Astypalaia – The Beaches of the Settlements

Have you chosen Astypalaia for your summer vacation and are now looking for the ideal beaches to enjoy the long-awaited swims you’ve been dreaming of for months? Do you want to relax by the sea while sipping a cold coffee or indulging in traditional island-style meze? If so, you should read carefully to the end — we’ve put together a detailed guide just for you. In just a few minutes, you’ll feel like you’ve already visited the island and you’ll have all the essential information about the five beaches located within the settlements!

Of course, the island also boasts dozens of other beaches to suit every taste along its coastline, and we truly believe that once you return to everyday life, you’ll regret it if you don’t visit at least a few of the top beaches and stick only to the “easy” ones…

However, if you don’t have your own means of transportation, don’t enjoy using local transit, or simply prefer beaches that are easily accessible within the villages, rest assured — you won’t be disappointed! Pack your beach bag, apply sunscreen, throw a towel over your shoulder, and here are your options:

Agios Vasilis

Agios Vasilis is a small, peaceful beach that’s become a favorite in recent years thanks to its easy access — even though you’ll need to take a short footpath to get there. It’s located right next to Livadi Beach and is perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and beach bars, especially during busy August days.

Set in a well-protected little cove, Agios Vasilis might not wow you with dramatic views or wild landscapes, but it more than makes up for it with peace and quiet — ideal for a relaxing swim without distractions.

Local tip:
Before heading down the path to the beach, continue just a few more meters along the road toward the tip of the small peninsula. From there, you’ll get a stunning panoramic view of Chora and Livadi — totally worth the detour!

Beach type: Pebble
Seabed: Sandy & pebbly
Water depth: Shallow to moderate
Sun exposure: Mostly sunny throughout the day. One side of the beach gets shade earlier, and there are a few trees just above the shore. No sunbeds or umbrellas for rent.
Waves: Usually calm, unless there’s a strong southern or eastern wind.
Getting there: Just 2.2 km from Chora via a paved road, followed by an easy 100-meter footpath to the beach. You can also catch the local bus and get off at the nearby village of Livadi.

 Livadi

Livadi is the island’s lively, cosmopolitan beach — and it’s almost guaranteed that you’ll end up here at least once during your stay in Astypalaia. One of the largest and best-organized beaches on the island, Livadi offers stunning views of the picturesque Chora and a great balance of summer energy and seaside relaxation.

It’s the perfect place to enjoy a swim with a side of iced coffee, refreshing cocktails, or some tasty meze from the many beachfront cafés and tavernas. Even if you’re not a fan of crowded beaches, give Livadi a try — you might just find yourself appreciating the smooth blend of vibrant summer atmosphere and chill seaside vibes.

Local tip:
If you’re visiting during a full moon, check the exact time it rises and make sure you’re at Livadi to catch the view. It’s magical. And for the adventurous souls — a moonlit swim under the purple hues of the full moon is something you won’t forget anytime soon.

Beach type: Sand & pebbles
Seabed: Sandy with some pebbles
Water depth: Moderate
Sun exposure: Sunny until late afternoon, with plenty of tamarisk trees for natural shade. Sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent.
Waves: Generally calm — waves are only a concern when strong southern winds blow.
Getting there: Just 2 km from Chora via paved road. There’s also a local bus stop right by the beach.

Maltezana (Analipsi)

Maltezana Beach is all about pure relaxation. With easy access, shallow waters, and plenty of tamarisk trees offering natural shade, it’s a favorite spot for slow, carefree beach days. Located right on the edge of the charming village of Maltezana–Analipsi, its golden sand and peaceful setting invite you to unwind — and might even inspire you to explore more of the surrounding area.

And if all that relaxing works up your appetite, you’re in luck: nearby, you’ll find local eateries serving fresh fish and other tasty island specialties.

Local tip:
If you’re still around in the evening, don’t miss the sunset from the nearby Maltezana pier. The sky over the bay turns magical shades of orange and pink, and if you glance in the opposite direction, you might just catch the moon rising — an unforgettable moment.

Beach type: Sand
Seabed: Sandy
Water depth: Shallow
Sun exposure: Sunny until late afternoon, with natural shade from tamarisk trees along most of the beach. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available to rent.
Waves: Very calm, thanks to the sheltered bay — only strong southern winds might stir things up a bit.
Getting there: 9 km from Chora via paved road. There’s also a local bus stop right nearby.

Pera Gialos

If you’re not in the mood for venturing out to Astypalaia’s more remote beaches, Pera Gialos is one of your best close-to-home options. Just a short walk from Chora, this beach combines convenience with charm — offering a stunning view of the Venetian castle and plenty of nearby spots for coffee, a snack, or a full-on Greek meal, depending on what you’re craving.

The sea here is usually calm, making it an ideal choice for families or anyone looking for a worry-free swim. Before or after your dip, don’t miss the chance to stroll through the quaint streets of Pera Gialos and wander down to the island’s old port, now transformed into a picturesque marina.

Local tip:
If your afternoon is free, stick around the beach as the fishing boats return to the harbor. Dozens of seagulls swirling in the golden light of the setting sun create a picture-perfect, authentically island moment that’ll stay with you long after your trip.

Beach type: Sand & pebbles
Seabed: Mostly pebbly
Water depth: Moderate
Sun exposure: Sun starts to set early in the afternoon, but there are tamarisk trees providing some natural shade. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available to rent.
Waves: Generally very calm, as it’s tucked into a sheltered bay — only strong southeast winds might stir things up.
Getting there: Just 500 meters from Chora’s central square via paved road. There’s also a local bus stop nearby.

Schoinontas

Tucked just a short walk from the village of Maltezana, Schoinontas is a peaceful, scenic bay with a sandy, organized beach that ticks all the boxes: shallow waters, easy access, and seaside tavernas so close you can dip your toes in the sea while you dine. From the small harbor in Maltezana, simply head east, pass the gentle hill, and you’ll arrive at the picturesque little pier of Schoinontas — now famous from the Aegean Airlines commercial!

Local tip:
Don’t miss the chance to walk to the far left side of the beach and climb the small peninsula. From up there, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Chora and the islets of Chondros and Glinos. This is also where you’ll find the Monument to the French Officers, a memorial marking a dramatic historical moment from November 5, 1827, when Captain Bisson and his crew faced off against 140 pirates right in this bay.

Beach type: Sand & pebbles
Seabed: Sandy with some pebbles
Water depth: Shallow
Sun exposure: Sunny until afternoon, with tamarisk trees for shade. Sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent.
Waves: Calm and protected, with the exception of strong southern winds.
Getting there: 10 km from Chora via a paved road. You can also take the local bus — there’s a stop in nearby Maltezana.

Text & Photos: Antonis Nikolakis