Alyko and Hawaii Beach

Beach Type and Experience

Alyko and Hawaii Beach are two closely positioned sandy beaches located on the southwest coast of Naxos, separated by a dramatic rocky point within the protected Alyko peninsula. Hawaii Beach sits dramatically below a towering ten meter cliff and features a distinctive sandy strip framed by burnt orange and light-coloured rock formations that cascade directly onto the shore. Alyko Beach itself is characterized by soft golden sand backed by a dense protected cedar forest known as Kedrodasos, one of Greece’s largest and densest juniper and cedar forests spanning approximately two hundred acres and designated as a protected Natura 2000 area.​

Both beaches are completely unorganised, meaning there are no sunbeds or umbrellas available for rent. This makes them ideal destinations for visitors seeking authenticity and willing to bring their own beach equipment. The beaches are notably not commercialised and have escaped the typical infrastructure of organised beaches found elsewhere on the island. Reddit travellers consistently praised them for being “not commercialised” while still offering “stunning” beauty, with visitors appreciating the natural, undeveloped character of the area. The Alyko peninsula area remains a haven for those seeking isolation, though it does get moderately crowded during high season, particularly in August.​

Both beaches are family-friendly in terms of water safety, though the access and natural features require more effort than typical tourist beaches. Hawaii Beach offers a sandy bottom that extends far into the sea, making it suitable for families with children and less confident swimmers. The water depth progression is gradual, allowing families to wade comfortably. Alyko Beach similarly provides safe swimming conditions with its calm, protected waters and sandy bottom with “just the right depth” for leisure swimming and floating.​

Regarding nudism, both beaches are considered naturally accepted nude beaches depending on the season, with nudism particularly acceptable at the extremities and less frequented areas, though this is not officially designated.​

Disability access is limited at both locations. The access paths are somewhat challenging, with Hawaii Beach requiring descent through a narrow gap in the cliff face. The terrain is rugged and unimproved, and there are no adapted restrooms or wheelchair facilities.​

Water Quality and Conditions

The water at both Alyko and Hawaii Beach is exceptionally clear and crystal blue, excellent for snorkelling and underwater photography. Most swimmers find the water conditions outstanding, with visibility allowing for remarkable views of the underwater environment and marine life.​

Water temperature at Alyko and Hawaii Beach follows the typical Naxos pattern. The best swimming months are June through September when water temperature ranges from 73 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit (23 to 26 degrees Celsius), with August being optimal at 78 degrees Fahrenheit (24.8 degrees Celsius). May and October are cool but swimmable at 67 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 19 to 22 degrees Celsius). The current water temperature in January averages around 62 to 63 degrees Fahrenheit (16 to 17 degrees Celsius), making it unsuitable for most swimmers.​

Both beaches offer exceptional snorkelling opportunities with underwater caves and rock formations readily accessible. Alyko Beach in particular is known for its rugged coastline home to underwater caves, crevices, rock formations, and passages that reward adventurous snorkellers. The area is teeming with colourful fish and marine life including octopuses and moray eels. Visitors to Hawaii Beach have reported snorkelling made “great use” of the crystal clear waters directly from the beach.​

Wind conditions significantly affect both beaches. Alyko Bay is quite well protected and offers good shelter from the dominant Meltemi wind due to its orientation and the surrounding geography. The Meltemi is a dry northerly summer wind that typically blows from May through August, starting in early afternoon around four to five on the Beaufort scale (11 to 21 knots) and dying out at sunset. However, it can sometimes reach five to seven Beaufort (17 to 33 knots) and last multiple days. Alyko experiences no significant issues with winds up to five to six Beaufort, and the bay remains quite calm and safe. Hawaii Beach, being more exposed to wave action, experiences more wind and waves than the protected Alyko cove, though these are not considered dangerous for swimming.​

Swimming safety is generally good at both locations. Hawaii Beach has been described as having water conditions safe enough for children despite the wind and waves. The main water entry consideration at Hawaii Beach involves the rocky underwater terrain near some areas, requiring caution or water shoes. Alyko provides safer water entry due to its sandy composition and gradual depth increase.​

Accessibility and Getting There

Both beaches are reached via the southwest coast of Naxos. Alyko and Hawaii Beach are located approximately eighteen to twenty kilometres from Naxos Chora (the main town) and require about thirty to forty minutes to reach by car. The journey from Naxos Chora involves taking the route through Glynado, Tripodes, Kastraki, and then down to Alyko.​

