Best Beaches in Paros, Greece

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.

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.