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If you're looking for a beach near Igoumenitsa or Plataria that offers more than just a stretch of sand, Kokkinos Vrachos Beach is exactly where you should head. With its striking red rock formations, two intimate coves, crystal-clear turquoise water, and a lively beach bar, it stands out as one of the most distinctive beach spots on the Thesprotia coastline.
This guide covers everything you need to know before you visit — location, what to expect, facilities, the best time to go, and tips for making the most of your day.
What Is Kokkinos Vrachos Beach?
What Is Kokkinos Vrachos Beach?
Kokkinos Vrachos (Κόκκινος Βράχος) literally means "Red Rock" in Greek — and the name says it all. The beach takes its identity from the vivid reddish-orange rock formations that frame its two small coves, creating a landscape that's both dramatic and photogenic.
It's an organized beach with a beach bar, sunbeds, umbrellas, and reliable parking, which makes it a practical choice as well as a beautiful one. Whether you're planning a quick morning swim or an entire day by the sea, this beach covers all the bases.
Where Is Kokkinos Vrachos Beach?
Where Is Kokkinos Vrachos Beach?
Kokkinos Vrachos Beach is located on the old road between Igoumenitsa and Plataria, in the region of Thesprotia, Epirus. It sits approximately 2.5 km before you reach Plataria when coming from Igoumenitsa.
The beach is well-positioned for travelers staying in several nearby areas:
From Igoumenitsa: approximately 10–12 minutes by car
From Plataria: just 2–3 minutes by car
From Sivota: around 20–25 minutes by car
Because it's located on the old coastal road rather than the main highway, the drive itself is scenic, winding through olive groves and hillside views of the Ionian Sea.
📍 Find Kokkinos Vrachos Beach on Google Maps
The Landscape: What Makes It Different
The Landscape: What Makes It Different
The defining feature of Kokkinos Vrachos is its geology. Unlike the sandy beaches further south or the large open shores around Igoumenitsa, this beach is framed by deep red and ochre-toned rocks that plunge into the water on both sides of its two coves.
The contrast between the red rock, the lush green hillside vegetation, and the deep blue-green water of the Ionian creates a setting that feels almost Mediterranean-cinematic. It's the kind of place that photographs beautifully — and looks even better in person.
The beach itself is pebbly, with small smooth white and grey pebbles underfoot, which is typical of this stretch of the Thesprotia coast. The water is clear and relatively shallow near the shore, deepening gently as you swim out.
Many travelers visiting Kokkinos Vrachos choose to stay between Igoumenitsa and Plataria for easier parking, quick beach access and convenient ferry connections.
Explore apartments near Igoumenitsa Port that offer the perfect balance between beach life and transit convenience.
Two Coves, Double the Charm
Two Coves, Double the Charm
One of the most appealing features of Kokkinos Vrachos is that it's not one continuous beach — it's divided into two small coves by the rock formations. This natural layout creates:
A more enclosed, sheltered swimming area on each side
A feeling of intimacy and privacy compared to larger open beaches
Natural shade from the rocks in the late afternoon on one side
The two coves also mean there's often a calmer option — if one side is breezier or has more boat traffic, the other is usually quieter.
Facilities & Beach Bar
Facilities & Beach Bar
Kokkinos Vrachos is an organized beach, operating with full facilities during the summer months (approximately June through September):
☀️ Sunbeds and umbrellas — available for hire across both coves
🍹 Beach bar — open throughout summer, serving coffees, cold drinks, cocktails, refreshments, and light snacks
🅿️ Parking — free parking available nearby, directly off the road
💧 Water access — clean sea entry from both coves
The beach bar at Kokkinos Vrachos is well-known locally and has built up a following on social media. It tends to attract a younger crowd in the evenings but is equally welcoming to families and couples during the day. The vibe is relaxed and summery — music, sea views, cold drinks, and not much else required.
Average cost per person: approximately €25–30 for sunbed hire and drinks.
Rating: 4.2/5 on Google (based on hundreds of reviews) — praised especially for atmosphere and location.
📸 Follow the beach bar on Instagram
Water Quality & Swimming
Water Quality & Swimming
The waters at Kokkinos Vrachos are consistently described as clean and crystal-clear, which is a hallmark of this stretch of the Thesprotia coast. The Ionian Sea in this area benefits from strong water circulation and relatively low tourist pressure compared to more famous Greek destinations.
The pebble seabed means the water tends to stay clearer than sandy beaches — less stirred-up sediment, better visibility for snorkeling, and a cleaner feel underfoot once you're in the water. The two sheltered coves also protect against stronger currents, making it suitable for families with children.
Best Time to Visit
Best Time to Visit
July and August are the busiest months — the beach bar is in full swing, the sunbeds fill up by mid-morning, and the atmosphere is at its most lively. If you want the full summer beach bar experience, this is the time to come.
