The island's most organised and complete beach — a large sheltered bay with shallow turquoise water, sunbeds, watersports and a range of tavernas and café-bars above the sand. The most family-friendly beach on the island; also the busiest on summer weekends.
A wide, well-organised beach on the northern coast with clear, calm water and pine shade on the hillside above. Less crowded than Koundouros on weekends. The Panagia Kastriani Monastery is visible on the headland at the bay's eastern end.
Close to Vourkari and walkable from the marina village, Gialiskari is a sandy beach with clear water — one of the closest beaches to the port area. Popular with sailors and Athenian weekenders. Taverna above the beach.
The northernmost beach on the island, at the extreme tip of the cape below Panagia Kastriani. Access requires a rugged coastal track (4WD only) or a boat from Vourkari. The combination of remote position and the monastery visible on the cliff above creates a setting the organised beaches cannot replicate. Wild, no facilities.
On the southwestern coast near the ancient city of Poiessa, Pisses is a long sandy beach with pine trees providing shade at its southern end and a seasonal taverna. Less visited than the northern beaches. Good for a full-day combined with a drive along the western coast road.
The small beach at the foot of the Karthaia promontory — accessible after the Karthaia trail descent or by water taxi — is the most scenically spectacular swimming spot on the island. The temple ruins above and the enclosed bay create the island's most exclusive swimming experience. No facilities.
