Naxos beaches are known for their delicate sand and crystal blue waters. The most enchanting sandy beaches are located on the island’s western side, the most touristy and developed region. On the other hand, the eastern beaches are more wild and pristine.
In brief, the most well-known beaches are Plaka, the longest sandy beach on the island, and Agios Prokopios. They are regarded as among the most beautiful beaches in Greece. However, many other lovely sandy beaches exist to explore, like Mikri Vigla and Amitis, which are famous for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
In the end, if you travel to Naxos with kids, the ideal option is the well-organized Agios Georgios, the Town’s main beach, with shallow waters. We also recommend Mikri Vigla (Sahara), a spectacular place protected from the winds.
Our List of the Most Alluring Naxos Beaches
©shewandersabroad.com
Agios Prokopios beach
It lies on the western side of the island, 5 km away from the center of Naxos Town.
It is one of the island’s most popular beaches, having earned a Blue Flag Award numerous times. So, it is no wonder it has been listed among the best beaches in Greece and Europe. Furthermore, the beach is well organized, with umbrellas and sunbeds everywhere except its northern section. During summer, the beach is crowded. So nowadays, only a few naturists in the area gather mainly at the beach’s north end.
©Marco Verch/Flickr
Plaka Beach
It used to be a nudists’ beach, but it is now one of the most popular beaches in the area.
During high season, there are many families with children and young people. Its main characteristic is the long and vast white sand and turquoise waters.
In Plaka, many taverns offer excellent views and local cuisine. There is also no shortage of beach-front café-bars in the area, some of which bring you your beverages and snacks on the beach.
The beach is partially organized. So, if you don’t want to rent an umbrella, you can easily find a place under the sun.
©Greeka.com
Maragas
The beach of Maragas is one of the most beautiful in Greece. It follows after Agia Anna and Agios Prokopios beaches, while Plaka beach starts at its left end.
Altogether, the beach stretches around 4 km.
It boasts fine sand and a few trees that provide shade for bathers. The shallow waters get deeper, making the beach an ideal swimming destination for families with children. The sea is also perfect for snorkeling since rock formations create a beautiful underwater setting. Maragas is also known for having several unique eye-shells of Naxos, which you can admire while snorkeling or on the shore.
Organized Maragas Beach also has umbrellas and sunbeds for anyone renting beach gear.
©Naxos.gr
Agia Anna Beach
It is just an 18-minute walk from Agios Prokopios so that you can visit both on the same day! Although less famous than its neighbor, Agia Anna has much to offer. With dazzling turquoise waters, golden sands, and breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea, this beach is a must-visit during your trip to Naxos.
The waters are also shallow and transparent, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling and swimming (especially for children).
Ultimately, you’ll also find plenty of beach clubs and tavernas at Agia Anna if you want to grab a drink or a bite.
©naxos-hotel.com
Alyko Beach
It is one of the best beaches in Naxos, with its sands, pristine turquoise waters, and snorkeling opportunities. Surrounded by extensive cedar forests, the scenery is spectacular here.
Not only is Alyko Beach one of the most extensive beaches in Naxos, but it’s also not crowded with tourists, so you won’t have to race to find the perfect sunbathing spot here!
How to get there: No public buses stop directly at the beach, but you can get off at Alyko and walk from there. So, you should better go there by car.
©Marco Verch/Flickr
Agios Georgios Beach
Not only is Agios Georgios Beach one of the most beautiful beaches in Naxos, but it’s also just a 10-minute walk from the town center, so it is close to plenty of facilities and is easily accessible. It makes it one of the most family-friendly beaches on the island, so it is perfect if you have little ones.
The waters are also calm, and the beach is sheltered from the north winds during the summer, too, so you won’t have to worry about the waves. Not only that, but Agios Georgios has a sandy shelf that extends out into the sea. It means the water is incredibly shallow in some places, which is excellent for swimming.
The downside of the beach is that it can get very crowdy during the entire season.
©Bozena Pisarska
Mikri Vigla
The breathtaking beach of Mikri Vigla on Naxos Island is 12 kilometers away from the capital. It consists of two enchanting sandy beaches with incredible blue seawater, separated by an impressive hill.
The northern part is lovely, with soft golden sand and crystalline turquoise waters. It is also pretty windy, which makes it ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
The southern part (on the other side of the hill) is an endless sandy beach (also called Sahara or Limanakia) with incredible crystal waters. Since it is shielded from the Meltemi winds, we recommend it for family holidays.
©FeelGreece.com
Orkos Beach
You can find Orkos bеtween Plaκa and Miкri Vigla. It is аn area whiсh which includes a series οf smаll sandу сoves alоng the rοаd. This part of Naхοs is charaсterized by nаtural bеautу аnd tranquility,
The beach is secluded and unorganized, perfect for nudists and gay couples.
©Greeka.com
Abram Beach
If you’re looking for the best-secluded beaches in Naxos, put Abram Beach on your list. You’ll need your wheels to get there, but you’ll be blown away once you get to the beach!
The water is a vivid turquoise color and crystal clear, making it perfect for snorkeling and swimming. The beach is also surrounded by trees, so you’ll have plenty of shade if you need it.
However, one of this place’s highlights must be the views! On a clear day, you’ll get panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and be able to spot the islands of Mykonos and Paros in the distance.
FAQs for Visiting the Beaches in Naxos
Before we take a look at the finest Naxos beaches, here are a couple of things you should know:
- The best time to visit the beaches in Naxos is in June and September. It is when temperatures are at their hottest, and the water temperature will still be pretty warm. More importantly, you can avoid the crowds who flock to the island during July and August.
- Naxos has a public transport system that runs to the most popular beaches on the island. However, if you’re looking to visit some of the more secluded beaches in Naxos, it’s best to hire a car or scooter.
- Many of the beaches on this island will have beachfront tavernas where you can grab a refreshing drink or a bite to eat. However, the more secluded beaches in Naxos won’t have facilities, so always carry water and snacks with you.
- Sunscreen is a must if you’re relaxing on the beaches in Naxos. If you secure an umbrella, you will find more shade (if any) at some beaches in this guide.
Naxos has plenty of family-friendly beaches, but some are more suitable. - Island also has many beautiful isolated beaches. However, many won’t have restrooms or tavernas/restaurants; that’s why we don’t recommend them for families with small children. But they are perfect for nudists.
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Featured photo: @Greeka.com