Which Greek island to visit? You often get asked this question, even if you’ve only been to Greece a couple times. Understandably, it’s tough to choose from so many islands. Online searches don’t really help accordingly, since people tend to recommend the same popular places like Corfu or Rhodes.

If you are looking to broaden your horizons and are considering somewhere new, somewhere still great for a holiday—not roughing it, but less crowded with tourists—then you are in the right place!

Here are the main criteria I used to help you select which Greek island to visit!

1. Can’t be too overcrowded or well known

2. Must be within an easy ferry ride of other suitable islands

3. Should have sandy beach options, with a taverna and facilities

4. Must have a laid back vibe and not full of clubbers

I selected the Cyclades as they are an excellent group of Greek islands for first timers as well as experienced visitors to Greece.

Even if you’ve heard of the island, I’ll point you toward one of my favourite beaches that could become a favourite of yours too.

The Cyclades islands are generally on the smaller side, lending themselves well to a nice two centre holiday or even fitting in three stops.

To entice you, I’ll simply describe my favourite beach on each island and let your imagination draw you in to discover more. My beach criteria isn’t just the most beautiful.

Personally, I don’t want a massive hike to reach it. I like having a traditional taverna nearby. And ideally, somewhere to park my car or be able to catch a regular bus back to town.

I also prefer a little sand between my toes, somewhere to snorkel, other like-minded travellers, and an alternative beach option when the wind direction is unfavorable.

Considering all this, here are 9 Cyclades islands you should know about when deciding which Greek island to visit.

Which Greek Island to Visit:

1. Syros

Best Beach on Syros: Galissas Beach

Galissas Beach is a stunning spot not far from Ermoupolis on Syros’ west side. It’s located in the beautiful village of Galissas, a former rural area that has recently grown into the island’s most tourist-friendly destination.

Galissas Beach Features:

• Nearby accommodation options
• Choice of tavernas for excellent dining
• Fine sand and natural shade from tamarisk trees
• Picturesque church on the famous hill of Agia Pakou

Where is Galissas Beach

Galissas Beach is in the village Galissas. It’s just 7 km from Ermoupolis. The beach is on the west side of Syros. You can see a pretty sunset there.

How to Get to Galissas Beach

To reach Galissas Beach, you can take a short drive from Ermoupoli. Alternatively, you can take a bus or taxi from the island’s capital.

What to Expect at Galissas Beach

Galissas Beach is a long, sandy stretch that’s perfect for families. The water is shallow and rarely troubled by wind or waves. Therefore, it’s great for small children learning to swim.

You’ll find beach volleyball and a fabulous waterfront restaurant called ‘Sunsets.’ Additionally, if you have small children, there’s a nearby coffee shop with a large, shaded playground. It will surely keep them well entertained.

I visited the beach last summer and spent many days simply relaxing. The soft sand was perfect for lounging. The water was calm and inviting just great for swimming.

What’s Near Galissas Beach

Near Galissas Beach, you’ll find several fascinating attractions. Firstly, there’s the famous hill of Agia Pakou, which features a picturesque church. You can also visit the port, where you’ll see boats, a wonderful stone pier, and palm trees.

It’s a perfect spot for a romantic walk, especially during sunset. Moreover, traces of an ancient citadel have been discovered in the area of Agia Pakou. Another must-see is the imposing cave of Agios Stefanos, which houses a white chapel and running water.

Which Greek Island to Visit: More Highlights of Syros

Exploring Syros offers even more beautiful spots. Besides Galissas Beach, you can visit the lively Ermoupolis with its neoclassical buildings and vibrant culture. Another highlight is Ano Syros, a medieval village with narrow streets and breathtaking views.

Enjoy the local food, music, and festivals that make Syros a special place to visit.

Which Greek Island to Visit:

2. Naxos

Best Beach on Naxos: Plaka Beach

Plaka Beach is a stunning stretch of clear sand located on Naxos’ west coast. Vathi Beach is between Agia Anna and Orkos beaches. It is considered to be one of the prettiest beaches on the island.

