Skiathos, a gem in the Aegean Sea, is renowned for its stunning coastline and crystal-clear waters. This guide to the best beaches in Skiathos will help you discover the island’s hidden treasures, from the popular sunbed-lined shores near the main town to secluded coves where you can lay down your towel in peace.
From the green-blue waters of Koukounaries Beach to the photogenic stone arch at Lalaria, each beach has its unique charm. So pack your sunscreen and get ready to explore the beautiful little paradises that make Skiathos a true beach lover’s haven.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Skiathos 💎 :
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Skiathos Palace Hotel
- ✨ 5-Star: Skiathos Princess Resort
- 🏨 4-Star: Mandraki Village Boutique Hotel
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Plaza Hotel
- 💸 Cheap: Aelia Studios
- 🏡 Villa: Villa Elpiniki
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Korali Hotel
- 🏩 For Couples: The Bay Suites
Favorite Beaches in Skiathos: Quick Overview 📃
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Troulos Beach
- 🏖️ Most Famous: Koukounaries Beach
- 🏄♂️ For Water Sports: Banana Beach
- 🌅 For Unique Beauty: Lalaria Beach
- 🍽️ For Dining Experience: Kechria Beach
- 🏙️ Closest to Town: Megali Ammos Beach
1. Koukounaries Beach – Best for Natural Beauty and Amenities🌴
🌲 Pine Forest Paradise: Koukounaries Beach is surrounded by a lush pine forest, creating a unique and picturesque setting. This natural backdrop provides shade and a refreshing atmosphere on the western side of the island. It’s considered one of the most unspoiled beaches in the Aegean Sea, a must-visit on Skiathos.
🏅 Golden Sand Glory: Known as “Chrysi Ammos” (Golden Sand) due to its fine yellow sand that glistens in the sunlight. Consistently ranked as one of Skiathos’ best beaches and a jewel of the Sporades islands. The unique sand quality sets it apart from other beaches on this Greek island.
🦆 Strofilia Wetland Wonders: Behind the beach lies the Strofilia lagoon, an ecologically crucial wetland. Home to numerous migratory birds, offering birdwatching opportunities early in the morning. The lagoon connects to the Aegean, creating a unique coastal ecosystem.
👥 Popular Hotspot: One of the most famous and sometimes crowded beaches on the island of Skiathos. Attracts a diverse crowd, from families to young travelers wanting to visit Skiathos’ best. The popularity has led to well-developed facilities, including beach bars and sun beds.
🏄♂️ Watersports Hub: Offers a variety of water sports activities for enthusiasts, including jet skiing. Equipment rentals and lessons available at this excellent beach for different skill levels. The beach’s size and conditions make it suitable for various water activities.
Best Hotels Near Koukounaries Beach 🏨
- Skiathos Palace Hotel – Skiathos Palace Hotel is a luxurious 5-star property located just a short walk from the famous Koukounaries Beach. The hotel features elegant rooms, a spa, and multiple dining options, making it a perfect choice for a high-end beach getaway.
- Mandraki Village Boutique Hotel – Mandraki Village Boutique Hotel is a charming property situated near Koukounaries Beach. The hotel offers stylish accommodations, a pool, and a restaurant serving delicious Greek cuisine.
- Aelia Studios & Suites – Aelia Studios & Suites is a lovely property located just a short distance from Koukounaries Beach. The studios and suites are well-appointed and feature kitchenettes, making them perfect for families or those seeking a self-catering option.
2. Troulos Beach – Best Beach for Families 👨👩👧👦
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Paradise: Troulos Beach offers a perfect sandy beach experience for families visiting Skiathos. The gently sloping seabed creates shallow, turquoise waters ideal for children. It’s one of Skiathos’ best beaches for a safe and enjoyable family day out.
🏊♂️ Watersports for All: Offers various water sports suitable for different age groups, a must-try when you visit Skiathos. Pedalos and kayaks available to rent, perfect for exploring the beautiful coastline.
🌳 Natural Shade Oasis: Surrounded by trees providing natural shade, reminiscent of Koukounaries’ pine forests. This feature is particularly appreciated by those wanting to lay down their towel away from the sun. Offers a comfortable alternative to rented umbrellas on this really lovely beach.
🚌 Easy Island Access: Well-connected to Skiathos Town and other parts of the island by regular public bus. Convenient for tourists staying in various locations who want to visit Troulos. Ample parking available for those exploring the island by car.
