The best-known of the lush Sporades islands is justifiably renowned for having this archipelago’s finest and greatest number of beaches.
Large sandy beaches, nearby forests, lagoons, hard-to-reach beaches with steep cliffs, cosmopolitan stretches with beach bars and water sports, as well as quieter beaches for families all make up the endless list of options, offering choices for everybody. As Skiathos is large, wheels are definitely needed, but, even so, don’t skip taking a boat tour for rides to magical spots offering unforgettable swimming. Boats depart from the main town’s port.
Koukounaries
The island’s most famous beach, Koukounaries offers a unique natural setting. This stretched out beach, covered with fine, gold-coloured sand, features, directly behind it, a pine forest, alongside the Strofylia lagoon. The entire area is Natura-protected as the wetlands and complex wider environment serve as a retreat for migratory birds. At the beach, the trees reach the turquoise water, shallow and ideal for children. This spot is serviced with umbrellas, sunbeds and beach bars.
Lalaria
The towering white rocks behind the beach immediately make clear why this spot cannot be accessed via the land. One of the most impressive beaches in Greece, Lalaria, at the northern edge of Skiathos, can only be reached by boat. Transportation is offered from the port. The white rocks and full-blue waters create a unique natural setting that should not be missed for a swimming trip by visitors on the island. The beach takes its name from the perfectly rounded white pebbles, referred to as “lalaria” by locals. It should be noted that taking any of these pebbles with you as a souvenir is forbidden. To the right of the beach are impressive rock formations, including a spot known as Trypia Petra.
Xanemos
It would have been yet another of Skiathos’ numerous impressive sandy beaches, with the added advantage of being situated close to the main town. But what makes Xanemos different is its unusual location, alongside the beginning of the airport runway. If, by chance, interested in plane spotting, the spot can ideally be combined with swimming. It offers clean water, a pebbled beach, and a beach bar for coffee and snacks. Make sure to avoid visiting when northern winds are coming in.
Banana
One of the most frequented beaches of Skiathos, with a sandy beach and blue waters, Banana is located within close proximity of Koukounaries. The spot, featuring many trees close to the water, is divided into two segments. Megali Banana is the cosmopolitan side for people watching, water sports and parties with loud music at the beach bars. It is covered with fine sand, has shallow water, and, on a clear day, offers a view all the way across to Pelion, on the mainland. Mikri Babana is a slightly quieter option.
Tsougria
This islet off Skiathos, a 15-minute boat ride from the port, features shallow turquoise waters, trees on the beach, and a unique natural setting. The islet is a protected natural habitat. It is ideal for walks between the trees after swimming.
