You’ll find the remote Greek island of Kastellorizo just a few kilometers from Turkey’s coast. It’s got some of the most pristine swimming experiences in the Dodecanese.
The island’s showstopper is definitely the famous Blue Grotto. Sunlight slips through underwater openings and fills the cave with an unreal blue glow—honestly, it’s one of Greece’s most spectacular hidden swimming spots.
When I visited this tiny paradise, I jumped straight into crystal-clear waters right in the main harbor. Colorful neoclassical buildings surrounded me, and the water was almost too pretty to believe.
But the real adventure? That started when I hopped on a boat out to the legendary Blue Cave. You can only get there by small boat, and swimming inside its glowing turquoise interior is something I still daydream about.
Kastellorizo surprised me with more than just epic swims. I found a rich mix of history, local culture, and a slice of authentic Greek island life. From lazy dips in the harbor to the magic of the Blue Grotto, this little easternmost island serves up swimming experiences you just won’t find anywhere else in the Mediterranean.
Swimming in Kastellorizo’s Turquoise Harbor
The harbor waters around Kastellorizo are ridiculously clear. You can swim right off stone quays and rocky ledges with ease.
Multiple entry points line the waterfront, and the bay stays calm—perfect for snorkeling or just floating around and watching Mediterranean marine life.
Best Swimming Spots Around the Harbor
The main harbor bay feels like a giant natural pool. The turquoise water is almost see-through.
I found the easiest spots to get in and out along the harbor promenade. Stone steps and metal ladders help a lot.
Popular Swimming Areas:
- Harbor quay near the town center
- Rocky ledges on the eastern side
- Stone platforms by Megisti Hotel
- Mandraki area (look for the sandy patches)
The water’s usually calm since the harbor faces away from the wind. I could see the bottom even where it got pretty deep.
Some waterfront spots have sunbeds and umbrellas. The rocky platforms are great for sunbathing between swims.
Waterfront Life and Activities
Swimming in the harbor puts you right in the middle of daily island life. Fishing boats glide in and out, and locals share the same swimming spots as visitors.
The harbor promenade runs the whole length of the waterfront. I liked picking different swimming spots depending on the crowds or where the sun hit.
Harbor Activities:
- Watching fishing boats leave in the morning
- Grabbing coffee or lunch at waterfront cafes and tavernas
- Evening strolls along the quay
- Boat trips to nearby islands
I spent entire afternoons bouncing between swims and lazy hours at waterfront cafes. The mix of swimming, people-watching, and dining makes for a relaxed Mediterranean vibe.
Snorkeling and Marine Life Encounters
The water here is so clear, it almost feels unreal. Snorkeling just meters from the town center, I spotted all kinds of fish and sea life.
You’ll probably see small Mediterranean fish, sea urchins, and flashes of colorful underwater plants. The rocky areas are definitely the best for spotting marine life.
Even in the shallows, snorkeling is rewarding. I found the best underwater scenes along the rocky sections where the harbor meets the wild coastline.
Snorkeling Tips:
- Use reef-safe sunscreen
- Keep an eye out for sea urchins on rocks
- Early mornings are calmest
- Stick close to shore for safety
Journey to the Blue Grotto: A Dazzling Adventure
The Blue Grotto waits on the southeastern side of Kastellorizo. You’ll need a twenty-minute boat ride from the main harbor to get there.
This cave stretches 75 meters, and the water inside is so clear it almost glows. Sometimes, you might even spot seals resting on the tiny beach area.
How to Access the Blue Grotto
Getting to the Blue Grotto means booking a boat tour from Kastellorizo’s main harbor. Most operators use speedboats or inflatable boats for the ride.
The trip takes about 20 minutes. Tours usually need at least four passengers and max out at six per boat.
I found a handful of boat operators, and most tours include:
- Round-trip transport
- Basic safety gear
- Guide commentary in English and Greek
What to bring:
- Swimsuit
- Towel
- Sunscreen
- Water
- Comfy clothes
Tours last around an hour. I always check in with operators the day before to confirm the details and see what the weather’s doing.
