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Beaches · North Aegean, North Aegean

Tsamadou Beach, Samos

  • Vibeclear-water pebble cove with a relaxed, repeat-visitor atmosphere
  • Distance12 km from Vathy
  • Rating★ 4.5
  • Best seasonJune–September
  • Difficultymoderate
  • TransportWalk from Kokkari (25 min) or rental car

Tsamadou Beach lies on the northern coast of Samos approximately 12 kilometres west of the island capital Vathy, just beyond the resort village of Kokkari. The beach is composed entirely of smooth rounded pebbles — ranging from marble-white to pale grey — creating a striking contrast with the intensely clear blue-green water. The pebble surface stays cooler underfoot than sandy beaches and dries quickly after a swim.

Tsamadou Beach, Samos

Tsamadou Beach lies on the northern coast of Samos approximately 12 kilometres west of the island capital Vathy, just beyond the resort village of Kokkari. The beach is composed entirely of smooth rounded pebbles — ranging from marble-white to pale grey — creating a striking contrast with the intensely clear blue-green water. The pebble surface stays cooler underfoot than sandy beaches and dries quickly after a swim. The bay is of moderate length — approximately 300 metres — and faces northward, receiving good morning light and the afternoon sea breeze that makes summer conditions comfortable. The water clarity at Tsamadou is exceptional: in calm conditions visibility extends to the sea floor, and the water takes on a vivid electric colour over the pale pebble base. Snorkelling along the edges of the cove, where pebble gives way to submerged rocks, reveals wrasse, bream, and occasional grouper. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent through the main summer months, and the beach is well-maintained. Unlike Kokkari's main beach a short distance away, Tsamadou draws a slightly more laid-back visitor profile. Nudism is practised at the far eastern end of the beach and is widely accepted by other beach-goers. A scenic coastal footpath from Kokkari reaches Tsamadou in approximately 25 minutes, following the clifftop above the sea before descending to the beach — a walk recommended in its own right for the panoramic North Aegean views. Rental car access is straightforward, with a small car park above the beach. No lifeguard is present. Tsamadou is particularly popular with Greek visitors and repeat tourists who know the North Aegean coast well.

Amenities

  • sunbeds
  • umbrellas
  • crystal water
  • pebbles

Good to know

Best for
swimmers, snorkellers, couples, nudists, solo

Location

Tsamadou, 83100 Samos

37.7872, 26.8658 View on map

Highlights

  • Crystal-clear water over smooth white-and-grey pebbles — among the finest swimming conditions near Kokkari
  • 25-minute coastal cliff walk from Kokkari village with panoramic North Aegean views
  • Nudism accepted at the eastern end of the beach in a relaxed, long-established tradition
  • Pebble surface stays cool in the midday heat and dries quickly — practical for repeat swimmers
  • Snorkelling along the rocky cove margins reveals wrasse, bream, and grouper

Tips for visiting

  • Nude sunbathing is permitted at the far end of the beach
  • The walk from Kokkari village along the coastal path is scenic

When to visit

June through September; early mornings in July and August offer the calmest water and fewest visitors before the beach fills by mid-morning.

Accessibility

The coastal footpath from Kokkari and the descent from the car park involve uneven terrain not suitable for wheelchairs. The pebble beach surface is also challenging for mobility-impaired visitors; no adapted access is available.

Frequently asked questions

Is Tsamadou a nudist beach?

Nudism is practised at the far eastern end of Tsamadou and is widely accepted by beach-goers. The main central section is used by swimmers in swimwear; the nudist area is self-selecting and has no enforcement.

Is the beach sandy?

No. Tsamadou is entirely pebble, with no sand. The rounded smooth stones are comfortable to lie on with a towel or mat. Water shoes are strongly recommended for entering the sea comfortably.

Can visitors walk from Kokkari to Tsamadou?

Yes. A scenic coastal footpath connects Kokkari village to Tsamadou in about 25 minutes. The path follows the cliff edge with sea views throughout and is well-marked. The walk is a rewarding experience in its own right.

Are there food and drink options at Tsamadou?

There is no beach bar or taverna directly at Tsamadou. Sunbed and umbrella rental is available in summer. Kokkari village, a 25-minute walk away, has a full range of restaurants, cafes, and shops.

Is snorkelling worthwhile at Tsamadou?

Yes. The water clarity is excellent and the rocky edges of the cove support a variety of Mediterranean reef fish. The pale pebble and submerged rock sea floor is ideal for observing marine life at shallow depth in very clear conditions.