BEACHES
Is it possible? More than 60 amazing sandy beaches in a 44 km (27 mi) coastline. It is practically one for every mood or preference. If you would rather be in a well-organized yet perfectly clean beach, you can choose between Koukounaries, Kanapitsa, Troulos, Agia Paraskevi, Vromolimnos. Do you prefer to visit a preserved place and just cherish the nature and the warm sun? Why don’t you visit Aselinos, Stigero, Kalamaki, Glyfoneri or Lalaria? Do you like a great day partying on the beach? Then Big Banana is calling for you.
1) Lalaria
The natural beauty takes your breath away. Its name comes from the white round pebbles that the locals call “lalaria”. This unique beach is only reached by boat. Excursion boats depart daily from Skiathos old port near to Sklathos Hotels Mystery. Make sure you treat yourself with all the pleasures that the beach time at Lalaria would bring and your stay at Skiathos will be unforgettable!
2) Koukounaries
Koukounaries is the most famous beach of Skiathos, rated 7th best in the world, 3rd in Mediterranean and best in Greece. It is located 13 km southwest to Skiathos Mystery Hotel. The approach is very convenient by bus and it is the terminal stop of the bus route starting from Skiathos town. You may also arrive there by water taxi or the small excursions boats that leave from Skiathos port.
Koukounaries is also known with the name "Chrisi Ammos", meaning Golden Sand, because it has fine- texture powder-like sand that sparkles underneath the sun. The beach is a long stretch of sand and the waters are crystal clear with low inclination, making it ideal for children to swim.
The uniqueness of Koukounaries beach is related to the surrounding environment as well. Behind the beach is the famous pine trees forest. It extends in 145,000 square meters. The trees are reaching all the way to the shore offering generous shade. Moreover, Lake Strofilia is located in the same area with an extend of 95.000 square meters. The site has been declared totally protected nature and is under Natura 2000.
Although you may enjoy unspoiled nature, Koukounaries is a very well organized beach. To the rear of the beach runs a wooden pathway with a selection of beach bars and little shops, where you can refresh yourself and find anything you will need for a day at the beach. There are also plenty of umbrellas and sun beds to relax.
Koukounaries offers a wide variety of water activities suitable not only for athletes, but for families and children as well. So, well equipped water schools with experienced and friendly staff will assist you with water skiing, banana, water rings, wind surfing, sea bike, kanoe kayak, scuba diving and many more..
3) Banana
A great location at the end of the bus stop number 26. After a 10 min walk of the hill, you reach this beautiful beach to take in the stunning scenery of the green pinewood hills, the rocks and the turquoise waters. The sand is silk-soft and the waters very calm and crystal clear.
The beach itself is organized with bars, water sports and sun-beds. It is a must attraction for the younger crowds, as it is quite vibrant and a great choice for beach clubbing! To the right there is another beach, Small Banana, favored by nudists.