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You'll find pumice beaches on Kimolos. Actual volcanic pumice mixed with white sand, creating some of the most unusual coastlines in Greece.
This isn't your typical Cycladic postcard. While most Greek islands promise blue domes and whitewashed villages, Kimolos adds volcanic moonscapes, abandoned mining tunnels, and beaches that feel like nowhere else in the Aegean. I've visited twice now, and it still feels like I'm exploring a secret that most travelers haven't discovered yet.
The island sits just a 10-minute boat ride from Milos, but the two couldn't be more different. Where Milos draws crowds, Kimolos remains refreshingly quiet. Where other islands rely on tourism, this place maintains working fishing boats and local traditions that feel genuinely unchanged.
Why Visit Kimolos
Kimolos offers some of Greece's most distinctive beaches alongside authentic island culture that hasn't been polished for Instagram. The volcanic coastline creates swimming spots you won't find anywhere else - think white pumice cliffs, turquoise lagoons, and sand so fine it squeaks under your feet.
The island's mining heritage adds fascinating layers to explore. Old quarries have filled with seawater, creating natural swimming pools. Abandoned tunnels wind through cliffs. The main village, Chorio, clusters around a medieval fortress that locals still call home.
What really sets Kimolos apart is the complete absence of tourist crowds, even in summer. The private cruise from Sifnos includes Kimolos specifically because it offers untouched beauty that larger islands can't match.
Perfect for: Beach lovers seeking unique coastlines, photographers wanting dramatic landscapes, travelers who prefer authentic Greek culture over resort experiences, couples looking for romantic isolation
Skip if: You need nightlife, extensive shopping, or luxury amenities - Kimolos is beautifully simple, which isn't for everyone
Quick Facts
- Best time to visit: May-June and September-October
- How many days needed: 3-5 days
- Budget estimate: €45-85 per day
- Getting there: Ferry from Athens (5 hours) or day trip from Milos
- Vibe: Peaceful, authentic, beach-focused with volcanic landscapes
Best Time to Visit Kimolos
Spring (April-May): Perfect weather with temperatures around 20-25°C. Wildflowers bloom across the volcanic landscape, creating stunning photo opportunities. Most accommodations and restaurants open by May 1st. This is my favorite time - warm enough for swimming but cool enough for hiking the mining trails.
Summer (June-August): Peak season brings 28-32°C temperatures and the most reliable ferry schedules. July-August see the most visitors, though "crowded" on Kimolos means you might share a beach with five other people instead of having it completely to yourself. Book accommodations early as options are limited.
Fall (September-October): Excellent choice with warm sea temperatures (perfect for swimming) and fewer tourists. September often has the calmest weather. October can be spectacular but some restaurants close mid-month, so check ahead.
Winter (November-March): Most tourist facilities close, and ferry schedules become irregular. The dramatic volcanic landscape looks incredible in winter light, but you'll need to be self-sufficient for meals and activities.
How to Get to Kimolos
By Ferry from Athens: The main route runs from Piraeus port to Kimolos, taking about 5 hours and costing €35-85 depending on season and ferry type. SeaJets operates the fastest service during summer months. Check schedules on FerryHopper as they change seasonally.
Book tickets in advance during July-August, especially for car transport. The ferry port in Kimolos is tiny and charming - basically a small pier with a single café.
Via Milos: Many travelers use Milos as a base and take the small ferry to Kimolos (10 minutes, €3-5). This local boat runs several times daily in summer, less frequently in shoulder seasons. It's the most scenic route, offering great views of both islands' volcanic coastlines.
By Air: No airport on Kimolos. Fly to Milos (connections through Athens) then take the inter-island ferry, or fly to Athens and connect via Piraeus ferry.
Pro tip: The morning ferries from Piraeus offer the best deck views as you approach the Cyclades. Grab coffee from the ferry café and position yourself on the upper deck for incredible photos.
Where to Stay in Kimolos
Best Areas
Psathi (Port Area): Most convenient for ferry arrivals with several accommodation options within walking distance. You'll hear some ferry noise but gain easy access to waterfront restaurants and the inter-island boat to Milos. Best for travelers without cars.
Chorio (Main Village): The atmospheric hilltop village offers the most authentic experience. Stay within the medieval Kastro (fortress area) for ultimate charm, though you'll need to walk or drive down to beaches. Perfect for photographers and culture enthusiasts.
Near Prassa Beach: A few scattered accommodations offer beach proximity and stunning sunset views. More isolated but incredibly peaceful. Rent a car if staying here.
Budget Options (€40-80)
Room availability on Kimolos is limited compared to larger islands, so book early. Most budget accommodations are simple but clean rooms or apartments run by local families. Expect basic amenities but genuine Greek hospitality.
Look for rooms in Chorio's traditional houses - many retain original stone architecture and offer terraces with sea views. Several family-run places don't advertise online, so ask at the port café when you arrive.