By car, the access to Alyko is made via an asphalt road that offers panoramic views of the entire coastal area. Public transportation is available through Bus Line Three from Naxos Chora, which takes approximately forty-five minutes and drops passengers near Hawaii Beach with a short five minute walk to Alyko Beach. The bus runs multiple times daily, with last return buses typically around four thirty in the afternoon. Single bus tickets cost approximately three euros per person.​

Parking is available and free. Visitors can park anywhere along the roadside when getting near the beaches and the abandoned hotel. Additional parking options exist between the cedar trees near the beach areas. The roads to the beach, while initially paved, eventually become compacted sand roads that are navigable by any regular car, though the roads become narrow in some sections.​

After leaving the vehicle, the access difficulty varies slightly. To reach Hawaii Beach specifically requires a short hike down a narrow gap in the cliff face, which is “plenty doable” for most visitors but requires some physical effort. The trail is not for everyone and should be assessed based on individual mobility before descending. The walk to Alyko Beach from the parking area near the abandoned hotel is a short five minute walk.​

Boat services to the beaches are not commonly used as car and bus access are readily available and practical.

Facilities and Amenities

Food and drink options at the beaches themselves are minimal. A small food truck operates near Hawaii Beach for basic refreshments, providing simple options for visitors who do not wish to bring their own supplies. However, nearby villages offer better dining options. Faros Tou Alykou restaurant is located in the vicinity and has received excellent reviews with 4.5 stars from over seven hundred reviews. Other nearby options include Taverna Trapezaki (4.3 stars) and various other tavernas in the surrounding area.​

Sunbeds and umbrellas are not available for rent at either beach, as both are completely unorganised. Visitors must bring their own shade solutions. Some locals rig up temporary shade structures, and those unfamiliar with this practice should consider bringing their own umbrellas, parasols, or pop-up beach tents.​

Natural shade is available at Alyko Beach from the dense cedar forest (Kedrodasos) and scattered tamarisk trees that provide relief from the intense sun. Hawaii Beach offers minimal natural shade except for the possibility of getting under the cliff face itself.​

Toilets and changing facilities are not available at either beach. Visitors should plan accordingly and consider using facilities in nearby villages before arriving.​

Fresh water fountains are not available at the beaches. Visitors must bring adequate drinking water and snacks for the duration of their visit. This is especially important during summer months when heat and sun exposure are intense.​

Activities and Special Features

Snorkelling is one of the primary activities at both beaches. The crystal clear waters, underwater caves, rock formations, and diverse marine life make snorkelling directly from the beach accessible and rewarding. Alyko Beach is particularly recommended for adventurous snorkellers seeking to explore underwater caves and passages. Coves and rock formations throughout the area offer plenty of interesting areas to explore for marine life including colourful fish.​

The most distinctive feature of the Alyko area is the abandoned, incomplete luxury hotel adjacent to Alyko Beach, which has been transformed into an open-air art gallery featuring vibrant street art by WD Street Art (Wild Drawing), a renowned street artist from Indonesia. The uncompleted hotel construction began in nineteen sixty-nine but was never finished, and today serves as a canvas for street artists from around the world. The WD Street Art murals are particularly famous and most photographed of the works at Alyko’s open-air gallery. The artist returns every few years to add new pieces, making it worthwhile to visit each time. The decaying buildings and ruins provide amazing photographic opportunities, with the juxtaposition of natural beauty and urban decay creating a uniquely Instagram-worthy destination.​

Visitors can explore historical ruins by wandering through the corridors and rooms of the abandoned hotel complex, discovering and admiring works of art on the walls. The history behind these ruins tells a fascinating story. In nineteen sixty-nine, a construction permit was issued for construction of six first-class hotels with one thousand eight hundred beds, four hundred bungalows with one thousand six hundred beds, and a complex of shops and entertainment facilities. It was considered almost impossible to stop the construction work at the time, even with reports of an ancient proto-Cycladic cemetery in the area. However, after twenty-eight years of struggle, the project was abandoned.​

Rock climbing and formation exploration allow visitors to discover secluded sunning spots by climbing natural rock formations. These formations also provide excellent opportunities for photography. The surrounding cedar forest offers hiking trail opportunities with scenic viewpoints and trails for nearby walking paths.​

Photography opportunities abound at both beaches. The unique light-coloured rocks against the blue sea, the intricate street art at the abandoned hotel ruins, and stunning sunset views are prime subjects. Mornings offer natural shade and softer light, while late afternoons and sunset provide dramatic lighting and colours. Wide-angle lenses are great for capturing the landscape, and polarising filters can enhance the blues of the sea and sky. The open space and scenic views make it a potential spot for drone photography, though local regulations should always be checked.​

Practical Information

The best time to visit is early morning when crowds are minimal and lighting is optimal for photography. Early visits also offer the advantage of picking prime locations before the afternoon arrivals. Late afternoon and sunset provide magical and enchanting views, particularly viewing the sunset over the nearby islands from the cliffs. The beaches get busier in mid to late afternoon and during peak season in August, though they remain less crowded than many other Naxos beaches.​

Seasonal patterns show that May and June offer wonderful beach experiences with calm conditions and minimal crowds. Late August through September sees moderate to heavy crowding during peak Greek holiday season.

