Otzias occupies a wide north-facing bay about 5.5 km from Korissia port. Its 700-metre stretch of golden sand, gentle-entry water and accompanying tavernas make it the most family-friendly beach on the island.

What to Expect

The beach is partly organised, with sunbeds and umbrellas available for hire along the central section. The water is calm here — the bay faces north and is sheltered enough for swimming even on windier days. Dense tamarisk trees back the eastern end of the beach, providing natural shade. Two small whitewashed churches bookend the bay: Agios Sostis at one end and Agios Georgios at the other, both photogenic against the low hillside.

Food and Facilities

Two or three tavernas sit just back from the shore at Otzias, serving grilled fish, salads and cold drinks throughout the main season. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-oriented. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for hire along the central stretch; the eastern end near the tamarisks offers free natural shade. A small market near the beach is useful for picking up supplies before a long day.

Verify current taverna opening and facilities before the season — hours and operators can change year to year.

Getting There

Otzias is accessible via a paved road from Korissia and is served by the seasonal bus in summer — check the current timetable at the port. By car, allow around 15–20 minutes from Korissia. There is parking near the beach, though it fills up on busy weekends in July and August.

Combining Otzias with a Walk

The path connecting Otzias to Ioulida via the Lion of Kea (Route Leon, approximately 5.1 km) is one of the island’s best short routes. It can be walked in either direction — starting in Ioulida, visiting the Lion, and finishing at the beach, or reversed if you’re based at Otzias and want to head uphill first. The full route takes roughly 1.5–2 hours. A shorter option is the coastal path toward Vourkari passing the prehistoric settlement of Agia Irini.

Practical Tips

• Arrive by 9am on summer weekends to secure parking
• The tamarisk end offers natural shade — no need for paid sunbeds
• Water depth is very shallow for the first 20–30 metres — ideal for young children
• The bus from Korissia runs several times daily in season; confirm the timetable locally
• The meltemi wind can pick up here in July and August — the water is usually still swimmable, but expect choppier conditions than in spring or September

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