Mid-Range (€80-150)
Boutique guesthouses and renovated traditional properties dominate this category. Many feature stunning terraces overlooking the Aegean and include breakfast with local specialties.
The best mid-range options combine traditional Cycladic architecture with modern comforts like air conditioning and private bathrooms. Some include kitchenettes, essential for preparing fresh fish from the port market.
Splurge Options (€150+)
Luxury is relative on Kimolos - even high-end accommodations maintain the island's authentic character rather than resort-style amenities. Expect beautifully restored captains' houses with premium locations, often featuring private terraces, sophisticated design, and personalized service.
The most expensive properties offer exclusive access to hidden beaches or private boat trips, justifying higher prices through unique experiences rather than standard luxury amenities.
Things to Do in Kimolos
Explore Klima Beach and the Volcanic Coast
The most distinctive beach experience in the Cyclades. Klima combines white pumice sand with turquoise water, creating an almost otherworldly swimming environment. The beach sits beneath white volcanic cliffs that provide natural shade.
The pumice creates incredibly soft sand that's unlike anything you'll experience on other Greek islands. Swimming here feels like floating in a natural spa. Bring water shoes for exploring the rocky areas where hot springs occasionally bubble up.
Wander Through Chorio's Medieval Kastro
The fortified village center dates to the 15th century and remains remarkably intact. Local families still live within the fortress walls, hanging laundry between medieval archways and tending small gardens in ancient courtyards.
The Archaeological Museum occupies a former Ottoman mansion and displays finds from the island's mining history. Entry costs €3 and includes access to the fortress walls for panoramic views across to Milos.
Don't miss the sunset from the Kastro's highest point - it's one of the best vantage points in the Cyclades.
Take the Polyaigos and Kimolos Private Cruise
The 6-hour private cruise from Sifnos offers the ultimate way to see Kimolos's coastline from the water. At €485 for a private group, it's perfect for couples or small groups wanting exclusive access to hidden coves.
The cruise includes swimming stops at beaches only accessible by boat, snorkeling gear, and local wine. Book the earliest departure to avoid afternoon winds and get the best photography light.
The boat stops at Polyaigos island's famous Blue Bay, often called Greece's most beautiful beach, making this a two-island adventure worth the splurge.
Hike to Skiadi Rock Formation
This natural volcanic sculpture resembles a giant mushroom carved by centuries of wind erosion. The 45-minute hike from Chorio follows old mining paths through dramatic lunar landscapes.
Bring plenty of water and sun protection - there's no shade along the route. The best time is early morning or late afternoon when the light makes the volcanic rock glow orange and pink.
The formation itself is impressive, but the real reward is the 360-degree views across the Aegean from this elevated position.
Swim at Bonatsa Beach
The most accessible beach from Chorio, featuring the island's famous pumice sand and crystal-clear water. Natural rock formations create several small coves, each offering different experiences from completely secluded to semi-social.
The leftmost cove often has the calmest water and finest sand. Snorkeling around the volcanic rocks reveals colorful fish and interesting underwater formations. No facilities, so bring water and snacks.
Explore the Abandoned Mining Tunnels
Kimolos produced chalk and pumice for centuries, leaving behind a network of abandoned quarries and tunnels. Some have filled with seawater, creating unique swimming holes with mineral-rich water.
The most accessible site sits near Rema village, about 20 minutes from Chorio. Local guides can show you the safest areas to explore - some tunnels extend deep underground and shouldn't be entered alone.
The industrial archaeology here tells fascinating stories about island life before tourism, when mining supported most families.
Visit Prassa Beach for Sunset
The island's longest beach offers dramatic sunset views across to Milos. The sand here mixes traditional golden color with white pumice, creating beautiful patterns as waves recede.
Several small tavernas operate during summer, serving fresh fish and local wine. The beach faces west, making it perfect for evening swimming when the water catches golden light.
Rent a scooter or car to reach Prassa easily - it's about 15 minutes from Chorio along a scenic coastal road.
Day Trip to Polyaigos Island
Uninhabited Polyaigos offers some of the Aegean's most pristine beaches. Local fishermen run small boats from Kimolos port during calm weather, typically charging €20-30 per person for transport.
Blue Bay (Galazia Nera) features impossibly turquoise water surrounded by white cliffs. No facilities exist on Polyaigos, so bring everything you need including plenty of water and sun protection.
The trip depends entirely on weather conditions - ask at the port the evening before to check if boats are running.
Where to Eat & Drink in Kimolos
Local Specialties: Fresh seafood dominates menus, particularly the small fish called atherina that's lightly fried and served whole. Local cheese called ladotyri is aged in olive oil and makes an excellent appetizer. The island produces excellent vinsanto dessert wine.
Chorio: The main village has three traditional tavernas, all serving similar menus of grilled fish, Greek salads, and house wine. Prices are remarkably reasonable - expect €12-18 for a full meal with wine. The taverna near the central square offers the best sunset views from its terrace.
