Marmari / Dodecanese Islands / Greece

Marmari lies on the northern coast of Kos. It is 8 kms from Kos airport and 2.5 kms from the nearest village of Pyli. A Mediterranean climate leads to dry hot summer days with cooling sea breezes and mild winters with some rain. Average temperatures between May-September hover around 27°C and 24°C for the water. As it is more exposed than some other beaches, it is very popular with windsurfers and kitesurfers.

It is a long white sandy beach with sand dunes. There is a shallow access into the water which extends 50 m from the beach. Crystal clear water reveals a sandy bottom.

The Meltemi thermal winds blow west, northwest and north. Morning winds blow around 2-4 bft and offer ideal conditions for beginners and intermediates. There is little current, so it is easy to get back to shore. In the afternoon, the speed picks up to 4-6 bft and the wind blows sideshore until sunset. The water is flat with a little chop and small waves, but with strong afternoon winds, expect 1.5m or higher towards the end of day. A shorty is sufficient for all the seasons except winter when a full wetsuit is necessary.

Rentals are available at the windsurfing centers on the beach, but bringing your own harness and wetsuit is advisable. The beach is well equipped with sunbeds and umbrellas, upscale hotels right on the beach, and apartments and several choices of hotels less than 1 km away. Restaurants and bars are located in the hotels and in the village. As there is a well paved road all the way to the beach, access is easy on the local bus or by car or scooter. There is sufficient parking.

Be careful of swimmers especially in the peak months of June-August.

Baywatch and rescue boats assure safety.