Koundouros Beach — Kea’s Most Popular Bay

Koundouros sits on the southwestern coast, about 18 km from Ioulida. Enclosed by low hills dotted with renovated stone windmills, this is the island’s most popular beach — frequently among its Blue Flag-awarded shores — and the hub of the island’s water-sports scene.

The Beach

The main beach at Koundouros is sandy, well-sheltered, and backed by a restaurant and beach bar that operate throughout summer. The water is typically calm and turquoise, and the bottom is sandy with a gentle gradient. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for hire. Yachts anchor regularly in the bay, lending the place a pleasingly Mediterranean atmosphere.

Immediately adjacent is Koundouraki beach, which serves as the base for Kea Water Sports. Here you can hire SUPs, pedalos, kayaks, and join speedboat and wakeboarding sessions.

Accommodation and Surroundings

The Koundouros area has developed into the island’s most polished resort zone. Several boutique hotels and luxury villa complexes have opened nearby, including the One&Only Kea Island resort. The surrounding hills are dotted with old windmills converted into habitable houses — a distinctive feature of this part of the island.

For those driving from Korissia, the road winds through the island’s interior, offering good views before descending to the southwestern coast.

Water Sports

Kea Water Sports at Koundouraki (the beach immediately next to Koundouros) offers a full range of sea activities: stand-up paddleboarding, kayaks, pedalos, wakeboarding, and speedboat excursions. Sessions can be booked on the day or in advance through the centre directly. Book ahead for weekends in July and August when demand is highest.

Practical Tips

• Book water sports in advance during July and August
• The beach restaurant at Koundouros serves food and cocktails all day
• The drive from Korissia takes 35–45 minutes on a winding but fully paved road
• Blue Flag designation is awarded annually — check the current season’s status on the Blue Flag website
• Nearby Koundouraki is also excellent for snorkelling around its rocky edges