Lounge on the sands of this popular curving beach, which is blessed with shallow, safe waters and lots of family-friendly amenities.
Karathona Beach is a horseshoe-shaped strip of golden sand just south of the city of Nafplio. Sunbathe on the sands, swim in the safe waters and soak up the high-spirited vibe at the beachfront cafés and tavernas.
Use the on-site changing facilities to change into your swimsuit before venturing out into the water. The conditions here are generally calm, the waters stay shallow until quite far out and the seabed is mostly sandy, as opposed to rocky, making it particularly well-suited to families.
Rent a deck chair to lay out on and dry off under the sun’s rays. If you’d prefer some shade, pay for the use of a parasol.
Take a stroll along the length of the beach and try to spot examples of local plant species. Palms and eucalyptus can both be seen here. If you want to explore a little further, follow one of the nearby walking paths, which lead to pleasant little churches. Panagitsa, the church visible on the hill above the beach, is perhaps the most striking. Be sure to bring water with you as none is available once you set off on the trails.
Back at the beach, enjoy a refreshing drink or lunch in the handful or so of tavernas and cafés. Note that most of these are only open during summer.
Before leaving the beach, rinse off any residual sand at the shower facilities. Toilets are also found on the beach.
Find Karathona Beach around 3 miles (5 kilometres) south of Nafplio. Driving will take just 10 minutes and there is a large car park at the beach. If you’re feeling energetic, follow the walking path along the coast, accessible via Arvanitia Square. The walk typically takes around 45 minutes and there are plenty of benches along the way for resting. In summer, a bus route connects the beach with Nafplio.
