The best beaches in Naxos range from organised sandy resorts near Chora to remote coves, dunes and quieter stretches of coastline in the south. Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna and Plaka are excellent starting points, but they are far from the island’s only worthwhile beaches.
Naxos is particularly appealing to beach lovers because it offers several different experiences. Families can choose shallow water close to town, couples can combine swimming with waterfront dining, and independent travellers can explore beaches with very little development.
However, summer wind, transport and facilities matter. A beautiful remote beach may have no shade or convenient bus connection, while an organised beach can become crowded in August.
This guide compares the main beaches, explains who each one suits and helps you plan realistic beach days. For broader island advice, start with our Naxos Travel Guide.
Best Beaches in Naxos at a Glance
Choose the right beach for your travel style, transport and preferred atmosphere.
Interactive Map: Best Beaches in Naxos
Compare the main beaches of Naxos by location, travel style and access. Use the filters to find family-friendly beaches, car-free options, water-sports areas and quieter stretches of coastline.
Best Beaches in Naxos: The Western Coast
The western coast contains the island’s most accessible and popular beaches. Travellers staying in Chora can reach several of them without a rental car, particularly during summer when bus services are more frequent.
1. Agios Georgios Beach — Best for Families and Convenience
Agios Georgios is the town beach of Naxos Chora and one of the most convenient places to swim on the island. Its broad, shallow sandy areas are particularly attractive for families with younger children.
Hotels, cafés and restaurants are close by, so visitors can easily combine a beach morning with sightseeing or an evening in the old town. There are organised sections, although the southern end is also associated with windsurfing.
Best for: Families, first-time visitors and anyone staying in Chora without a car.
Time needed: Two hours to a full day. The main limitation is that it can feel busy during peak summer, and wind conditions vary.
2. Agios Prokopios Beach — Best Overall Beach in Naxos
Agios Prokopios is an excellent all-round choice thanks to its long sandy shore, clear turquoise water and convenient facilities. It is one of the island’s best-known swimming destinations.
The beach has organised sections with sunbeds and umbrellas, while restaurants, cafés and accommodation are concentrated around the resort. Some stretches have coarser sand, and the water can deepen more quickly than at Agios Georgios.
Its location makes it easy to combine with nearby Agia Anna, either by walking between the resort areas or spending different parts of the day at each beach.
Best for: Couples, groups and travellers who want an attractive beach with convenient facilities.
Time needed: Half to full day. Expect more visitors and greater parking pressure in July and August.
3. Agia Anna Beach — Best for Swimming and Seaside Restaurants
Agia Anna continues south from Agios Prokopios and combines sandy swimming areas with a small harbour, fishing boats and a good selection of waterfront tavernas.
The main beach is organised in places, while smaller coves around the chapel can feel more intimate. Their relative shelter depends on wind direction and sea conditions.
Agia Anna is particularly appealing for an afternoon swim followed by an early dinner overlooking the water. It also works well as a holiday base for visitors who prefer staying close to the beach.
Best for: Couples, relaxed beach days and travellers who value nearby dining.
Time needed: Half a day, or longer if staying for dinner. The busiest organised sections can feel crowded in August.
4. Plaka Beach — Best for Long Sandy Walks
Plaka is one of the most appealing beaches in Naxos for travellers who prefer a long, open stretch of sand rather than a compact resort beach.
It extends south from the Agia Anna area and offers a mixture of organised sections, beach bars, restaurants and less developed stretches. Sand dunes contribute to the landscape, although some coastal sections are more built up than others.
Plaka is especially attractive for long walks and relaxed swimming days. However, distances between facilities can be greater than expected, and the beach is exposed during some windy conditions.
Best for: Couples, beach walkers and visitors who want more space.
Time needed: Half to full day. Choose your access point carefully if travelling by bus.
5. Orkos Beach — Best for Small Coves and Coastal Scenery
Orkos lies between Plaka and Mikri Vigla and has a different character from the long organised beaches farther north. The coastline features sandy sections, rocky formations and smaller coves.
It is a good choice for visitors who prefer exploring several small swimming spots rather than settling beside a large resort. Facilities are limited, and the area can be affected by wind.
Best for: Independent beach explorers and couples with a rental car.
Time needed: One to three hours. Bring water and check access before leaving the main road.
Best Beaches in Southern Naxos
As you travel south, the coastline becomes less developed. Some beaches still have tavernas or limited facilities, but a car is increasingly useful and visitors should prepare for longer distances.
6. Mikri Vigla — Best for Kitesurfing and Windsurfing
Mikri Vigla is one of Naxos’s principal destinations for wind-powered water sports. Its exposed sections attract kitesurfers and windsurfers during suitable conditions, particularly when the summer meltemi is blowing.
The area contains beaches with different orientations, so swimming conditions are not identical throughout Mikri Vigla. Some sections are more suitable for swimming on particular days, while others are used intensively for water sports.
Respect designated sports areas and avoid swimming through active kite-launching zones.
