Paros sits right in the heart of the Cyclades and its beaches reflect that central position. The island gets a healthy mix of sheltered southern bays, windswept northern coves, and long sandy stretches along the east coast that pick up the meltemi in summer. Whatever kind of beach day you are after, Paros has one that fits.
The 2 main towns are Parikia on the west coast, where the main ferry port is, and Naoussa on the north coast, which is the prettier of the 2 and has most of the best restaurants. The most famous beaches sit within a short drive or bus ride of Naoussa, spread along the rocky north coast and around into the sheltered bays to the east. The south coast around Drios and Aliki is quieter, with a string of sandy bays popular with families and windsurfers.
Buses run between the main beaches during summer, and water taxis operate from Naoussa to the north coast coves. Check the Paros bus timetable for routes and the how to get to Paros page for ferry and flight connections from Athens and the neighbouring islands.
Which Paros Beach Suits You
The beach everyone photographs: Kolymbithres Beach near Naoussa is famous for its smooth granite rock formations sculpted by wind and sea into shapes that look almost man made. The water between the rocks is shallow and calm, making it one of the best beaches on Paros for families. You can reach it by road or by water taxi from Naoussa.
Windsurfing and kitesurfing: Golden Beach (Chrissi Akti) on the east coast is one of the top windsurfing beaches in the Cyclades. Professional schools, equipment hire, and the meltemi wind hitting the shore at the right angle make it a magnet for watersports.
Long sand and beach bars: Santa Maria Beach on the northeast coast is actually 2 beaches, Mikri and Megali, separated by a headland. The larger one has beach bars and watersports. The smaller one is quieter and better for snorkelling.
A proper beach club atmosphere: Punda Beach is the party beach on Paros. Music, cocktails, and a pool next to the sea. It is not for everyone, but if you want a lively afternoon it delivers.
Something quiet and natural: Lageri Beach on the northeast coast is an unorganised, sandy beach backed by low sand dunes. No sunbeds, no bars, just the sound of the waves. It is clothing optional at the far end.
Walking distance from Naoussa: Monastiri Beach sits inside Paros Park, a short drive or a pleasant walk from Naoussa through a nature reserve. The bay is sheltered by rocks on both sides, the water is calm, and there is a restaurant at the beach.
Close to Parikia for a quick swim: Marcello Beach is a sandy bay just north of the main port town. If you arrive on a ferry and want a swim before heading to your hotel, this is the closest good option.
Natural clay spa experience: Kalogeros Beach is a small beach where natural clay deposits in the cliff behind the sand allow you to cover yourself in mineral clay and let it dry in the sun before rinsing off in the sea. It is one of those unusual Paros experiences that visitors remember.
Krios Beach
Beach Type and Experience Krios Beach sits directly across Parikia Bay, sharing the same long sweep of golden sand as neighbouring Marcello Beach. The 2 beaches merge into one continuous shoreline, but Krios is the quieter, more natural end. Where Marcello has a beach club atmosphere, Krios offers a lower key experience with more open
Punda Coast Party Beach
Beach Type and Experience Punda Coast is the ultimate Cycladic party destination and the largest beach club on Paros. Located on the southeastern coast near the village of Marpissa, this beautiful sandy beach stretches for just over 210 metres along the coastline with soft caramel coloured sand and very clear azure water. The beach is
Marcello Beach
Beach Type and Experience Marcello and Krios beaches form one continuous stretch of golden sand located right across Parikia Bay. The beach composition is primarily sandy with soft fine sand that is comfortable to walk on barefoot, making it perfect for families and casual visitors. This stretch of coastline is truly special because it offers
Kalogeros Beach
Beach Type and Experience Kalogeros Beach sits on the eastern coast of Paros Island and offers visitors a wonderfully unique experience that goes far beyond the typical beach day. The beach itself is composed of a mix of golden sand and small pebbles, so bringing water shoes or beach sandals is highly recommended for comfortable
Lageri Beach
Nestled on the northern coast of Paros, Lageri Beach stands as one of the most untouched and authentic beaches in the Greek Cyclades. With its pristine golden sands, crystal clear turquoise waters, and complete absence of commercial development, this hidden gem offers visitors a genuine escape from the crowded tourist hotspots that characterise many Mediterranean
Faragas Beach
Beach Type & Experience Faragas Beach is a stunning gem nestled on the south coast of Paros, and it delivers exactly what makes beach destinations memorable. The beach itself comprises three distinct coves linked together in one large bay, each with its own personality. The main stretch boasts fine golden sand that feels soft under
Santa Maria (Mikri & Megali)
Beach Type and Experience Santa Maria is a magnificent sandy beach located on the northeastern coast of Paros, just two kilometres from the charming village of Naoussa. The beach features soft golden sand stretching across a sheltered bay, making it an ideal destination for swimmers and families. The beach is divided into two sections: Megali
Monastiri Beach (Agios Ioannis)
Beach Type and Experience Monastiri Beach sits within a sheltered cove on the Agios Ioannis Detis peninsula, part of the beautiful Environmental and Cultural Park of Paros. The beach is named after the historic Monastery of Agios Ioannis Detis that sits high above the shore, watching over the water like a silent guardian. This sandy
Golden Beach (Chrissi Akti)
Beach Type & Experience Golden Beach, known in Greek as Chrissi Akti, stretches for approximately 700 metres of pristine golden sand along the southeastern coast of Paros. The name itself is well earned, as the fine powdery sand sparkles with a golden hue that catches the light beautifully. The beach composition is soft and comfortable
Planning Your Beach Days on Paros
If you are staying in Naoussa, the north coast beaches are all within easy reach by water taxi, bus, or car. Kolymbithres, Monastiri, Santa Maria, and Lageri can all be visited in a couple of days without much driving. The east coast beaches around Golden Beach and Piso Livadi are better explored with a hire car or scooter, and the Paros taxi page has local numbers if you prefer not to drive.
The Paros map shows all beach locations across the island. The inland villages are well worth a visit between beach days. Lefkes in the hills above the east coast is one of the most beautiful villages in the Cyclades, connected to Prodromos by a flagstone path called the Byzantine Road. The getting around Paros page covers every transport option, and for the full picture of the island see our main Paros island guide.
