Greece
Skiathos Beaches

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A herd of Skiathos tourists arrive at their apartments. Click for more Skiathos Pictures.

Photos: Greece Islands and Beaches | Meteora | Halkidiki | Athens

Greece Information: Athens Travel Guide | Greece Travel Guide | Map | Europe Map | Tours

Skiathos, in the Sporades islands, is a highly developed destination much favoured by British sun seekers. The main town [also known as Skiathos] is busy and in parts tacky, but still retains a labyrinthine charm, especially after dark when little restaurants pop out onto little streets. Facilities are excellent, with plenty of accommodation and restaurants ranging from cheap to stylish, not-so-cheap.

The island boasts of 65 beaches - though some of them are smaller than my sofa - and the east and south coasts are packed with beach freaks, with the two best beaches in that overbuilt [but not unattractive] stretch hanging at the road's end, Koukounaries and Banana.

With personal transport - scooters OK - beaches on the west side become accessible and offer long stretches of fine sand with far fewer neighbours, or facilities, though there's always a taverna when you need one. Elia and Mandraki are the best choices in that section.

Massively over-touted is Lalaria beach on the island's north shore, accessible only by boat. This smooth pebble beach has super-clear turquoise water, but no taverna, no sand, little shade and frequent landings by shiploads of package people.

Allergy sufferers beware pine trees getting up your nose!