28is Oktovriou, Kardamaina, 85302, Greece
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Pillbox Seafront Studios and Apartments Overview

First Impressions

Pulling up to Pillbox Seafront Studios and Apartments, the first thing you notice is the view — and honestly, it doesn’t disappoint. The name says it all: you’re right on the seafront, and that proximity to the water is something you feel from the moment you arrive. It’s a three-star property, but the location alone puts it ahead of places charging twice the price. There’s a relaxed, unpretentious vibe here that suits Kardamaina perfectly.

Location & Neighborhood

Kardamaina is one of those Greek resort towns that still manages to feel like a real place — there are tavernas where locals actually eat, and the beach stretches out in a long, easy curve that invites long afternoon walks. The Pillbox sits in what’s consistently rated the top area in town, and you can feel why. Couples especially seem to fall for it — the location rating from two-person trips sits at a remarkable 9.9, which, I mean, that’s almost unheard of. You can walk to the water in seconds, and the main strip of cafes and restaurants is right there without being noisy enough to bother you at night.

The Studios & Apartments

The accommodation here is self-catering, which is actually a big plus if you’re staying more than a couple of nights. Having a kitchen — or at least a kitchenette — means you can grab fresh produce from the local market and not feel obligated to eat out every single meal. The studios are well set up for couples or solo travelers, while the apartments give you a bit more breathing room if you’re traveling with someone who needs their own space. Everything feels clean and functional, sort of thoughtfully simple rather than bare-bones.

Practicalities

One thing worth mentioning — and it’s more useful than it sounds — is the free parking. If you’re renting a car to explore Kos island (which you really should, because the interior is gorgeous), not having to worry about where to leave the car each day is genuinely one less thing on your mind. The overall guest rating sits at 9.7, which tells you this isn’t a fluke — people come back, or at least they leave happy enough to rate it that highly. Check-in and day-to-day interactions tend to be straightforward and friendly, the way smaller Greek properties often are.

Why Guests Love It

Honestly, what makes Pillbox work is the combination of things that are hard to find together at this price point: a genuinely seafront position, a neighborhood that’s lively without being overwhelming, and accommodation that gives you independence. It’s the kind of place where you wake up, open the window, hear the sea, and think — yeah, this is exactly what a Greek island holiday is supposed to feel like. For couples especially, it hits a sweet spot that fancier hotels sometimes miss entirely. If you’re planning a trip to Kos and want to be based somewhere that actually feels like you’re on the coast rather than just near it, this one is worth booking early.

Pillbox Seafront Studios and Apartments Accommodations

AccommodationDetails
Deluxe King Studio1 large double bed for 2 adults
Studio with Sea View2 single beds for 2 adults
Studio with Balcony2 single beds, or and 1 large double bed for 2 adults
Two-Bedroom Apartment2 × 2 single beds, 2 × 1 large double bed, sofa bed and 1 sofa bed for 5 adults
One-Bedroom Apartmentlarge double bed, 1 large double bed, sofa bed and 1 sofa bed for 3 adults
Studio with Garden View2 single beds for 2 adults
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Reviews of Pillbox Seafront Studios and Apartments

  • Jessica from Austria (10/10)

    How do you describe perfection with one word?… Pillbox! This may have been one of the best holidays I've ever had… and I've seen a bit of the world😄
    The apartments are even nicer than the pictures can tell. They are very well equipped, exquisitely decorated and extremely clean. I really felt at home during my two-week stay in August. I didn't cook much but there is everything you need to prepare a full meal if you want. The bathroom has a good size with a very powerful shower as well as excellent lights. The bedroom is very spacious with a real comfy bed, a large wardrobe with a safe box, iron/board, hairdryer and plenty of hangers.

    The location is unbeatable!… supermarkets, shops, restaurants, everything is within a 5-10 minutes walk. Try Anemos just around the corner for the best fish on the island or Alexander right at the beginning of the port promenade… both have excellent food, outstanding service, incredible views and great wine!
    You can enjoy the peace and quiet of the private beach during the whole day and if you want something more lively you can always find other beaches to spend the day in Kardamena… but you won't need it!

    As other users have mentioned, Manos is one of a kind! He is so professional and attentive, nothing is too much for him. He would help you with whatever you may need. Also the other guests at the time of my stay were very nice and polite and so was Nella, the lady in charge of the cleaning… always with a big bright smile on her face.
    My advise: get up early and admire the sunrise… it's one of the best spots on this Earth to do it.