Plaka Beach, Features:

• Very long expanse of clear sand
• Sand dunes behind the beach
• Never too crowded due to its size
• Restaurants and taverns offering sun bed and umbrellas
• Taverns, bars, mini markets, and restaurants behind the sandy dunes
• Windsurfing, kitesurfing, jet skis, and water skiing

Where is Plaka Beach

Plaka Beach is located on the west coast of Naxos. You’ll find it nestled between Agia Anna and Orkos beaches. This stunning stretch of clear sand is a true paradise. It extends for over three kilometres, offering plenty of space to relax and unwind.

How to Get to Plaka Beach

You can easily reach Plaka Beach by car. A well-maintained dirt road borders the beach, although it can be dusty. Alternatively, if you don’t have a rental car or scooter, public buses also serve the beach.

To access the north part of Plaka Beach, get off the bus at The three brothers taverna. However, if you want to reach the central area, you’ll need to get off at the next stop.

What to Expect at Plaka Beach

At Plaka Beach, you’ll discover an inviting paradise. Additionally, the translucent water and powdery sand make an incredible scene. I was amazed the first time I saw the underwater rock formations that looked like a coral reef right off Plaka’s shores – it was like getting a glimpse of the Maldives without leaving Greece!

Since the beach is so long, it’s never packed, guaranteeing a tranquil time. Furthermore, you can get sun beds and umbrellas, costing 12 to 40 euros daily. Alternately, for the price of a drink, you can enjoy Plakafe’s sun beds and pool.

What’s Near Plaka Beach

Near Plaka Beach, there are numerous beach bars and tavernas serving cool beverages and tasty Greek fare. While exploring the area, I made sure to visit the delightful village of Plaka with its classic whitewashed structures and slim alleys. A short trip away, I also got to experience the breathtaking scenery and opportunity for aquatic adventures at Agia Anna Beach.

Which Greek Island to Visit:

3. Sifnos

Best Beach on Sifnos: Vathi Beach

Vathi Beach offers a tranquil seaside escape on Sifnos island. This lengthy sandy shore boasts crystal clear waters and a relatively uncrowded atmosphere. Picturesque Greek chapels and tavernas line the coastline, providing classic island vibes. Visitors can find their own peaceful corner at Vathi.

Vathi Beach, Features:

• Crystal clear waters
• Smooth sandy beach
• Scenic waterfront tavernas
• Traditional Greek chapels
• Relatively uncrowded shore

Where is Vathi Beach

Vathi Beach is in the town Vathi. Vathi is on the south-west side of Sifnos island. The beach is next to a small harbour. The Greek church Taxiarchon is close by. To reach Vathi, take the local bus from Kamares or Apollonia, or drive following signs for this scenic village.

How to Get to Vathi Beach

Until recently, the only way was by boat from Kamares. Now there’s a new road – from Apollonia, drive about 15 minutes following signs to Vathi. You can also take the bus from Kamares or Apollonia. Park outside since cars aren’t allowed in the village itself.

What to Expect at Vathi Beach

Vathi is a picturesque little harbour village with rooms to rent and excellent yet inexpensive restaurants along the waterfront. The nightlife here has an enjoyable, intimate feel since it’s so small – you’ll quickly get to know fellow visitors over drinks and meals.

Spend your day swimming and sunbathing on Vathi’s smooth sandy beach, then grab a prime waterfront table at a taverna for dinner as the sun sets. Vathi offers an authentic, affordable Greek island escape. I loved the uncrowded beach.

What’s Near Vathi Beach

Right next to Vathi Beach sits the small harbour where the Church of Taxiarchon is located. This traditional Greek church sits just south-west of the seaside Vathi settlement. Small traditional chapels dot the area as well, perfect for capturing classic Greek summer photos. Personally I really liked the picturesque chapels.

