Kamares, Sifnos
Written by Elena Philippou,Updated June 2026
The island's port and a long, sandy, family-friendly beach.
Kamares is where Sifnos begins for most visitors — the ferry port on the island's west coast, wrapped around a sandy bay. It's a relaxed, walkable village of tavernas, cafés and pottery workshops, and an easy first or last stop before the drive over to Platis Gialos.
Arriving at the port
Every ferry to Sifnos docks at Kamares. High-speed boats from Piraeus take about 2.5–3 hours; conventional ferries 5–6. The harbour is small and easy to navigate — car-hire desks, taxis and the bus stop are all a short walk from the quay. From Kamares it's roughly 15–20 minutes by car to Platis Gialos and the villa, and we're happy to have a transfer waiting when you land.
Kamares beach
The beach curves along the bay right beside the village — long, sandy and shallow, with calm water that suits young children. Sunbeds, tavernas and cafés line the front, so you can swim, eat and watch the boats come in without moving far. It's one of the most convenient beaches on the island, especially on an arrival or departure day.
Pottery & the village
Sifnos has made ceramics for centuries, and several working pottery studios sit along the Kamares bay road — you can watch the wheel, buy a handmade piece, and pick up a traditional flaskí or a clay cooking pot. The village itself is low-key: a string of tavernas and cafés along the water, good for a slow first evening.
Kamares & the villa
Villa Olivia Clara is above Platis Gialos, on the southern side of the island — about 15–20 minutes from Kamares by car. Many guests stop in Kamares for a swim or a meal on the way in or out. Tell Elena your ferry and she can point you to a trusted transfer and car hire, so the port-to-villa leg is easy to sort before you arrive.
Kamares, Sifnos — common questions
Is Kamares the main port of Sifnos?
Yes — Kamares is the island's only ferry port. All boats from Piraeus and the neighbouring islands dock here.
Is Kamares beach good for families?
Very — it's long, sandy and shallow, with tavernas and sunbeds right behind it and calm water that's easy for young children.
How do I get from Kamares to Platis Gialos?
About 15–20 minutes by car or taxi, or by bus via Apollonia. We can arrange a transfer so a car is waiting at the port.
How long is the ferry from Athens to Kamares?
From Piraeus, high-speed ferries take about 2.5–3 hours and conventional ferries 5–6 hours, depending on the route and season.
Arriving at Villa Olivia Clara
Tell Elena your ferry and dates, and she'll have your transfer and car hire sorted before you land — so the holiday starts at the port, not at a rental desk.