Astypalea: Top Beaches!

“Finally, time to relax on the beach!” Without a doubt, that’s the thought running through your mind just hours before arriving in Astypalea—whether you’re departing from the port of Piraeus or taking off from Eleftherios Venizelos Airport. You’ve already left everyday life behind and you’re eagerly anticipating confirming just how beautiful the island you chose for your summer vacation really is. But amidst the anticipation, there’s also a sincere concern: What about the beaches? Will they live up to the photos you’ve seen and the stories you’ve heard from others who have visited the island?

Having spent countless hours on Astypalea’s beaches and experienced many of the moments you’re hoping to enjoy during your own holiday, we’re here to put your mind at ease and guide you in just a few lines. We’ll highlight the beaches you must visit during your short stay on the island and point out a few things you’ll want to know before you set off for your first swim.

1 – Islets of Koutsomitis & Kounoupes

Make sure to dedicate at least half a day of your relaxing stay in Astypalea to a swim in the truly turquoise waters of Κoutsomitis  and Kounoupes . These small islets are just a few nautical miles from Chora and are visited daily by small boats departing from the little port of Pera Gialos. This is one of those cases where the photos alone are enough to convince you to go—offering not only two unique beaches but also a scenic sea journey to get there.

Insider tip: Be sure to bring food, cold water, and a beach umbrella with you, as the beaches are not organized and the total duration of the mini cruise is about 6–7 hours. Also, it’s best to go on a day with little wind—for obvious reasons.

Beach type: Sand & Pebble
Seabed: Sand & Pebble (Definitely worth bringing a snorkeling mask)
Depth: Shallow to moderate waters
Sun exposure: Full sun throughout your stay / No shaded areas
Waves: At Koutsomitis and Kounoupes, waves are not an issue unless the wind exceeds 5 Beaufort. However, caution is advised due to strong underwater currents in Koutsomitis, which can carry away weaker swimmers.
Access: Only by boat or private vessel (5–6 nautical miles from Pera Gialos)

2 – Tzanaki

This is the beach with the best view of Chora and the Venetian Castle. Located a short distance from Livadi, you can even walk there—it takes about 15 minutes. The beach is reached after a short and easy 300-meter path, is unorganized, and ideal for those who want to avoid beach bars, shops, and crowds. The deep waters and the sense of calm you’ll find here will reward you, as will the unique view—especially during sunset.

Insider tip: Tzanaki is traditionally visited by nudists, so if you’re not comfortable with that, it may be better to choose a different beach for your swim. Also, make sure to bring water and snacks from Livadi, and help preserve the peaceful atmosphere of the beach during your stay so as not to disturb its regular visitors.

Beach type: Pebble
Seabed: Pebble
Depth: Moderate to deep waters
Sun: Sunlight fades earlier in the afternoon, although there are a few shaded spots earlier in the day
Waves: Affected by eastern winds
Access: 2.5 km from Chora – paved road and a 300-meter walkable path from the road to the beach

 3 – Agios Konstantinos

Known simply as “Agios ” by the locals, this is truly one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, rivaling Tzanaki in terms of its view of the Castle. You can easily spend several enjoyable hours here, as the beach offers tamarisk trees for shade, rentable sunbeds and umbrellas, a taverna, and a beach bar that stays open until late. You can also walk a bit uphill to visit the small chapel of Agios Konstantinos and take in the stunning view of both the beach below and the charming Chora directly opposite.

Insider tip: Agios Konstantinos is best enjoyed on calm days with little to no wind. Also, bring a light jacket or hoodie—you might end up staying longer to enjoy a cocktail or beer at the beach bar as the sun sets.

Seabed: Pebble
Depth: Moderate
Sun: Sunlight fades earlier in the afternoon; tamarisk trees offer shade in parts of the beach. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent.
Waves: Significantly affected by northern and eastern winds
Access: 6 km from Chora – 5 km paved road and 1 km dirt road

  4 – Kaminakia

This beach is the go-to choice for those who aren’t discouraged by distance or dirt roads and are determined to discover what many consider the most beautiful beach in Astypalea. Located on the western side of the island, this natural harbor leaves a lasting impression and offers relaxing moments you’ll remember long after your trip. In addition to the deep, crystal-clear waters, you’ll find tamarisk trees at the edge of the beach for shade—and maybe even a beach nap—while just a bit further up there’s a restaurant serving a menu that includes several local products.

