The waterfront is what most people remember about Gythio. A long curving quay of pastel neoclassical mansions in pinks, ochres and pale blues — much of it built in the 19th century when the town was the main commercial port of Sparta — lined on one side by fish tavernas and on the other by working caïques pulled up on the stone steps.
The promenade is at its best in early evening when the fishermen come in, the tavernas put out their tables, and the locals make their volta (the evening walk along the water) before sitting down to dinner. Even at the height of summer the volume of traffic is modest. Most tavernas serve grilled octopus, fried small fish (maridakia) and Mani sausage as good house specialities.