Achata Beach

On the southeastern side of the island of Karpathos is the village of Pigadia. Pigadia is the capital and main port of the island. 13 km north of the village of Pigadia is Achata Beach. Achata Beach is sandy with white pebbles and emerald-green waters. Thanks to its short distance from Pigadia Village, you can get to Achata Beach via car or motorbike. There is a tavern on the beach, which is surrounded by greenery and mountains.

Mikri Amopi Beach

Located 7 km southwest of Pigadia Village is Mikri Amopi Beach. This beach is actually three sandy beaches all with fine sand and azure-colored waters. The clean water and atmosphere make it ideal for families. Due to its close proximity to Pigadia, you will have access to amenities. There are also tourist facilities and taverns at the beach itself. The two close neighboring beaches to Mikri are Megali Amopi and Perros Ammos. These beaches also have shallow waters, which make them child friendly. Sun beds and umbrellas are available.

Vrontis Beach

Just 1 km from Pigadia, Vrontis Beach is walkable if you’re staying in or visiting the capital of Karpathos. Vrontis Beach is mostly sandy and stretches for 4 km. Much of the beach is set up with sun beds and umbrellas, but there is also a large section set up for beach games. Being so close to Pigadia, you will find many restaurants, taverns, shops, and other amenities. This beach can be busy during the summer months, but if you don’t mind the crowds, it’s a great place to spend time.

Valias Beach

If you enjoy windsurfing and other water sports, you’ll want to visit Valias Beach. This beach is 12 km from the village of Pigadia and easily accessible. The beach is mostly pebbled, but sun beds and umbrellas are available. While there isn’t much in terms of restaurants and taverns in the immediate area, if you travel a short distance, you will find some. The strong winds that blow in the area, as well as the deep, turquoise waters, make it ideal for windsurfing.

Diakoftis Beach

Diakoftis is a secluded beach located 21 km from Pigadia and just 5 km from the airport of Karpathos. The gorgeous white sand and turquoise waters make the beach a wonderful place to relax. The water is shallow making it ideal for families with small children. It’s a good idea to bring your own supplies as there aren’t many facilities around except for a small cantina during the summer months.

Whether you’re looking for a beach to relax at or take part in activities, you’ll find it in Karpathos, Greece.

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Visit a Museum

The island of Karpathos showcases its history in a number of museums. The Folklore Museum of Othos is in the village of Othos. The museum is a representation of a traditional house of Karpathos, so you can experience how one would have lived on the island just a few decades ago. Inside the home you will see furniture, items of everyday use, traditional clothing, old photographs, and musical instruments.

The Archaeological Museum of Karpathos is located in Pigdia. Items exhibited at this museum include stone seals, gold coins, utensils, vases, bronze bracelets, and more that have been found at the archaeological sites of Karpathos. At the Agricultural Museum of Pyles you can view stone tables, a threshing floor, a wine-press, and a windmill.

Enjoy the Local Culture of Karpathos

Karpathos Island has local specialties that include makarounes, a homemade pasta; kolokithopoulis, a dish made with zucchini flowers; ofto, stuffed lamb with rice, chicken liver and herbs; gra, a vegetable pie; mizithropites, a pie made with local cheeses; and sisameli, a dessert made of sesame and honey. When visiting the island of Karpathos, you must try a few of the local specialties. The island is also known for its sweet red wine that is produced in Othos. Greek cuisine, Italian cuisine, seafood, cocktails and other alcoholic drinks, and coffee can all be found in abundance around the island of Karpathos, Greece.

Relax on the Beach

It’s impossible to miss the beautiful beaches of Karpathos, Greece. Some of the beaches are sandy while other are pebbled, some are organized and some are not, but they are all amazing places to visit when you’re on the island. Kyra Panagia is one of the most impressive beaches in Karpathos. It is located 14 km north of Pigadia and close to Achata. Kyra Panagia is family friendly and offers a great swimming experience. Apella Beach is another lovely beach in Karpathos. It is a family friendly and organized beach 18 km north of Pigadia. This picturesque beach is actually a cove with lush greenery surrounding it. Other beaches in Karpathos, Greece include: Achata, Votsalakia, Diakoftis, Finiki, and Vrontis.