What to bring is critical for a successful visit to these unorganised beaches. Essential items include high-SPF sunscreen (the sun is intense), adequate drinking water, snacks and packed food (no shops nearby), sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat or cap, reef-safe sunscreen, and a lightweight beach bag. Bring your own beach umbrella, parasol, or pop-up tent for shade. Some sources recommend bringing waterproof bags and dry bags to protect electronics and valuables from sand and water.​

Footwear requirements depend on personal preference and tolerance. The sandy beaches of Alyko allow barefoot walking, though some visitors prefer water shoes. The rocky areas near Hawaii Beach benefit from water shoes or reef shoes to protect feet from sharp rocks and coral. Hiking boots may be useful for exploring the trails and cedar forest areas.

The area sees lower crowding levels overall compared to other Naxos beaches, making it attractive for those seeking a more natural experience. However, August sees moderate increases in visitors.

Food and drink costs are reasonable. The small food truck near Hawaii Beach offers basic refreshments at standard Greek beach food prices. Nearby tavernas offer traditional Greek cuisine at typical island prices, with main courses generally ranging from twelve to twenty euros. Bringing a picnic lunch is an economical option that many visitors employ.

Safety and Warnings

Sun exposure is intense and shade areas are limited. At Hawaii Beach, there is no natural shade except the possibility of getting under the cliff face. At Alyko, the cedar forest provides some natural shade but not comprehensive coverage. Visitors should bring high SPF sunscreen, protective clothing, and reapply sunscreen regularly. The Mediterranean sun is powerful, and UV protection is essential, especially during peak hours from eleven in the morning to four in the afternoon.​

Water entry at both beaches is generally safe, though awareness of conditions is important. Alyko’s sandy bottom and gradual depth are forgiving. Hawaii Beach’s rocky underwater terrain in some areas requires caution or water footwear. The water entry difficulty is considered low to moderate at both locations.

Meltemi wind impacts vary between the beaches. Alyko Bay is well protected and remains calm during Meltemi conditions, making it the superior choice for sheltered beach days. Hawaii Beach, being more open to the north, experiences more wind and waves during Meltemi periods, though these are still manageable for most swimmers.​

Wave conditions at Alyko are generally calm and safe. Hawaii Beach experiences more wave action but remains suitable for swimming. Neither beach presents dangerous wave conditions under typical summer circumstances.​

Rocky terrain characterises Hawaii Beach more prominently, with burnt orange and light-coloured rock formations. The descent paths to Hawaii Beach involve negotiating a narrow gap in the cliff face, which is manageable but requires some physical effort. The terrain at Alyko is more forgiving with sandy composition.

Nudism acceptability varies by area and season. The extremities of both beaches are more acceptable for naturist use, though neither beach is officially designated as a nudist beach.​

Special Attractions and Nearby Points of Interest

The most significant attraction is the abandoned hotel complex transformed into an open-air street art gallery. This unique landmark features work by world-renowned street artist WD (Wild Drawing) and numerous other international artists. The hotel ruins provide a fascinating glimpse into Greece’s economic history while serving as a remarkable artistic canvas. Visitors should allocate at least one hour to explore the spaces and appreciate the murals.​

The Kedrodasos cedar forest surrounding Alyko is a protected Natura 2000 area and creates an exotic landscape unlike most other Greek beaches. This pristine environmental area is home to wildlife including hares, reptiles, and numerous bird species. The forest adds substantial ecological and aesthetic value to the beach experience.​

Nearby villages include Kastraki and the surrounding area on the route to Alyko, offering local tavernas and facilities. These small settlements provide authentic Greek island experiences with traditional food and hospitality.

Day trip combinations are excellent. From Alyko and Hawaii Beach, visitors can easily combine a beach day with exploration of the abandoned hotel street art gallery. The nearby Koufonisi Island is visible from the beaches and is accessible by boat from other parts of the island. The cedar forest offers hiking opportunities in the immediate vicinity.

Rock climbing and formation exploration within the beach areas provide compact adventure opportunities without requiring separate locations. The sunset viewing experience from the clifftop areas near Hawaii Beach is a worthwhile sunset destination, described as “magical” by visitors.