Swimming and Exploring the Blue Cave
The main chamber of the Blue Grotto is huge—about 40-50 meters long, 25-30 meters wide, and 20-25 meters high. Swimming inside, I felt like I was floating through another world.
I slipped into the cave by swimming or snorkeling right from the boat. The water glows with this wild blue light, thanks to sunlight bouncing off the seafloor through underwater openings.
There are a few smaller chambers at the back. The water’s deep, but it felt safe and easy to swim almost everywhere.
Swimming conditions:
- Water temperature: Comfortable all year
- Visibility: Incredibly clear
- Entry: Swim or snorkel from the boat
- Safety: Good for confident swimmers
The blue glow peaks at midday when sunlight hits the underwater cave openings just right.
Stalactites, Wildlife, and Natural Wonders
Inside the Blue Grotto, I spotted dramatic stalactites hanging from the ceiling. The shapes looked almost sculpted against the blue-lit cave walls.
I got lucky and saw a Mediterranean monk seal lounging on the little beach at the far end. These shy creatures use the cave as a quiet resting place.
The cave’s unique light show comes from underwater passages connecting it to the open sea. Sunlight filters through, creating that unforgettable electric blue.
Natural features I noticed:
- Rock formations and stalactites
- Pebble beach inside the cave
- Multiple chambers of different sizes
- Underwater cave connections
Thousands of years of Mediterranean sea erosion shaped the cave’s geological structure. The limestone walls help bounce light and sound in really cool ways.
Island Highlights and Secret Dips
Kastellorizo isn’t just about the Blue Grotto. There are remote coves carved into wild rock formations, plus peaceful islets with glass-clear water waiting for you to explore.
Remote Swimming Spots and Rock Formations
Along Kastellorizo’s rugged coastline, I found secluded swimming areas that most tourists never see. The rocky shoreline creates natural pools and tucked-away coves perfect for quiet dips.
The eastern coast holds the most dramatic formations. Limestone cliffs drop straight into deep turquoise water.
I found small natural platforms in the rocks—great spots to climb in for a safe swim.
Best Remote Swimming Spots:
- Rocky coves near the lighthouse
- Natural pools shaped by coastal erosion
- Sheltered inlets you can reach only by boat or hiking
The clarity at these spots blew me away. Even in deeper water, I could see every detail on the seabed. The quiet made it feel like I’d found my own private swimming hole.
Nearby Islets: St George’s Island and Ro Island
St George’s Island is just a short boat ride from the main harbor. It’s tiny, but the swimming here is undisturbed and peaceful.
I visited during a Blue Cave tour and squeezed in a refreshing swim. There’s a small chapel and a sandy-bottomed swimming area that gradually gets deeper.
Ro Island is Greece’s easternmost point and has its own special vibe. It’s smaller than St George’s, but the water around Ro is perfectly clear and calm.
Island Access:
- St George’s Island: 10-minute boat ride from the harbor
- Ro Island: 15 minutes by boat, fewer tours available
- Best time: Mornings, when the sea is calmest
Exploring Mandraki and Hidden Coves
The Mandraki area hides some of Kastellorizo’s best secret swimming spots. I walked from the main town along coastal paths to reach these quiet coves.
It’s about a 20-minute walk to Mandraki. Along the way, I stumbled on several tiny beaches tucked between rocks.
These spots get fewer visitors than the main harbor. The coves near Mandraki are well-protected from wind and waves.
I loved swimming here in the afternoon, especially when the harbor started filling up with boats.
What you’ll find:
- Pebble and rock beaches
- Deep, clear water close to shore
- Natural shade from overhanging rocks
- Easy walk from town
Culture, History, and Local Experiences
Kastellorizo’s past runs deep, from ancient civilizations to a brush with movie stardom. Museums, historic ruins, and even a few Italian film connections pop up all over.
Historic Landmarks and Ancient Sites
I started my history walk at Paleokastro, the ancient fortress perched high above the island. The old stone walls whisper tales of Byzantine and Ottoman days.
Castel Rosso is the medieval fortress that gave the island its name. I climbed up to see the red limestone walls glowing at sunset—no wonder the Venetians called it the “Red Castle.”