Visit a Monument

Karpathos, Greece is home to impressive monuments that you’ll want to see. The Monument of Women is a sculpture of an old woman who is dressed in traditional clothing. This tribute to migrants of Karpathos and the contribution made by women is located in Olymbos. The Windmills of Olymbos are important landmarks of Karpathos. They are located above the village of Olymbos. Though not in operation today, in the past they were were operated by strong winds.

When visiting Karpathos, you will find plenty to see and do.

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Othos Folklore Museum

Located in Karpathos, Dodecanese. Greece; the Folklore Museum of Othos is in a modest, traditionally furnished, Greek home in the center of town. The museum’s official name is Nikolaidio Folklore Museum. Karpathos is part of the Aegean Sea Greek Dodecanese islands. Depicting the more recent life on the island, exhibits include costumes, wooden furniture, cooking utensils, photographs, musical instruments, and agricultural tools.

Some of the costumes are displayed on wax figures that are seen performing everyday activities. As you explore the village, take the opportunity to view the windmills and visit local businesses such as bakeries to indulge in more of the local flavor. You can take a chartered bus trip to Olympos or take the local bus and explore the village on your own with the opportunity to talk to local residents.

Archaeological Museum of Karpathos

Are you looking for a great place to visit that will showcase some of the ancient history of Karpathps? The Archaeological Museum of Karpathos is the best place to do that since there are plenty of artifacts here that were found in the area. It features statuettes, stone figures, sculptures, icons, ceramic ovens, coins, and other artifacts of ancient times. It is located in three rooms in the west wing of the Pigadia prefecture building. Pigadia is a port city on the island of Karpathos.

Menetes Folklore Museum

The Menetes Folklore Museum is eight kilometers from Pigadia. Menetes is a 14th century village situated on a hilltop. It encompasses the museum and a few houses. The museum is in a house dating back 200 years. The exhibits include ancient sculptures, pottery, and icons including remnants of the Saint Mama’s church and some other neoclassical buildings. More recent items on display include housewares, agricultural tools, machines created by the hands of carpenters and ironworkers, musical instruments, traditional art, and photographs.

Chatzivassili Museum

The Chatzivassili Museum, located in the village of Olympos. is dedicated to the plasterwork and painted frescos of Vasilis Chatzivasili and his son as well as the embroidery of his wife and daughter taken from the designs of Vasilis. More of his artwork can also be seen in the homes of sea captains in the village of Kasos. When visiting the museum, you can have the opportunity to talk to the family of Vasilis and learn about life in the past in Olympos.

After you leave the museum, you can wander around the village and explore the architectural features of the houses. You will find more plasterwork and painted frescos adorning the houses including phoenixes and double headed eagles on doorways and balconies.

Visiting small local sites such as these four museums allows you a different view of a region and its culture. You can view the villages and see what life is like in the present day and compare the present with the life as it was in the past as seen in the museum exhibits. In addition, as mentioned, visiting the small villages provides the opportunity to meet and get to know the residents.

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Karpathos, Greece is classified as a hot semi-arid climate. The hottest months on the island are June to September. The dry period runs from May to September. The most precipitation on the island will be experienced from November to February, with January being the wettest month.

This weather forecast in Karpathos, Greece, will vary from year to year. The averages that you see below represent historical weather data. Here is the typical weather forecast throughout the year for Karpathos, Greece:

January

• Temperature: 48.2° F (9° C) – 59° F (15° C)
• Precipitation: 151 mm
• Climate: 15 days of rain on average, 10.1 hours of daylight per day, 6.3 hours of sunshine per day, UV-index 4, water temperature 64.4° F (18° C), dry air, 75% clear, overcast
• Humidity: 69%

February

• Temperature: 48.2° F (9° C) – 59° F (15° C)
• Precipitation: 101 mm
• Climate: 13 days of rain on average, 10.9 hours of daylight per day, 6.8 hours of sunlight per day, UV-index 4, water temperature 62.6° F (17° C), dry air, clear/overcast
• Humidity: 71%

March  

• Temperature: 50.72° F (10.4° C) – 62.6° F (17° C)
• Precipitation: 69 mm
• Climate: 10 days of rain on average, 12 hours of daylight per day, 8.8 hours of sunshine per day, UV-index 5, water temperature 62.96° F (17.2° C), dry air, clear/overcast
• Humidity: 71%

