Naxos · Beaches
Naxos has the longest run of sandy beaches in the Cyclades, almost all of it down the west coast.
Our favourites
SandEasy-going
A very long stretch of fine sand backed by dunes, with clear water. A few umbrellas and tavernas sit at one end, and the rest is open space even in August.
Road, then a short sandy path
Walk south along the sand until the crowd thins out.
The west coast
SandOrganised
A wide bay of soft sand with calm, shallow water. There are sunbeds, tavernas and rooms right behind the beach.
Road, with a bus from Chora
Come early in summer, before the sunbeds fill.
The west coastStay in Agios Prokopios & Plaka
Pick your kind of day
SandOrganised
The town beach of Chora, a short walk from the harbour. The water is shallow and the sand is fine, and there are tavernas and bars along it.
On foot or by bus from the centre of Chora
The meltemi blows hard here in summer, which suits windsurfers more than sunbathers.
The west coastStay in Naxos Town (Chora)
SandEasy-going
A fishing harbour with a small beach on either side. Tavernas stand right at the water and the boats are pulled up on the sand.
Road, with a bus from Chora
The west coast
SandEasy-going
Sand and rock coves facing the open sea, with a steady wind. It is the island's main place for kitesurfing and windsurfing.
Road and short tracks
Stay on the sheltered side of the rocks if you only want to swim.
The west coast
SandEasy-going
A quiet sandy beach with clear water and a few places to eat. It is calmer than the beaches around Agios Prokopios.
Road
The west coast
SandWild
Fine sand and dunes among juniper trees, with little built nearby. It feels far more remote than the beaches further north.
Road, then a sandy track
Bring water and shade, as there is very little on the beach.
The west coast
Sand & pebblesEasy-going
A long bay in the south-west with a taverna and some umbrellas. It is a good choice when you want a quieter swim.
Road
The west coast
PebblesEasy-going
A small pebble beach at a fishing village in the north. Fish tavernas line the harbour, and the great unfinished kouros lies in its quarry above.
Long mountain road from Chora
The northStay in Apollonas
Wind and sea change by the day. On windy days swim on the sheltered side of the island, and watch for red flags.