Best beaches in Mykonos: party, family and quiet beaches
Mykonos has dozens of beaches, from crowded party strips to remote coves. Here is how to choose by style, by wind and by how you get there.
- The south has the wind-sheltered beaches and most of the parties: Paradise, Super Paradise, Psarou and Ornos.
- Families prefer Platis Gialos, Agios Stefanos, Lia and Kalafatis.
- The north is wilder and rougher; skip it on meltemi days.
On days with a strong north wind, plan your day around the south coast. Water taxis leave Platis Gialos and Ornos for the southern beaches, so you can manage without a car.
Why the wind matters
Mykonos is called the island of the winds, and in summer a strong northerly, the meltemi, blows. The south coast is more sheltered and has most of the clubs and parties. The north coast takes the wind, has bigger waves, and suits surfers and anyone looking for a secluded spot. Skip it on windy days.
Party beaches
| Beach | Character | From town | How to get there |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paradise | Daily parties, beach bars | about 5.5 km | Regular transport or water taxi from Platis Gialos |
| Super Paradise | Famous party beach | about 7 km | Car, private bus or water taxi |
| Psarou | Exclusive, fully organised, high prices | about 4 km | Car; parking owned by the clubs |
| Kalo Livadi | Long and lively, live music | — | Car, bus or taxi |
Family beaches
- Platis Gialos: south coast, about 4 km from town, with frequent buses, restaurants and hotels. Very crowded in July and August.
- Agios Stefanos: north coast, about 3 km from town, sheltered from the north wind. Tavernas and mini-markets; walk from Tourlos or take the bus.
- Lia: a family beach in the south-east, 12-14 km from town, with umbrellas, showers and a dive centre.
- Kalafatis: a Blue Flag beach shaded by trees, with water sports.
- Ornos: a sheltered, popular bay with restaurants and a dive school.
More ideas in Mykonos with kids.
Quiet and remote beaches
- Agrari: a pretty south-coast beach without the parties, good for swimming.
- Fokos and Mersini: north-east coves about 13 km from town, on easy dirt roads, no facilities.
- Agios Sostis: a natural, quiet north-coast beach with a steep path at the end.
- Vathia Lagada: wild and dramatic, reached by 4WD plus a short hike, or by sea.
Beaches near town
Megali Ammos is a 5-10 minute walk from town. It faces the north wind, so windsurfers and sunset-watchers love it. Korfos, about 2.5 km away, is a shallow bay good for windsurfing.
Getting around
Buses link town with the main beaches, and water taxis run from Platis Gialos and Ornos to the south coast. For the remote northern beaches you need a car or scooter. For when the sea is warmest, see Mykonos weather by month. For getting to the island, see ferry from Athens to Mykonos.
FAQ
What is the best beach in Mykonos for families? Platis Gialos and Agios Stefanos, which have facilities and transport. Lia and Kalafatis are quieter.
Where are the parties in Mykonos? On the south coast, mainly Paradise and Super Paradise, plus upscale Psarou.
What should I do when the wind is strong? Head for the sheltered south-coast beaches and skip the north that day.
Can I reach the beaches without a car? Yes, the main beaches have buses and water taxis. The remote ones need a car or scooter.
