10 Best Beaches of Mykonos

Agios Ioannis Beach is a picturesque beach with white sand and turquoise waters. Narrow and rather secluded it is a great spot for swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing.  Agios Ioannis is one of the most beautiful beaches and is usually quieter and less crowded which makes it a popular choice for families.  There are two tavernas on the beach as well as beach clubs offering sunbed rental or you can set your towel down free of charge.  It’s just 10 minutes by car from the centre and during the summer there are regular buses until late.

The beaches of the Greek isles are famous the world over and Elafonisi is no exception; turquoise waters and the mesmerising pink sand made from the tiny pieces of coral make this beach truly unique. Located in the southwest of the island, visitors can take a bus from the nearby town of Chania, the dramatic scenery on the drive to the beach set the tone for what awaits. There are caves to explore around the lagoon and a small island which you can walk to as the water is so shallow. Crete’s most beautiful beach is a popular one so we recommend you get there early to enjoy the beautiful setting and grab a sun bed and parasol before the crowds.

Elia Beach is the largest stretch of coast on Mykonos, it has a laid back atmosphere, but boasts plenty of amenities including a restaurant and a bar. For adrenalin junkies there are plenty of activities available including jet-skis, parasailing, and windsurfing. Almost all of the beach is taken up by sun loungers and parasols, save a small stretch in the corner where you can lay your towel. This part of the beach is popular for nude sunbathing and welcomes a gay friendly crowd. Elia is serviced by the local bus and the water taxi.

Paralia Platis Gialos is the best beach on Mykonos. A large beach with several large hotels along the edge, Platys Gialos has ample restaurants and bars as well as a mini mart.

The shallow, clear waters are an excellent choice for swimming or water sports. This wide beautiful beach is popular with families and young couples.

The beach has a relaxed atmosphere, but if it a little too sedate for you, it is on the water taxi route to Ornos in the west or the party beaches in the east (Paraga, Paradise, and Super Paradise) as well as being served by the local buses.

Ornos Beach is the most family-friendly of Mykonos but is also known as a trendy spot thanks to it many amenities.  With a resort atmosphere, you’ll find plenty of restaurants and bars as well as a full range of beach activities from windsurfing to diving.  The beach is also a popular stopping-off point for boats and yachts and can get crowded.  Ornos is only two miles from Mykonos capital and can be easily reached by bus.

Kalafatis Beach is Mykonos’ only Blue Flag beach.  Located on the coast of a tiny village of the same name this long, wide tree-shaded beach is remote enough to never get very crowded, even in the peak season. The north end of Kalafatis beach is best known for windsurfing and boasts a water sport centre with scuba diving.  The south end of the beach is frequented mostly by swimmers and snorkelers.   Kalafatis has plenty of free space to lay your towel as well as sunbeds and umbrellas for rent.  The beach is adapted for travellers with disabilities with a SEATRAC access ramp into the water.

Agios Stefanos is the beach closest Mykonos Town. Set in a natural bay and facing southwest, this sandy beach with shallow water is popular with both couples and families.  The beach is known for swimming and its fantastic sunsets.  Watching the ferries and cruise ships arriving and departing is a popular view from the beach.  There are the usual sunbed rentals as well as space to lay your towel and amenities include a few casual tavernas and a mini market as well as frequent bus connections to the Old Port of Mykonos Town and the ferry port.

Paradise Beach is undeniably the most famous and the best party beach.  Known for its white sand, turquoise waters and lively atmosphere, it has several beach bars and restaurants.  Popular with a younger crowd, it is fairly quiet during the day with sunbathers sipping cocktails under umbrellas.  By mid-afternoon, the party atmosphere begins and continues until sunrise at the clubs on the beach.

Super Paradise Beach is another popular party beach in Mykonos with several beach clubs and bars, known particularly for gay friendly party nights. It is also popular with families and honeymooners thanks to its calm, shallow waters. The beach is entirely taken up with sun loungers and umbrellas for rent, although you should arrive early to secure one thanks to the popularity and vibrant nightlife of the beach.