Best Beaches in Paros
Paros is renowned for its beaches, with some of the best in the Greek islands. The soft, fine sands glistening in the sun, while many are edged by clear, calm turquoise water perfect for swimming and other water sports. There are options to suit all tastes, whether you’re looking for peaceful contemplation on a pristine stretch, a breezy beach for kitesurfing or windsurfing, or even a beach with mud that’s said to heal for your very own natural spa. Some have been left unspoiled while others are organized with umbrellas and sunbeds, beach clubs, and water sports facilities.
So, which is which and where should you go? You’ll probably want to sample several of them, but these are some of the top picks on the island whether you want to spend an afternoon, a day, or your entire trip on the beach.
Golden Beach/Chrissi Akti
Chrissi Akti, often referred to as the Golden Beach, translates to “Golden Coast” in Greek. It’s one of the top spots in the entire Mediterranean for windsurfing but it also attracts countless visitors who simply enjoy its golden sands, crystal-clear blue waters, restaurants, and beach bars. Very photogenic, it’s a long stretch with sand that glistens in the sun due to the minerals in it and is edged by shallow water, making it popular with families.
The reason it’s so popular for windsurfing (and kitesurfing) is that it gets quite windy here in July and August. If you’ve ever wanted to learn either sport, this is a great place to do it. Facilities are numerous, including multiple water sports centers for lessons and rentals, beach clubs, restaurants, and hotels.
Kolymbithres
Even if you don’t plan to spend the day at Kolymbithres, you won’t want to miss a visit just to enjoy its beauty. A very unique stretch near Naoussa, it’s known for its lunar-like granite rock formations. The interesting geology makes it one of the island’s most famous, with the formations millions of years old, yet look as if they were made for a film set.
There are two main beach areas, with the shape of the bay creating a natural division. Each one has its own beach club and there are also little stretches of sandy beach between the rocks that offer an ideal spot for seclusion – if you arrive early enough to grab one. Activities on the water can be enjoyed here too, including kayaking, windsurfing, SUP, and mini sailboats, available at one of two water sports centers.
Kalogeros
Another must-visit, Kalogeros is a hidden treasure. Partly sandy and partly pebbly, this is the beach renowned for its healing mud, allowing visitors to enjoy their own free natural spa treatments. All you have to do is break off a chunk of gray clay from the cliffs, blend it with the seawater to make a mask and rub it onto your skin. Relax while it dries and then jump into the sea to rinse it off. It’s said to be healing, and at minimum, it will make your skin silky smooth.
There are no umbrellas, sunbeds, bars, or restaurants here, so you’ll need to bring your own drinks and snacks. Be sure to place any important items you bring with you away from the shore as the waves can be sneaky here, especially if a ship passes by.
Parasporos
The best beach for those staying in Parikia is Parasporos, and one of the most popular among young people looking to party, mostly in their 20s and early 30s, it’s located just south of the capital next to a campsite.
It can get quite crowded but arrive early and you can enjoy a spot on the golden sands that lie next to emerald-hued waters, calm and perfect for swimming. It’s very lively throughout the summer and includes two beach clubs which host all-day music, food, and parties complete with drinking and dancing all night long.
Traditional Greek cuisine can be enjoyed at the Parasporos Bay Tavern. If you don’t have a car, you can hop on the local bus from Parikia and it will stop nearby – taxis and shuttles are available too.
Marcello
Just 10 minutes from the capital, is what some call the island’s very best beach, with a crescent of striking white sands and the sea so flat and calm, it looks like a swimming pool. In fact, it only manages to barely muster up a ripple when the ferries come and go in Parikia’s harbor.
While it can get crowded in the summer, oftentimes it’s incredibly tranquil and you can even enjoy full waiter service while soaking up the sun and enjoy a view of the village surrounded by mountains. There are beach bars that offer umbrellas and sunbeds for rent while playing music to enjoy while sipping your cocktails.
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