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Kardamena holidays
Kardamena on the island of Kos, with its vibrant nightlife, is a firm favourite among groups of friends looking for that perfect mixture of long sandy beaches and buzzing entertainment. The aptly named Bar Street and central square is where the action happens. Lined with tavernas, bars and nightclubs, it is a party heaven that draws in the crowds. With holiday packages to suit all budgets Kardamena is a must for those seeking sun and fun.
- Flight time
- 4h
- From London
- Currency
- €
- Euro
- Time zone
- GMT + 2h
Getting to Kardamena
Kardamena sits roughly 4 miles southeast of Kos Airport, officially known as "Hippocrates Airport". Most airlines offer direct flights to Kos from London and vast districts in the UK, averaging just over four hours for a typical flight. The quickest way to reach Kardamena from Kos is via taxi, which usually takes up to 30 minutes. You may also wish to travel by direct bus or shuttle, and the bus service departs every four hours.
Average weather in Kardamena
- Temperature (°C)*
- Rainfall (Inches)*
Holidays in Kardamena
Widely regarded as the number one Kos party destination, Kardamena is the place to be for music and fun. The majority of Kardamena’s nightlife is centred around the harbour area and consists of many themed bars lining the aptly named Bar Street and clubs that tend to be on the waterfront. The bars generally consist of the usual themes, karaoke, cocktail and sports and provide a vibrant music, however, they tend to turn the music down after midnight and several actually close, so if it's entertainment into the small hours that you crave then it’s the clubs you need to seek out. Some of our favourites include Bar 1960, set in the main square, it plays retro music which attracts holidaymakers of all ages, not to mention an extensive cocktail list. Downtown is another popular venue that is not the largest, but has an energy that draws crowds until sunrise, whilst Starlight Club is the total opposite with large dancefloors that can hold over a thousand party goers.
Well-known for its vibrant nightlife, Kardamena also boasts a number of quality restaurants serving some of the best food on Kos. The harbour area attracts the most visitors and with outdoor seating providing stunning sea views whilst you dine on fine cuisine, it’s easy to see why. We recommend that you try the Captain's Restaurant on the front which serves sizzling swordfish steaks on the griddle, portions of juicy pork belly and the classic moussaka or Ariadni’s famous for grilled octopus. For something a little more intimate, then the courtyard dining area at The Garden is a must, surrounded by traditional stone walls and trees strung with fairy lights this taverna offers the very best of Greek fare. Finally, if it’s a meze that you crave then the never-ending collection of perfectly cooked small plates at Avli are a must.
We don't recommend choosing a holiday in Kardamena for its shopping opportunities alone. As you might expect, the tourist area is full of small markets and souvenir shops selling local products such as olive oil and honey, as well as jewellery, leather goods and perfumes. Artisan workshops allow you to choose from a range of metals and semi-precious stones and have them custom-made into rings, earrings and pendants. If you're looking for souvenirs, be aware that shops are generally closed on Sundays and between 1pm and 5pm during the summer months. It can also be difficult to find places that accept payment cards, unless it's a food supermarket, so don't forget to take cash with you.
Activities in Kardamena
You'll probably want to relax on the beach during the day or have some fun in the water, but Kardamena and the surrounding area also offers other interesting activities. Take a 4WD safari inland to enjoy breathtaking hilltop views and discover evidence of the island's rich history, or join a boat trip to the volcanic island of Nisyros, where you can explore the active crater of Stefanos.
Watersports
Diving in Kardamena
Kardamena is within easy reach of a number of PADI-accredited diving schools, including the Sea World Diving Centre, just a few km from the resort. We strongly recommend that you use the services of a professional school, even if you have some experience, as some of the currents and dive sites around Kos can be difficult. You can also take advantage of their expertise to organise excursions to places such as the Potteries and the Amphora Garden, where the seabed is literally littered with the remains of ancient pottery, but be warned that it is not possible to take a piece home as the area is strictly controlled by the Greek authorities. Another not-to-be-missed diving experience in Kos, a short distance from Kardamena, is an area known as 'The Gardens'. Here, a mixture of corals, sponges and marine plants has created an ecosystem that resembles an English country garden, which is enjoyed by marine creatures such as stingrays, octopuses, eels and oysters.
Surfing in Kardamena
There is not an established surf culture on Kos, but it is one of the few Greek islands that does offer the opportunity to indulge in this exhilarating sport. There are several suitable surf locations close to Kardamena such as Kata Beach or Cavo Paradiso, but by far the best and most popular is Agios Theologos Beach in the Southwestern part of the island, near the village of Kefalos. Whilst it is a great place to experience some Aegean surf, there is not a great surfing support structure so, if possible, try to take your own gear or visit the Surf Kos Centre in Marmari which is the only place providing equipment hire.
Windsurfing & kitesurfing in Kardamena
An attractive spot for both windsurfing and kitesurfing, the beautiful blue waters, sandy beaches and consistent winds make this location a prime spot for wind-powered water sports.
During the summer months, the thermal Meltemi winds from the north sweep across the Aegean Sea, creating perfect conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing. The breezes are strongest from July to August, although they can start as early as May and extend through October, providing a relatively long season for enthusiasts.
