spot for a light snack or a refreshing mojito.
While most dining options, including several taverns and bars, are situated on the left fringe of Chalkos, they are seasonal and only open during the summer months. During this time, snorkeling gear is also available for rent. However, please note that the beach lacks toilet facilities and changing cabins. For accommodations, Giannikas Apartments is a convenient option, located approximately 4 kilometers from the beach.
Weather in Chalkos
Best hotels of Chalkos
All hotels of ChalkosUseful information
- The proximity of the capital of the island allows you to admire its many attractions and interesting places in its vicinity. Therefore, rest on Chalkos should be combined with an exciting excursion program, the saturation of which depends only on the vacationers themselves. You can visit many interesting places here, ranging from the fortress of Chora and the archaeological museum to ancient villages with stone mills in the vicinity, where an authentic atmosphere has been preserved.
- You can also visit the former capital of the island - Palaiochora, where 6 ancient architectural monuments, including the Church of St. Barbara, have been preserved. But the most exciting will be a boat trip to the beach of Fyri Ammos - the main competitor of Chalkos in beauty and popularity.