Mastichari might not be as famous as Kardamena or Tigaki, but that’s precisely why many visitors fall in love with it. This small coastal village on the north-west coast of Kos is the gateway to the neighbouring island of Kalymnos – the ferry runs several times a day and takes just 20 minutes. But Mastichari has plenty going for it even if you never set foot on a boat. The beach is gorgeous – a long sweep of soft sand with calm, shallow water that’s ideal for families. The village itself is relaxed and authentically Greek, with a handful of tavernas serving fresh fish and local specialities. It’s the kind of place where you can actually hear the sea at night, rather than thumping bass from a beach club.
Why Rent a Car Here?
Mastichari’s position on the island makes it brilliant for exploring Kos with your own wheels. You’re close to the ferry port for day trips to Kalymnos (famous for its climbing and sponge diving), but you’re also well-placed to head east to the resorts around Kardamena or north to the more peaceful beaches around Tigaki. Without a car, you’re stuck waiting for buses or paying for taxis – and in summer, the bus schedule isn’t exactly frequent. With a hire car, you can fill up your tank in the village, drive to the hot springs at Agios Fokas, catch sunset at the castle in Kefalos, and be back in Mastichari for dinner – all in one day. The freedom is everything.
What to See & Do
Let’s start with the obvious – the beach at Mastichari itself is a stunner, with facilities including a couple of beach bars and sunbed rental, but it never feels as manicured as the big resorts. Take the short drive (or even walk) to the salt flats near the village – they’re interesting at sunset when the flamingos gather. The ferry port itself is worth a wander, even if you’re not heading to Kalymnos; watching the little boats come and go is genuinely lovely. A 15-minute drive south brings you to the hot springs at Agios Fokas, where volcanic waters bubble into the sea – they’re supposedly great for skin and joints. Further afield, the mountain village of Zia is about 25 minutes’ drive and makes for a perfect afternoon trip, with its cobblestone streets, church bells, and views across to Kalymnos.
Driving Tips
Mastichari is easy to reach from Kos Airport – it’s only about 15km north, so you could even pick up your hire car and be on the beach within half an hour of landing. The main road is good quality, and the village itself is small enough to navigate without stress. If you’re heading to Kalymnos for the day, remember you can’t take your hire car on the ferry – factor in time to return the car before you board. Parking at Mastichari beach is straightforward (free and spacious), but the road through the village can get busy in late afternoon when people head to the tavernas. If you’re planning to explore the inland roads to Zia or other villages, take it easy – they can be narrow with sharp bends.
Booking Tips
Because Mastichari is smaller than the main resort areas, rental options are more limited. Booking ahead is strongly recommended, particularly if you have specific requirements (like a child seat or automatic transmission). The good news is that prices are often slightly lower here than in Kos Town or Kardamena, since there’s less demand. If you’re planning a day trip to Kalymnos, consider returning your car the night before or first thing in the morning – you don’t want to be rushing to the port. Also check whether your rental company has an office in Mastichari itself, or whether you’ll need to collect from Kos Airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Kalymnos from Mastichari?
The ferry from Mastichari to Kalymnos takes about 20 minutes. You can buy tickets at the port on the day – no need to book in advance.
Can I take my hire car to Kalymnos?
No, hire cars cannot be taken on the ferry to Kalymnos. You’ll need to return your rental in Mastichari before crossing.
Is Mastichari a nice beach?
Yes! Mastichari has a long, sandy beach with shallow, calm water – perfect for families. It’s less crowded than Kardamena.
Mastering the Mastichari Ferry Connections
Here’s the inside scoop: Mastichari isn’t just a beach resort; it’s the gateway to the Dodecanese. The ferry port sends boats across to Kalymnos multiple times a day, and while the crossing is short, the logistics catch many tourists off guard. If you’re planning a day trip to Kalymnos to see the sponge factories or the dramatic cliffs, you need flexibility. The ferry schedule can fluctuate with the winds, especially during the Meltemi season in late summer. Having your own vehicle means you can arrive at the port on your own schedule, rather than stressing about the infrequent local bus timetable. More importantly, it allows you to explore Kalymnas at your own pace once you dock, but remember, you’ll need to book your car hire well in advance during July and August because the affordable options on the island get snapped up quickly by arriving passengers.
Cruising the Coast: Beach Driving Tips
Driving in Mastichari is generally relaxed, but the condition of the roads changes the moment you leave the main strip. The beachfront area is deceptively sandy. If you park too close to the dunes near the less developed northern end of the bay, you risk getting stuck in soft sand—a headache no one wants on holiday. Stick to the designated parking areas behind the tavernas. If you are driving to the famous Mylos Beach, just a short drive south, be aware that the access track can be dusty and uneven. A standard city car will get you there, but go slow to avoid bottoming out. The golden rule here is to park where the locals park; if you see a line of Greek plates parked under a tamarisk tree, that’s your spot. It provides essential shade and ensures you aren’t blocking the narrow farm tracks used by agricultural vehicles.
Flavours of the Real Kos
While Mastichari has excellent fish tavernas right on the harbor, the true culinary gems are hidden in the inland villages that are inaccessible without wheels. Take a ten-minute drive to the mountain village of Zipari or Antimachia. Here, away from the tourist menus, you’ll find ‘kafeneions’ serving hearty local stews like ‘kritharoto’ (barley pasta with meat) that have simmered for hours. In Antimachia, look for the small, family-run bakeries selling ‘katimeria’—sweet cheese pastries that are a specialty of the island. Your car hire gives you the freedom to have a long, lazy lunch in a village square where the only other sounds are the clacking of backgammon dice and the chatter of locals. This is where you find the authentic pulse of Kos.
Day Trips From Your Base in Mastichari
Because Mastichari sits centrally on the north coast, it serves as a brilliant launchpad for the rest of the island. You aren’t stuck in the bustle of Kos Town, but you are close enough to go anywhere. If you want history, the Asklepieion, the ancient healing temple dedicated to Hippocrates, is only 12 kilometers away—a 20-minute drive through pine forests. For a totally different landscape, drive 25 kilometers south to the thermal springs at Therma Beach (Emborios). It’s a wild, rocky drive, but soaking in the warm sea water is unforgettable. Even closer is the Palio Pyli, a medieval ghost town just 10 kilometers south. It’s a hauntingly beautiful spot with castle ruins and incredible views of Turkey across the channel on a clear day.