Planning a beach-focused trip to Ios? You’re in luck. The best beaches in Ios Greece offer a stunning blend of golden sands, turquoise waters, and Aegean charm, making this Cycladic gem a top choice for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. With over 35 beaches ranging from lively hubs to secluded coves, Ios delivers one of the most diverse coastal experiences in the Cyclades.
Best Hotels in Ios🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Far Out Hotel & Spa
- ✨ 5-Star: Ios Palace Hotel & Spa
- 🏨 4-Star: Levantes Ios Boutique Hotel
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Island House Hotel
- 💸 Cheap: Acteon
- 🏢 Apartment: Ios Seaside House With Sunset View
- 👪 For Families: Dionysos Seaside Resort Ios
- 🏩 For Couples: Anemos Ios
Quick Guide to the Best Beaches 📃
- 🏖️ Family-Friendly Sands — Mylopotas Beach
- 🌅 Sunset Views — Koumbara Beach
- 💦 Water Sports Hub — Manganari Beach
- 🌿 Secluded Escape — Kalamos Beach
- 🐠 Snorkeling Cove — Agia Theodoti Beach
- 🤝 Port Access — Gialos Beach
- 🌊 Tranquil Stretch — Psathi Beach
- ⛰️ Peaceful Retreat — Kolitsani Beach
1. Mylopotas Beach: Golden Sands and Vibrant Energy
The soft sand warms underfoot as the waves gently lap the shore, and the buzz of beachside music fills the air on this beautiful beach along the coast of Ios on a beloved Greek island. I walked past Far Out Beach Club just after noon and found a quiet spot near the northern end, where the crowds thin out on this small beach that still feels part of the wider ios island vibe. This large sandy ios beach stretches over a mile with crystal clear waters — perfect during the high season from June to September when water sports thrive across these amazing beaches that many compare with nearby Santorini.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Stroll along the beach promenade and stop by Meltemi Water Sports to rent a paddleboard or wakeboard on a stretch that remains a surprisingly secluded beach early in the day. The nearest bus stop is Mylopotas Line 1, with frequent service from Chora and the port, making it one of the easiest spots to see the coast of Ios without a car. For a quieter experience, arrive early and head toward the north end near the rocks, which feels like a pocket-sized small beach tucked away from the main action. Locals love the hidden cove behind the main beach, where sea turtles are sometimes seen — a glimpse of wild nature amid this easily accessible Ios spot.
- Pro: The vibrant atmosphere with excellent beach bars, water sports facilities, and easy access makes this the island’s most popular beach.
- Con: Crowds peak in high season, but arriving before 10 AM or after 5 PM ensures a more peaceful experience.
Best For: This beach is ideal for couples and groups who enjoy a lively atmosphere with nearby amenities.
Skip If: Travelers seeking absolute solitude should consider Kalamos Beach instead.
Best Hotels near Mylopotas Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Dionysos Seaside Resort Ios — Offers beachfront elegance with two swimming pools, tennis court, private beach area, and the acclaimed Almyra by the Sea Restaurant.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Levantes Ios Boutique Hotel — Combines Cycladic charm with modern amenities, including a pool, sea-view balconies, and highly-rated breakfast just 10 minutes from the beach.
- Island House Hotel — Family-run property with self-catering accommodations, outdoor pool, and a tranquil garden setting 820 feet from Mylopotas Beach.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Almira Inn — Centrally located guesthouse offering clean, comfortable rooms with modern amenities and easy access to Ios Town’s restaurants and nightlife.
