Dexameni Beach — Attraction in Municipality of East Mani

This beach looks like paradise at first glance. The water is crystal clear, almost like a swimming pool, and we saw plenty of fish close to the shore. We had rented a sunbed and were ready for a relaxing day. Unfortunately, it turned into a very frightening experience when I was attacked by a sea turtle.

I was swimming peacefully near the shore when the turtle suddenly bit me from behind. I would never approach or harm a turtle, and I had no idea they could be so aggressive. At first, I stayed calm and only shouted from the pain, hoping it would stop. But it didn’t, the turtle bit me harder and then attacked me again on my upper leg as I tried to swim away. My partner helped me get back to shore.

What shocked me most is that while there are warnings, they only say not to pet the turtles because they might bite. Nothing indicates just how aggressive they can become, especially during mating season. When I received medical care, the staff told me they had seen up to 10 people a day with turtle bites last year, though even they were surprised by the severity of my injury.

I would never return and strongly caution others. Sea turtles may generally be peaceful, but during mating season males can become extremely aggressive. Knowing how often people are injured here, I feel the warnings are not nearly enough, swimmers deserve clearer information...

This is one of the best beaches in all of Mani. Crystal clear waters, beautiful vistas, historic town and architecture. WE SAW A SEA TURTLE!!! That is hard to beat.

Great for snorkeling and Mani water sports are right here if you fancy some wakeboarding or want to rent a paddle board to take in the views.

There is not much by way of amenities or even places to lay down - seating room only. Most people bring their own beach chairs. This is more of a swimming pier than a place you want to get your tan on. Good restaurants nearby though for when you are done. There is a coffee truck nearby for light snacks and some Frappe or Freddy Espresso.

Get there early if you want to lock in some parking nearby otherwise you’ll park a few hundred...

Blissful experience swimming in this turquoise blue water. Very comfortable and refreshing temperature in mid-late June '21. As most reviews noted, getting in and out of the water is a bit tricky but there are quite a few spots with steps that help. We slightly preferred the access from below Thodora's Place instead of the access off the dock below Mani Water Sports. Even better for someone more adventurous, the little steps off the rocks on the west end of the path after the small parking lot - it's almost like private pool formations.

The two main areas can get quite busy with more people, families and kids from mid-day onwards. Better early in the morning, if you...