The 15 Best Skopelos Beaches (with Map)

By Marta | Europe, Greece, Skopelos | 0 comment | 17 October, 2022 | 0

26 Shares

Skopelos is an unspoiled jewel in the Aegean Sea, with mountain slopes bedecked in dense greenery carpeting down to fine beaches and limpid waters.

Despite being small, Skopelos beaches are varied and aplenty: find olive trees and plum orchards and clumps of pines by the sea’s edge, composed of slender pebbled shores or white bays, caves and coves, plus curious rock formations.

In direct contrast to Zakynthos, the most popular of Skopelos beaches lie on the more wind-sheltered west coast, home to stretches of white shingle and pebbles backed by bars and taverns.

On the flip side, the eastern shoreline is peppered with smaller and more peaceful beaches, almost always deserted. Likewise, those in the north are wilder with no facilities.

Keep in mind that as a Greek island, strong Meltemi (dry and seasonal) winds can affect some of Skopelos’s beaches in terms of sea currents and waves, depending on their location.

During the summer months, Meltemi winds blow from the north/northeast, meaning that beaches in the south are calmer than those in the north. In spring and autumn, the wind continues to be mainly from the north but with regular winds from the south.

With a vast selection of exquisite beach destinations, it can be tough to choose which Skopelos beaches are worth visiting on your Skopelos holiday. Narrow your search with this list of the 15 best beaches in Skopelos.

*For reference, the beach or coastline is also known as paralia in Greek.

West Skopelos Beaches

Milia Beach

Straddling the west coast, Skopelos’s longest beach resembles those of the Caribbean, often termed exotic-like for its electric blue swathes mixed with crystalline hues of aquamarine, yet with a Skopelian twist as a grouping of pine trees meet the seafront.

A row of large rock formations naturally divides Milia into two sides. On the left side sits a beach bar complete with sun loungers and umbrellas. Meanwhile, its counterpart flaunts a quaint bar and playground, creating a serene setting for families. Although more lively around the beach bar on the left, you’ll find quiet spots on both flanks.

Insider’s Tip: Make sure to pack snorkeling goggles for swimming with curious marine life, especially around the cragged rocks. Spot the occasional turtle and fish of all stripes!

The glittering bright blue palette here reminds me of Myzythis Beach on Zakynthos, iconic for its striking sea rocks lapped by azure-colored water.

Read more about Myzythis Beach and must-see places you cannot miss in Zakynthos in this 15 Fun Things to do In Zante blog! If you’re eying Zayknythos for your Greek island-hopping itinerary, Meandros Boutique Hotel & Spa offers both serene and first-class accommodation.

Booking.com

Kastani Beach

Tucked along the western coast, Kastani’s small beach of white sand and fine pebbles are flanked by chalk-colored rocks and dense greenery touching the deep blue of the Aegean Sea – known as Skopelos’s most famous and sandiest locale.

Since featuring in the blockbuster film Mamma Mia! The Movie, Kastani has been credited as a must-visit spot. Along with its high profile, however, come the crowds, so make sure to claim a space early!

If you are a fan of the film and want to hear all the interesting facts about the film set, you should book a Skopelos Mamma Mia tour. Going with a guide will give you one-of-a-kind insight into filming at Kastani (since a lot of locals have been involved in filming and have their unique stories about the cast) plus some leisure time at Kastani Beach Bar!

Among the abundance of Skopelos beaches, you’ll find that Kastani Beach is an exquisite allrounder. Here, marvel at colorful fish darting beneath the crystal-clear waters, catch a tan as you lounge on the plush shoreline or a comfy sunbed, order a cold coffee from the bar, or explore the surrounding pine-clad cliffs.

Hovolo Beach

Set on a secluded stretch on Skopelos’s westerly side, Hovolo Beach is wild yet utterly idyllic. Pearlescent waters fringing a blend of sand and pebbles make up this enchanting landscape, framed by white cliffs that strikingly contrast the turquoise hue of the sea.

Although relatively sun-drenched, verdant pine trees rooted within rocks provide shade and pose as the perfect base for diving. Accessible only via a rough trail or by boat, you’re unlikely to bump into another soul. We were completely alone on Hovolo Beach and enjoyed it so much that we stayed until sunset!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Marta Ostoja | Travel Blogger (@wherelifeisgreat)

Insider’s Tip: Since the sea bed is rocky and the whole beach is made of little stones, pack a pair of aqua shoes! Be sure to stay for the magnificent sunset too, as blush pinks meld with marvelous streaks of peaches and gold.

Limnonari Beach

Protected by steep green hills within a scenic cove biting into the west coast, Limnonari Beach embraces a golden and spacious shore fronted by warm and shallow emerald-green waters reminiscent of a majestic lake. Here, the crystalline sea beautifully complements the surrounding greenery.

Since it’s sheltered, Limnonari is excellent for swimming and snorkeling, so come prepared with both your snorkeling gear and a waterproof camera to avoid missing out!

Meanwhile, the beach is cozy and plush, overlooked by a lovely set of taverns serving mouthwatering, traditional Greek fare. Altogether, Limnonari Beach represents a piece of paradise, ideal for a family day out.

