Kyra Panagia beach

Kyra Panagia is a sandy beach on Karpathos set within a small cove backed by mountains, combining light sand with smooth pebbles along its shoreline. A steep cliff forms the southern edge, topped by a church that overlooks the entire beach.

A church dedicated to the Virgin Mary was built on the southern cliff several centuries ago and gave the beach its name. This religious structure has remained a defining landmark throughout the area's history.

Fishermen land their catch nearby and sell to the beachside tavern, where you can watch staff prepare traditional Greek seafood dishes using local ingredients. This connection between fishing and the kitchen makes the place feel grounded in local life.

The beach has parking nearby and offers sunbed and umbrella rentals on-site for comfort. A selection of tavernas and shops in the surrounding area makes it easy to spend a full day here without needing to leave.

The mountains curve around the beach like a natural amphitheater, creating unusual acoustics that make quiet moments feel more immersive and the sounds of waves echo distinctly. The grey pebbles beneath the water shift in tone alongside the deep blue water, creating a visual effect that changes as you move along the shore.