Things to Do in Vlychadia, Kalymnos: Swim, Canoe, Cliff Jumping and a Long Lunch
Most visitors arrive in Kalymnos at Pothia and head straight for the west coast. Those who take the short road south to Vlychadia find something different: a small, calm bay, a slower rhythm and some of the clearest water on the island. Our family has been on this beach since 1995. This is how we would spend a day here.
Where is Vlychadia?
Vlychadia is on the southern coast of Kalymnos, below the village of Vothyni, about 6 km from Pothia, which is 5 to 10 minutes by car or scooter. A taxi from Pothia costs roughly €12. There are only one or two buses a day, so most people drive. At Paradisio there is free parking right next to the restaurant for our guests.
Do not confuse it with Vlychada on Santorini or in Crete: always search for "Vlychadia, Kalymnos".
1. Swim in a calm, shallow bay
The beach in front of Paradisio is pebbly, with water that stays shallow for a long way out, which is why so many families with small children come here. There are sunbeds and umbrellas on the beach, and the bay is quiet in the morning, when the water is often like glass.
2. Paddle a canoe and try water sports
The calm water of the bay is perfect for getting out on the sea. You can go canoeing along the coast and try water sports in Vlychadia, a lovely way to see the bay and its rocky edges from the water. Ask us on the day what is available.
3. Cliff jumping at Vala
For something more adventurous, the rocks in the area we locals call Vala are a favourite spot for jumping into the deep, clear sea, and for a swim away from the main beach. It is one of those simple island pleasures that guests remember.
4. Snorkel and dive
Kalymnos is the island of the sponge divers, and the sea around Vlychadia is a natural playground for exploring underwater. The clear water is great for snorkelling straight from the beach, and there is a dive centre in the Vlychadia area offering courses and dives for every level.
5. Escape the wind
Kalymnos is known for the meltemi, the strong summer north wind. On those days the west coast beaches can be rough. Our side of Vlychadia stays very protected, so it is the place many locals choose when the wind is up. If it ever rains, we also have a covered area.
6. Start the day with a proper coffee
We open at 09:30. Coffee has been our passion for many years, so the morning is a lovely time to come: breakfast by the water before the beach fills up.
7. Snacks, cocktails and a long lunch
You do not need to leave the beach to eat well. Our full menu, cocktails and spirits are served all day, and there is also a light beach snack menu until 17:00. For lunch, try the fish of the day from our own local fishermen, a tuna fillet, fylla (Kalymnian stuffed vine leaves) and mermizeli, the island salad. Read more in our guide on where to eat in Vlychadia.
8. Shop for something handmade
Inside the restaurant you will find the Paradisio Concept Store: island-style clothing, jewellery, bags, sun hats and swimwear by Greek designers, many of them handmade, plus little treasures from Kalymnos such as natural sponges.
9. Watch the bay change colour
The sun does not set directly over the sea in Vlychadia, but in the evening the light turns the water and the surrounding hills gold and pink. Stay for a cocktail and dinner, served until midnight.
On the way to Vlychadia
The road from Pothia to Vlychadia passes some of the most interesting places on this side of the island, so it is worth taking your time:
- The Kalymnian House: a private folk museum in a restored traditional house, on the road towards Vothyni about 1.5 km from Pothia. It shows how a Kalymnian family lived in the late 19th and early 20th century: furniture, household objects, costumes, bridal dresses and old photographs. There is also a small shop with local herbs and crafts.
- Monastery of Agios Savvas: high above Pothia and impossible to miss thanks to its large cross, it is a place of pilgrimage for thousands of visitors every year, and its terrace has one of the best views over Pothia, the harbour and the sea. Dress modestly: shoulders and knees covered.
- Kefalas Cave: one of the island's most impressive caves, with large chambers full of stalactites and stalagmites, lies on this southern side of Kalymnos. In season, boat trips go there from Pothia.
Opening times change through the season, so check locally before you go. For more ideas around the island, see our guide to the best things to do in Kalymnos.
A day in Vlychadia
| 09:00 | On the way: the Kalymnian House and the view from Agios Savvas |
|---|---|
| 10:00 | Coffee and breakfast by the water |
| 11:00 | Swim and snorkel while the bay is calm |
| 12:30 | Canoe along the coast, or jump from the rocks at Vala |
| 14:00 | A long lunch: fish of the day, fylla, mermizeli |
| 16:30 | Back to the sunbed with a cocktail |
Frequently asked questions
Is Vlychadia worth visiting?
Yes, especially for families, snorkellers and anyone who wants a calm beach. The water is shallow and clear, the bay is sheltered from the north wind, and you can combine a swim with canoeing, cliff jumping and a long lunch by the sea.
How do I get to Vlychadia from Pothia?
Vlychadia is about 6 km from Pothia, 5 to 10 minutes by car or scooter, on the road past the Kalymnian House towards Vothyni. A taxi costs roughly €12. Buses run only once or twice a day.
Is Vlychadia beach good for kids?
Yes. The water stays shallow and calm, there are sunbeds and umbrellas, and food and drinks are served all day at Paradisio right on the beach.
Can you go cliff jumping in Vlychadia?
Yes. The rocks in the area locals call Vala are a popular spot for jumping into deep, clear water. Always check the depth first, never jump alone and watch out for swimmers and boats.
Are there water sports in Vlychadia?
Yes. The calm bay is good for canoeing and water sports, and the clear water is excellent for snorkelling and diving, with a dive centre in the area.
What is there to see on the way to Vlychadia?
The Kalymnian House folk museum and the monastery of Agios Savvas, with its view over Pothia, are on this side of the island, and boat trips from Pothia visit Kefalas Cave.