The Monastery of Saint George of the Mountain sits right on the cliffs. The small chapel felt peaceful and tucked away. Local fishermen still come here for blessings before heading out to sea.
Pastel-colored neoclassical mansions line the harbor. Built by wealthy merchants in the 19th century, these elegant homes survived wars and years of abandonment.
Museums and Artistic Heritage
The Kastellorizo Historical Collection displays the island’s treasures. I got lost in Ottoman documents, traditional costumes, and old maritime gear. The museum sits inside a restored mansion right by the harbor.
Local crafts are still alive here. I watched older women demonstrate beautiful embroidery techniques, handed down through the generations.
The Museum of Puzzles turned out to be a quirky surprise. It’s a private collection packed with mechanical puzzles and brain teasers from around the Mediterranean. The owner loves explaining each puzzle’s story.
Cinematic Connections and Local Events
Back in 1991, Gabriele Salvatores filmed the Academy Award-winning “Mediterraneo” right here. I recognized a bunch of harbor and hillside spots from the movie.
The Mediterraneo Hotel and Casa Mediterraneo both nod to the film. Taverna owners still tell stories about the Italian crew’s months on the island.
The Admiral’s House was a key filming location and now runs as a guesthouse—you can even sleep in the rooms the movie cast used.
Summer festivals light up the harbor with boat races and traditional music. These gatherings pull together Kastellorizo’s small year-round community of about 500 people.
Local Cuisine and Harborfront Dining
After a day in Kastellorizo’s magical waters, I wandered straight into the island’s food scene. The harbor is lined with tavernas serving up fresh Mediterranean seafood and classic Greek flavors.
Eating here, with the harbor sparkling in front of you, just feels right.
Traditional Dishes and Seafood Specialties
You can’t miss the fresh seafood here—it’s honestly the highlight of every meal. I loved watching the fishing boats roll in each morning, unloading buckets of anchovies, sea bream, red mullet, and grouper.
Locals rave about Katoumari, a seafood pasta that mixes the catch of the day with whatever’s fresh from the island. I sampled Souam Dorsai (stuffed onions) and Vrithopites (chickpea fritters) too, both packed with flavor and a bit of local pride.
Tiny local shrimp taste out of this world. You’ll spot octopus, squid, lobsters, and prawns on just about every menu.
If you’re more into land-based dishes, the goat dishes are a must. Young goat stuffed with rice? It’s a local favorite, and after one bite, I totally understood why.
For dessert, Halvas tis Nifis surprised me. It’s a unique sweet that locals usually save for special occasions, but a few tavernas serve it year-round if you know where to look.
Harborside Taverns and Cafés
The harbor, shaped like a horseshoe, has the best dining spots on the island. Most restaurants line the waterfront, and their tables face those colorful neoclassical mansions—honestly, it’s hard to pick a bad seat.
Mediterraneo Restaurant sits right on the harbor and really stands out. The views are perfect, and the food matches the scenery.
Ta Platania on Horafia Square serves up traditional dishes in a cozy spot. Their fresh fish blew me away, and they highlight local specialties you might not find elsewhere.
I also liked Lazarakis for classic Greek comfort food and The Seafood Tavern for whatever just came off the boat. Athina keeps things seasonal and local, which I always appreciate.
If you just want coffee or a light bite, Faros Café hits the spot. The harbor views are fantastic, and the vibe is always relaxed.
Wines and Gozleme: Greek-Turkish Culinary Fusion
Kastellorizo sits so close to Turkey that the food scene blends both cultures in some pretty fun ways. Local restaurants serve Greek wine alongside Turkish-inspired plates.
I found Greek wine paired beautifully with the seafood. Most tavernas stock bottles from the Dodecanese or the mainland, so there’s always something new to try.
Turkish influence sneaks onto menus too. Gozleme, a thin Turkish flatbread, pops up at several places, right next to classic Greek dishes.
This fusion makes dining here feel special. Sometimes I’d order Greek seafood with Turkish bread, or sip Greek wine with a strong Turkish coffee.
The mix really tells the story of the island. Many locals speak both languages, and you taste that blend with every meal.
