Playa de Karystos

Introduction

We are delighted to take you today to a special corner of Greece, the charming Playa de Karystos, located on the beautiful island of Evia. This beach is not just a stretch of coast; it is the heart of a picturesque port town that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and, of course, an idyllic shoreline. When we think of beaches in Greece, the Cyclades often come to mind, but Evia, the country's second-largest island, holds treasures worth discovering, and the Evia beach of Karystos is undoubtedly one of them.

Playa de Karystos is a destination that has it all: crystal clear and calm waters, considerable space for walking or relaxing, and the comfort of having all services at hand. It's the kind of place where you can spend the whole day, from the first morning dip until sunset, enjoying the sea breeze and vibrant local life. For those seeking an authentic experience without sacrificing comfort, this Playa de Karystos beach is certainly a wise choice. Its strategic location, right next to the town, allows you to combine beach life with exploring tavernas, shops, and historical sites, making each day an adventure.

How to Get to Playa de Karystos

Getting to Playa de Karystos is part of the adventure and, fortunately, it is quite accessible. The most common way to reach Karystos from Athens is by ferry. We usually choose to take a ferry from the port of Rafina, which is about an hour's drive from central Athens. From Rafina, there are regular ferry services to Marmari, a port near Karystos. The ferry ride takes about an hour. Once in Marmari, Karystos is just a 15-20 minute drive or taxi ride away.

Another ferry option is directly to Karystos, although these routes may be less frequent. If you prefer to drive, it is possible to reach Evia by road by crossing one of the bridges connecting it to the mainland (near Chalkida). However, to reach southern Evia, where Karystos is located, the road trip can be longer and more winding. We always recommend the ferry route to enjoy the views of the Aegean and start the holidays in a more relaxed way. Once in Karystos, the main beach stretches along the seafront promenade, making it very easy to find and access from any point in the town.

The Sand and Water

When we talk about Playa de Karystos, we refer to a coastline that combines sand with small pebbles or fine gravel, what we call 'mixed sand'. This characteristic gives it a particular charm, as the sea-polished stones add texture and shine under the sun, while the sand provides the desired softness for lying down. Walking barefoot is a pleasure, although some might prefer to use water shoes, especially younger children. The mix of sand and pebbles also contributes to the incredible clarity of the water, one of the great advantages of this Evia beach.

The waters of Playa de Karystos are typically calm and shallow at the shore, making them ideal for families with young children. The turquoise color and transparency invite a refreshing swim and underwater exploration with a snorkel mask. We have spent hours simply floating and observing the small fish swimming near the coast. The cleanliness of the water is remarkable, and it is one of the reasons why this beach is so appreciated and often awarded the Blue Flag, a mark of environmental quality. The water temperature, especially in the summer months, is pleasantly warm, perfect for long swims and enjoying the Greek sun.

Services and Facilities

One of the strong points of Playa de Karystos is the excellent range of services and facilities it offers, designed to ensure a comfortable and worry-free stay. As the main beach of a town, it has everything needed to enjoy a full day under the sun. We will find numerous areas with sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent, allowing us to relax without having to carry our own equipment. This is especially useful for us, who always seek maximum comfort during our getaways.

For those who need to freshen up after a salty swim, there are public showers along the beach. Hygiene and comfort are priorities here. Furthermore, parking is relatively easy to find in the surrounding area, although in high season it may require a bit more patience. Chiringuitos and cafes line the seafront promenade, offering everything from cold drinks and snacks to light meals. There are also more formal restaurants just a few steps away. Safety is ensured by the presence of lifeguards during the summer months, and public toilets/WCs are accessible. For the more active, there is the possibility of equipment rental for light water sports like paddleboarding or kayaking, and some sports areas for playing beach volleyball. In summary, the Playa de Karystos beach is equipped to meet all the needs of its visitors.

Best Time to Visit

The choice of the best time to visit Playa de Karystos depends a lot on what you are looking for in your trip. We, personally, have our preferences, but each season has its charm. The high season in Greece, and therefore in Karystos, is during the months of July and August. During this period, the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for fully enjoying the beach and the sea. However, it is also when the influx of tourists is highest, and both the beach and the town can be quite crowded. If you l