🏝️ Troulonissi Islet Adventure: Features a small island about 350 meters from the shore, visible from your sun beds. The islet’s dome-like shape gives the beach its name and adds interest to the seascape. Strong swimmers can reach this little piece of paradise for a unique Aegean Sea experience.
Best Hotels Near Troulos Beach 🏨
- Zachos Studios – Zachos Studios is a family-run property located just a short walk from Troulos Beach. The studios are comfortable and well-equipped, offering a peaceful retreat near the beach. Guests can enjoy the lovely garden and the warm hospitality of the owners, making it a great choice for a relaxing beach holiday.
- Villa Elpiniki Troulos – Villa Elpiniki Troulos is a charming property situated near Troulos Beach. The villa offers comfortable accommodations, a beautiful garden, and a terrace with sea views. Its proximity to the beach and the peaceful surroundings make it an ideal choice for those seeking a quiet and relaxing beach getaway.
- Korali Troulos – Korali Troulos is a lovely property located just a short distance from Troulos Beach. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, a pool, and a snack bar, providing a convenient base for exploring the beach and the surrounding area. Guests can enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and the beautiful views of the Aegean Sea.
3. Banana Beach – Best for Young Crowds and Parties 🍌
🍌 Dual Beach Experience: Consists of two beaches – Big Banana and Little Banana, offering varied atmospheres. Big Banana Beach is lively with beach bars, while Little Banana is more secluded. Provides options for different preferences within the same area of Skiathos’ southern beaches.
🎉 Party Central: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, especially at the beach bars on Big Banana Beach. DJs often play music, creating a fun environment popular among younger visitors to Skiathos. It’s the perfect spot for those seeking a lively beach experience on the island.
🍹 Beach Bar Scene: Several beach bars line the shore, offering a variety of cold beers and cocktails. The bars often host events and themed parties, especially during peak season. Great spot for those who enjoy a vibrant nightlife scene by the Aegean Sea.
🌴 Natural Beauty: Surrounded by lush greenery, creating an idyllic landscape on the western side of the island. The verdant backdrop provides a beautiful contrast to the golden sand and turquoise sea. Offers a mix of natural beauty and entertainment, making it a must-visit beach in Skiathos.
👙 Fashion Hotspot: Known as a trendy spot, with visitors often showcasing stylish beachwear. Great place for people-watching and soaking in the young, vibrant atmosphere. Some visitors describe it as having a bit of a ‘see and be seen’ vibe among Skiathos’ beaches.
Best Hotels Near Banana Beach 🏨
- The Bay Suites – The Bay Suites is a luxurious property located near Banana Beach, offering stunning views of the Aegean Sea. The suites are spacious and elegantly designed, featuring private balconies or terraces.
- Aquarius Zakynthos – Aquarius Zakynthos is a modern hotel situated near Banana Beach. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, a pool, and a restaurant serving Greek and international cuisine. Its proximity to the beach and the lively atmosphere make it a great choice for those seeking a fun and relaxing beach holiday.
- Bella Vista Vasilikos – Bella Vista Vasilikos is a charming property located near Banana Beach. The hotel offers comfortable accommodations, a pool, and a snack bar, providing a convenient base for exploring the beach and the surrounding area.
4. Vromolimnos Beach – Best for Water Sports and Lively Atmosphere 🏖️
🏄♂️ Watersports Paradise: Renowned for its excellent watersports facilities, a highlight when you visit Skiathos. Offers activities like jet skiing, water skiing, and windsurfing on the turquoise Aegean waters. Suitable for both beginners and experienced water sports enthusiasts on this sandy beach.
🏐 Active Beach Life: Features volleyball courts and areas for beach sports on the golden sand. The wide stretch of shore is perfect for various activities and group games. Combines relaxation opportunities with options for active recreation on one of Skiathos’ best beaches.
🌅 Aegean Sunset Views: Offers beautiful sunset vistas over the Aegean Sea from the western side of the island. Beach bars and tavernas provide perfect spots for watching the sun go down. Popular for evening gatherings and pre-dinner drinks with a spectacular backdrop.
🍹 Vibrant Beach Bars: Lined with lively beach bars offering refreshments, music, and a social atmosphere. Popular among younger crowds for its fun environment, a must-visit for the Skiathos nightlife. Great spot for those who enjoy a mix of relaxation and entertainment on their Greek island holiday.
🎶 Music and Entertainment: Regular DJ sets and live music events, especially during the summer months. Creates a fun, party-like atmosphere distinct from quieter Skiathos beaches. Ideal for those who enjoy a lively beach scene with entertainment on their visit to Skiathos.