Best for: Kitesurfers, windsurfers and spectators who enjoy an active beach atmosphere.
Time needed: Half a day or a full sports session. Beginners should use qualified instruction rather than attempting to learn independently.
7. Kastraki Beach — Best for a Quieter Sandy Coastline
Kastraki offers a more open and generally less concentrated beach setting than the main resorts near Chora. Its sandy shoreline is attractive for travellers who prefer a quieter beach day.
Accommodation and dining options exist in the wider area, but services are more spread out. Some sections offer little natural shade, and exposed conditions can make swimming uncomfortable when the wind strengthens.
Best for: Travellers seeking a quieter beach without venturing to the island’s most remote coastline.
Time needed: Half a day. A car is generally the easiest way to reach a preferred section.
8. Glyfada Beach — Best for Space and Natural Surroundings
Glyfada lies along the southwestern coast and is characterised by a broad sandy setting, dunes and nearby natural landscapes.
It is particularly attractive for travellers who want to avoid the most heavily organised beaches. However, its open coastline can be windy, and facilities are less concentrated than at Agios Prokopios or Agia Anna.
Best for: Couples, independent travellers and those who enjoy open coastal landscapes.
Time needed: Two to four hours. Combine it with Kastraki or Alyko rather than making several separate journeys.
9. Alyko and Hawaii Beach — Best for Natural Beauty
Alyko is one of the most distinctive coastal areas in Naxos, with sandy coves, dunes, juniper woodland and a largely undeveloped landscape. The nearby beach commonly known as Hawaii Beach is particularly photogenic.
These are not conventional resort beaches. Facilities and shade are limited, and some approaches involve sandy or uneven paths. Take care around steep edges and do not damage vegetation or walk unnecessarily through the protected dune landscape.
There are also remains of an unfinished hotel complex in the area. They are part of the landscape but should not be treated as a maintained visitor attraction.
Best for: Nature lovers, photography and visitors seeking a less developed coast.
Time needed: Two to four hours. Bring water, shade and suitable footwear, and check the sea conditions carefully.
10. Pyrgaki Beach — Best for a Relaxed Southern Beach Day
Pyrgaki offers an attractive sandy coastline with a quieter atmosphere than the major western resorts. The surrounding dunes and vegetation add to its natural appeal.
It suits visitors who want to spend several hours swimming and relaxing without a busy beach-club atmosphere. Facilities are limited compared with Agios Prokopios, so check what is open during your visit.
Best for: Couples and travellers who prefer a low-key beach day.
Time needed: Half a day. It combines naturally with Alyko on a southern coastal excursion.
11. Agiassos Beach — Best for Shallow Water Away from the Resorts
Agiassos lies farther south and has a peaceful, more remote atmosphere. Its sandy beach and shallow sections make it appealing to travellers who want a quieter alternative to the organised western coast.
The journey takes longer than reaching the beaches near Chora, and nearby facilities are limited. Families may appreciate the shallower water in suitable conditions, but should not assume lifeguard coverage or extensive amenities.
Best for: Travellers with a car, quieter family beach days and exploring southern Naxos.
Time needed: Half to full day. It is most worthwhile as part of a longer southern-island outing.
Beaches in Northern and Eastern Naxos
The northern and eastern coasts are less convenient for a conventional beach holiday but offer a different landscape and opportunities to combine swimming with village sightseeing.
12. Apollonas Beach — Best for a Northern Village Excursion
Apollonas is a coastal village in northern Naxos with a small beach and harbour setting. Its appeal lies as much in the surrounding landscape and village atmosphere as in the swimming itself.
The nearby ancient Kouros statue is another reason to visit. The drive from Chora involves a substantial journey, and swimming conditions can be affected by exposure to the wind.
Best for: Visitors exploring northern Naxos who want to include a coastal stop.
Time needed: One to two hours at the beach, ideally combined with the village and Kouros.
Other Beaches Worth Considering
Psili Ammos and Panormos offer alternatives along the more remote eastern and southeastern coastline, while Abram and Ammitis provide different coastal scenery in the north and northwest.
These beaches are best suited to visitors who enjoy exploring by car and are comfortable with limited facilities. Road conditions, access and wind exposure vary, so they are not necessarily better choices than the main western beaches for a first visit.
For most travellers spending only three or four days on Naxos, the western and southwestern beaches offer a more practical combination of swimming quality, access and facilities.
Which Naxos Beaches Are Best for Families?
Agios Georgios is generally the easiest choice for families with young children. Its shallow sandy areas, nearby facilities and proximity to Chora reduce the need for long journeys.
Agia Anna can also work well, especially around the smaller coves, while Agios Prokopios offers extensive facilities but may have deeper water in some sections.
Agiassos is worth considering for families who prefer quieter surroundings and have their own transport.
Whatever beach you choose, assess conditions on arrival. Shallow water does not guarantee calm seas, and wind can change conditions quickly.
For family accommodation and activity ideas, see Naxos with Kids.