Insider tip: Kaminakia  is one of the most beautiful but also one of the most remote beaches on the island. The dirt road can be rough in certain spots, so patience and caution are required. It’s a good idea to set out early in the day so you can enjoy the beach and still have daylight for your return to Chora.

Beach type: Pebble & Sand
Seabed: Pebble & Sand (Highly recommended to bring a snorkel mask)
Depth: Moderate to deep waters
Sun: Sunlight lasts almost until sunset; tamarisk trees provide shade in parts of the beach. Sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent.
Waves: The beach lies in a sheltered bay and is not significantly affected by wind
Access: 10 km from Chora – 4 km paved road and 6 km dirt road

 5 – Plakes

This beach will likely lead you into the “inner island,” as the locals call the northeastern part of Astypalea. A sheltered bay that includes the picturesque  beach Plakes and the rocky slabs (also called “plakes”) that offer a unique swimming experience for those seeking something a bit different. The clean waters pair beautifully with the impressive seabed found in this bay—so be sure to bring a snorkel mask or swimming goggles to make the most of it. After your swim, don’t miss the chance for an afternoon stroll, meal, or coffee in the nearby village of Maltezana.

Insider tip: Try to visit early—not just because the sun sets relatively early here, but because the beach is small and tends to get crowded, especially during August. If you’re looking for more sun and space, opt for the flat rocky slabs rather than the pebble beach. To reach them, follow the small path to your left as you look down on the area from above.

Beach type: Pebble & Rocky slabs
Seabed: Pebble & Rocky slabs (Snorkel mask highly recommended)
Depth: Moderate
Sun: Sunlight fades fairly early in the afternoon; there are a few shaded spots earlier in the day. The slabs stay sunny longer than the pebble section.
Waves: Sheltered bay, generally calm, except when southern winds blow
Access: 8 km from Chora – paved road and a 200-meter walkable path from the road to the beach. Accessible by local bus as there is a nearby stop

 6 – Vatses

Another remote beach that’s well worth the drive along a dirt road, as the deep waters and rugged landscape will more than make up for it. The expansive shoreline, surrounded by mountainous terrain, creates the perfect escape for relaxation and swimming. And if you’re after scenic beach bars and cocktails by the sea, you’ve also made the right choice— Vatses now hosts a beach bar that’s well worth hanging around until sunset.

Insider tip: If you arrive early and settle under a tamarisk tree, your swim will be twice as enjoyable, especially with the perfectly curated music playing from the beach bar at one end of the beach. If you prefer more sun throughout the day and a bit of distance from the bar crowd, head to the opposite end. Either way, don’t forget a light jacket or hoodie—chances are you’ll want to stay late for cocktails or beers with friends as the sun goes down.

Beach type: Pebble & Sand
Seabed: Pebble & Flat rock slabs
Depth: Moderate to deep waters
Sun: Sunlight lasts almost until sunset; tamarisk trees provide some shade. Umbrellas and sunbeds are also available for rent.
Waves: Although located in a bay, the beach is affected by winds funneled down the gorge toward the sea.
Access: 7 km from Chora – 3.5 km paved road and 3.5 km dirt road

 7 – Steno

The ideal choice for a family day at the beach. Steno features golden sand and very shallow waters, making it perfect for young children. Combined with the sheltered nature of the bay and the presence of an organized beach canteen, it’s a great spot for carefree hours and relaxed swimming, with easy access for everyone. It’s also a favorite among those who love soft sand and prefer more accessible, organized beaches over remote and rugged ones.

Insider tip: If you make it to Steno but find it too busy or simply not to your liking, you might enjoy Mikró Steno (“Small Steno”) instead. It’s a smaller beach just before the main one, generally quieter and less crowded with families. It also has shallow waters and a pebble beach, but it’s not organized—so make sure to bring your own essentials or pick them up at the canteen in Steno before heading there.

