Tucked away on the southeastern coast of Kos lies one of the island’s most underrated natural wonders — the Therma hot springs. Surrounded by towering cliffs and the endless blue of the Aegean Sea, this seaside mineral pool offers a raw, unfiltered wellness experience rooted in volcanic energy and ancient tradition. Whether you’re seeking a quiet retreat, a healing soak, or simply a refreshing break from the typical beach day, Therma Beach is the perfect detour.
Popular among locals and travelers alike, these natural hot springs have been known for their therapeutic properties for decades. The water emerges from a volcanic fissure and mixes directly with the cool sea in a shallow rock basin, creating a warm, soothing bath that’s rich in healing minerals like sulfur, magnesium, potassium, and calcium. The scent of sulfur in the air and the gentle bubbling from the seabed hint at the geothermal activity taking place just beneath your feet — a reminder of the island’s ancient volcanic roots and its proximity to the active volcano of Nisyros.
Therma is not a man-made spa. It’s a natural pool shaped by nature itself — constantly shifting in temperature depending on where you sit. Closer to the rock wall, the water is intensely hot; move toward the sea, and it blends into a comfortably warm mix that makes long soaks delightful. Many visitors find the experience deeply relaxing, especially after a day of exploring nearby towns or sailing along the coast.
Whether you plan to drive in or include Therma as a stop during your coastal sailing trip, it’s a must-see destination for those who appreciate nature in its purest, most therapeutic form. In fact, Therma is just one of many incredible coastal spots featured in our Sailing Itineraries — designed to help you discover the island at your own pace, from sea level.
How to Get to Therma Hot Springs (and What to Expect)
Therma Beach, home to Kos’ natural hot springs, is located about 12 kilometers southeast of Kos Town, in the area of Agios Fokas. Tucked between steep coastal cliffs and facing the open Aegean Sea, this unique spot feels far removed from the island’s busier beach resorts.
Despite its remote atmosphere, Therma is relatively easy to reach. From Kos Town, the drive takes around 15–20 minutes by car or taxi. Public buses also run frequently during the high season, stopping near the top of the cliff. The final leg of the journey is on foot — a rough, downhill path that takes about 10 minutes.
The trail isn’t overly long, but it is uneven, dusty, and sun-exposed. Sturdy shoes are a must, especially if you’re carrying supplies. It’s not ideal for visitors with mobility issues, and families with small children should take caution. On the descent, you’ll be greeted with panoramic views of the Aegean and the curved coastline below.
At the bottom, Therma reveals itself: a long, rugged beach covered in black pebbles, with a small natural rock pool at one end where the hot spring water emerges and blends into the sea. There’s a distinct sulfur smell in the air — not overwhelming, but noticeable. The site is completely unorganized: no sunbeds, no toilets, no formal infrastructure. What it lacks in comfort, however, it more than makes up for in authenticity and atmosphere.
While there’s no dock or marina directly at Therma, it’s still a popular stop for adventurous sailors exploring the coast. You can anchor nearby and combine your soak in the springs with a quiet beach day aboard. For flexible, self-guided island experiences, we recommend our bareboat yacht charter options, which allow you to plan your own itinerary across Kos and its hidden gems.
Benefits and Tips for Visiting Therma
For centuries, natural hot springs like those at Therma have been prized for their healing effects — and Kos is no exception. The water flows from deep underground volcanic sources and contains minerals such as sulfur, magnesium, calcium, and potassium. These elements are widely believed to relieve muscle pain, improve circulation, and soothe skin conditions.
Many visitors also report a sense of deep relaxation, helped by the warm water and the peaceful, natural setting. Gentle bubbling caused by volcanic gases creates a calming underwater massage — a kind of primitive wellness spa, naturally heated by the earth itself.
That said, the experience is intense — especially in the areas closest to the heat source. Temperatures can rise above 45°C, so limit each soak to 20–30 minutes and make sure to take breaks. Prolonged exposure can cause dehydration, dizziness, or overheating, especially in summer months.