Best Hotels Near Vromolimnos Beach 🏨
- Skiathos Princess Hotel – Skiathos Princess Hotel is a luxurious 5-star property located just steps away from Vromolimnos Beach. The hotel features elegant rooms, a spa, and multiple dining options, making it a perfect choice for a high-end beach getaway.
- Arco Hotel – Arco Hotel is a modern property situated near Vromolimnos Beach. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, a pool, and a restaurant serving Greek and international cuisine.
- Villa Frideriki – Villa Frideriki is a charming property located just a short distance from Vromolimnos Beach. The villa offers comfortable accommodations, a beautiful garden, and a terrace with sea views.
5. Agia Paraskevi Beach – Best for Mix of Natural Beauty and Amenities 🐢
🌿 Herb Foraging Tours: Local experts offer guided walks to forage for wild herbs near the beach. Visitors can learn about traditional Greek medicinal plants and their culinary uses. A unique way to connect with Skiathos’ natural heritage while enjoying the beach.
🏺 Beachside Pottery Workshops: Seasonal pottery classes use clay from the nearby cliffs. Participants can create and fire their own Greek-inspired ceramics. Offers a creative twist to the typical beach day on Skiathos.
🌙 Moonlight Beach Cinema: During summer, the beach hosts open-air movie screenings under the stars. Classic Greek films and international favorites are shown on a big screen by the sea. A magical evening experience combining cinema with the sound of waves.
🧘♀️ Floating Yoga Classes: Unique yoga sessions are held on paddleboards in the calm morning waters. Combines the benefits of yoga with the challenge of balance on water. A novel way to start the day and connect with the Aegean Sea.
🐢 Sea Turtle Watching: The beach is a nesting site for loggerhead sea turtles during certain months. Guided night walks allow visitors to potentially witness turtle nesting or hatching. An eco-friendly activity that raises awareness about marine conservation.
Best Hotels Near Agia Paraskevi Beach 🏨
- Paris Guesthouse – Paris Guesthouse is a family-run property located just a short walk from Agia Paraskevi Beach. The guesthouse offers comfortable rooms, a beautiful garden, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Guests can enjoy the proximity to the beach and the lovely little taverna nearby, which serves delicious food and drinks.
- Villa Anna Maria – Villa Anna Maria is a charming property situated near Agia Paraskevi Beach. The villa offers comfortable accommodations, a beautiful garden, and a terrace with sea views. Its proximity to the beach and the peaceful surroundings make it an ideal choice for those seeking a quiet and relaxing beach getaway.
- Villa Maraki – Villa Maraki is a lovely property located just a short distance from Agia Paraskevi Beach. The villa offers well-appointed accommodations, a pool, and a snack bar, providing a convenient base for exploring the beach and the surrounding area.
6. Kechria Beach – Best for Unique Lounging Experience 🌿
🌿 Green Lawn Lounging: Unique feature of a green lawn area for relaxing, unlike typical sandy beaches. Offers a comfortable alternative to lying on sand or pebbles. Combines the beach experience with a park-like setting.
🦞 Gourmet Beach Dining: Home to a taverna famous for its lobster spaghetti and fresh seafood. Offers high-quality dining right on the beach, a rarity in Skiathos. Combines culinary excellence with a relaxed beach atmosphere.
🌺 Beachside Flower Arranging: Workshops using local wildflowers and beach finds to create unique arrangements. Learn about Skiathos’ flora while creating beautiful, natural art. A peaceful and creative activity to enjoy between swims.
🏺 Underwater Archaeology Snorkel Tours: Guided snorkeling trips to nearby underwater archaeological sites. Discover ancient artifacts and learn about the island’s maritime history. Combines historical education with beach activities.
🎭 Sunset Shadow Puppet Shows: Traditional Greek shadow puppet theater performed on the beach at dusk. Tells stories from Greek mythology and folklore against the setting sun. A cultural experience that’s entertaining for both adults and children.
Best Hotels Near Kechria Beach 🏨
- Kechria Bay Villas – Kechria Bay Villas is a luxurious property located near Kechria Beach, offering stunning views of the Aegean Sea. The villas are spacious and elegantly designed, featuring private pools and terraces. Guests can enjoy the beautiful surroundings, the high-end amenities, and the proximity to one of the most picturesque beaches.
- Allure Luxury Villas – Allure Luxury Villas is a stunning property situated near Kechria Beach. The villas are beautifully designed and offer luxurious accommodations, private pools, and breathtaking views of the sea. Guests can enjoy the tranquil surroundings, the high-end amenities, and the easy access to the beach.