Best Beaches in Naxos Without a Car
Staying in Chora gives you the simplest access to Agios Georgios on foot. During the main tourist season, buses also connect Chora with Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna and sections of Plaka.
These are the most sensible beaches for travellers who do not want to rent a car. More remote destinations may require taxis, organised transport or an inconvenient combination of walking and limited bus services.
Summer timetables are typically more extensive than those outside the tourist season. Confirm both outward and return services before leaving Chora, especially if planning to stay until sunset.
Our Naxos Without a Car and Getting Around Naxos guides explain your transport options.
Which Beaches Are Best When Naxos Is Windy?
The meltemi, a northerly summer wind, is an important factor when choosing a beach in Naxos. It is especially associated with July and August, although windy days can occur at other times.
Agios Prokopios and smaller coves around Agia Anna may offer more comfortable conditions than exposed sections of Plaka or Mikri Vigla during certain northerly winds. However, shelter varies with the exact direction and strength of the wind.
Alyko also has several coves with different orientations, but these should not be treated as guaranteed safe alternatives during rough weather.
Check local forecasts, observe the sea before entering and avoid swimming in strong surf or near active water-sports areas.
When Is the Best Time for a Beach Holiday in Naxos?
June and September are particularly attractive for travellers who want pleasant beach weather with generally fewer crowds than the busiest summer weeks.
July and August bring a livelier atmosphere, warmer sea temperatures and extensive seasonal services, but also greater demand for accommodation and organised beach facilities.
Late May and early October can be appealing in suitable weather, although sea temperatures and seasonal services may be less reliable.
For a complete seasonal comparison, see Best Time to Visit Naxos and Naxos in Summer.
Suggested Two-Day Naxos Beach Itinerary
If you have two full beach days, it is worth experiencing both the organised western coast and the quieter southern beaches.
- Day 1 — Easy western beaches: Start at Agios Prokopios, continue to Agia Anna for lunch and spend the afternoon at Plaka. Return to Chora for the evening.
- Day 2 — Southern coast: Rent a car and explore Kastraki, Alyko and Pyrgaki. Choose one or two beaches for longer swimming stops rather than rushing through every location.
If you prefer water sports, substitute Mikri Vigla for one of the southern stops. If travelling with younger children, a second day at Agios Georgios or Agia Anna may be more enjoyable than a long driving excursion.
For a wider itinerary, see Five Days in Naxos.
Practical Tips for Visiting Naxos Beaches
Arrive earlier at popular organised beaches during July and August, particularly if you want a specific section or need convenient parking.
Sunbed charges vary by establishment, location and season. Check the price and any minimum-spend conditions before settling in rather than assuming there is a standard island-wide rate.
For remote beaches, carry drinking water, sunscreen and your own shade. Do not assume there will be a kiosk, lifeguard, toilet or mobile reception nearby.
Protect dunes and coastal vegetation by using established paths, and avoid parking on sand or blocking access tracks. Some beach approaches are unpaved and may be excluded by rental-car insurance.
Read Driving in Naxos before exploring the more remote coastline.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Beaches in Naxos
The best beaches in Naxos depend on the kind of holiday you want. Agios Prokopios is the strongest all-round choice, Agios Georgios is especially convenient for families, and Agia Anna combines swimming with waterfront dining.
Plaka is ideal for travellers who enjoy long sandy coastlines, while Mikri Vigla appeals to water-sports enthusiasts. Alyko, Pyrgaki and the southern beaches reward visitors who prefer quieter surroundings and have their own transport.
Rather than trying to visit every beach, choose a few that suit your travel style and leave room to adapt to the wind. That is usually the most enjoyable way to experience the coastline.
Continue planning with our Where to Stay in Naxos and Naxos Travel Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions About Beaches in Naxos
Agios Prokopios is an excellent overall choice because it combines attractive sand, clear water, restaurants and easy access. The best beach for you depends on your preferences.
Agios Georgios is particularly suitable for families because of its shallow sandy areas and proximity to Chora. Always assess the sea conditions before swimming.
Yes. Naxos has extensive sandy beaches, especially along the western coast, including Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna, Plaka and Kastraki.
Pyrgaki, parts of Kastraki, Alyko and some remote southern beaches are often quieter than the main resorts, although summer crowds vary.
Yes. Agios Georgios is within walking distance of Chora, while summer buses generally serve Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna and Plaka. Check current timetables.
Mikri Vigla is one of Naxos’s best-known kitesurfing destinations, thanks to the summer winds. Conditions and suitable areas vary by day.
Some beaches are exposed to the northerly meltemi wind, particularly in July and August. Check the forecast and choose a beach with suitable shelter.
Prices vary by beach, establishment and season. Some venues have minimum-spend requirements, so confirm the cost before using the facilities.
Yes, especially for its dramatic natural setting near Alyko. Facilities are limited, and access can involve uneven paths, so it is less convenient for some visitors.
June and September are good choices for beach weather with generally fewer crowds. July and August offer warmer seas but busier conditions and potentially strong winds.
