The beaches of Mykonos are considered among the most beautiful in the Cyclades and the entire Aegean. All of them boast incredible, crystal-clear, greenish-blue waters and are easily accessible via asphalt roads, drivable dirt roads, and short pathways. Most of the beaches can be reached by bus. That’s why you can find more information about how to take the bus in Mykonos here: Mykonos Buses.
Psarrou
Famous personalities and luxury fans gather to secure sunbeds at Nammos beach bar in Psarrou, renowned not only in the Cyclades but globally for its opulent ambiance, top-notch services, and exclusive events. Despite the beach’s narrowness and perpetual bustle, the service rivals that of a luxury hotel, albeit at a premium price. Sunbed reservations are highly sought-after, often necessitating a waitlist, with affluent individuals renting them for extended periods. Due to its popularity, parking is scarce; opting for the bus or walking from the water taxi at Platis Gialos might be more convenient.
Platis Gialos
Located 5 kilometers south of Chora, Platis Gialos beach is a wide sandy beach, highly popular as the first fully equipped and extensively developed beach in terms of tourism infrastructure. It has earned a Blue Flag designation for its pristine blue waters. The area is full of seafood restaurants, tavernas, and beach bars.
Find out how to protect yourself from the sun while spending your summer in Greece!
Ornos
Ornos has evolved into one of the most busy tourist destinations on the island over the past three decades. It is conveniently located just 2.5 kilometers from Chora, accessible by bus from Mykonos town (every hour from Fabrika Station) or by car via the new peripheral road or the provincial road from Chora to Agios Ioannis. The roads are well-paved and in excellent condition, but parking is somewhat limited. Parking spaces can be found along the main road, the square in front of the beach, or in private areas with free access.
Surrounded by hotels and tavernas offering the finest dishes on the island, Ornos becomes a lively hub during the summer, attracting those seeking a resort atmosphere. The southern part of Ornos beach is particularly suitable for families with small children, as the shallow sea waters and sandy bottom make it easy and safe for them to enter the water.
Paradise
Paradise is located 5,5 kms from Chora and can be reached by bus or small boats from Platis Gialos. It initially called Kalamopodi, gained fame in 1969 when the Paradise camping site opened for the growing hippie community. Nowadays, it’s an internationally known spot attracting a young, energetic crowd looking to party all day and night. It is also the beach where nudists have their spot. The famous Cavo Paradiso nightclub, featuring international DJs, sits on a hill overlooking the beach. Also, rental rooms are available.
Super Paradise
Super Paradise was once a favorite for nudists and gays, but now it’s popular with families and couples, despite the loud music from the beach clubs. The fame of Super Paradise was skyrocketed since 1971 thanks to the super parties of the beach bar with the same name, having as guests the biggest names of electronic music. You can reach the beach by a private means of transportation, an organized private bus (7 kilometers from Chora), or by boat from Platis Gialos.
Paraga
Paraga stands as the southernmost beach on the island, easily accessible within 15 minutes by a frequent bus departing from Mykonos Town (leaving from the Fabrika terminal). Boasting captivating views of Naxos and Paros, this popular beach is equipped with fine sand, sunbeds, umbrellas, and restaurants. Its proximity to Paraside and the crystal clear waters make Paraga one of the most sought-after beaches on the island. While the water is calm and ideal for swimming, be cautious of rocks along the shore. While it may lack privacy, nude sunbathing is relatively common, particularly on the right side. If you continue walking to the right, you’ll discover three additional beaches: Agia Anna, Platis Gialos, and Psarrou.
Elia
Mykonos’ largest and most renowned beach, is exceptionally beautiful and known for its cosmopolitan atmosphere. It is welcoming to the LGBTQ+ community, with a designated section for nudists on the right side of the beach. Noteworthy is the expansive golden sandy beach, accompanied by crystal-clear waters and a scenic view of the neighboring island of Naxos.
Agrari
An excellent choice for families is Agrari, a long sandy beach located 7 kilometers from Chora. Umbrellas and sunbeds are available on one side, with open sand on the other. The dining options are notably more affordable than at other beaches.
