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

Tigania-Elia

The largest beach in the area. Sand, wtih some areas of small pebbles.

Over the past decade the southern end has become the in place for young people, with sunbeds, umbrellas, a beach bar and beach volley net. Also at this end, there are cold springs in the seabed, lowering the water temperature.

To the north, the water is warmer and preferred by families.

The beach has been awarded a Blue Flag for its cleanliness and amenities, which include changing sheds, toilets, life guards and showers.

There is a restauruant with a view over the beach. If you stay until the end of the day, you’ll be rewarded with a view of the sun setting behind Mt. Taygetus across the changing colors of the Gulf of Laconia.

good choice for…

As mentioned above, the southern end attracts a younger crowd drawn by the beach bar and seaside sports, while the northern end is more family-oriented.

winds…

Vulnerable to the westerly winds.

After noon, a breeze known as the boukadoura blows in off the sea, a characteristic of the Gulf of Laconia, whipping up small waves, although not enough to affect swimmers.

When the north wind is blowing, the water is as flat as in a pool.

Location:
Elia – Molaoi
Information:
About 2 kilometres along the road from Elia to Asopos, the beach is on your right. There is a sign and a Blue Flag visible from the road.

Visitors coming from the direction of Asopos  should turn off as soon as they see the sea on their left.  There is parking space next to the beach.

 

Limani-Elia

This beach is right in the settlement of Elia, opposite the harbour and lighthouse.

The seabed is shallow and sandy; the shoreline consists of a narrow (4-5 meters wide) strip of sand. Many swimmers prefer to sit on the mole behind it, where there are sunbeds. Above the beach is also a children’s playground.

The beach is surrounded by several cafes and restaurants, all easily accessible from the beach, as are all the other shops.

During summer months the local yacht club offers  sailing lessons.

good choice for…

The beach is child-friendly and a good choice for those who don’t want to go out of town for a swim.

winds…

Open to westerly winds, as are all the beaches in Elia.

Location:
Elia, Molai
Information:
Right in the middle of Elia – just head for the harbour.