Tigaki is the kind of place that makes you wonder why anyone ever stays in the busy resort areas. Sitting on a long, sweeping bay on the north coast of Kos, this purpose-built holiday village offers everything you need for a beach-focused Greek holiday – golden sand, crystal-clear water, and a relaxed atmosphere – without the crowds or chaos of places like Kardamena. It’s particularly popular with families and couples seeking a quieter pace, and the beach here consistently ranks among the best on the island. But here’s a secret – Tigaki also makes a brilliant base for exploring the rest of Kos, especially if you have your own car.
Why Rent a Car Here?
Let’s be practical. Tigaki has a good selection of tavernas, a few shops, and a brilliant beach – but it’s a small place. After a day or two, you’ll want to see what else Kos has to offer. That’s where hiring a car in Tigaki becomes a game-changer. You can drive to Kos Town for dinner and shopping (about 15 minutes), head to the mountain villages for a change of scenery, or discover beaches that most tourists never find. The road from Tigaki to Kos Airport is quick and easy, so if you’re arriving late or departing early, you won’t lose hours to transfers. Plus, having your own car means you can stay for sunset at a remote cove without worrying about the last bus.
What to See & Do
Start with the obvious – Tigaki beach itself is a nine-kilometre stretch of golden sand and shallow water that barely feels crowded even in August. Walk towards the far end of the beach for more solitude. Just along the coast (about 2km east), you’ll find Marmari Beach, another beautiful stretch with a couple of beach tavernas. The real adventure starts when you head inland: the mountain village of Zia is about 20 minutes’ drive and offers a completely different Kos – think winding roads through pine forests, traditional architecture, and views that stretch to Turkey on a clear day. For something completely different, drive to the salt flats near Mastichari (10 minutes) to see flamingos in their natural habitat – bring binoculars. And of course, Kos Town’s harbour, castle, and Roman ruins are only 15 minutes away.
Driving Tips
Tigaki is brilliantly located for drivers. The main coastal road runs right past the village, connecting you quickly to Kos Town in one direction and the airport in the other. There are no major mountain roads to navigate if you stick to the coast, making this a good area for nervous drivers. Parking at Tigaki beach is free and generally easy – arrive mid-morning for the best spots, or head to the far end of the beach for more space. If you’re heading to Zia or the interior villages, be prepared for narrower, winding roads – take your time and use your horn on blind corners as the locals do. It’s stunning up there, but it’s mountain driving, not motorway driving.
Booking Tips
Tigaki has a couple of local rental options, but they’re not always open outside peak season. Booking online before you arrive is definitely the safest bet – you can compare prices and secure the vehicle you need. One tip: if you’re flying into Kos Airport, look for companies that offer free airport collection – it’s only a 20-minute drive to Tigaki, so you could be on the beach before most transfer buses even hit Kos Town. Consider what kind of car you need – a small hatchback is perfectly adequate for the main roads around Tigaki, but if you plan to explore the mountain villages, you might want something with a bit more ground clearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Tigaki from Kos Airport?
Tigaki is about 18km from Kos Airport, a 20-25 minute drive. The road is straightforward – mostly coastal highway.
Is Tigaki a good beach for families?
Absolutely. Tigaki beach has fine sand and shallow, calm water – perfect for children. There are also beach bars and sunbed facilities.
Can I walk from Tigaki to other beaches?
You can walk along the coast to nearby Marmari Beach (about 2km), but a car gives you access to more remote beaches further afield.