2. Manganari Beach: Serene Coastal Paradise
You hear seagulls over the waves as the golden sand sparkles under the midday sun, a beach with crystal clear blue water that ranks among the most serene corners of Ios. I followed the dusty path down from the road and discovered a wide bay with calm, turquoise waters — truly one of the most beautiful places on Ios, where the shoreline mixes sand and pebbles and feels untouched. This sandy beach, roughly 300 meters long, is less crowded than Mylopotas and offers excellent conditions for swimming and snorkeling from May to October, and it’s also accessible by boat for a relaxed boat tour along the coast.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Head to the Manganari bus stop, where the KTEL bus makes its only daily drop-off around noon, then join a short boat tour toward the headland to see hidden caves near pikri nero beach. Walk past the beachside taverna to sample traditional Greek dishes and explore the small caves near the southern tip, where the blue water glows at midday. The nearby coves of Tris Ekklisies are a local favorite for their untouched beauty and excellent snorkeling, and some skippers will detour to pikri nero on calm days. For the best photos, visit just before sunset when the light reflects off the water, or earlier if you plan to be accessible by boat when winds rise.
- Pro: Pristine natural beauty with calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling in a peaceful setting.
- Con: Limited bus service means planning around the single daily departure, though renting a scooter or ATV solves this easily.
Best For: Adventurous travelers and divers who appreciate natural beauty and peaceful swimming.
Skip If: Those wanting frequent transit should opt for Mylopotas Beach.
Best Hotels near Manganari Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Ios Palace Hotel & Spa — Complete range of accommodations with balconies overlooking picturesque Mylopotas Bay, spa facilities, and beachfront location.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Aegeon Hotel — Prime waterfront location in the center of Mylopotas Beach with hydromassage pool and attentive family owners.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Ios Plage — Beachfront property just 350 feet from the sand, offering free Wi-Fi, sun terrace, and highly-rated buffet breakfast.
3. Agia Theodoti Beach: Crystal Clear Waters and Quiet Beauty
The sand feels warm underfoot, and the water is so clear you can see every pebble beneath the surface on this island in the Cyclades. I wandered past the lone umbrella stand and found a smooth rock to sit on — the perfect spot to watch the sunrise over the Aegean while listening to nearby tavernas set up for the day. This long sandy beach, about 400 meters in length on the eastern side of Ios, is ideal for swimming and quiet relaxation from late spring to early autumn if you plan using a map of the best beaches to time shade and wind.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Take the bus to Agia Theodoti stop and walk down the dirt path lined with wild thyme on the eastern side of Ios. Behind the beach, a small hill called Agios Ioannis offers panoramic views and is a favorite among locals for sunset picnics, and it’s easy to pinpoint on any map of the best beaches. The nearest public restroom is near the parking lot, and it’s best to visit in the morning to avoid the midday heat and to grab a table at simple seaside tavernas before they fill.
- Pro: Crystal clear waters and peaceful atmosphere make this an ideal retreat for relaxation away from tourist crowds.
- Con: Limited facilities mean bringing your own supplies, but the nearby taverna serves delightful Greek cuisine.
Best For: Families and swimmers who want calm waters and a relaxed vibe.
Skip If: Nightlife seekers should return to Chora after sunset.
Best Hotels near Agia Theodoti Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Brother’s Hotel — Nestled in peaceful Kampos Valley with spacious rooms, outdoor pool, and exceptional hospitality just 10 minutes from Yialos Beach.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Poseidon Hotel — Featuring outdoor pool just 984 feet from the beach and 164 feet from the port of Ios with air-conditioned rooms.
4. Gialos Beach: Convenient Portside Relaxation
You hear the hum of the ferry as the shallow water ripples gently near the shore, a familiar sound to anyone planning greece travel on Ios. I walked from the port in under five minutes and laid my towel just beyond the dock area, where the sand is soft and the crowd is light, a handy base for exploring beautiful beaches in Ios later in the day. This wide sandy beach, about 200 meters long, is perfect for quick dips and offers reliable access year-round, especially in the shoulder months when day trips to Magganari Beach are easy to arrange.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Walk from the port terminal past Ormos Square and turn left toward the lifeguard station, where boards show a simple map of the best beaches for first-time visitors. The nearby fish market is a local favorite for fresh octopus grilled on-site, and locals will point out boat routes along the beaches of Pikri Nero when seas are calm. Visit early in the morning to avoid ferry-generated waves, and use the free Wi-Fi near the beach bar as you check timings to Magganari Beach for a longer swim. The nearest bus hub is Port of Ios, with connections every 15 minutes that make greece travel between town and beautiful beaches in Ios straightforward.