Booking.com

Armenopetra Beach

A prime choice for seclusion and privacy, and an unforgettable sunset, Armenopetra Beach is a postcard-worthy paradise.

A rugged coastline of unspoiled white pebbles washed by limpid waters defines this slice of serenity, along with the iconic upright rock formation fronting the virgin stretch that used to guide sailors to shore. As engulfing waters are shallow and gentle, it makes a great spot for swimming with kids.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Pavel (@pavel_145296)

Insider’s Tip: If Armenopetra feels too breezy, continue on foot to Kalives, one of the more sheltered and remote Skopelos beaches.

Ekatopenintari Beach

Where pine trees shadow a glimmering sea, Ekatopenintari Beach is a striking green and blue jewel nestled between lush forests and a quaint beach made of white pebbles.

Here, wild pine trees sit uniquely upon rocks on the water’s edge hence casting shade all the way to the sea. Escape the crowds as you float in the clearest waters and relish total seclusion.

Therefore, come prepared with sunscreen, a trusty hat, and refreshments since Ekatopenintari is entirely unserviced.

Accessible only by boat, don’t let the journey deter you – Ekatopenintari is a treasure trove among Skopelos beaches, of unreal natural beauty.

Panormos Bay

Within easy reach of Skopelos Town and halfway to Glossa, Panormos flaunts a wide beach of mostly pebbles with touches of sand, lapped by blue and emerald waters.

Embark on a relaxed guided hike, taking you from the hills above the Chora downhill to Panormos Beach through the picturesque scenery of olive groves, cypress trees, and Aleppo pines, and wind by charming little churches. I suggest going with a guide (just like we did) as the trails are not properly marked and it is easy to get lost.

Once at the beach, make sure to snorkel, as Panormos’ clear-cut waters make this an ideal place for spotting some native marine life. Backed by beach bars, taverns, and spaced-out sun beds, Panormos emanates a relaxing and laidback ambiance suitable for any traveler. Be sure to stay for an awe-inspiring sunset too.

Click here to book an easy Skopelos hike!

BONUS: Adrina Beach

Mateusz ready for scuba diving at Adrina Beach, Skopelos

While in Skopelos, I decided to refresh my scuba diving skills and signed up for a fun dive with Skopelos Dive Center. Adrina Beach is a private beach fronting Adrina Beach Hotel that you can only access as a hotel guest or if you sign up for scuba diving courses and experiences.

Whether you’ve always wanted to try scuba diving or are a beginner scuba diver, then I can’t recommend Skopelos Dive Center enough. They are highly professional, and all their equipment is in excellent condition. Adrina Beach offers very easy access to water which makes it perfect for beginner divers.

For more tips on scuba diving and my firsthand experience with getting a Padi Open Water Certification, check out my beginner’s guide to first time scuba diving!

East Skopelos Beaches

Glysteri Beach

Meander along a secluded path amid olive groves to uncover the sheltered bay of Glysteri Beach, hugging a nook carved out of Skopelos’s eastern coast. Composed of pebbles and clear-as-gin aqua water, Glysteri is a blissful place to spend an afternoon.

Sunbeds shaded by large umbrellas provide respite from the sweltering Greek sun, and fresh cocktails and smoothies served by the on-site beach bar offer a tasty refreshment.

Head to the right end of the beach for more tranquillity, while closer to Glysteri Beach Bar, you can enjoy a more zestful vibe complimented by upbeat music.

Glifoneri Beach

Clinging to a small picturesque gulf, Glifoneri Beach is surrounded by high hills flecked with sparse shrubs and bushes. The pine-fringed beach is sandy with small pebbles, kissed by a sea colored in deep blue and translucent greens.

This shallow beach is only a short distance from Skopelos Chora and is particularly family-friendly. However, expect a choppier sea with the turn of the north winds.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Pavel (@pavel_145296)

Due to its location, Glifoneri is one of the best Skopelos beaches to watch the sunrise. It’s also an excellent place for building sandcastles with the little ones and spotting schools of fish.

North Skopelos Beaches

Hondrogiorgi Beach

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Marco & Consiglia (@rockin.greece)

A local favorite, Hondrogiorgi Beach boasts an enviable sea of blue-green that borders fine golden shingle and sand, as well as a number of small coves and rock formations.

This beach is considered one of the quieter Skopelos beaches on the northern side of the island, situated in a picturesque cranny and bookended by wind-sculpted cliffs enfolded in swathes of green. Hondrogiorgi, though small, is big on dramatic natural beauty.

Insiders Tip: Venture to the rocks on the left-hand side to be met with Paralia Pethameni, said to have a beautiful sea bed.

Perivoliou Beach

Along a narrow, twisty road past sleepy but charming Glossa, Perivoliou Beach entices visitors with its wild beauty.

Despite its raw character, the beach is supported by a few shade-bearing umbrellas and comfortable loungers. Yet as it occupies a secluded spot, it scarcely gets frequented, making it a peaceful hidden gem.

Head to the nearby wooden kantina after a swim for a mid-afternoon Greek frappé and watch the lapping waves below.

