Best Beaches in Mykonos
One of the reasons Mykonos is so popular in the summer is its sandy beaches, there’s a stretch for everyone here, with many organized options filled with sunbeds and umbrellas, all offering calm, crystal-clear blue waters for swimming, and several are ideal for water sports. The sea will be warm enough for swimming by June, and sometimes as soon as early May, and typically stay comfortable enough through mid-October. In August, the temperature is at its peak at 27°C/ 80°F.
The best beaches can be found along the island’s southern coast as they’re the most protected from the wind, but beaches in the north are spectacular too, and, more importantly, less crowded. If you aren’t planning on renting a car to check them all out and choose your favorite, we’ve put together this list of the best options, whether you’re looking to party, enjoy activities out on the water, or for peaceful solitude.
Platis Gialos
Many consider Platis Gialos (also spelled Platys Yialos) to be the very best beach on the island. It’s just 2.5 miles south of Mykonos Town, with frequent buses that can get you here in about 15 minutes. This stretch is also convenient for exploring other beaches, including Paradise and Super Paradise, accessed by an hourly water taxi or on foot.
While it isn’t a party beach, it’s organized with loungers and umbrellas filling the sand and you’ll find a lively atmosphere along with plenty of bars and restaurants that serve meals throughout the day. If you’re looking to swim, the shallow turquoise water is ideal. It’s a good pick for all types of visitors – you’ll see mostly young couples and families here.
Super Paradise
Speaking of Super Paradise, it’s one of the most popular on the island with clear blue waters and spectacular views. It’s nearly covered in umbrellas and sunbeds that are available for rent and will be crowded and loud on summer afternoons, but it’s not specifically a party beach. The calm sea attractions everyone from honeymooners and other couples to families.
While some guides might tell you it’s the island’s gay beach, it isn’t, but it is a favorite among gay men. It’s a 15-minute drive from Mykonos Town, with no public bus service available, but there is a beach club that offers a private shuttle that runs to and from the Fabrika bus terminal.
Paradise Beach
Paradise is the island’s famous party beach. This is the one that’s known worldwide, attracting visitors from just about every corner of the planet. It’s filled with bars where the hip 20-somethings go day and night. There are many places to dine, drink, and shop as well as to swim and sunbathe.
The party is practically 24/7 during the peak of summer, July and August, with action going on until sunrise at the club just above the sand, taking a break for just a short time before it all begins again. This is where you want to be for the liveliest atmosphere, hanging out with the beautiful people, and swimming. It’s also easy to reach from Mykonos Town, with the most bus connections running late into the night. If you go by car, it takes only about 20 minutes to reach, and you’ll find parking only steps away.
Psarou Beach
One of the trendiest beaches on Mykonos, Psarou Beach offers some of the most breathtaking scenery and the best swimming. It’s popular with everyone from the locals to well-heeled jetsetters, including an occasional internationally known celebrity. You’ll find all the amenities that you could ever need, at a high price.
There are plenty of sun loungers, with the most expensive closer to the water, but if you can afford it, it’s well-worth the cost. A number of restaurants nearby serve delicious fare that also comes with a high price tag. While parking tends to be scarce during the summer, there are regular buses that run here from Mykonos Town. It can also be reached on foot from Paradise Beach.
Elia Beach
Elia is the island’s largest beach with plenty of room for everyone. It’s farther from Kykonos Town, about a 25-minute drive by car, with plenty of parking available, or you can take the bus from the Old Port station. The turquoise water is ideal for swimming and there are water sports facilities for enjoying windsurfing, parasailing, water skiing and more.
Much of it is filled with sunbeds and umbrellas in the summer, but there is a small section for tossing a blanket down onto the sand near the rocks that separate Elia from Agrari, which is often where you’ll see nudist enjoying the sand and the water. When it comes to dining and drinking, there are a handful of beach bars, tavernas, and a seafood restaurant. A short walk to Agrari brings more options for dining.
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