- Pro: Unbeatable convenience for ferry arrivals with immediate beach access and year-round swimming conditions.
- Con: Ferry traffic can create waves during departures, though timing visits between sailings ensures calm waters.
Best For: Ferry-goers and first-time visitors who value convenience and easy access.
Skip If: Those seeking a secluded experience should try Kolitsani Beach.
Best Hotels near Gialos Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Relux Ios Hotel — Centrally located outdoor pool and restaurant just 984 feet from the port with satellite TV and minibar in all rooms.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Ios Resort — Centrally located in Ios Town with easy access to clubs, restaurants, and Gialos Beach less than 0.9 miles away.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Avra Pension — Next to the port with panoramic Aegean Sea views from private balconies and homemade breakfast featuring local specialties.
5. Koumbara Beach: Sunset Views and Shallow Waters
The sun dips below the horizon, casting golden light across the shallow bay, the kind of glow that defines stunning beaches on Ios. I swam to the small cave just off the shore and surfaced to applause from a group of locals — a spontaneous moment that captured the island’s spirit and made me plan my next trip to greece around evenings like this. This 150-meter sandy beach is perfect for families, with gentle entry and calm waves from May through September, and it’s an easy detour if you’re exploring eastern ios later in the day.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Take the Line 2 bus to Koumbara stop and walk past the beachside chapel, a simple route many add to a trip to greece itinerary. The coastal path to Pathos Lounge is a local favorite for sunset cocktails with panoramic views that showcase why Ios is known for stunning beaches. For the smoothest experience, visit mid-week when the Pathos shuttle bus runs from Chora, and consider pairing this sunset with a daytime swim on eastern ios for a perfect balance.
- Pro: Spectacular sunset views combined with shallow, family-friendly waters create a romantic yet relaxed atmosphere.
- Con: Limited facilities during low season, but nearby Pathos Lounge provides refreshments and entertainment year-round.
Best For: Couples and small groups who love romantic sunsets and easy swimming.
Skip If: Budget travelers should avoid late-night club access and stick to Chora.
Best Hotels near Koumbara Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Agalia Luxury Suites — Tastefully designed accommodations in Tzamaria with attentive staff and creative decor close to town yet peaceful.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Olga — Holiday home with two bedrooms, sea views, terrace, and free Wi-Fi just 800 meters from Tzamaria Beach.
6. Kalamos Beach: Secluded Sandy Retreat
You see dramatic cliffs framed by almond trees as the wind gently blows through the cove, a reminder that even a large beach can feel like a quiet beach at the right hour. I hiked from the Manganari road and discovered this untouched stretch of golden sand — a true hidden gem that remains an unorganized beach where nature sets the pace. This 250-meter beach features fine sand and crystal clear waters, ideal for snorkeling and solitude from June to early October, with views that sometimes reach nearby islands like Santorini on exceptionally clear days.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Follow the dirt road past the Papa Beach turnoff and look for the unofficial trailhead that leads into an unorganized beach zone. The nearby nature reserve is a local favorite for birdwatching and quiet meditation, and the silence here rivals any quiet beach on Ios. The nearest water source is at the trailhead, so bring supplies if you plan to linger on this large beach, and keep an eye south when skies are clear for a distant glimpse of nearby islands like Santorini. For the best snorkeling, visit mid-morning when the sun illuminates the seabed and the unorganized beach remains calm.
- Pro: Untouched natural beauty with exceptional snorkeling and complete seclusion for nature lovers.
- Con: No facilities or shade structures require advance preparation, though this preserves the beach’s pristine character.
Best For: Travelers seeking seclusion and natural beauty away from crowds.
Skip If: Those without a rental car should consider bus-accessible Psathi Beach.
Best Hotels near Kalamos Beach
💎 Luxury Hotels
- Olive yard house — Newly remodeled with picturesque panoramic views, welcoming staff, and the best food on the island in Chora.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Lofos Village Hotel — Located in main town of Ios with swimming pool overlooking the village and Mylopotas Beach less than 0.9 miles away.
