The area around Monemvasia is ideal for all watersports and other outdoor activities. A wide variety of beaches ring the promontory, from the steep slopes of Mt. Parnon around Kyparissi on the east coast to Cape Maleas, providing dozens of opportunities. For windsurfing and kite surfing there are some of the best sites in Greece. For divers there are the submerged ancient cities of Pavlopetri and Plytra (where diving with snorkel and diving mask only is allowed).

Its winding coastline makes it an attractive destination for sailing, with safe harbours such as the fjord-like inlet of Gerakas. Depending on the time of year and prevailing winds, sailors will find plenty of enjoyment in both the Myrtoon Sea to the east and the Laconian Gulf to the west.

It would be no exaggeration to claim that the Monemvasia region is a hiking paradise. From north to south there are dozens of trails combining dazzling mountain scenery and sea views among the flora and fauna of the Peloponnese, picturesque settlements and historic monuments from all ages in the region’s history.

Geology buffs will enjoy exploring some of the dozens of caves in the region, particularly the well-organised and easily accessible KastaniaCave. Also not to be missed is the Petrified Forest just past Aghios Nikolaos, near Neapoli.

Rock climbing enthusiasts have two of Greece’s best climbs to choose from – one near Kyparissi and the other at Aghios Nikolaos, near Neapoli.

Beaches:

Eastern coast – Myrtoo
Western coast – Lakonian
Cape Maleas & Vatika
Watersports:

Windsurfing και Kitesurfing
Snorkeling
Scuba Diving
Sailing
Outdoors:

Nature Hikes
Geologial Explorations:

Kastania Cave
Petrified Forest
Rock Climbing:

Zobolo
Kyparissi
Fauna & Flora:

”Strongyli” Lagoon
Gerakas Wetland
The Larnaka Gorge

Rismari-Aghios Nikolaos

Rismari, situated near the picturesque coastal villages of Profitis Elias and Korakas and close to the petrified forest of Korakas, is a sandy beach with shallow water.

Meals and refreshments are available at nearby tavernas.

good choice for…

Suitable for families with children, as well as for young people.

winds…

Provides protection from all but strong southerly winds.

Location:
Aghios Nikolaos near Neapoli
Information:
From Neapoli, take the road to Aghios Nikolaos. Three kilometers past Aghios Nikolaos, turn left towards Profitis Elias and Korakas. A few kilometers further on, turn right towards Korakas and drive for another 3km towards the sea. Then take the left turning towards Profitis Elias. The beach is 300 m. further on.

There is parking space above the beach. A little further along the road are the beaches of Limni and Aspes.

 

Pounta-Viglafia

One of the area’s most impressive beaches lies right opposite the picturesque island of Elafonissos. Pounta stands out for its rolling sand dunes occupying the full length of the child-friendly sandy beach.

The beach borders to the south with the remnants of Pavlopetri. This prehistoric town now partly lies below sea level and can be easily explored by snorklers.

The narrow strait between the mainland and the island has long been a popular playground for windsurfers from all over the world.

good choice for…

This beach is attractive for children, nature lovers, snorklers and windsurfers.

winds…

Prefer this beach in case of north winds.

Location:
Pounta near Neapoli
Information:
Follow the signs towards Elafonissos. Turn left after the village Agios Georgios and shortly before the pier where the ferryboat to Elafononissos departs. Τhere is sufficient parking space just before the sand dunes.