Paros has dozens of beaches, from long sandy bays with sunbeds and music to wild coves where you'll only hear the waves. Because the island is round and compact, you can easily reach a different one every day.
The most important thing to know? The wind. In summer, the north wind (the meltemi) can make one side of the island wavy while the other is calm as a lake. Our drivers check the forecast every morning, and so should you.
9 beaches we love
Kolymbithres
Natural pools between granite rocksThe most famous beach in Paros, and for good reason. Smooth granite boulders, sculpted by wind and sea, create little sandy coves and natural swimming pools with crystal-clear water.
Monastiri
A sheltered bay with a chapelA beautiful, protected bay below a whitewashed monastery, inside a natural park with walking trails to the lighthouse. Clear water, sunbeds and a relaxed beach bar.
Santa Maria
Golden sand and watersportsA long, sandy beach with shallow turquoise water, beach bars and plenty of watersports. One of the most popular beaches for young travelers and groups of friends.
Lageri
Wild dunes and peaceful sandA long, natural beach backed by sand dunes and cedar trees, with no big beach bars. It's a favorite of those looking for peace and quiet, and partly naturist at its far end.
Golden Beach (Chrysi Akti)
The windsurfing capitalOver a kilometer of fine golden sand on the southeast coast. When the wind picks up, the bay fills with colorful sails: this is one of the best windsurfing spots in the Mediterranean, with schools for every level.
Logaras
Perfect for familiesA calm, sandy beach with shallow water, right next to the little fishing harbor of Piso Livadi. Tavernas, cafés and everything you need within a few steps.
Kalogeros
The famous clay beachA small, wild beach known for the soft clay in its rocks. Visitors cover themselves in it, let it dry in the sun and then wash it off in the sea. A fun, natural spa.
Faragas
A golden cove in the southA lovely sandy cove with turquoise water, sheltered from the north wind. A great choice on windy days, with a beach bar and sunbeds.
Krios & Marcello
Across the bay from ParikiaTwo calm, sandy beaches on the opposite side of Parikia bay, with shallow water and views of the town. In summer, little boats shuttle swimmers across from Parikia harbor.
Paros beaches by area
| Area | Beaches | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| North (Naoussa) | Kolymbithres, Monastiri | Sheltered bays, boats from Naoussa |
| Northeast | Santa Maria, Lageri | Sandy, can be windy |
| East | Logaras, Kalogeros | Calm, family-friendly, tavernas |
| Southeast | Golden Beach | Windsurfing & kitesurfing |
| South | Faragas | Usually calm on windy days |
| West (Parikia) | Krios, Marcello | Easy from the port town |
The wind: the secret to a perfect beach day
In July and August the meltemi, a strong north wind, can blow for days. It keeps the island cool, but it also decides which beaches are calm.
- Windy day? Head south (Faragas) or to sheltered bays like Monastiri and Krios.
- Calm day? Perfect for Santa Maria, Lageri and the east coast.
- Love the wind? Golden Beach is your playground.
How to get to the beaches
Paros is easy to explore. Buses connect Parikia and Naoussa with the most popular beaches, and in summer small boats run from Naoussa and Parikia harbors to nearby beaches.
For the wilder beaches, or if you want to hop between a few in one day, a car, a scooter or a private driver is the easiest option.
Beach hopping without the hassle
Book a driver for the day, or just a ride to the beach and back. No parking, no stress.
Key takeaways
- Don't miss: Kolymbithres and Golden Beach.
- With kids: Logaras and Krios.
- Peace and quiet: Lageri.
- Check the wind every morning and choose your coast.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most beautiful beach in Paros?
Kolymbithres is the most famous, with its granite rocks and natural pools. Golden Beach, Santa Maria and Faragas are also among the favorites.
Which beaches in Paros are best for families?
Logaras and Krios have calm, shallow water and tavernas close by, which makes them ideal for children.
Which beaches are best when it's windy in Paros?
When the north wind blows, choose beaches in the south like Faragas, or sheltered bays like Monastiri and Krios.
Do I need a car to visit the beaches in Paros?
Not necessarily. Buses and boats reach the most popular beaches. A car, scooter or driver helps for the wilder ones and for visiting several in one day.
