THE 10 BEST KYTHNOS BEACHES
KOLONA
Kythnos’ Signature Double-Sided Paradise
Kolona Beach isn’t just beautiful—it’s iconic. Located on the island’s western side, this stunning sandbar stretches 240 meters and connects Kythnos to the islet of Agios Loukas, creating two crystal-clear beaches on either side. You can literally swim in two beaches at once.
Its name, Kolona (Greek for “pillar”), reflects its unique shape, especially impressive from above. The beach is mostly unorganized, yet there’s a multi-level café-restaurant offering food, drinks, and a few sunbeds.
The easiest and most scenic way to reach Kolona is by water taxi from Merichas (about 15 minutes). While driving is possible, the road is rough and not recommended.
Popular for its wind-sheltered cove and golden sands, Kolona remains spacious and never feels too crowded.
Love adventure? Book a Hiking Tour in Kythnos
LOUTRA
Loutra, on the northeastern coast of Kythnos, is more than just a beach—it’s a natural spa with a royal history. At Loutra Beach, you can swim in a unique blend of hot spring and Aegean waters, with temperatures reaching up to 52°C.
The historic spa building by the beach, built during the reign of King Othon and Queen Amalia, adds a touch of old-world grandeur.
Loutra isn’t just about wellness, though—there’s a laid-back village vibe with seaside taverns, cafés, and a scuba diving center.
Kythnos Bay Hotel and the colorful Mamado the Food Bar (great for bao buns and beach snacks) are just steps away. Whether you’re here for relaxation or a dip in ancient healing waters, Loutra blends tradition, comfort, and a touch of luxury.
SCHINARI
Just a short 550-meter stroll from Loutra lies Schinari Beach, a hidden gem perfect for those craving peace and simplicity.
While Loutra buzzes with spa lovers, Schinari stays tranquil, with soft sand, shallow turquoise waters, and a gentle silence broken only by birdsong and the sea’s whisper.
Tamarisk trees provide natural shade from morning till late afternoon, and a small wooden shelter and stone benches offer spots to rest and take in the view. There are no sunbeds or beach bars—just you, the sea, and pure serenity.
Though untouched and unorganized, it’s family-friendly and easily accessible on foot. If you need snacks or drinks, Loutra’s cafés are close by, but here, it’s all about disconnecting.
APOKROUSI
Apokrousi Beach may live in the shadow of the famous Kolona, but holds its own charm with golden sands, calm azure waters, and easy access by car. Tucked into a wide bay between Episkopi and Fikiada, this is one of Kythnos’ largest beaches and a favorite among families.
Even on windy days, the sea here stays surprisingly still thanks to the natural shelter of the bay. You’ll find plenty of space to spread out, with tamarisk trees offering natural shade. A laid-back beach bar at one end offers sunbeds, umbrellas, drinks, and light bites.
While much of the beach remains unorganized and free to enjoy, parking is easy, and the vibe is relaxed. From the shore, you can see Kolona’s beach in the distance. Whether you come for the swimming, sunbathing, or to just take in the view, Apokrousi is a must—especially if you want a taste of Kolona with an easier driving route.
SIMOUSI
If you’re after peace, privacy, and pure Cycladic beauty, Simousi Beach is the spot. Tucked between Skylou and Gaidouromantra beaches, this hidden gem is a quiet cove with soft sand, crystal-clear water, and just a few tamarisk trees offering precious shade—if you’re lucky enough to grab one.
It’s not organized, so come prepared with your own umbrella, water, and snacks. There are no beach bars, no sunbeds, and no cafés in sight—just the sound of the sea. Access requires a private vehicle, and the last stretch of the drive (about 1 km) is a rough dirt road. If you’re not confident in your off-road driving skills, you might want to skip it—or park a little higher up and walk the rest.
But for those willing to make the journey, Simousi rewards with total tranquility and zero crowds. One of our absolute favorites on the island.
MEGALI AMMOS (KANALA)
Megali Ammos, also known as Kanala Beach, is one of Kythnos’ most popular spots—and for good reason. Located near the charming Kanala settlement, it features golden sand, calm blue waters, and tamarisk trees that provide much-needed shade.
The beach boasts crystal-clear waters and, no matter how strong the northern winds blow, it stays perfectly calm, with soft sand both on the shore and in the sea.
This beach is loved both by locals and visitors and is very family-friendly. While parts of the beach remain free and unspoiled, you’ll also find sunbeds offered by the beachfront café-taverna.
Accommodation and dining options, like the cozy “Manjavinos” with homemade Greek dishes, are within easy reach. For a complete experience, pair your swim with a visit to the nearby Panagia Kanala church, one of the most important religious sites in the Cyclades.