Insider’s Tip: If you’re visiting Skopelos beaches when the south winds reign over the island, Perivoliou Beach’s sparkling deep blue sea is particularly idyllic.

Agios Ioannis Beach

Here, Skopelos’s characteristic turquoise and crystalline waters lap the shoreline, set against an impressive and unobstructed backdrop of a towering rock with the charming little chapel, Agios Ioannis, perched on the clifftop.

Due to the imposing rock formation, the bay is reasonably sheltered from the elements, providing an idyllic slice of paradise to lounge on. Accessible by boat or via a short dirt path from the main road, Agios Ioannis Beach is almost entirely hidden that you could almost miss it!

Head to Agios Ioannis with the Mamma Mia Island tour, where you’ll get the chance to climb the 199 steps to the top, where the chapel sits, and learn all the fun facts about the film’s cast from your local guide.

Click here to book a Skopelos Mamma Mia tour!

South Skopelos Beaches

Stafilos Beach

Close to Skopelos Chora, Stafilos sits in a dreamy bay at the foot of a mountain painted in deep green by pine trees that stretch down to a shore tinged with silver sand mixed with small pebbles.

Reachable by car, bus, or foot along an easy, one-hour hike from Skopelos Town through olive groves, either way, you’ll be met with shallow and warm waters enclosed by dramatic rock formations.

A nearby beach bar and an idyllic fishing tavern make it a perfect spot for the whole family to enjoy. However, since we were looking for an even more secluded beach, we continued to Velanio Beach.

Velanio Beach

Rivaling Stafilos as its wilder and more hidden counterpart, Velanio Beach is sequestered behind a cape’s rock, offering a golden shoreline of sand mingled with small white pebbles and lapped by a brilliant blue sea. Velanio is the island’s official nudist beach, though it’s not compulsory to be nude when visiting.

Enveloped by mountains and pine forests, tune into nature with unmatched privacy and an intimate ambiance, making it the perfect natural complement for a naturist. Embrace the solitude as you skinny dip in the pristine sea while enjoying the Greek sun on your skin.

If you love discovering secluded beaches, I highly suggest joining a sailing trip to the Sporades islands. This way, you can enjoy beaches that are only accessible by boat, and you will also have accommodation and transport included in the price.

I personally love sailing trips and always recommend this way of traveling. During this 7-Day sailing trip, you will explore all three islands of the Sporades: Skopelos, Skiathos, and Alonissos.

Insider’s Tip: Stick around ‘till dusk to be treated to a stunning sunset and the company of free-grazing goats drinking from the freshwater spring at the far end of the beach.

Click here to book a 7-day sailing trip to the Greek Sporades Islands!

Agnontas Beach

Bordered by low-hanging trees, picture-perfect Agnontas offers a protected pebble beach set against emerald-green waters.

Agnontas is another coveted spot on the Skopelos: The Mamma Mia Island Tour. With a glittering sea so clear that you wouldn’t need any goggles or gear to appreciate the marine life below, making it an idyllic snorkeling site. Don’t forget that underwater camera!

After a refreshing dip, head to the fish tavern, only moments away for a delightful lunch or dinner as the sun sets in the west. Since it is also conveniently lined with rows of sun loungers, Agnontas Beach is a superb family spot.

For an unforgettable experience to marvel at Skopelos from a different perspective, check out From Kassandra: 7-Day Greek Island Private Sailing Adventure to visit these southern Skopelos beaches via a private sailing boat!

BONUS: Amarandos Cape

Looking out to the iconic two trees at Amarandos Cape, Skopelos

Just south of Agnontas, Cape Amarandos’ rugged and untouched coastline, symbolic of its two lonely trees sticking out of a sea cliff, is an absolute must-visit.

Although it is not technically a Skopelos beach, its local nickname, “piscina” (pool), aptly illustrates its surreal azure waters that are persistently calm and vivid.

At this natural treasure, you could quickly lose an entire day lounging and swimming, all the while encircled by breathtaking forest scenery. Drive by Amarandos Cape on this Skopelos: The Mamma Mia Island Tour.

Insider’s Tip: Beware of sea urchins!

Where to stay in Skopelos to visit the best Skopelos beaches

Booking.com

The best place to stay in Skopelos is Skopelos Town. Not only is it the most picturesque destination with signature whitewashed Greek-style houses, but also the most lively with plenty of cute restaurants and bars to discover during your evening strolls.

Also, most roads lead through Skopelos Town, which is why I suggest making Skopelos Town your base and renting a car to discover all the best Skopelos Beaches. I stayed at Sunrise Village and Olivia Green, and I highly recommend both.

I evidently can't get enough of Milia Beach in Skopelos

I hope you find this 15 Best Skopelos Beaches list useful in deciding which beaches to visit throughout your Skopelos holiday.

Have you visited any of these Skopelos beaches before? Have I missed any? Let me know in the comments below!

Looking for more Greece travel tips? Check out these guides!

PIN IT

* This post contains affiliate links. Wherelifeisgreat is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Wherelifeisgreat is also a participant with the Booking.com program, GetYourGuide affiliate program and Ferryscanner affiliate program. All purchases or bookings you make through Wherelifeisgreat come at no extra cost to you. *