Which Greek Island to Visit:

4. Kythnos

Best Beach on Kythnos: Kolona Beach

Kolona beach is especially well-known and the most photographed beach in the Western Cyclades. Basically, Kolona is a long sandbank with sheltered bays on each side. Additionally, it forms a natural passage to the island of Agios Loukas (St. Luke).

This unearthly sandbank is surely the most loved beach. Consequently, it’s also the most crowded with yachts and sailing boats. However, access by road vehicle is very difficult.

Kolona beach, Features:

• It’s a narrow strip оf sand that fοrms a tombоlο
• Accessible bу саr оr by water taxi
• Attracts mаnу visitors with уachts
• Has a tavеrnа at the bеаch
• Offers a limited numbеr of sunbeds and pаrasоls tο rent

Where is Kolona beach

You can find Kolona on Kythnos’ north-west coast approximately 12 km from the main port Merichas.

How to Get to Kolona beach

To get there, you have two options. Firstly, you can take a narrow road by car. Alternatively, you can ride a water taxi from the port of Merichas.

What to Expect at Kolona beach

The scenic landscape and closeness to Athens make Kolona a popular summer spot. Many visitors come by boats and yachts, especially during the busy season. I was amazed by the unique sandbank forming Kolona Beach.

You’ll find only one taverna operating at the beach. It offers a limited number of sunbeds and parasols to rent. Therefore, it’s best to bring your own sun protection. There is no natural shade, so come prepared.

What’s Near Kolona beach

2.5 Km by road heading towards Merichas is Apokrousi Beach. This beautiful beach with a taverna has lots of characteristic trees that provide shade. Therefore, you can sit under them without needing an umbrella.

Visiting during June allowed me to avoid the peak crowds. The water is very clear and pretty. It’s one of the three best beaches on the island.

If you want more food and drink options, you have two choices. Firstly, you can continue on to the port of Merichas. Alternatively, you can head to the Chora, which is 6 km inland from Kolona beach. There, you’ll find several good tavernas to enjoy.

Best Greek Island to Visit:

5. Folegandros

Best Beach on Folegandros: Agios Nikolaos Beach

Agios Nikolaos beach feels relaxed. The water is calm and nice for cooling off. The green trees and beach shape are pretty. The sparkling sea is beautiful too. It’s one of the best beaches on Folegandros. It’s an ideal spot for a late-afternoon visit after exploring Fira and Agali, as it can be more crowded earlier in the day.

You’ll find a tavern right on the sand at Agios Nikolaos, and it’s easy to reach. Simply climb the steps from Agali and follow the coastal path to get there.

Agios Nikolaos Beach, Features:

• Crystal turquoise waters
• Partially shaded by trees
• Partially crowded, tranquil
• Amenities: restaurant, changing rooms, toilets

Where is Agios Nikolaos Beach

Agios Nikolaos beach is close to Agali. It’s on the south-west side of the island.

How to Get to Agios Nikolaos Beach

To reach Agios Nikolaos, start your journey at the nearby Agali beach. You have two options: take a short 2-minute boat ride or walk along a 20-minute path that begins at the far right end of Agali.

What to Expect at Agios Nikolaos Beach

Agios Nikolaos has a beach with sand and rocks. Additionally, the water is really clear there. The blue-green color of the water was beautiful. Accordingly, the beach has young trees giving some shade for swimmers. Moreover, you can relax at this beach. However, some people are nude because the beach is popular with nudists.

What’s Near Agios Nikolaos Beach

At the beach, you can’t do a lot. But that’s fine when you’re relaxing! I enjoyed the peacefulness of this less crowded beach in the late afternoon. The beach won’t be packed. Two good eating spots are close. If you want other choices later, head to Agali. You can walk there if the weather isn’t too hot.

Best Greek Island to Visit:

6. Kea

Best Beach on Kea: Gialiskari Beach

Gialiskari is a small but stunning beach. On the left side, you’ll find a convenient beach bar. Lots of big tamarisk trees grow on the right side. The trees give plenty of shade. You can stay cool and comfortable under the trees.

