Kassandra, the westernmost of Halkidiki's three fingers, is the most developed and the closest to Thessaloniki — about a 90 minute drive from the city. The peninsula has a string of resort towns along its east coast (Kallithea, Pefkochori, Hanioti) and a narrower, quieter west coast facing the Thermaic Gulf.
The beaches are long, sandy, and shallow — perfect for families. The summer nightlife scene at places like Kallithea is significant, with beach clubs and bars staying open well into the morning. Worth a day even if you are staying elsewhere on Halkidiki, particularly for the sunset views at Cape Kassandra and the canal at Nea Potidaia that technically makes the peninsula an island.