- Alexandra's Studios – Alexandra’s Studios is a charming property located just a short walk from Kechria Beach. The studios are comfortable and well-equipped, offering a peaceful retreat near the beach.
7. Mikros Aselinos Beach – Best for Secluded Nature Escape 🏞️
🐎 Beachside Horse Riding: Offers horseback riding experiences along the shoreline and nearby trails. Riders can enjoy stunning coastal views and potentially swim with horses. A unique way to explore Skiathos’ natural beauty beyond the beach.
🍇 Beach Grape Stomping: During grape harvest season, visitors can participate in traditional grape stomping. Learn about local winemaking processes right on the beach. A fun and messy activity that connects beach-goers with Greek traditions.
🎨 Sand Mandala Creation: Artists create intricate sand mandalas on the beach, inspired by Greek patterns. Visitors can watch the process and learn about this meditative art form. Offers a peaceful and visually stunning addition to the beach experience.
🌿 Seaweed Foraging and Cooking: Workshops on identifying, collecting, and cooking with edible seaweeds. Learn about the nutritional benefits and traditional uses of sea vegetables. A sustainable and educational activity that connects visitors with marine resources.
🎶 Sunset Bouzouki Concerts: Local musicians perform traditional Greek music on the beach at sunset. Visitors can enjoy the sounds of the bouzouki while watching the sun go down. Adds a touch of Greek culture to the beach experience.
Best Hotels Near Mikros Aselinos Beach 🏨
- Unique Design Beach Villa in Skiathos – Unique Design Beach Villa in Skiathos is a stunning property located just steps away from Mikros Aselinos Beach. The villa features a unique design, luxurious accommodations, and breathtaking views of the sea.
- Aselinos Suites – Aselinos Suites is a modern property situated near Mikros Aselinos Beach. The suites are spacious and well-appointed, offering comfortable accommodations and beautiful views of the sea. Guests can enjoy the pool, the snack bar, and the easy access to the beach, which is considered one of the most beautiful on the island.
- Villa Marigo Kolios – Villa Marigo Kolios is a charming property located just a short distance from Mikros Aselinos Beach. The villa offers comfortable accommodations, a beautiful garden, and a terrace with sea views. Its proximity to the beach and the peaceful surroundings make it an ideal choice for those seeking a quiet and relaxing beach getaway.
8. Kanapitsa Beach – Best Beach for Water Tours 🏄♂️
🚤 Water Taxi Hub: Serves as a main stop for water taxis connecting various beaches around Skiathos. Visitors can easily hop between beaches and explore different parts of the coastline. Offers a unique way to beach-hop and see more of Skiathos in one day.
🐠 Glass-Bottom Boat Tours: Regular glass-bottom boat trips depart from the beach, showcasing underwater life. See colorful fish, sea caves, and potentially shipwrecks without getting wet. Perfect for those who want to explore marine life without snorkeling or diving.
🎣 Nighttime Squid Fishing: Evening boat trips offer the chance to try traditional squid fishing. Learn about this local practice and potentially cook your catch on board. A unique nighttime activity that combines fishing, cuisine, and sea views.
🌿 Coastal Herb Salt Making: Workshops on creating flavored sea salts using locally foraged herbs. Learn about the culinary and medicinal uses of Mediterranean herbs. Take home a unique, handmade souvenir from your beach day.
🏺 Beachside Raki Distilling: Demonstrations of traditional Greek raki (tsikoudia) distilling on the beach. Learn about the process and sample this potent Greek spirit. Offers insight into local drinking culture right on the shoreline.
Best Hotels Near Kanapitsa Beach 🏨
- Plaza Hotel – Plaza Hotel is a modern property located near Kanapitsa Beach. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, a pool, and a restaurant serving Greek and international cuisine. Its proximity to the beach and the lively atmosphere make it a great choice for those seeking a fun and relaxing beach holiday.
- Vontzos Hotel – Vontzos Hotel is a charming property situated near Kanapitsa Beach. The hotel offers comfortable accommodations, a pool, and a snack bar, providing a convenient base for exploring the beach and the surrounding area.
- Tzaneria Apartments Skiathos – Tzaneria Apartments Skiathos is a lovely property located just a short walk from Kanapitsa Beach. The apartments are comfortable and well-equipped, offering a peaceful retreat near the beach.
