# The Ultimate Guide to Kalamitsi, Halkidiki > Twin coves with crystal water at Sithonia’s southeastern tip: diving, snorkeling, camping and the hidden beaches further south. Kalamitsi is the south-Sithonia dream in miniature: a village around twin coves whose water needs no filter in the photo. A former fishing harbour, today a base for camping, diving and holidays without any hurry. ## Beaches [Kalamitsi's main beach](https://chalkidikihub.gr/en/beaches/kalamitsi-sithonia) is the big cove in front of the village: white sand, sheltered shallow water (islets "close" the bay), a beach bar and tavernas a towel's throw away. Next door, [Thalatta beach](https://chalkidikihub.gr/en/beaches/thalatta-beach-sithonia) (0.8 km) fronts the campsite of the same name, and further south small coves offer total quiet. Adventurers continue south: [Kristina](https://chalkidikihub.gr/en/beaches/kristina-beach-athos) (4.3 km) and [Tigania](https://chalkidikihub.gr/en/beaches/tigania-beach-athos) — small, hard to reach, castaway scenery. All options: [beaches near Kalamitsi](https://chalkidikihub.gr/en/places/kalamitsi/beaches). ## Diving and snorkeling Kalamitsi is one of Halkidiki's best-known diving bases: the waters around the coves and islets offer visibility and a lively seabed, and the village has a diving centre for try-dives and excursions. Even with just a mask from the shore, the rocky edges of the bays give some of Sithonia's best snorkeling. ## Things to do - **Swim to the islets**: The bay's rocky islets are within swimming distance — a mini expedition without a boat. - **Mount Athos views**: A few kilometres north, the [Mount Athos viewpoint](https://chalkidikihub.gr/en/activities/viewpoint-of-mount-athos) (9.8 km) — the east coast's most imposing backdrop. - **Sykia and Porto Koufo**: The neighbouring villages ([Sykia](https://chalkidikihub.gr/en/places/sikia) 6.8 km, [Porto Koufo](https://chalkidikihub.gr/en/places/porto-koufo) 6.2 km) complete southern Sithonia's "trilogy" — tavernas, coves, quiet. ## Food and stay Tavernas on the beach and in the village — fish and home cooking without tourist prices. Stay options: camping, rooms and small complexes; book early for August, beds are few. Browse [stays in the area](https://chalkidikihub.gr/en/listings). ## Practical - **Distance**: ~140 km from Thessaloniki (2h+), via Sithonia's east road through Sykia. - **Parking**: In the village and near the beach — the cove is small and fills early in August. - **Best period**: June-September; the camping crowd keeps things alive all season without breaking the calm. ## Practical notes for international visitors Kalamitsi is the south-Sithonia dream in compact form: two sandy bays with snorkel-clear water, islets to swim to, cult-status campsites and a dive centre. No longer a secret among independent travellers, but unspoiled in the best sense. Reckon on a good 2 hrs from SKG via the east route, arrive early in August (the bay is small), and secure rooms months ahead. ## Frequently asked questions ### Who is Kalamitsi for? Anyone after crystal water and low volume: campers, divers, couples and families who prefer a towel to a sunbed. ### Is it a good base for southern Sithonia? Yes — Sykia, Porto Koufo and Toroni are all within 10 minutes, and the east-coast drive towards Sarti is the peninsula's most beautiful route. More: [the Kalamitsi page](https://chalkidikihub.gr/en/places/kalamitsi) and [Sithonia's best beaches](https://chalkidikihub.gr/en/blog/keyword-oi-kalyteres-paralies-sithonias). --- Source: Type: BlogPosting · Halkidiki, Greece