Astypalea, an island part of the Dodecanese that’s reminiscent of the Cyclades in architecture, has a dedicated following, and not by chance. One reason is its Hora, arguably the most beautiful in the Aegean. Another reason is its beaches, where the waters are truly pristine and cool, perfect for swimming on a hot day. Plakes (which means flat rocks in Greek) is one of the most noteworthy of these. Plakes is about 10 kilometers from Hora and is a stone’s throw from Maltezana (Analipsi), the island’s second-largest town.
The added advantage is its easy accessibility: you can even get there by public transport. To reach the beach, follow a downhill path that commences at the bus stop. While the descent might look a tad challenging, it’s quite manageable. Wearing sports shoes is, however, advisable.
Once you see it you’ll immediately get the urge to dive into its waters. A secluded cove with crystal-clear blue waters and pebbles, Plakes also has flat rocks nearby that give the beach its name. The water deepens relatively quickly, and its standout feature is a marvelous seabed. Bring goggles or a mask to fully appreciate its beauty. The effort required to reach the beach is undoubtedly rewarded by a dip in its splendid waters.
Astypalea is particularly exposed to summer winds, especially in August. However, Plakes’ geographic location shields it from the worst of these winds. The beach is quite small, so during peak season, arriving early is essential to secure a spot. As with other beaches on the island, the sun sets relatively early, around 6 PM, meaning you won’t need an umbrella or sunscreen for an afternoon visit. This makes Plakes an excellent choice for an evening swim. If you want to sunbathe, you can spread your towel next to the rocks.
There are no kiosks here (not to mention beach bars or loungers on such a small beach!), so bring supplies, at least water.
Tips and Information for Your Trip to Astypalea
Astypalea’s Hora is perhaps the most beautiful in the Aegean. Besides the charm of wandering through its streets, it offers incredible photo opportunities as you travel around the island.
The Hora is hit by strong winds, especially in August. Bring along a light summer jacket for the evenings, even for days when daytime temperatures soar.
Most beaches on Astypalea are positioned so the sun leaves early in the afternoon. This means you can visit them without an umbrella during these hours.
Dedicate a day of your stay to a boat trip to the uninhabited islets of Kounoupes and Koutsomiti, as well as the more remote beaches of Astypalea that are hard to reach by car.
While many beaches on Astypalea are beautiful, they might not be the easiest if you’re looking for sand and amenities. The most organized beach is Livadi, with its seaside shops drawing crowds before and after a swim. Near Plakes, about a kilometer away, is Maltezana, with easy access, good seafood taverns, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