To make the most of your visit, here are a few practical tips:
Bring water and snacks: There are no shops or vendors on the beach, and only one small café is located at the top of the cliff.
Wear dark swimwear: Sulfur may discolor bright fabrics.
Avoid jewelry: It can tarnish in the mineral-rich water.
Use sturdy shoes: The path down is dusty and rocky — not flip-flop friendly.
Take a towel and change of clothes: No changing rooms or rinse-off areas are available.
Visit early or late: Mornings and evenings offer better temperatures and fewer crowds. There’s also no natural shade.
If you’re preparing a broader trip around the island, our team can assist with essentials like provisioning or equipment prep. Check out our Additional Services to see how we support both land-based and sailing travelers exploring Kos.
Can You Visit Therma by Boat?
Many visitors wonder whether it’s possible to arrive at Therma directly by boat — and the answer is, not exactly. While Therma Beach is located right on the water, it’s not accessible for direct mooring or docking. The surrounding coastline is rugged, and the beach itself is enclosed by steep cliffs with no pier, dock, or safe anchorage nearby.
That said, if you’re exploring Kos by sea, you can absolutely anchor in a nearby bay and plan a land excursion from there. Several secluded coves along the southeastern coast are reachable by yacht, making it possible to experience Therma as part of a larger day of sailing, swimming, and sunbathing.
This option is particularly attractive for travelers who prefer privacy, comfort, and flexibility — compared to taking a crowded tour bus or navigating the path at peak hours. With your own boat nearby, you can relax onboard between visits, avoid the hottest times of day, and carry everything you need for a more enjoyable and stress-free experience.
At Sailing Around, we specialize in building custom sailing routes around Kos and nearby islands, including options that allow you to combine iconic destinations like Therma with more hidden beaches and snorkeling spots. You don’t have to follow a rigid itinerary — with a bareboat charter, you set the pace, and we help with the planning.
Extend the Experience with a Sailing Day
Visiting Therma hot springs is a powerful sensory experience — but why stop there? One of the best ways to make the most of your time in Kos is to combine your visit to Therma with a full day of sailing along the island’s beautiful southeastern coast.
A day at sea allows you to explore multiple coastal locations without the hassle of traffic, crowds, or rigid schedules. Start your morning with a relaxing soak at Therma, then anchor in a nearby bay for lunch, snorkeling, or simply lounging onboard with a cold drink in hand. You’ll avoid the busy roads and heat of mid-afternoon and enjoy the springs during quieter hours.
Sailing offers a level of privacy and comfort that’s unmatched by land-based travel — especially when you’re exploring rugged, undeveloped spots like Therma. With a yacht, you’ll always have access to shade, fresh water, and amenities like onboard bathrooms or showers. It’s the perfect way to balance nature with convenience.
Whether you’re traveling as a couple, a small group, or even solo, we can help design a flexible route that matches your interests and schedule. For custom plans that include Therma and beyond, simply contact our team — we’ll take care of the logistics while you enjoy the journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
No — Therma Beach is a public, natural area and free to access.
You can’t dock directly at the beach, but you can anchor nearby and hike down.
Yes, but with caution. The walk down is steep and the water is hot — supervision is essential.
No. There’s a small café at the top of the path, but no facilities on the beach itself.
Early morning or evening is best — cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Absolutely. Many guests choose to explore Therma as part of a flexible sailing itinerary — it’s a great way to see more of Kos without the stress of land travel.
Ready to discover Kos beyond the typical tourist trail?
Whether you’re drawn to the healing waters of Therma, the thrill of sailing between hidden bays, or simply want to explore the island at your own pace — we’re here to help you make it happen.
👉 Contact our team to plan your personalized sailing experience around Kos — and let us help you turn a visit to the hot springs into a full day of discovery, comfort, and relaxation at sea.
