One of the very few, very cute seaside towns in inland Greece, Kardamyli is really picture-perfect and ideal for families!
The village
Kardamyli is a lovely stone-built village by the sea. Its main road is where stylish boutiques, cute crafts shops and flower-drenched cafes are located. From here, the alleys leading to the marina are stone-built, with traditional houses and quiet rich gardens. The marina is one of the most beautiful in Greece, with restored buildings, great views and amazing dining options.
Old Town Kardamyli is just 3 minutes walk uphill from the main road and just 10 from the marina. You can visit the olf Mourtzinos Tower, as well as the medieval chapel of Saint Spyridon. It’s definitely worth a walk up here, for the views as well as the cozy tavern.
Then there’s Ritsa, the long pebble beach, with taverns and amazing accommodation options, right next to the marina.
Where to Eat
We loved Tikla right on the marina with great sea views. The decor is magnificent, so is the mediterranean cuisine.
Lela’s Tavern is close by and has equally lovely views. The food is traditional here, capturing the essence of the local Maniot cuisine.
On Ritsa’s beach, Elies tavern is more famous than the village itself. It features a playground and a lovely olive garden, while the cuisine is greek with a twist.
In Old Town Kardamyli, “Old Kardamyli” tavern has lovely views, thick shadow and is quiet with local Maniot food.
On your way back from the marina to the main road, stop at the gelato place:
Where to Stay
Right in the heart of Old Kardamyli, one of the oldest towers, the historic Petreas Tower dates back to the 1790 and was recently renovated as a guesthouse. We stayed in the summer of 2022 with our and loved the stone patio, the sea view, our walks to the quiet Old Kardamyly, as well as the feeling of staying at a real castle, a live museum of the Petreas family and history. We also loved having a kitchen, 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. It’s ideal for families with older kids, due to its tower structure.
On Ritsa beach, Liodentra Guesthouse is a family friendly villa with pool, in an olive grove with playground, toys and a little guesthouse for grandma and grandpa. It’s right on the beach, within walking distance from taverns, and it also serves breakfast, guarantying a memorable stay. 
Where to Swim
Kardamyli is the perfect spot if you want to stay by the beach or in a picture-perfect beach town. Ritsa beach is pebbles only, some parts are organised by the nearby beach bars, most are free.
When you do want to drive, 6-10 minutes away you’ll find 2 of the best beaches of the area, Foneas with its caves and Delfinia with its sand and beauty. The same coast will lead you to Kalogria beach, the Stone Pool, Trahila and the famous Stoupa sandy beach. 
Explore
From Kardamyli, you can easily explore Messinia, as it’s only 40 minutes from Kitries village or Kalamata city.
You’are equally close to Laconia, too. Cosmopolitan Limeni fish village is 50 minutes away, as well as lovely Areopoli. Oitylo is even closer, while the beaches of Mesa Mani are a bit over an hour away.