April

• Temperature: 55.4° F (13° C) – 68° F (20° C)
• Precipitation: 29 mm
• Climate: 7.4 days of rain on average, 13.1 hours of daylight per day, 11 hours of sunshine per day, UV-index 5, water temperature 63.86° F (17.7° C), 75% dry air, 80% clear, overcast
• Humidity: 74%

May

• Temperature: 60.8° F (16° C) – 75.2° F (24° C)
• Precipitation: 14 mm
• Climate: 5.8 days of rain on average, 14.1 hours of daylight per day, 11.6 hours of sunshine per day, UV-index 6, water temperature 68.36° F (20.2° C), 90% clear, overcast
• Humidity: 75%

June

• Temperature: 68.54° F (20.3° C) – 82.4° F (28° C)
• Precipitation: 2 mm
• Climate: 2.1 days of rain on average, 14.5 hours of daylight per day, 12.2 hours of sunshine per day, UV-index 6, water temperature 74.3° F (23.5° C), 40% muggy, 99% clear, beach/pool score 9.6
• Humidity: 77%

July

• Temperature: 72.68° F (22.6° C) – 86.54° F (30.3° C)
• Precipitation: 1 mm
• Climate: 0.6 days of rain on average, 14.3 hours of daylight per day, 12.1 hours of sunshine per day, UV-index 7, 85% muggy, 100% clear, beach/pool score 9.6
• Humidity: 78%

August

• Temperature: 73.4° F (23° C) – 87.26° F (30.7° C)
• Precipitation: 1 mm
• Climate: 0.3 days of rain on average, 13.5 hours of daylight per day, 12.1 hours of sunshine per day, UV-index 7, water temperature 81.14° F (27.3° C), 87% muggy, 100% clear, beach/pool score 9.6
• Humidity: 78%

September

• Temperature: 69.8° F (21° C) – 82.4° F (28° C)
• Precipitation: 6 mm
• Climate: 2.9 days of rain on average, 12.4 hours of daylight per day, 11.3 hours of sunshine per day, UV-index 6, water temperature 80.24° F (26.8° C), 50% muggy, 95% clear, beach/pool score 9.6
• Humidity: 73%

October

• Temperature: 62.96° F (17.2° C) – 75.74° F (24.3° C)
• Precipitation: 65 mm
• Climate: 7.3 days of rain on average, 11.3 hours of daylight per day, 7.3 hours of sunshine per day, UV-index 5, water temperature 73.6° F (23.1° C), 20% muggy, 90% clear, overcast, beach/pool score 5
• Humidity: 72%

November

• Temperature: 56.3° F (13.5° C) – 68° F (20° C)
• Precipitation: 64 mm
• Climate: 9.4 days of rain on average, 10.3 hours of daylight per day, 7 hours of sunshine per day, UV-index 5, water temperature 68.2° F (20.1° C), 75% dry air, 64% clear, overcast
• Humidity: 70%

December

• Temperature: 51.26° F (10.7° C) – 61.7° F (16.5° C)
• Precipitation: 75 mm
• Climate: 15 days of rain on average, 9.8 hours of daylight per day, 6.4 hours of sunshine per day, UV-index 4, water temperature 64.9 ° F (18.3° C), dry air, 64% clear, overcast
• Humidity: 69%

Karpathos, Greece has a hot semi-arid climate that offers hot summers and rainy winters.

Find the current weather forecast for Corfu, Greece here:

Accuweather – Karpathos, Greece Weather Forecast

Weather.com – Karpathos, Greece Weather Forecast

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This is an island that is known for its distinct scenery. Deep blue water laps against a gently rocky coastline. Mysterious coves are also found along the landscape. This island is often described as rugged, but that doesn’t quite do the place justice. Karpathos also has an easy charm that goes along with the relaxed lifestyle that most places in Greece enjoy. It also has a long history – the ancient writer, Homer, mentioned the island in some of writings.

Enjoy the Beautiful Scenery

One of the best ways to enjoy the island is to hit the beach once you arrive. After journeying to the island either by plane or ferry, it’s time to start enjoying the sites! You’ll immediately notice the ruggedness that people describe. The island is rocky and often unforgiving. However, the beaches here are relaxed and pleasant and many are filled with plenty of gorgeous, soft sand. It is the perfect place to sit back, relax, and enjoy the Greek sunshine. Each beach also has its own unique charm. The scenery on this island is certainly one of the highlights.

