Located in the heart of the Cyclades near Santorini and Mykonos, Paros has carved out its own identity as an island balancing traditional Greek culture with a laid-back beach vibe. Flour-white villages perch on rolling hills, overshadowing sun-kissed bays where azure waters beckon swimmers, snorkelers, and windsurfers. Paros’s beaches underscore this balance: some boast soft golden sands and shallow seas ideal for families, others lure adrenaline-seekers chasing the perfect breeze for watersports.
In this guide, we’ll dive into 10 of the best beaches on Paros, spanning must-see icons and lesser-known gems. Whether you’re craving tranquil shores near charming fishing hamlets or a fashionable, sport-friendly strip lined with beach bars, Paros promises a piece of Greek-island magic for every style. Pack your reef-safe sunscreen, brush up on Greek greetings (“Yassas!” for hello, “Efcharisto!” for thank you), and prepare to indulge in Cycladic warmth under the Aegean sun.
1. Kolymbithres Beach (Naoussa Bay)
On Paros’s northwestern coast near Naoussa, Kolymbithres stands out for its granite rock formations sculpted into smooth shapes by millennia of sea and wind. These natural “sculptures” create small sandy inlets—almost like natural swimming pools—perfect for sunbathing or wading. You can hop from one mini-cove to another, discovering pockets of shallow turquoise water.
While Kolymbithres does host sunbeds and umbrellas in spots, the environment retains a distinctive, almost lunar vibe thanks to those rounded boulders. Some travelers paddle kayaks around the bay, weaving between rock outcrops. Meanwhile, tavernas and beach bars line the approach road, ensuring you won’t go hungry. Combine a beach day here with a short trip to the chic harbor of Naoussa for an aperitif or evening stroll.
Activities
- Rock-Hopping – Explore the different inlets separated by boulders, each with its own shallow pool.
- Kayaking or Pedal-Boats – In calmer spells, rent a small boat to explore the bay’s edges for a fresh perspective on Kolymbithres’ rock formations.
- Naoussa Visit – Wrap up your day by visiting nearby Naoussa’s atmospheric port, brimming with tavernas and boutiques.
Best For:
Visitors seeking a unique, scenic cove setting with natural stone “pools” and a short drive from Naoussa’s lively charm.
2. Santa Maria Beach (Near Naoussa)
Across the bay from Kolymbithres, Santa Maria forms a long sandy stretch with a lively vibe—particularly in mid- to high-season, when water-sport centers bustle with windsurfers or snorkelers. The shallow, transparent waters appeal to families, while the breezy conditions on some days satisfy adrenaline junkies wanting to kitesurf or windsurf. Beach bars, sun-loungers, and occasional music provide a somewhat festive air.
Despite the activity, Santa Maria’s size allows pockets of relaxation if you move further from the main facilities. Snorkelers frequent rocky corners looking for fish among the seagrass or small corals. If you’re up for a two-in-one beach day, Santa Maria pairs nicely with Kolymbithres or another Naoussa-area shore, as they’re all within easy driving (or even water-taxi) distance.
Activities
- Windsurfing & Kitesurfing – On breezier days, gear rentals and lessons are available for novices or seasoned enthusiasts.
- Snorkeling – Rocky edges present fair fish-spotting opportunities, though the middle is mostly sandy.
- Beach Bar Chilling – Lounge in comfort with refreshing Greek frappés, fruit cocktails, or small meze plates.
Best For:
Beachgoers wanting a mix of water sports and social energy, with convenient facilities in a scenic, sun-drenched location.
3. Golden Beach (Chryssi Akti)
On Paros’s southeastern shore near Drios, Golden Beach (known locally as Chryssi Akti) truly lives up to its name with glistening sand that glows under the Greek sun. Steady breezes often sweep this coast, making Golden Beach a prime hotspot for windsurfing competitions—especially in late summer. Even if you’re not a surfer, you can enjoy the lively ambiance, comfortable lounge setups, and clear Aegean water for swimming.
Resorts, tavernas, and surf clubs line sections of Golden Beach, offering gear rentals and lessons for novices. The wide shoreline suits families seeking space to set up for the day, while wave enthusiasts relish the breezes that can produce small, manageable surf. After a salty day, consider strolling to a local taverna for a plate of fresh fish or octopus grilled to perfection.
Activities
- Windsurfing – This is one of the Cyclades’ top windsurf spots, with advanced and beginner classes available.
- Sun Loungers – Relax in style with shady umbrellas, ordering Greek salads or cool beverages from adjacent beach bars.
- Evening Walk – At dusk, the golden sand and gentle waves reflect pastel skies, creating a romantic end-of-day scene.
Best For:
Surf enthusiasts and those seeking a large, well-maintained beach with a vibrant, sporty edge on the island’s southeast coast.