    Greece never disappoints… people are so kind and welcoming that you cannot help but falling in love with the place.
    Ευχαριστώ πολύ

  • Joanna from United Kingdom (10/10)

    We stayed at the Pillbox for 3 nights and could not fault it. The rooms are lovely with beautiful sea views and everything you need. The location is fantastic, right on the beach with access to free sun loungers. It's only a short walk into the centre; shops, bars, restaurants etc.
    The owner Emmanuel is brilliant, incredibly helpful and nothing was too much for him.
    We will definitely return and highly recommend the Pillbox for a relaxing break.

  • Treacy from Guernsey (10/10)

    Mania was amazing

  • Sandra from Ireland (10/10)

    Perfect location, so clean , staff couldn’t do enough, would highly recommend

  • David from United Kingdom (10/10)

    Location , clean ,spacious , Emmanuel is a great host this is the second time we have stayed here .

  • Matt from United Kingdom (9/10)

    Emmanuel was a super friendly and diligent host. Nothing was too much bother; an all round great guy. The location is perfect and by far the favourite location we have ever stayed at in the village. The sun loungers were great and there was easy access in and out of the sea via the steps. The bed was very comfortable the best we have known in Greece. The shower had great water pressure and temperature control and it didn't flood which can be an issue at some properties. The level of kitchenware available was adequate but you wouldn't be in a position to do some 'real' cooking if required. A lovely touch were some goodies in the fridge on arrival….which proves that hosts obviously value their customers and take pride in looking after them. A great stay!!

  • David from United Kingdom (10/10)

    Manos was an excellent host . Looked after us very well. Lovely apartment clean and pleasant

  • David from United Kingdom (10/10)

    Quiet location right on the beach with sunbeds just for the studios. Very clean apartment and Emmanuel the owner was very welcoming.

  • P from Germany (10/10)

    You step outside and you are practically on the beach. Super clean apartment and lovely hosts.

  • Raphael from Austria (10/10)

    Perfect location and great apartments. The host Emanuel is eager to fulfill all requests to make the stay as convenient as possible. The apartment was clean and all details are taken care of.

Surroundings

What’s nearby:

  • Paleo Pili: 12 km
  • Waterslides: 5 km
  • Antimachia Castle: 3.9 km
  • Mill of Antimachia: 6 km

Restaurants & cafes:

  • Cafe/bar Pegasus Bar: 500 m
  • Cafe/bar Atheneon Bar: 550 m
  • Cafe/bar Artemis Cafe Bar: 550 m

Beaches in the neighbourhood:

  • Helona Beach: 4.9 km
  • Lakitira Beach: 4.5 km
  • Kardamena Beach: 950 m

Closest airports:

  • Leros Municipal Airport: 72 km
  • Kalymnos National Airport: 32 km
  • Kos International Airport: 9 km

Facilities

Bedroom:

  • Linen
  • Wardrobe or closet

Kitchen:

  • Coffee machine
  • Toaster
  • Kitchenware
  • Electric kettle
  • Refrigerator

Bathroom:

  • Toilet paper
  • Towels
  • Bath or shower
  • Private bathroom
  • Toilet
  • Hairdryer
  • Shower

Outdoors:

  • Beachfront
  • Sun terrace
  • Private beach area

Wellness:

  • Sun umbrellas

Activities:

  • Beach

Miscellaneous:

  • Air conditioning
  • Non-smoking throughout

Room Amenities:

  • Socket near the bed
  • Clothes rack
  • Mosquito net
  • Tile/marble floor

Languages spoken:

  • Greek
  • English

Media & Technology:

  • Streaming service (like Netflix)
  • Flat-screen TV
  • TV

Reception services:

  • Invoice provided

Great for your stay:

  • Parking
  • Private bathroom
  • Pets allowed
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Free parking
  • Flat-screen TV
  • Street parking
  • Shower
  • Private beach area

Parking Free public parking is possible at a location nearby (reservation is not needed).:

  • Street parking
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House Rules at Pillbox Seafront Studios and Apartments

Pets:

  • Free! Pets are allowed on request. No extra charges.

Parties:

  • Parties/events are not allowed

Smoking:

  • Smoking is not allowed.

Check-in:

  • From 14:00 to 22:00
  • You’ll need to let the property know in advance what time you’ll arrive.

Check-out:

  • From 10:30 to 11:00

Cancellation/prepayment:

  • Cancellation and prepayment policies vary according to accommodation type. Please enter the dates of your stay and check the conditions of your required option.

Guest reviews

Staff:

9.9

Comfort:

9.7

Location:

10.0

Free WiFi:

9.5

Facilities:

9.7

Cleanliness:

9.9

Value for money:

9.5