There are dozens of public beaches on the island, ranging in size from small to large, and many of the most popular are located on the south coast. Where you could once throw your towel on the sand and seek shade under a tree, many have evolved to offer a range of stylish facilities, mostly involving the rental of sun loungers and umbrellas, with daytime rates varying wildly between them. Many are now surrounded by luxury hotels and villas, and feature chic beach clubs and restaurants where the action doesn’t stop just because the sun goes down. Get what you want.
For more Mykonos inspiration, check out our guides to the island’s best hotels, restaurants and things to do.
Heaven
This is definitely one of the best known and most popular, thanks to its cozy feel and picturesque setting. Located on the island’s south coast, which can be buffeted by the island’s famous winds or ‘meltemia’, it is a long stretch of pebbly sand surrounded by clear turquoise waters. Behind the sea is a campsite established in 1969, and other facilities include a reasonably priced cafeteria and several beach bars. Sun loungers and umbrellas will be available to rent from €25 (£21) starting this season; The amount tends to increase every year. At the back of the beach is Paradise Beach Club, which has a quieter pool bar and a noisier pool bar on the ground floor. As the day goes on, the music gets louder, culminating in the live DJ driving the crowd into a frenzy.
Getting there: You can drive or take bus directly from Factory, Chora; It takes approximately 15 minutes.
Super Heaven
Super Paradise is located behind a headland on the opposite side of Paradise and is traditionally known as the island’s first private gay beach. Today, it is more mixed and attracts clubbers and partiers who are increasingly involved in dance music. There is a bar that also serves light snacks such as fruit and yoghurt, and you can also rent a jet ski, go parasailing or do other water sports. Super Paradise Beach Club also rents sun loungers and umbrellas (price varies).
Getting there: For years, you could only reach here by sea taxi. There is now a shuttle (operated by Super Paradise Beach Club) that will take you directly from the Factory.
Panormos
Panormos, located on the northern side of Mykonos, was one of the most modest and quiet beaches on the island until a few years ago. Today, there are still a handful of simple apartments along the hill above it and two small restaurants, including Kiki’s Tavern. The game-changer, with its luxurious lounge chairs, beehive-shaped rattan lampshades, billowing white curtains and natural, blond wood furniture, is Principote, a swanky, swanky restaurant and beach club founded a few years ago. They charge €50 (£45) per sunbed and as a result are packed with punters who like to order champagne while sunbathing. If you don’t want to pay these prices, you can lay your beach towel on the sand that lies to the right or left, including the charming, sheltered bay known as Lovers’ Beach.
Getting there: Buses depart from the Old Port quite regularly.
Elia
This has taken over the mantle of Mykonos’ main gay beach in recent years, and nudity is allowed (and widely practiced). It’s a pretty quiet beach – the music isn’t too strong – you can rent sun loungers and umbrellas and in some cases a cocktail is included in the price, usually if you’re looking for somewhere close to the sea. You can also reserve sun loungers at the stylish Elia Beach Hotel. With tasteful, nature-inspired décor, the restaurant serves beautifully presented and delicious dishes such as grilled octopus with olive oil puree.
Getting there: Buses leave from the Old Port.
Agios Ioannis
Perched atop a small peninsula jutting out from the southwestern corner of the island, this beach has a dazzling film history: it features in the classic film Shirley Valentine and the small tavern where she treats herself to a pint. Even though it’s now called Hippie Fish, the wine is still there. In addition to sushi, more classic Greek dishes are also served here. This beach is more popular with families as it is quite quiet and the water is calm and crystal clear making it great for swimming and snorkeling. The famous archaeological site overlooks the island of Delos.
Getting there: Buses depart from Factory and stop first in Ornos.
Paraga
This is one of the most developed beaches lined with restaurants and bars, including sun loungers. There are many rental options along the beach and a large floating dock where you can swim. It is patrolled by a lifeguard and, like most larger beaches, feels safe but is also prone to loud music. To the west from the sea is Scorpios, a popular spot attracting the rich and famous, with prices for sun loungers and cabanas (starting from €100 / £90 per person).
Getting there: Buses depart regularly from the Factory.
Ornos
Surrounding a charming old fishing village of the same name, Ornos beach is becoming increasingly popular with families and so is often packed. It is the closest major beach to Chora and offers places to hire windsurfers as well as a diving school. There is also a long, low complex stretching along most of the beach, with a variety of restaurants and bars renting sunbeds for varying prices (most over €10). [£9] sign). There is a branch of the popular Buddha Bar serving cocktails, sushi and Balearic delicacies, as well as other popular eateries such as Kuzina, which serves crowd-pleasers such as fried calamari, grilled chicken skewers and lobster spaghetti.
Getting there: Buses leave from the Factory.
Platis Yialos/Platys Gialos
This stunning beach is lined with dozens of hotels and is therefore an increasingly popular place to stay. Many facilities are offered, including water sports, restaurants, cafes and mini markets. You can also take a water taxi from here if you want to explore a nearby beach for a few hours; They go to Heaven and Super Heaven. For lunch with a stunning view, head to Eclipse, the Italian restaurant located on the rooftop of the Germanic-style Kosmoplaz Beach Hotel and Resort. Enjoy handmade pasta and pizza overlooking the bluest water you’ve ever seen.
Getting there: The factory bus terminal can be reached in just over 10 minutes.
