Welcome to Greece's most famous cosmopolitan island, a whitewashed paradise in the heart of the Cyclades. According to mythology, Mykonos was formed from the petrified bodies of giants killed by Hercules. And did you know that the island took its name from the grandson of Apollo, "Mykonos"?

Beaches on Mykonos

Mykonos beaches are famous all over the world for their golden sand and the crystal waters. As this is among the most popular tourist destinations in Greece, most Mykonos beaches are organized with many tourist facilities, from seaside accommodation to beach bars, restaurants and water sports centers. The best organized beaches in Mykonos are found on the southern coast, which get extremely overcrowded during peak season. Paradise Beach and Super Paradise Beach are famous as the best party beaches in Greece. Beaches on the northern coast of the island are less organized and ideal to enjoy some calm moments. Nudism is frequently practised there. You will find below a list with the best beaches in Mykonos island.

Sport and Activities

The island is a paradise for water sport enthusiasts! It is only natural that the "Island of the Winds" should attract surfers and sailors from all over the world! There is a great choice of beaches for windsurfing; however, the most secluded ones are considered to be the best. Choose from Korfos, Ftelia, Meyali Ammos and Kalafatis, where surfing lessons are also available. Play tennis or mini golf at Ayios Stefanos, beach volleyball at Ayia Anna or try sea parachuting or jet skiing at Elia or Kalafatis. Diving fans can do a little exciting exploration of the underwater magic of Mykonos. September is thought to be the best month for diving, as the water is warm and visibility is good down at the seabed.

On the island you can find many well-organized diving centers (some of them also offer snorkeling lessons) and stores specializing in diving equipment. Explore the island on a caicque or a boat and discover secluded beaches, or take a boat tour around the nearby islets, which are also ideal fishing spots!

Food and Drink

Don't miss the opportunity to treat yourself to some local Aegean specialties! Pepper flavoured kopanisti, a soft cheese seasoned with pepper, is the island's gastronomic trademark. Try it as a topping on a round rusk spread with grated tomato, a favourite local mezes (appetiser). Meat eaters can sample "louzes" (cooked pork filet with spices) and tasty local sausages sprinkled with pepper, and local oregano that has been caressed by the sun and dried in the north wind. To finish off your meal you can sample two exceptionally good local pastries, "amigdalota" (small round cakes with ground almond, rosewater and caster sugar) and honey pie.

If you find yourself in Mykonos take the opportunity to explore the tiny archaeological gem of Delos, just a short boat trip away. Delos was a sacred island in ancient times, and according to mythology was the birthplace of the twin gods Apollo and Artemis.