4. Pounda Beach (West of Parikia)
Not to be confused with the ferry port Pounda (to Antiparos) in the south, Pounda Beach near Parikia is a separate area often spelled Punda or Pounta as well. Boasting a party-like atmosphere, this spot caters to younger crowds or travelers looking for music, cocktails, and a more social beach scene. Beach clubs line the sand, hosting DJ sets and events, especially in peak summer.
Between the clubs, the sandy shoreline merges with shallow, clear waters suitable for casual swimming—though the vibe is decidedly energetic. If you prefer quieter corners, the immediate area might not suit, but you can lounge at a calmer edge if you’re after a short stay. For an all-out beach party, Pounda remains unmatched, often reminiscent of Mykonos’s more upbeat style.
Activities
- Beach Club Scene – Enjoy lounge chairs, dancing, and summertime cocktails with thumping music in the background.
- Social Swimming – Warm, shallow waters let you alternate between cooling dips and bar mingling.
- Late-Night Parties – Some establishments host after-sunset gatherings that last well into the night.
Best For:
Young or party-oriented visitors desiring a clubby, high-energy beach environment with music, drinks, and social vibes.
5. Monastiri Beach (Agios Ioannis Detis)
Near Kolymbithres and Naoussa Bay, Monastiri (also called Agios Ioannis Detis Beach) nestles by the Environmental Park of Paros, recognized for its scenic trails and rocky headlands. The beach is small, sandy, and typically calm, protected by the bay’s shape. Family-friendly shallows make it a good pick for kids, while the adjacent café or beach bar ensures basic refreshments.
If you’re up for light exploration, the park’s trails lead to vantage points along the coast, with stunning views across the bay toward Naoussa. In summer, open-air events or film festivals sometimes occur in the park, creating a unique cultural-beach synergy. Combine a leisurely swim at Monastiri with a short hike or an evening film screening under the Cycladic sky—a distinctly Greek island experience.
Activities
- Park Exploration – Enjoy short walks or moderate hikes in the Paros Environmental Park for panoramic Ionian vistas.
- Family Swimming – Calm waters and a shallow gradient let kids wade safely.
- Café Break – Grab a frappe or small meze dish from the onsite bar, recharging after your park trek.
Best For:
Nature lovers, families, or travelers seeking a beach-and-park combo with scenic trails and peaceful waters near Naoussa.
6. Parasporos Beach (Near Parikia)
Just south of Parikia (the island’s capital and main port), Parasporos Beach is easily accessible yet retains a somewhat quieter ambiance—especially on weekdays. The shore is mainly sand mixed with small pebbles, leading into crystal-blue waters that can get deeper quickly. A couple of beach bars and hotels supply loungers, umbrellas, and an upbeat soundtrack, albeit in a more laid-back manner than Pounda Beach’s party vibe.
Locals and tourists appreciate Parasporos for its proximity to Parikia’s nightlife or day-trip options, but the beach itself remains a restful spot for sunbathing. Some water-sports rentals may be available, though not as extensive as in Santa Maria or Golden Beach. If you linger into evening, you might witness lovely sunsets as the sun dips behind distant isles in the Aegean.
Activities
- Convenient Swims – The short ride from Parikia encourages frequent visits for quick dips or a half-day break.
- Beach Bars – Enjoy chilled drinks and Greek tunes, albeit with a moderate, relaxing vibe.
- Sunset Scenes – With a westerly orientation, Parasporos can deliver a colorful horizon at dusk.
Best For:
Travelers wanting a near-town beach that’s calmer than the party hotspots, yet still easily reached from Parikia’s port.
7. Aliki Beach (South Paros)
On Paros’s southern coast near the village of Aliki, Aliki Beach exudes a peaceful fishing-village atmosphere. The shoreline is mostly sandy, fronted by shallow waters suitable for kids or less confident swimmers. Fishing boats moor in the bay, and tavernas around the harbor area serve fresh fish, grilled octopus, and other Greek delicacies. Even on more popular weekends, Aliki maintains a relaxed local vibe.
Beach options in Aliki include the main beach and smaller coves if you stroll along the coastline. Families love the convenience of stepping from sunbeds to nearby restaurants, sampling Greek pastries or indulging in a mid-afternoon ice cream. If you’re seeking a break from crowds and a taste of everyday Greek-island life, Aliki Beach provides a welcoming scene—especially in the off-season.
Activities
- Harbor Walk – Check out local fishers unloading the day’s catch or pick up fresh produce at a small market.
- Child-Friendly Swimming – The shallow, calm water invites kids to safely play near shore.
- Seafood Taverna Visits – Enjoy homemade meze or local wine, enjoying the laid-back environment of an authentic Greek village.
Best For:
Families, relaxed beach strollers, and travelers savoring a small-village ambiance with easy swimming and local cuisine.