Psathi Port: Two waterfront restaurants serve the freshest fish on the island, bought directly from boats that dock outside. The family-run place on the right (facing the water) specializes in grilled octopus and has the island's best wine selection.
Budget Eating: Buy fresh bread from the single bakery in Chorio and combine with local cheese, tomatoes, and olives from the small grocery stores. A feast costs under €8. Several beaches have natural shade where you can enjoy picnic lunches.
Drinking: Nightlife is minimal and locally-focused. The main café in Chorio serves excellent Greek coffee and stays open late for conversation. Beach bars don't exist - bring your own drinks for sunset viewing.
Getting Around Kimolos
Rental Car: The best option for beach access and exploration. The island has about 30km of mostly unpaved roads connecting all major sights. Rental costs €25-35 per day from the single agency near the port. Book ahead in summer as they have limited vehicles.
Scooter/ATV: Perfect for solo travelers or couples. Costs €15-25 per day and handles the unpaved roads well. No license required for smaller engines. Helmets are provided but bring your own if you prefer.
Walking: Chorio is entirely walkable, and several beaches can be reached on foot. The hike to Klima beach takes about 30 minutes from town center. Bring sun protection and plenty of water - there's limited shade along most walking routes.
Local Bus: A single bus connects the port to Chorio and some beaches, running 3-4 times daily in summer. Cost is €1-2 per ride. Schedule is posted at the port but can be irregular.
Taxi: Two taxis serve the entire island. They're expensive (€8-15 for short rides) but reliable for airport transfers or reaching beaches without rental transport.
Insider Tips for Kimolos
- Transportation: Rent wheels for maximum flexibility - the island's best beaches require driving on unpaved roads that buses don't service regularly
- Best Times: Visit Klima beach before 10am to have the volcanic coastline completely to yourself - it's magical in morning light
- Money-Saving: Stock up on groceries in Chorio's small markets rather than relying entirely on restaurant meals - fresh local ingredients make simple meals spectacular
- Hidden Gems: Ask fishermen at the port about weather conditions for reaching Polyaigos - they know which days offer the calmest crossings to the uninhabited island
- Food & Drink: Try the house wine at every taverna you visit - quality is consistently excellent and prices are extremely reasonable compared to more touristy islands
Sample 3-Day Kimolos Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & Chorio Exploration Morning: Arrive via ferry at Psathi port, check into accommodation in Chorio, walk through the medieval Kastro fortress Afternoon: Lunch at a traditional taverna in the main square, visit the Archaeological Museum, explore the fortress walls Evening: Sunset dinner at the taverna with terrace views, early rest after ferry travel
Day 2: Beach Day and Volcanic Landscapes Morning: Drive or hike to Klima beach for swimming in the pumice sand coves, bring picnic supplies from Chorio Lunch: Beach picnic at Klima with local cheese, bread, and wine Afternoon: Hike to Skiadi rock formation for dramatic volcanic scenery and photos Evening: Dinner at Psathi port for the freshest seafood, caught that morning by local boats
Day 3: Island Hopping and Departure Morning: Take the inter-island ferry to Milos for a few hours of exploration, or join a boat trip to Polyaigos if weather permits Lunch: Return to Kimolos for final meal at your favorite discovered taverna Afternoon: Last swim at Bonatsa beach, pack and prepare for departure Evening: Ferry back to Athens or overnight ferry connections to other islands
Need help planning your perfect Kimolos itinerary? Try our AI Greek Trip Planner to create a personalized trip based on your preferences.
Budget Breakdown
Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Comfort
Accommodation | €35-50 | €80-120 | €150-200
Food & Drink | €15-20 | €25-35 | €40-50
Transport | €8-12 | €15-25 | €30-40
Activities | €5-10 | €15-25 | €50-80
Daily Total | €63-92 | €135-205 | €270-370
Budget includes basic rooms, taverna meals, walking/bus transport, and free activities. Mid-range adds car rental, nicer accommodations, and some paid activities. Comfort includes premium stays and private boat trips.
For more detailed Greek island budgeting, check out our complete guide on how much a Greece trip costs.
Final Thoughts
Kimolos won't overwhelm you with attractions or nightlife options. Instead, it offers something increasingly rare in Greek tourism: genuine authenticity combined with spectacular natural beauty that hasn't been optimized for Instagram.
The volcanic beaches alone justify the journey, but it's the combination of unique landscapes, warm local hospitality, and complete absence of tourist crowds that makes this island special. I've recommended it to friends seeking peaceful Greek island experiences, and every single one has thanked me.
If you're planning a broader Greek adventure, Kimolos works perfectly in 7-day or 10-day itineraries as either a peaceful contrast to busier islands or a gateway to exploring the lesser-known Cyclades.
The island rewards slow travel and simple pleasures. Bring a good book, comfortable walking shoes, and an appetite for fresh seafood. You'll leave refreshed and probably already planning your return.
Ready to plan your perfect Greek adventure? Try our AI Greek Trip Planner to create a personalized itinerary based on your preferences, travel style, and available time.