While often busy, Megali Ammos strikes a nice balance between relaxed and lively—offering both quiet corners and a splash of social energy.
EPISKOPI
Just a few minutes from both Merichas & Chora, Episkopi Beach is one of Kythnos’ top spots, perfect for families. With its clean, shallow, turquoise waters and soft sand lined by tamarisk trees, it’s ideal for long, carefree beach days.
Most of the beach is free to use, but for extra comfort, head to Pountaki Beach Bar, where you’ll find comfy sunbeds, umbrellas, great music, snacks, and drinks.
For a more active day, don’t miss Kythnos Kayak by Captain Manolis, offering sea cycling, SUPs, and kayak rentals—an amazing way to explore hidden nearby coves and enjoy a more adventurous side of the island. Access by car is easy with plenty of free parking, and sometimes even buses can drop you off if you ask in advance.
MARTINAKIA
Just a 5-minute walk from the port of Merichas, Martinakia Beach is the go-to spot if you want a quick swim before your ferry ride. The beach mixes sand and fine pebbles, with crystal-clear waters and some flat rocks underfoot.
A good part of the beach is organized, thanks to Hamsa Beach Bar – Restaurant, offering sunbeds, umbrellas, cocktails, and chill house music—and sometimes even beach parties.
If you prefer a quieter vibe, tamarisk trees offer natural shade, and a couple of seaside taverns and rental rooms are nearby. Parking is tricky here, but you’ll manage with some patience along the road.
Stick around for sunset: the sun sets directly into the sea, giving you a postcard-perfect farewell to Kythnos.
AGIOS SOSTIS
Every self-respecting Greek island seems to have a beach named Agios Sostis—and Kythnos proudly joins the club. This wild, unorganized stretch of sand is one of the island’s northernmost, nestled just above Potamia and named after the charming Cycladic chapel that watches over it.
The waters here are crystal clear with a sandy seabed, perfect for a tranquil dip. There’s no natural shade, no shops, and no sunbeds—so pack snacks, water, and an umbrella.
While accessible by car, the final stretch is a rough dirt road followed by a short, steep walk, making it less ideal for small kids or anyone with limited mobility. Still, the beach’s calm atmosphere and stunning setting make it totally worth it—especially on wind-free days.
KALO LIVADI
Kalo Livadi is a quiet gem about 10 km from Chora and just a short drive from Kanala. This small, peaceful beach has golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and a rocky seabed at first—perfect for snorkeling lovers, so don’t forget your mask!
Most of the beach remains natural and crowd-free, with a few tamarisk trees for shade. For extra comfort, Omisu Beach Bar offers snacks, coffee, and a few comfy sunbeds at reasonable prices.
The road to the beach is narrow, with a short dirt stretch at the end, but it’s manageable. One highlight nearby is the hike up to Panagia Kalolivadiani, a beautiful whitewashed church offering stunning panoramic views over the Aegean and surrounding bays.
For a full and secluded experience near Kalo Livadi beach book your stay in Wise Luxury Suites.
Kythnos Beaches FAQ
Q: Which are the closest beaches to Merichas Port in Kythnos?
A: Martinakia, Episkopi
Q: Which beaches are further away from the Port of Kythnos (20–30-minute drive)?
A: Kalo Livadi, Megali Ammos (Kanala)
Q: Which are best family-friendly beaches in Kythnos?
A: Episkopi, Apokrousi
Q: Which beaches in Kythnos are best for landscape lovers?
A: Kolona, Kalo Livadi, Agios Sostis
Q: Which are the most popular and busy Kythnos beaches?
A: Kolona, Martinakia, Episkopi
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Q: Where can you find party beaches in Kythnos?
A: Martinakia, Apokrousi (at their beach bars parts)
Q: Which Kythnos beaches are quiet and peaceful?
A: Simousi, Agios Sostis
Q: Best beaches in Kythnos for activities like snorkeling, kayaking or diving.
A: Episkopi, Kalo Livadi, Loutra
Q: The best sunset Kythnos beach.
A: Martinakia
Q: Which beaches in Kythnos are protected from the wind?
A: Apokrousi, Episkopi, Megali Ammos
Q: What are the hardest to reach beaches in Kythnos (by car)?
A: Kolona, Agios Sostis, Simousi
Q: Which beaches in Kythnos are mostly organized?
A: Martinakia, Megali Ammos (Kanala)
Q: Which are the best undeveloped beaches in Kythnos?
A: Simousi, Schinari, Agios Sostis
Q: Which Kythnos beaches have both organized and unorganized parts?
A: Episkopi, Kalo Livadi, Apokrousi
Q: Which Cycladic islands should I visit after Kythnos?
A: Naxos, Sifnos, Tinos
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