Pori beach on Koufonissi

Many people consider Pori Beach to be the best beach on Koufonissi. Some think that Pori is the best beach in Greece, be that as it may, in any case it is nice. From a distance one can compare Pori to an enormous swimming pool, a pool that is just waiting to be bathed in. And there are many who do so, with clothes and without clothes.

When we were at Koufonissi for the first time (1997) there was nothing between Finikas and Pori. It was virgin land and absolutely, absolutely wonderful. Pori was then experienced as if you were on a paradise beach in the Caribbean. Times are changing, and today the beaches of Koufonissi have become both hotels and taverns, but the beach in Pori is still just as fantastic. Further down the page are pictures where you can see what Pori beach looked like in the past.

The U-shaped and lagoon-like swimming pool in Pori.

At the last readers voting at Kalimera (the Swedish version of Kalispera), Pori came in fourth place out of 200 possible beaches. The voting says more about Kalimera's readers than about the true reality. The beach lies along a half moon shaped lagoon filled with azure blue crystal clear water whose bottom is almost perfect.

Pori beach in one direction.

Pori beach in the other direction.

During high season there isn't room to swing a cat here, some people build up their own area with stones and reeds, others bring their tents, some wild camping also occur. But do not fear, Pori is a must when you are on Koufonissi. Especially when there is no wind and the lagoon is as smooth as a mirror. What you may miss at Pori is shade. Fortunately there is one taverna and one snack bar where you can escape the sun for a while.

One of the few trees on the beach.

It is not possible to rent sunbeds or parasols, so you have to bring your own.

Taverna and snack bar on the far side of the beach.

Pori beach a hazy day in June.

The bay where Pori is located is a very popular anchorage for sailing boats.

Lazy days at Pori beach.

If you walk along Pori beach until it ends, and continue along the coastline until you round the corner you will soon see a small opening in the rock that you can swim through (if there is no wind). You will come out on a small pebble beach on the other side of the rock, the beach is like behind the sea, like in a cave. To swim inside might not sound so tempting, instead you can continue walking a bit further round the corner, after a few minutes you will reach the cave beach, or Gala Beach as it is called.

Hooray, we have arrived at Gala beach.

It is strange to stand there and watch the waves beat against the shore and the only thing you see is a rock. Pack your backpack with wine and cheese and set aside one day to this strange place. Previously it was possible to continue a little bit further along the sea, but the waves and erosion has unfortunately destroyed parts of the coast.

To the left of Gala beach there are some caves that go by the name Xylobatis Caves. Here the water is even clearer and it is an ideal place for you who like to snorkel.

Xylobatis Caves at Pori beach on Koufonissi are suitable for those who enjoy snorkeling.

Besides the coastal path to Pori (about 4 km from Chora), you can walk via a concrete road starting approximately at the Koufonisia Hotel in Chora, the road is one (1) kilometre shorter. Do you not want to walk at all, go by beach boat from Chora, or go by bus that starts from the port.

ACCOMMODATION IN PORI

The supply is small, not to say very small. The one closest to the beach is Blue Harpist Villas which you can book via the link below.

Book Blue Harpist Villas here »

Old photos from Pori beach on Koufonissi.

Pori beach in 1997. At that time there was virtually nothing in the area.

The same view in 2007.

Pori beach on Koufonissi 1997.

Pori beach on Koufonissi 2002.

Pori beach on Koufonissi 2007.

Do not miss Devil's Eye, which you can read about here »

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