June and September offer a more relaxed visit — the facilities are still open, the water is warm, but the crowds thin out considerably. These are arguably the best months if you prefer a quieter atmosphere and don't mind slightly cooler mornings.
Avoid peak hours (11am–2pm) in July and August if you want a sunbed without waiting — arrive before 10am or after 4pm for easier access.
Who Is Kokkinos Vrachos For?
Who Is Kokkinos Vrachos For?
The beach works well for a range of visitors:
Couples will appreciate the scenic setting, the intimate coves, and the beach bar atmosphere — it's a genuinely romantic spot, especially in the late afternoon as the light changes on the red rocks.
Families with children benefit from the sheltered coves, calm shallow entry, and easy parking. The pebbled shore is manageable with the right footwear (water shoes recommended for kids).
Travelers staying in Igoumenitsa often make this their go-to beach day trip — it's close enough for a quick escape without committing to a long drive.
Beach bar lovers who want music, cocktails, and a social scene by the sea will feel right at home here.
Tips Before You Go
Tips Before You Go
Bring water shoes — the pebble entry is smooth but can be uncomfortable for sensitive feet, especially for children
Arrive early in summer — parking and sunbeds fill up fast in July and August
The old coastal road is narrow in places — drive carefully, especially if you meet oncoming traffic
There is no shade unless you hire a sunbed with umbrella — bring your own sun protection if you plan to sit outside the organized area
Dogs are generally tolerated in the quieter parts of the beach, but check locally as rules can vary
How to Get There
How to Get There
By car is the most practical option. From Igoumenitsa, take the old coastal road toward Plataria (not the main highway) — Kokkinos Vrachos will appear on your left, clearly visible from the road, approximately 2.5 km before Plataria village. Free parking is available directly at the site.
There is no direct public bus service to the beach itself, though buses do run between Igoumenitsa and Plataria on the old road. Ask locally about the closest stop.
Nearby Beaches & Attractions
Nearby Beaches & Attractions
Once you're in the area, several other beaches are within easy reach:
Plataria Beach — the main village beach of Plataria, 2–3 minutes by car
Bella Vraka Beach — further toward Sivota, known for its lagoon-style setting
Drepanos Beach — north of Igoumenitsa, a large organized beach
Gata Beach — a quieter option near Igoumenitsa
Sivota — the scenic fishing and sailing village, about 20 minutes south, worth combining with a beach day
Final Word
Final Word
Kokkinos Vrachos Beach is one of those places that earns its reputation simply by existing — the red rocks, the two coves, and the Ionian water do most of the work. The added convenience of a beach bar, sunbeds, and easy parking means you don't have to sacrifice comfort for character.
If you're visiting Igoumenitsa, Plataria, or the Thesprotia coast and wondering which beach to prioritize, Kokkinos Vrachos is a strong answer. It's scenic, accessible, and genuinely enjoyable — which is more than most beaches can promise.
IgoumenitsaStay.gr is an independent local travel guide covering Igoumenitsa, Plataria, Sivota and the wider Thesprotia region.
Information is provided in good faith — always verify opening hours and facilities directly with the beach bar before visiting.
Kokkinos Vrachos Beach Plataria – FAQ
Kokkinos Vrachos Beach Plataria – FAQ
Where is Kokkinos Vrachos beach located? Kokkinos Vrachos (Red Rock) is located on the old coastal road between Igoumenitsa and Plataria, in Thesprotia, Epirus — about 2.5 km before you reach Plataria coming from Igoumenitsa. It's roughly a 10–12 minute drive from the Igoumenitsa ferry terminal, just 2–3 minutes from Plataria, and around 20–25 minutes from Sivota.
Is there a beach bar and sunbeds at Kokkinos Vrachos? Yes, there is a popular beach bar operating right above the water during the summer months, offering sunbeds, umbrellas, cocktails, coffee, and snacks. During July and August, it frequently hosts vibrant evening DJ parties.
How is the parking situation at Kokkinos Vrachos beach? Parking space is somewhat limited. There are a few parking spots located directly above the beach bar. During peak season weekends, these spots fill up very quickly, so arriving early in the morning is highly recommended.
Where should I stay near Kokkinos Vrachos beach? Many visitors prefer to secure accommodation nearby to combine beach days with easy transit. You can explore the complete local guide on where to stay in Igoumenitsa or book directly at Ledeza Apartment Igoumenitsa near the port for maximum convenience.
Do I need a car to visit Kokkinos Vrachos from the port? Yes, since the beach is situated outside the main town, a vehicle is essential. You can easily arrange an electric car rental in Igoumenitsa Port with IONVOLT to drive comfortably around Plataria and Sivota.
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