A parking area is close by. It’s easy to get to the beach. The beach is calm and quiet in the morning and afternoon. But around midday, lots of young people come. They hang out to enjoy the sun and waves.

Gialiskari Beach, Kea Features:

• Calm, emerald green waters
• Refreshments available
• Perfect for peace-seekers with transport
• Great for families with kids
• Beautiful, shaded scenic surroundings
• Well-maintained, organized beach with toilets

Where is Gialiskari Beach

Gialiskari, a small beach, is located on Kea’s north-west coast. It’s the top choice for locals living in Ioulida, the island’s capital, making it a popular spot among residents.

How to Get to Gialiskari Beach

Gialiskari’s location is extremely convenient, as it’s just a short 15-minute walk from the taverns at Vourkari harbour. Additionally, it’s less than 2 km from Koressia Marina, where you can find sailboats, fishing boats, and ferries, as well as traditional Greek whitewashed houses.

What to Expect at Gialiskari Beach

The beach is spotless, with soft sand, and easy to access. There’s a convenient parking area for your car. If you prefer not to visit a beach bar, you can find plenty of trees for shade. Relaxing under the shady tamarisk trees at Gialiskari was the perfect way to escape the midday heat. We highly recommend this place! “Amazing sea and fantastic service!”

What’s Near Gialiskari Beach

Korissia town: This has a long, sandy beach and a couple of supermarkets with plenty of supplies. You can also find various restaurants, cafes, bars, and one or two hotels.

Vourkari: Has a charming harbour and even some nightlife. I loved having the option to grab refreshments from the convenient beach bar when I needed a break from swimming.

There are also a good choice of cafes, bars, and tavernas along the waterfront, making it a popular spot.

Best Greek Island to Visit:

7. Paros

Best Beach on Paros: Krios Beach

With its tranquil waters and powdery sand, Krios Beach offers the perfect spot for swimming and relaxation on Paros. Moreover, it provides great views of passing ferries. This quiet, small sandy bay is sheltered from strong Aegean winds during summer.

Krios Beach, Features:

• Tranquil waters
• Powdery sandy shore
• Sheltered from winds
• Snack bar/umbrellas available

Where is Krios Beach

Krios Beach is located just 3 km from Parikia town on the island of Paros. It’s a small bay that shares the same beach line as the popular Marcello Beach. Specifically, Krios sits right across the bay from Parikia, providing great views of the island’s capital

How to Get to Krios Beach

To reach Krios Beach, you can take a small ferry from Parikia port that runs every 30 minutes in tourist season. Alternatively, it’s an enjoyable 20-minute walk from Livadia Beach – just follow the coastline before dropping down to Krios. Driving is an option too.

What to Expect at Krios Beach

At Krios Beach, finely grained sand stretches along an expansive shore. I loved digging my toes into the powdery sand while taking in the views of Parikia across the bay. Tamarisk trees offer natural shade.

Amenities include refreshments, beverages, umbrellas, and loungers for rent. Despite proximity to Parikia town, Krios maintains tranquility, sheltered from winds. Enjoy picturesque capital views across the bay.

Overall, it’s a convenient yet serene beach escape near town. Peaceful waters invite afternoon swimming.

What’s Near Krios Beach

Krios Beach neighbors the also popular Marcello Beach, sharing the same beach line. Livadia Beach is a short 20-minute walk away along the coastline as well.

Furthermore, being just 4 km from Parikia town center, Krios is near many hotels and accommodation options.

The quiet beach provides easy access to the lively capital, while offering a more tranquil coastal escape nearby. I appreciated having the best of both worlds – serenity at Krios but town amenities just minutes away.

Best Greek Island to Visit:

8. Tinos

Best Beach on Tinos: Kolimvithra Beach

Kolimvithra Beach graces Tinos island with picturesque rocky landscapes and secluded coves. This peaceful, untouched shore offers an intimate atmosphere away from crowds. Listen to soothing waves while soaking in Tinos’ natural beauty at this personal sanctuary.

