Beaches stretch for virtually the entire distance west from Kalamáta then south to Koróni, along what is steadily developing as a major resort coast. At present, however, it is more popular with Greeks than foreigners, and the resorts, tucked away in the pines, consist primarily of campsites at Análypsi and Velíka, interspersed with the odd room for rent. The beach at Boúka, 5km south of modern Messíni, is a fine stretch of sand with views of the Máni. It is popular with the locals, especially as a place to go for Sunday lunch.

 

The best of the beaches are around PETALÍDHI , 25km west around the coast from Kalamáta. The small town itself is not unattractive and there are several campsites along this coast: Petalidi Beach (tel 07220/31 154; April-Sept), 3km north of the village, is well established and reasonably priced. There are ample tavernas and cafés around the spacious sea-facing square and some cheap rooms . Moving on south, if you have your own transport, there are numerous restaurants, rooms and some hotels along the stretch of coast - and busy road - to Koróni. The Kalami and Sokrates   tavernas in KHRÁNI are recommended, the latter having very good mezédhes, and the Sunrise Village at KALAMAKÍ has an unusually good restaurant for a hotel (the rooms themselves are package territory only).