8. Farangas (Faragas) Beach (South)
Also spelled Faragas or Faraggas, this beach lies in a quiet cove on Paros’s southern tip, near Alyki but slightly more remote. The combination of soft golden sand and tranquil, emerald waters sets Farangas apart, while rugged cliffs offer a sense of intimacy and shelter from stronger winds. A modest beach bar and sun-lounger rentals exist, but the overall vibe is subdued, rarely reaching party-level bustle.
Some swimmers check out the rocky edges for fish life, though it’s not primarily known as a snorkel hotspot. Instead, Farangas appeals to those wanting a comfortable cove with fewer crowds—particularly in June or September. The adjacency to farmland or orchard plots underscores its off-the-beaten-path feel. Arriving by car or taxi is easiest; the payoff is a small, restful bay free from large resort complexes.
Activities
- Sheltered Swimming – Calm waters let even timid swimmers feel at ease, while the cove’s shape blocks heavy waves.
- Sun Lounger Chill – Rent an umbrella, read that holiday book, or drift into midday naps lulled by wavelets.
- Cafe Delights – The onsite bar or a short walk away might yield a coffee or fruit smoothie for cooling off.
Best For:
Couples or individuals seeking a hidden-ish cove with gently lapping waters and modest facilities, away from the main tourist routes.
9. Logaras Beach (East Coast)
Close to Piso Livadi in eastern Paros, Logaras Beach is a well-organized, family-friendly spot with golden sand and shallow, clear waters. It’s often overshadowed by the nearby Punda Beach for parties or the busier Golden Beach for windsurfing, but Logaras stands out for a calmer, more local ambiance. Tall tamarisk trees offer pockets of shade, and a small cluster of tavernas serve Greek dishes if you get hungry.
Because it’s near Piso Livadi, travelers can easily wander to that fishing village, booking boat excursions or enjoying a post-swim gelato. The beach’s stable conditions cater to kids building sandcastles, while older visitors might rent a paddleboard or snorkel along the rocky edges. If you’re looking for a less hectic alternative in the east, Logaras suits a broad range of tastes.
Activities
- Safe Swimming – Shallow near shore and rarely choppy, making it comfortable for families with young children.
- Taverna Hopping – Try local Greek recipes—like fish plaki or chickpea fritters—in beachfront restaurants.
- Short Walk to Piso Livadi – Explore the harbor’s fishing boats, or catch a boat trip to neighboring islands like Naxos or Koufonisia.
Best For:
Families or travelers wanting a relaxed sandy bay near a quaint harbor village, minus the bustle of bigger east-coast beaches.
10. Livadia Beach (Parikia)
In Parikia, the capital of Paros, Livadia offers a town beach setting within easy walking distance of the ferry port, tavernas, and shops. The shoreline is a mix of fine sand and small pebbles, leading into gentle waters well-suited for a quick refreshing dip—especially if you’re short on time or want a break from exploring Parikia’s historic streets and Venetian castle area.
Umbrellas and loungers typically line sections of Livadia, with beach bars and cafes in close reach for lunch or drinks. Even though it’s near the harbor, the water quality remains good, making it a convenient pick for travelers who want to balance cultural sightseeing with Ionian sunbathing. As dusk falls, you can watch ferries come and go, while the sun sets behind the rolling hills across the bay—an unexpectedly peaceful combo of city and sea.
Activities
- City-Meets-Beach – Pair a morning museum visit or shopping with an afternoon lounge session by the sea.
- Stroll the Promenade – Amble along Parikia’s waterfront, browsing souvenir stands or sampling street-food treats.
- Sunset & Ferry Views – The comings and goings of ferries, plus pastel-hued evening skies, create a lively maritime tableau.
Best For:
Travelers wanting a convenient in-town beach to complement sightseeing around Parikia’s old quarter, churches, and nightlife.
Conclusion
From the lunar-esque boulders of Kolymbithres and the windswept mania of Golden Beach to the quiet fishing hamlet of Aliki and the family-friendly vibe of Logaras, Paros’s beaches reflect an island where Cycladic tradition meets sun-drenched leisure. Each shore speaks to a different aspect of Paros’s identity—some brimming with windsurfing or party potential, others hidden behind cliffs for those seeking solitude.
These 10 beaches highlight Paros’s coastal breadth, from big-sky southwestern expanses to intimate northern coves with unusual rock formations. Pair your beach-hopping with the island’s gastronomic treats—like local wine, cheese-stuffed pastries, or fresh fish from the day’s catch—and you’ll experience the soulful Greek island living that keeps visitors returning year after year. Embrace the gentle hum of the Aegean Sea, the shimmer of whitewashed villages perched on hillside slopes, and the warm “Kalos irthate!” from local tavernas as you discover the shining beaches of Paros.