Kolimvithra Beach, Features:

• Secluded rocky coves
• Peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere
• Scenic natural beauty
• Soothing sound of waves

Where is Kolimvithra Beach

Kolimvithra Beach is situated near the small bayside settlement of Panormos. From Panormos, head a little further along the coast to reach this scenic beach. Kolimvithra neighbours the beach of Mikri Ammos as well.

How to Get to Kolimvithra Beach

From the villages of Volax and Agapi, Kolimvithra Beach is only about a 15-minute drive away. It’s also close to the beaches of Steni and Faltados if visiting multiple areas. Look for parking available along the main road near Kolimvithra.

What to Expect at Kolimvithra Beach

At Kolimvithra Beach, expect a tranquil, uncrowded experience on Tinos. First, you’ll find a sandy beach surrounded by picturesque rocky coves and landscapes. The secluded atmosphere provides a peaceful escape from bustling areas.

Listening to the soothing waves while relaxing on this untouched shore was the perfect way to soak in the natural beauty of Tinos. Moreover, you can listen to the calming sound of waves gently lapping the shore.

Additionally, an excellent canteen serves snacks, with some free umbrellas available for shade. However, arrive early to claim one.

Overall, Kolimvithra offers natural beauty and amenities for a relaxing beach day. Surf vibes are also prevalent here.

What’s Near Kolimvithra Beach

Right next door to Kolimvithra Beach is Mikri Ammos, another sandy shore that I also had the chance to visit. These neighbouring beaches share good parking along the main road. Mikri Ammos is smaller than Kolimvithra, with calmer waves. It also has basic facilities like toilets, showers and changing cubicles. The bayside settlement of Panormos, ringed with cafes and tavernas, sits a short distance away as well.

Best Greek Island to Visit:

9. Serifos

Best Beach on Serifos: Psili Ammos Beach

Psili Ammos is perhaps Serifos’ most popular sandy shore. This beach is long with golden sand. Trees give shade. The bright blue-green water looks nice. People really like this beach. Certainly, Psili Ammos provides a quintessential Greek island beach experience.

Psili Ammos Beach, Features:

• Long sandy beach with bright turquoise waters
• Natural shade provided by trees lining the shore
• Lilies surprisingly growing out of the sand
• Snack bar and tavern near the beach
• Crowded during high season with parking difficulties

Where is Psili Ammos Beach

Psili Ammos Beach is located on the eastern side of Serifos island. Firstly, you’ll start in Livadi, the main port area. Then, head north on the main road toward Chora, the hilltop capital. Before reaching Chora, take the right road signed for east coast beaches like Psili Ammos. Follow this winding route to eventually arrive at the beloved sandy shore.

How to Get to Psili Ammos Beach

From Livadi port, take the main road north toward Chora. However, before reaching the hilltop capital, veer right onto the road marked for eastern beaches. Follow signs pointing to Psili Ammos. This winding route through natural landscapes will ultimately lead you to the sandy shore.

What to Expect at Psili Ammos Beach

At Psili Ammos Beach, expect an exotic and exciting experience. First, you’ll find a long sandy shore lined with shady trees. Furthermore, the waters are a brilliant turquoise hue.

Wading into the brilliant turquoise waters at Psili Ammos took my breath away – it was like being in a tropical paradise. Additionally, you may even spot lilies surprisingly growing right out of the sand itself. I loved discovering the unexpected surprise of lilies growing right out of the golden sand.

However, keep in mind the beach gets quite crowded during peak season. Likewise, parking can be problematic those months. Nevertheless, bathing in these unique surroundings makes for an unforgettable beach day. Overall, Psili Ammos offers natural beauty and a taste of Serifos’ characteristic charm.

What’s Near Psili Ammos Beach

There’s nothing really of interest near the beach but Psili Ammos is only 8 km from Chora and 3.5 km from Livadi.

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