Pisses is a low-key beach village on Kea’s western coast, set at the mouth of a green valley and beside one of the island’s more organized beaches — a quieter, less polished alternative to Koundouros, with a history that goes back to one of the island’s four ancient city-states.

The Setting

The drive to Pisses from Ioulida — roughly 12 km — passes through a landscape of hills, cypress and fruit trees before opening into the valley that leads down to the beach. The approach itself has a character not found near the island’s main ports: quieter, more rural, and with a sense of arriving somewhere off the main circuit.

Ancient Poiessa

Pisses occupies the site of ancient Poiessa, one of the four city-states of Kea. Traces of the ancient town survive: a fortification tower’s round base is still visible, and on the south coast, the remains of an ancient port have been identified. The little church of Agios Isidoros in the valley was constructed using ancient building material, making it an understated archaeological detail worth seeking out.

Pisses Beach

The beach is partly organized in season, with a taverna serving local dishes, shade trees and some facilities. It’s a good choice for a relaxed, beach-centred day — calmer in atmosphere than Koundouros, more accessible than the remote western beaches. The meltemi wind can affect swimming conditions here in peak summer, which also makes Pisses popular with windsurfers and snorkelers when the waters settle.

Read the full beach guide →

Accommodation and Camping

Pisses has a modest but practical range of accommodation, including one of Kea’s camping options — useful for budget travelers and those who want to base themselves on the western coast without the price premium of Koundouros. Verify current availability and opening periods before travelling.

The Poiiessa Walking Route

Route 10 (Poiiessa) connects Agia Marina tower to Pisses, passing the Hellenistic tower and through the valley. It’s around 5.5 km and can be walked in either direction, making Pisses both the trailhead and the endpoint depending on your starting point.

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