Aerial view of Kea island coastline, Cyclades, Greece

Otzias — Northern Bay Village

Otzias has grown into one of Kea’s most popular family bases, built around its own long sandy beach — the island’s largest — and within easy reach of Ioulida and several walking paths.

The Village

Otzias sits on the northern coast of Kea, about 5.5 km from Korissia port by road. In recent years it has developed a range of accommodation, tavernas and tourist services around its broad bay, while retaining the relaxed pace of a beach-centred village. The setting is wide and spacious — the bay opens generously to the north, flanked by low hills and the small whitewashed churches of Agios Sostis and Agios Georgios at either end of the shore.

Otzias Beach

The beach at Otzias is Kea’s longest, stretching roughly 700 metres of golden sand backed by tamarisk trees at its eastern end. The water is calm and the entry is shallow — well suited to families with young children. Part of the beach is organized with sunbeds and umbrellas for hire; the tamarisk end offers natural shade for those who prefer not to hire equipment. Seasonal tavernas sit just back from the shore.

Read the full guide to Otzias Beach →

Walking from Otzias

The signed path network connects Otzias to Ioulida via the Lion of Kea (Route Leon, approximately 5.1 km). This is one of the island’s most popular routes, combining the archaic lion sculpture with a beach finish — or beach start, if you prefer to end in the capital. The walk takes roughly 1.5–2 hours depending on pace and stops.

Getting There and Staying

Otzias is reachable by paved road from Korissia and is served by the seasonal bus in summer. Accommodation options include rooms, studios and guesthouses spread around the bay. It’s a good base for families wanting a beach focus while staying within reach of Ioulida and the inland walks.

Also in Kea

Kea (Tzia) island from above, Aegean Sea

Otzias Beach

Kea’s longest sandy bay

Narrow stone-paved street in Ioulida, Kea

Lion of Kea

15–20 min walk to the archaic sculpture

Scenic view over hills and sea of Kea island

Hiking in Kea

Route Leon starts in Ioulida