Don’t Miss Kyra Panagia Beach

Kyra Panagaia Beach is often listed as one of the top beaches in all of Greece – and with good reason. The scenery located here represents the absolute best that Karpathos has to offer. The beach itself is filled with beautiful, soft sand mixed with small pebbles and the waters are a deep crystal blue. The sun seems to always be shining here, as well, especially during the peak summer months. Not only that, but the beach itself is next to a beautiful mountain and is flanked by a small cove.

Because the water is so warm and gentle here, it is truly an ideal beach for swimming. It also has a parking lot and is easily accessible by car because it is off one of the main roads. There are sun beds and umbrellas to rent, and there is a taverna close by in case you need refreshment or something to eat. The beach also has a nearby hotel so if you know you want to spend plenty of time at this beach, you should consider staying at that hotel for at least part of your stay.

In a lot of ways, Karpathos gives the chance to experience a Greek island in the way you’re supposed to – free from commercialism while embracing the traditional Greek way of life. Nowhere is this more prevalent than at the beach of Kyra Panagia, which is a stunningly beautiful spot that pleases tourists and locals alike.

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While spending an extended time in Greece, you’ll quickly realize that there are is a stark difference between what the tourists see and what the inhabitants live. In a way, you can’t blame visitors for wanting to get the most of it. Greece has a history that spans thousands of years, and the culture is well developed and fascinating. However, the Greek people understand that there is more to life than “doing”. In fact, they prefer to exist, and experience each day with joy. Nowhere is this idea more prevalent than on the island of Karpathos – but that’s not to say that you can’t sightsee while here! Just remember to slow down and enjoy life while you’re at it. Here’s a list of some of the sites that you should visit:

Visit a World Famous Beach

Like most places in Greece that have a coastline, going to the beach is part of the experience at Karpathos. While the interior terrain of the island is fairly rocky, the coastline is filled with gentle beaches that will allow you to relax and soak up the sun. Some of the beaches, such as Lefkos Beach, are even considered amongst the best in all of Greece! Other beaches to visit include Apella Beach, Amoopi Beach, Kato Lako Beach, Diakoftis Beach, and Chicken Bay, which boasts soft sand and is a haven for outdoor adventurers.

Enjoy Outdoor Sports

If your idea of the perfect Greek vacation involves outdoor sports, Karpathos is the island for you! A favorite destination for surfers, windsurfers, and kite surfers, the island provides the ideal conditions. Visit the Karpathos Surf Club for more information about these sports. Other sports that people enjoy include scuba diving, snorkeling, and even kayaking. Those who love to hike will find the inner terrain of the island to be exceptional – the hills and mountains provide challenging trail conditions that boast amazing views.

Enjoy Traditional Folk Art

Traditional folk art is part of the culture of Greece and there’s no better place to experience it than the Folk Art Museum located in the traditional village of Menetes. In fact, this is a great experience to have if you really want to see what life was like on the island before tourism really became prevalent! In this small, yet educational museum you’ll have a chance to glimpse traditional art such as pottery and other traditional crafts. While here, you’ll also have an opportunity to visit a traditional Greek home – an experience that few tourists get a chance to have.

Learn about the Archaeological History

Most of Greece has been inhabited since ancient times, which means that the best way to learn about it is through archaeological digs. If you’re interested in the history of the island, you won’t want to miss the Karpathos Archaeological Museum. On the surface, the artifacts may look fairly modest – but they do offer a nice overview of the island’s history. Besides, the museum itself is in a fabulous location. Perched on a seaside cliff, it boasts amazing views of the sea below.

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Karpathos is comprised of distinct northern and southern areas. In the north, tourists can explore the mountain villages. Due to its higher altitude, northern Karpathos is full of trees and flowers in the wild mountains. A rocky road winds through the mountains and the area is excellent for hikers looking to explore.