Several businesses in Kardamena offer equipment hire and professional lessons. These cater to a range of skill levels, from complete beginners to advanced surfers looking to improve their technique.
Kardamena's waters are warm and inviting, and its wind conditions range from mild breezes to more challenging gusts, making it an ideal spot for both windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Sailing in Kardamena
Centrally located Kardamena Port is the starting point for many sailing adventures. With its well-equipped marina, it provides excellent facilities for sailors, including boat rentals and sailing tours. Whether you're an experienced sailor wanting to charter your own yacht or a novice wishing to take a skippered tour, there are numerous options available.
Several companies in Kardamena offer sailing trips around the coast of Kos and its surrounding islands. These tours often include stops at secluded bays and beaches, offering passengers the chance to swim in pristine waters and explore off-the-beaten-path locales. Some tours even sail to nearby islands such as Nisyros and Kalymnos, giving visitors the chance to experience even more of the enchanting Dodecanese archipelago.
Sailing in Kardamena also offers the opportunity to witness marine wildlife. The Aegean Sea is rich in biodiversity, and it's not uncommon for sailors to spot dolphins, turtles, and a variety of seabirds during their voyage.
One of the highlights of sailing in Kardamena is the chance to enjoy stunning sunsets from the deck of your boat. With the sun setting over the Aegean Sea, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, it's a truly magical experience to round off your sailing adventure.
Fishing in Kardamena
Popular with fishing enthusiasts, Kardamena's strategic location along the Aegean Sea creates a wide variety of fishing, ranging from deep sea fishing to leisurely angling along its pristine coastline.
When we last visited, several local businesses offered fishing excursions catering to different experience levels, from the novice fisher to the seasoned angler. Trips were typically led by experienced skippers who are well-versed in the local marine life and best fishing spots. Equipment is often provided, so you don't have to worry about bringing your own gear.
Among the most popular fishing trips are the deep-sea expeditions. These excursions often target larger species that roam the depths of the Aegean, including swordfish, tuna and amberjack. Experienced guides can provide instruction on how to use deep-sea fishing equipment and techniques, giving a chance at landing a big catch.
For a more relaxed fishing experience, many visitors opt for shoreline fishing or traditional angling trips. These allow you to take in the scenic coastline of Kardamena while fishing for species such as bream, bass, and mullet.
Some companies also offered night fishing trips, a unique opportunity to fish under the stars and experience the tranquillity of the Aegean at night. These trips are particularly enchanting, with the lights from the fishing boat attracting a variety of interesting nocturnal marine life.
Canoeing & kayaking in Kardamena
For those new to canoeing and kayaking, there are local companies offering equipment rental and lessons. Trained instructors can provide you with the kayaks or canoes themselves, life jackets and basic training.
One of the great advantages of kayaking and canoeing in Kardamena is the ability to explore at your own pace. Paddle along the coastline, discovering secluded beaches and hidden coves that are otherwise inaccessible.
More experienced paddlers might try exciting sea kayaking on a journey across the sparkling Aegean Sea, with routes to challenge your skills and endurance. Sea kayaking expeditions can lead you to surrounding islets, marine caves, and other coastal wonders.
Group excursions are also popular - a fun and social way to experience the beauty of the Kos coastline, with trips often include breaks for swimming, snorkelling or simply lounging on the beach.
Land activities
Golf in Kardamena
If you've taken the trouble to bring your clubs and golf equipment to Kos, we're afraid you'll be disappointed as the island has no golf facilities. If you fancy a round, you'll have to head to Corfu or Crete, which have two top-class courses. Alternatively you could also create your own links holes down on the beach.
Cycling & mountain biking in Kardamena
Greece's Minister of Transport and Infrastructure recently announced that Kos is set to become a top destination for cyclists, and for good reason. The generally flat terrain makes cycling easy and enjoyable, and locals use bikes as their preferred means of transport to get to work, school and the shops. What's more, for tourists, there are over 6.5 thousand bicycles available for hire on the island. So look out for one of the many rental companies in and around Kardamena, and start exploring this fabulous island from the saddle. The main town of Kos is a great place to start, with small roads running through it and a 13km-long cycle path along the seafront. If you're feeling a little more adventurous, quiet dirt tracks and cobbled roads will take you to unspoilt villages where you can relax and enjoy delicious local food and drink.
Walking & hiking in Kardamena
Kos' generally flat terrain makes walking an excellent way to explore its stunning scenery and historic heritage. No place is too far from Kardamena, especially if you have a car. We particularly enjoy walking around Kos town. Here, a short 3km walk leads from the marina to the nearby wetlands and is ideal for beginners or those with young children. A longer 13km walking and cycle path runs along the seafront and is a great way to explore the local beaches. In the south of the island, near Kefalos, the shady pleasure of the Plaka forest is ideal for picnics and encounters with the famous peacocks. We also enjoy walks to the deserted village of Haihoutes or the mountainous region of Zia, where you can relax after your exertions in the superb local cafés serving homemade ice-cold lemonades.