Practical Tips for the Ultimate Dodecanese Dip
Planning a trip to Kastellorizo takes a bit of effort. The ferries are limited, and the cozy guesthouses fill up fast.
Best Time to Visit and Weather
I’d say visit between May and September for warm water and calm seas. The Blue Grotto only has a three-foot-high entrance, so you really need calm conditions to get inside safely.
Early morning is the sweet spot for the cave. When the sun’s low, the blue reflections inside are unreal. I found the water perfect for swimming from June through August.
July and August bring crowds from Turkey. If you want quieter days, try May, June, or September. Mornings usually have the calmest seas.
Getting to and Around Kastellorizo
You can catch a ferry from Rhodes, Kos, or Symi. There’s also a tiny airport with flights from Rhodes. I always double-check the ferry schedules—they seem to change on a whim.
The island is so small you can walk everywhere in about 15 minutes. Most swimming happens off rocky ledges or straight from the harbor, since beaches are few and far between.
Book Blue Grotto tours at Megisti harbor. Speed boats take small groups right to the entrance. Always ask if swimming is included—some tours offer a stop at St. George island for extra beach time.
Staying at Boutique Hotels and Guesthouses
Accommodation here is limited and goes quickly. Mediterraneo Hotel and Casa Mediterraneo are both solid mid-range picks near the harbor. The Admiral’s House offers fancier rooms with those postcard harbor views.
Book 2-3 months ahead if you’re coming in summer. Most guesthouses are family-run and have only a handful of rooms. Many close up shop from November to March.
Staying near the harbor makes life easier for meals and boat tours. The pastel mansions on the hillside look amazing, but you’ll have to tackle some steep cobblestone streets to get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Speed boats zip out from Kastellorizo’s main harbor to the Blue Grotto. Early mornings are best for swimming and photos—the light is just unbeatable.
How do I reach Kastellorizo’s Blue Grotto?
Hop on a speed boat from the main harbor. Local boat operators run trips out to the Blue Grotto all day.
The ride takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on the sea. Most captains will tell you about the sights along the way, which adds a nice touch.
You can book right at the harbor or through a local tour operator.
What are the best times to visit the Blue Grotto for optimal light reflection?
Early morning—between 9 AM and 11 AM—gives you the most dazzling blues and turquoise colors inside the cave. The sun hits just right.
Late afternoon (around 4 PM to 6 PM) can work too, but mornings are usually less crowded and the sea is calmer.
I’d skip midday. The overhead sun tends to wash out the cave’s glow.
Are there guided tours available for the Blue Grotto in Kastellorizo?
Yes, several local operators offer guided tours. These usually include the boat ride and a chance to swim in the cave’s blue waters.
Guides often share stories about the cave’s geology and history. Some tours add a stop at St. George island, which is a bonus.
You can book through local boat operators at the harbor or ask your accommodation to arrange it.
What is the most convenient mode of transportation from Kas, Turkey to Kastellorizo?
Ferries run regularly between Kas, Turkey and Kastellorizo during tourist season. The trip takes about 20-30 minutes.
You’ll need your passport since it’s an international crossing. Schedules can change, so check the latest times before you plan.
A few private boats also offer the crossing if you’re feeling adventurous.
Can you swim in the waters of the Blue Grotto, and are there any restrictions?
Swimming is absolutely allowed in the Blue Grotto. The water’s famous for its blue-turquoise glow and it’s great for snorkeling.
Most boat tours give you time to swim. The cave’s depth changes, so swimmers of different levels can enjoy it.
I’d bring a snorkel if you have one—the underwater visibility and marine life are worth it.
What other attractions should I consider when visiting Kastellorizo’s Turquoise Harbor?
St. George island? Honestly, it’s a fantastic spot to tack onto your Blue Grotto adventure. I noticed that plenty of boat tours bundle the two together, and you’ll usually get the chance to swim at both stops.
The main harbor area really surprised me with its gorgeous, ridiculously clear turquoise water. You can just stroll down from the town center and jump right in.
Mandraki is another area where you can swim. Some folks seem to prefer other beaches around the island, but if you’re exploring, it’s worth a peek.
