They call it affectionately “Golden Sand” – which, of course, might seem cliché after its widespread use (and overuse) in travel reports since the advent of the internet. In its case, however, it’s an apt moniker. Indeed, it’s not only the “golden” feel of the sand but also its combination with the wonderful surrounding forest, as well as the fame for its sunset. That’s why many consider it one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Greece.
This refers to Koukounaries, the idyllic coastline in the small, eponymous village of Skiathos, which is located on the south-western side of the cosmopolitan Northern Sporades island. Moreover, it’s one of the few areas outside the capital with permanent residents – 126 people, according to the 2011 census (an update of the data is expected, with the detailed publication of the 2021 census results).
The village’s older name was Strofylia, which has survived as a toponym in the surrounding area. Over time, however, Koukounaries prevailed, reflecting the pine forest that, as we said, spreads around the settlement and the beach, adding green to the already idyllic golden and blue colours of the seaside landscape.
Pines, sea – and in the background a lake
The beauty of Koukounaries has now “travelled” to the European audience, resulting in the coast flooding with people at the peak of the Greek summer, especially the weekends of July and August: it is, after all, by far the most popular beach of Skiathos (along with Lalaria), so boats bring tourists twice a day. Even if you catch it at such a moment, however, it will effortlessly impress you with its landscape and its waters – which are clean (awarded a Blue Flag), deepen gradually, and have the usual blue hues one encounters in the Northern Sporades and generally in the northern Aegean.
The sand at Koukounaries is very fine, which contributes to the “golden” feeling it leaves to the eye, creating a captivating contrast with the impressive pine forest that surrounds the coast. The beach is now organised, so rest assured that coming here, you will find infrastructure with whatever you need. It is also suitable for those who prefer a more unorganised vacation, as there are corners where you can relax with your own equipment, if you wish.
Koukounaries is the most sought-after beach in Skiathos, drawing in a vast crowd of international visitors. This beach now serves as a hub for a host of activities beyond just swimming. Adjacent to it, you’ll find Skiathos Diving Centre. Additionally, you can hire a boat or engage in various water sports activities such as water skiing, jet skiing, wind surfing, and more. Come late afternoon, when the tourist-bearing boats have departed, the beach’s hustle and bustle dwindles, leaving behind a serene setting for the day’s last patrons who linger to enjoy the celebrated sunset.
The encompassing forest includes the commonplace pines, along with the rare pine trees known as ‘koukounaries,’ from which the area derives its name. With the verdant pine forest just a breath away from the sandy beach, it would be a missed opportunity not to explore it. Indeed, comfortably accessible paths allow for leisurely exploration of the sand dunes-filled area. You’ll soon note that while the eastern section is dominated by common pines (Aleppo Pines), the west is primarily occupied by ‘koukounaries’ – the rare Pinus pinea species native to the Mediterranean. This area’s name is owed to these trees, applying to both the beach and the encompassing settlement.
A striking sight awaits you behind the forest – the lagoon of Strofylia. This is a vital wetland, declared as a Wildlife Refuge and also part of the Natura 2000 European network. Strofylia covers an area of 350 acres, its vegetation varying according to how its salinity levels are affected by rainfall and seawater inflows. Generally, in the saltier sections, seablites flourish, while the less salty waters house a considerable number of reeds and glassworts. A walk along its banks will reveal ducks, swans, black swans, herons, cormorants, coots, wild geese, and even the rare flamingo. Turtles are also abundant here.
Accommodation and dining
For accommodation and dining, choices abound. Although many visitors to Skiathos prefer to stay in the island’s capital, journeying to Koukounaries only for a swim – transported by the boats that ferry tourists here – the popularity of the beach has spurred significant growth in the eponymous village. Thus, if you wish to base your stay here, you’ll find an array of facilities that will cater to every need.
When it comes to accommodation, there are numerous opportunities for renting properties, as well as more organized structures that function as small hotels. In this indicative selection, we have notable examples like “Muses” and “Panorama Skiathos” (a recently renovated 4-star establishment) that offer a view of the lagoon. However, the most privileged position belongs to “Elivi Skiathos,” a luxurious 5-star hotel overlooking the Aegean Sea, comprised of three distinct complexes.
A popular spot for bathing and coffee right on the coast is the beach bar “Barracuda,” while the similarly appealing “Da Luz” attracts a considerable crowd, just a 5-minute walk from the main entrance of the beach. On the other hand, heading towards the village, you will find “Agustera” and “La Bussola,” which also operate as bars in the evenings, serving refreshing cocktails.
There are plenty of dining options to choose from. For instance, “Jasteri” along the provincial road from Koukounaries to Skiathos might only open for dinner, but it is renowned for its cuisine. At “Ilia’s Orchard,” you can try homemade pies and lamb roasted in vine leaves, while “Ottimo” caters to lovers of Italian cuisine. Delicious dishes with Greek and/or Mediterranean influences await you at the restaurant “Strofilia,” “Under The Pine Tree,” and “Cooconari.”
Getting to Koukounaries is easy and can be done through various means. Although Koukounaries is not located on the same side of Skiathos as the island’s namesake capital, the access from there is straightforward, and the distance is short—just about 12 kilometers, which can be covered by car in approximately 15 minutes, following the aforementioned provincial road from Koukounaries to Skiathos.
If you don’t want to rent a car, you can hop on the local public bus. It departs from Skiathos and terminates in Koukounaries, with frequent schedules during the summer months. Additionally, during the summer season, there are also ferry connections from mainland areas such as Magnesia and Fthiotida, allowing you to reach Koukounaries even if you are not staying in Skiathos.
Read also:
Kastro Beach in the Shadow of Skiathos’ Medieval Town