To find a true traditional Greek experience, head to Olympos (Sometimes spelled Olymbos) where women wear traditional attire and the locals speak with a dialect containing traces of ancient Dorian Greek. The village is ideal for day-trippers and is at its quietest during the early morning and late day. The village is perched on the ridge of Mt. Profitis and offers excellent views. The festival mass of St. Panagia is held every August when everyone in the village dresses in traditional garb while enjoying the feast and celebration.

Diafani is a more remote fisherman village in the north, but is beautiful with its mountainous backdrop. The wharf is a ferry destination and there is a daily boat from Pigadia in the south. It’s the starting point for hikes and walks to Vananda Beach, the Hellenistic site of Vroukounda, and the agricultural village of Avlona.

Southern Karpathos is where you’ll find the best sandy beaches on the island to wander, dispersed among charming villages. Menetes, set high up in the cliffs, is worth a short visit. From the church there are great views of the hills below and the sea in the distance.

Arkasa has become a resort village and features Agios Nikolaos Beach. However, there are lots more to explore. In the area is the remains of the 5^th century Basilica of Agia Sophia. Two chapels stand amid mosaic fragments and columns. There is also an ancient acropolis.

Picturesque Finiki, north of Arkasa, is a typical Aegean village. It features white and blue houses along the small beach and harbor. This is where you’ll find Agios Georgios Beach and Kamarakia Beach.

Lefkos, on the far west coast along the Sea of Crete, is a summer resort village. Lefkos Beach is quite popular. Nearby are the underground remains of a Roman cistern.

The airport on Karpathos is accessible via Athens, Kasos, Sitia, and Rhodes. Ferry service runs from many nearby islands. Pigadia is the transportation hub of the island where there are daily excursion boats and buses serve most areas in southern Karpathos, although there is no bus service to the northern villages of Olympos or Diafani.

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Rhodes

Medieval Old Town and impressive beach resorts make Rhodes, the largest Dodecanese
Island the most popular. Old Town has the reputation of being the most well-preserved Medieval town in Europe. Medieval stone architecture like the Venetian Castle and the Byzantine churches amazes visitors to the island almost as much as the stunning beaches.

Tourism is big on Rhodes Island, so you’ll find an array of accommodations from luxury resorts to cozy apartments. Because of the island’s large size, it’s blessed with spectacular beaches of all types from bustling to secluded.

Kos

Kos, the third largest Dodecanese Island is only four miles from the coast of Turkey. The Medieval architecture here is especially interesting. You’ll want to visit the Medieval castle Nerantzia from the 7th century located near the entrance of the port, and Eleftheria Square. Near the center of the new city, the square is surrounded by buildings from the Italian Era.

Pay a visit to the 2,500-year-old Hippocrates Plane tree across from Lotzia Mosque. It’s here the great doctor treated patients and taught apprentices. On the southern side of the island, you’ll find pristine golden beaches.

Karpathos

The sheer beauty of Karpathos makes it a favorite Dodecanese Island. Farther away and secluded, it’s located in the South Aegean Sea between Rhodes and Crete. Because of distance, it only developed in the last few decades. Visit the central and northern parts of the island to marvel at the authentic and unspoiled villages where tourism is light. When you see the exotic beaches on the southern side, you will see why tourism became popular on Karpathos.

Kalymnos

One of the Northern Dodecanese Islands, Kalymnos is close to the Turkish coasts. The locals here used to earn their living by sponge fishing, and you will still see sponges sold on the beach of Pothia, the island’s capital.

Wild, rocky mountains distinguish this popular Dodecanese from the others. In recent years, it has become a popular rock climbing destination. A huge climbing festival is held each year in September. Popular places to climb include the mountains on the north side of the island and the nearby island of Telendos. Most tourists combine a trip to Kalymnos with one to another island like Kos.

Patmos

Patmos is known as the island of Apocalypse. It is said that Saint John the Divine found inspiration for the Book of Apocalypse inside a cave here. Hence, you will see the huge Monastery of Saint John looming over Chora, the island’s capital. Visitors to Patmos love to walk along the paved paths and enjoy breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. Several relaxing beaches are scattered across the island. Skala is the most popular. A trip here is easily combined with one to Leros since they are so close together.

Whether you’re into Greek mythology, ancient ruins, or simply the world’s most beautiful beaches, put trip to one or more Dodecanese Islands on your bucket list. It will be the trip of a lifetime.

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