Beach type: Sand
Seabed: Sand
Depth: Very shallow waters
Sun: Sunlight lasts almost until sunset; tamarisk trees offer some shade. Umbrellas and sunbeds are also available for rent.
Waves: Located in a sheltered bay, it’s mostly unaffected by wind.
Access: 6 km from Chora – paved road. There is also a local bus stop nearby.

 8 – Ble Limanaki (Blue Little Port)

One of the smallest beaches on the island, yet one that everyone wants to visit during the summer months. This tiny, well-sheltered cove near the village of Maltezana is protected from the wind, making it ideal for peaceful swimming. The beach isn’t visible from the road—you’ll need to walk a few meters up a small hill to your right when you reach the sign that says “Ble limanaki .” Since it’s unorganized, you’ll need to bring everything you might need, ideally after stopping in the center of the village.

Insider tip: In August, make sure to arrive early, as it fills up quickly and finding space can be tricky. If you’re out of luck, you can easily head back and enjoy your swim at the Maltezana beach or at nearby Schinontas, where you’ll also find tavernas with menus that will definitely tempt your appetite.

Beach type: Pebble
Seabed: Pebble
Depth: Shallow waters
Sun: Sunlight fades fairly early in the afternoon; limited natural shade available earlier in the day.
Waves: Located in a sheltered cove, generally unaffected by wind except for southerlies.
Access: 9 km from Chora – 8.5 km paved road and 500 m dirt track from Maltezana village. There is also a local bus stop nearby (Maltezana).

 9 – Psili Ammos (Fine Sand Beach)

The perfect beach for those who love golden sand and shallow, turquoise waters. Less than a kilometer behind Astypalea’s airport near Maltezana, the landscape shifts to offer you the tranquility you seek on your vacation. Psili ammos  is especially ideal for sun lovers who want sunlight until late afternoon and for young children who enjoy playing in the sand. However, be aware that the beach has no natural shade and is completely unorganized—make sure to bring an umbrella or beach tent along with water and snacks before heading out.

Insider tip: Even though the beach is relatively small, it usually doesn’t get too crowded. An exception is on days with southern winds, when many choose it because it’s perfectly sheltered from that direction. In general, avoid visiting early in the day, as the lack of shade and intense sun may become tiring. Since Psili Ammos enjoys sun later than most beaches on the island, the best time to visit is when most people have already left—it’s then you’ll truly enjoy it.

Beach type: Sand
Seabed: Sand (worth bringing a snorkel mask)
Depth: Shallow waters
Sun: Constant sun exposure throughout your stay / No shaded areas
Waves: Heavily affected by northern winds
Access: 11 km from Chora – 10 km paved road and 1 km dirt road from the airport to the beach

 10 – Agios Ioannis Richtis

At the southwestern tip of Astypalea, Agios Ioannis Richtis  is a unique and secluded beach with stunning waters that will satisfy even the most demanding visitors. The wild landscape, with steep cliffs both in and out of the water, offers a special experience not to be missed—especially for those with a private boat or the ability to rent one. Adventurous souls are likely to enjoy hours of complete privacy on this beach, surrendering to the calm of the endless blue sea.

Insider tip: Access by sea (private or rented boat) or by hiking requires caution and responsibility. Make sure to take all necessary safety measures and inform someone about your outing before setting off. Look up toward the cliffs above the beach—you may spot falcon nests. If you’re lucky, you’ll see several falcons flying around the area, offering unforgettable moments of natural beauty.

Beach type: Pebble
Seabed: Pebble (worth bringing a snorkel mask)
Depth: Shallow to medium-depth waters
Sun: Sunlight fades relatively early in the afternoon, but there are shady spots throughout the day
Waves: Sheltered cove, protected from most winds except southerlies
Access: By sea (private or rented boat) or via a 30-minute moderate-level hike down the gorge from the small chapel of Agios Ioannis Richtis. The chapel (trail starting point) is 6 km from Chora – 3.5 km paved road and 1.5 km dirt road.

Text & Photos: Antonis Nikolakis