9. Achladies Beach – Best for Water Skiing and Underwater Adventures 🏙️
🚡 Water Skii Lift: Features a unique water ski lift system, the only one of its kind in Skiathos. Allows both beginners and experienced skiers to enjoy water skiing without a boat. Offers an exciting water sport option not found on other Skiathos beaches.
🍋 Citrus Grove Tours: Nearby lemon and orange groves offer tours and tastings. Learn about Skiathos’ citrus cultivation and sample fresh fruits and juices. A refreshing activity to complement your beach day.
🎨 Beach Art Installations: Hosts rotating exhibitions of eco-friendly art installations on the beach. Local and international artists create works inspired by the sea and Skiathos. Adds a cultural and artistic dimension to the typical beach experience.
🍷 Underwater Wine Aging: A local winery ages bottles in an underwater cellar just off the beach. Visitors can snorkel to see the submerged wine cages and learn about this unique aging process. Combines oenophile interests with underwater exploration.
🦑 Octopus Spotting Walks: Guided shoreline walks to spot and learn about local octopuses. Discover the fascinating behavior and importance of these intelligent creatures. An educational activity that heightens appreciation for marine life.
Best Hotels Near Achladies Beach 🏨
- Maniatis Garden – Maniatis Garden is a charming property located just a short walk from Achladies Beach. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, a beautiful garden, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Guests can enjoy the proximity to the beach, which is known for its crystal-clear waters and the lovely little taverna nearby.
- Cape Blue Suites – Cape Blue Suites is a luxurious property situated near Achladies Beach. The suites are spacious and elegantly designed, featuring private balconies or terraces with stunning views of the sea.
- Skiathos Symbol Villas – Skiathos Symbol Villas is a beautiful property located just a short distance from Achladies Beach. The villas are well-appointed and offer luxurious accommodations, private pools, and breathtaking views of the sea.
10. Lalaria Beach – Best for Scenic Beauty and Adventure 🚤
⛵ Boat-Only Adventure: Lalaria Beach can only be reached by boat, adding an element of excitement to the visit. Boat trips often include stops at nearby coves and the old port, enhancing the experience. The journey provides stunning views of Skiathos’ craggy north coast.
⚪ Unique Pebble Shore: Famous for its striking white pebble shore, a rarity among Skiathos’ beaches. The smooth pebbles create a beautiful contrast with the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea. Visitors are asked not to remove pebbles to preserve the beach’s unique character.
🌍 World-Renowned Beauty: Often listed among the most awe-inspiring beaches globally, a must-visit when you visit Skiathos. Compared to famous beaches worldwide, it’s one of the best beaches in Greece. Its exceptional beauty attracts visitors from around the world to this secluded beach.
🤿 Snorkeling Paradise: Crystal-clear, green-blue waters offer excellent visibility for snorkeling. Rich marine life and underwater caves provide exciting exploration opportunities. The rocky coastline creates an ideal environment for diverse aquatic species.
🌊 Unique Swimming Experience: The depth of the water changes dramatically, creating interesting conditions to take a dip. Known for its vibrant blue and green hues, changing with the sunlight on the north coast of Skiathos.
Best Hotels Near Lalaria Beach 🏨
- Georgia House – Georgia House is a charming property located in the town of Skiathos, providing a convenient base for exploring the island and visiting the famous Lalaria Beach. The guesthouse offers comfortable rooms, a beautiful garden, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
- Villa Spartias – Villa Spartias is a lovely property situated in the town of Skiathos, offering a great starting point for visiting Lalaria Beach. The villa features comfortable accommodations, a beautiful garden, and a terrace with views of the town.
- Villa Mitzelos – Villa Mitzelos is a charming property located in the heart of Skiathos town, providing an ideal base for exploring the island and visiting the iconic Lalaria Beach. The villa offers well-appointed accommodations, a lovely garden
FAQs about Best Beaches Skiathos ❔
What is the best time to visit Skiathos beaches?
The best time to visit Skiathos beaches is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and suitable for swimming and sunbathing.
Are there any nude beaches in Skiathos?
Yes, some nudism is practiced in certain parts of Banana Beach. Additionally, some secluded beaches on the northern side of the island are frequented by naturists.
Which beaches are best for families with children?
Troulos Beach and Vromolimnos Beach are mentioned as being perfect for families. They have shallow waters and sandy shores, making them ideal for children.
Are there any beaches with water sports facilities?
Yes, several beaches offer water sports facilities. Banana Beach is famous for water sports activities, while Vromolimnos, Agia Paraskevi, and Kanapitsa beaches also offer various water sports options.
