Koukounaries
The island's signature beach — a crescent of fine golden sand backed by a dense pine forest. Unique in the Aegean. Gets very busy in August; arrive before 9:30 or after 17:00. Sunbeds, taverna, bus from town.
Sporades
Best Beaches in Skiathos
Lalaria
Only reachable by boat. White marble pebbles, a natural rock arch, and water shifting from turquoise to deep blue. No facilities — bring everything. The most photogenic beach on the island.
Kastro Beach
A small pebble beach at the base of the Kastro cliff. Almost no one makes it here. A 15-minute steep path brings you to one of the most atmospherically unusual beaches in Greece.
Banana Beach
Two connected coves — Big Banana and Little Banana. Little Banana is officially a nudist beach. Big Banana has sunbeds, a beach bar, and watersports. One of the more characterful beaches on the island.
Mandraki
Close to town but tucked away. Pine trees provide natural shade — rare on Greek beaches. Popular with locals and families who know to look past the more famous spots.
Tsougrias Islet
A 10-minute water taxi from the old port takes you to an uninhabited islet with three beaches and extraordinary water clarity. One summer-only taverna. Best snorkelling on the trip.