Kandia, a peaceful sandy beach on the outskirts of Nafplio
If you think the beaches around Nafplio are packed with tourists then take a look a little further, at a beach that few only know about and is surprisingly pleasant.
Outside of Nafplio are all the tourist areas of Argolida, Asini, Tolo, Drepano, Vivari, Agios Nikolaos or Kondyli, but one side has strangely remained unseen and unknown to the public.
And this is Kandia which took its name from the old name of Heraklion in Crete because it was settled by cretans who were granted these lands after the establishment of the greek state as Crete remained under Ottoman rule.
As soon as you see it you wonder what the chances are such a beautiful sandy beach could have escaped the visitors of Nafplio? And yet it happened, unknown why, but it happened!
Lovely, clean has everything you need to relax and enjoy the sun and your swim. It is not shallow, it gets deep quickly but I think it is suitable for children since there is enough space to play with the sand or whatever else they want.
Note that if there is a strong southern wind the waves are strong.
The hotels I recommend to stay in Nafplio are:
- (€€) Ilion Suites (⭐ 9.1) I consider it one of the top stay options both for the interiors that refer to the 19th century when Nafplio was the capital and because it is near the city center
- (€€€) 3 Sixty Hotel & Suites (⭐ 9.3) the most luxurious stay option in the city in a central location with top-notch amenities
- (€€€) Ippoliti Hotel (⭐ 9.2) luxury of another era in the harbour of Nafplio with a view of Bourtzi
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If you choose to stay in Tolo I recommend Minoa Hotel on the beach
It has beach bars and fish tavern but I single out two that I consider to be additional reasons to visit the beach.
Baraki a very nice beach bar on the sand is a place of absolute relaxation and fully integrated into the landscape as everything is wooden and wicker. With free sun loungers enjoy coffee, cocktails, pizzas, a variety of meats and all at reasonable prices. It also has free parking so you don't need to worry about that.
Tzavaras fish tavern a genuine fish tavern that could be the only reason to visit Kandia. Enjoy fresh fish in an setting where the seascape and the air bring the appetite. With a rich menu also that includes several tasty dishes.
Tzavaras fish tavern
The beach has showers, but not all over the area, and plenty of free space for those who want to put up their own umbrella or spread out their towel. It is located half an hour from Nafplio.
See the map below for the exact location of Kandia.