Kalo Livadi
This extensive sandy beach is encircled by the distinctive rocky hills of Mykonos, positioned between Elia Beach and Kalafati Beach. Families often choose this destination to enjoy a day playing with their children in the shallow waters, while couples often prefer the vibrant beach club, Lohan. It is conveniently reachable both by land and by boat from Platis Gialos.
Aghios Sostis
Situated on the northern part of the island, away from the central hub, this beach maintains its unspoiled charm and is generally less crowded. Although not entirely devoid of tourists, the period outside the bustling months of July and August tends to be more serene. Recognized as a nudist-friendly beach, it is not organized so it’s advisable to bring your own umbrella if you wish to avoid sun exposure. Additionally, remember to pack water and snacks, as there are no on-site facilities. For a checklist of essential items to have during the summer months in Greece, you can refer to our guide here.
Given its northern location, Agios Sostis Beach can experience windier conditions and stronger waves compared to the southern island parts. However, you might also be fortunate enough to find the water calm and ideal for swimming.
It’s a beach for everyone, but it’s more frequented by young straight couples. Access to Agios Sostis is not facilitated by buses, so having a car is essential. Parking is available, approximately a 5- to 10-minute walk from the sandy shores.
Agia Anna
There are two Agia Anna beaches in Mykonos. The first is a small sandy beach located to the right of Kalafatis, near a fishing port. This beach remains one of the most traditional on the island, featuring a restaurant where you can savor fresh fish. It is a bit smaller and typically less crowded, while still offering umbrellas and sunbeds for rent. There are no buses, but you can take one from the Old Port to Kalafatis and then walk, which will take about 5 minutes. If you’re driving, it’s approximately a 25-minute journey from Mykonos Town.
The second Agia Anna beach is situated between Paraga and Platys Gialos, easily accessible from either beach by a short walk. It shares the same serene and tranquil vibe, with prominent large rocks. Locals affectionately refer to the two hills guarding the bay as Aphrodite’s breasts. To get there take the bus to Paraga from the Fabrika terminal in Mykonos Town and walk from there. Alternatively, you can also take the bus to Platys Gialos, from where it’s a short walk to Agia Anna.
Kalafati(s)
Kalafatis is a well-organized beach stretching for a kilometer. It is known for its popularity among families and water sports enthusiasts, particularly windsurfers who relish the 4-6 Beaufort winds. While there are some rocks along the water’s edge, the area beyond them is ideal for swimming. Positioned away from the more tourist-centric beaches, Kalafatis is complemented by a backdrop of hotels and tavernas. Accessible by car, it takes approximately 25 minutes to reach Kalafatis from Mykonos Town. Additionally, a bus service is available, departing from the Old Port.
If you love water sports, especially surfing, Kalafatis, Meghali Ammos, and Ftelia will be your favorites! Kalafatis is also known for its calm waters, which is why surfers particularly enjoy it.
Ftelia
Mykonos’ most bohemian beach is situated, approximately a 7km drive away. You can get there only by car, motorbike, or taxi. This beach is particularly favored by windsurfers and kite surfers due to the regular winds, which, incidentally, also deter most other visitors. Consequently, it remains uncrowded, with sunbeds only available in a small section near the bar.
Ascending the steps to the bar is recommended, offering a panoramic view of the expansive and surprisingly undeveloped beach. Despite its considerable size, there is consistently ample space to lay out your towel, and you might often find yourself enjoying the crystal-clear sea without others nearby.
Extra info: The beach is also well known for the famos neolithic settlement found there believed that is the tomb of ancient lliad hero Ajax the Lesser.
Lia
The most distant organized beach is Lia, located 13 kilometers from Chora. Despite its distance, it compensates its visitors with its soft sand, crystal-clear waters, and the surrounding rocks. The beach is equipped with sunbeds, parasols, showers, and a scuba diving school. Since there is no bus service or water taxi to the beach, it can only be accessed by car.
