Pisses is a partly organized beach on Kea’s western coast, set at the base of a green valley near the ancient town of Poiessa. It’s a good-value, low-key choice — calmer in atmosphere than Koundouros and more accessible than the island’s remote beaches.

The Beach

The beach at Pisses is large, partly organized in season and shaded in places by trees. A taverna serves local dishes. The water can be affected by the meltemi in peak summer — which also makes Pisses popular with windsurfers and snorkelers when conditions are right; when the wind drops, the water settles into excellent swimming. The valley setting behind the beach adds to the character: fruit and cypress trees, a gentle approach road, and a sense of arriving at a beach that’s worked its way into the landscape rather than been imposed on it.

Ancient Poiessa Nearby

The beach sits at the site of ancient Poiessa, one of Kea’s four city-states. The circular base of a fortification tower, the remains of an ancient port on the south coast, and the small church of Agios Isidoros (built using ancient stone material) are all in the area — adding an archaeological dimension to a day at the beach without requiring a dedicated detour.

Getting There

Pisses is around 12 km from Ioulida by paved road. The drive through the valley is one of the pleasanter approaches on the island. A car is the most practical option; bus connections should be verified locally in season.

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