- Far Out Village Hotel — Surrounded by shaded gardens on Mylopotas Beach with swimming pool, bar, restaurant, and elegant balconied accommodations.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Acteon — In Ios Port just a short walk from Yialos Beach offering spacious, well-furnished rooms for budget-conscious travelers year-round.
7. Psathi Beach: Tranquil Eastern Escape
The wind carries the scent of wild herbs as the long sandy shore stretches into the distance, a peaceful twin beach feel when the tide is low. I walked the coastal path from the bus drop-off and found a quiet spot under a lone pine tree — perfect for a midday read with views toward a small island just offshore. This 400-meter beach has soft golden sand and calm waters, best enjoyed from May to October, and pairs well with day trips to Psathi and Manganari if time allows.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Take the seasonal bus to Psathi stop and continue on foot past the old lighthouse foundation toward the headland that shelters a twin beach cove. The uninhabited islet just off the northern tip is a local favorite for midday swims when the water is calm, and strong swimmers sometimes cross to the small island when winds are light. The nearest shaded area is near the beachside kiosk, and it’s best to visit in the morning to avoid the afternoon sun if planning to add Psathi and Manganari on the same day.
- Pro: Long, peaceful stretch of golden sand with calm waters ideal for extended beach days and reading.
- Con: Seasonal bus service limits access, though the tranquility makes the planning worthwhile for peace-seekers.
Best For: Mature travelers and small groups who value peace and scenic beauty.
Skip If: Those wanting amenities should return to Mylopotas Beach.
Best Hotels near Psathi Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Markos Village — In the heart of nightlife and 5 minutes by bus to Mylopotas Beach with panoramic views and helpful owner.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Aphrodite Hotel — Traditional Cycladic-style accommodation featuring white-washed rooms, friendly service, and a convenient location between the port and Chora.
8. Kolitsani Beach: Peaceful Retreat Near Chora
The silence is broken only by the gentle lapping of waves against the shore, the kind of hush ios is generally known for on sheltered coves. I followed the rocky footpath from the edge of Chora and found a small, serene beach — a perfect escape from the island’s busier hubs on this side of the island, with the same quiet charm you find on beaches like Kolitsani. This 80-meter beach has soft sand and crystal clear waters, ideal for peaceful swimming from May to September, and it’s a reminder of the slower rhythms ios offers when crowds thin.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Start from the edge of Chora near the windmill ruins and follow the signed trail on the side of the island that faces the bay. The nearby ridge offering a view of the entire bay is a local favorite for sunset photos and a good place to trace beaches like Gialos on the horizon. The nearest freshwater source is at the trailhead, and it’s best to visit in the morning before the midday heat, which is when ios is generally calmer and shade is easier to find.
- Pro: Close proximity to Chora combined with peaceful atmosphere creates an ideal quick escape without leaving town.
- Con: Small size means limited space during peak hours, though early morning visits guarantee solitude.
Best For: Mature travelers and small groups who appreciate tranquility and easy access.
Skip If: Those wanting parties should explore Chora’s nightlife instead.
Best Hotels near Kolitsani Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Ios Grand Pool Suites — In Mylopotas 3 minutes from beach with seasonal outdoor pool, fitness center, shared lounge, and amazing room views.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Ios Stylish House Panoramic Sea And Sunset View — Modern vacation home with stunning panoramic sea views, sunset terrace, and private pool perfect for families or groups seeking luxury and privacy.
FAQ
What budget should you plan for a beach holiday in Ios?
A moderate daily budget of $60–$100 covers meals, local transport, beach activities, and seasonal price variations, especially during peak summer months.
Which beaches in Ios are best for families with young children?
Mylopotas and Koumbara beaches offer calm waters, shallow entry, and nearby amenities ideal for families with young children.
Which beaches are ideal for water sports in Ios?
Mylopotas, Manganari, and Gialos beaches provide access to paddleboarding, windsurfing, and snorkeling equipment rentals.
What is the best time of year to visit Ios’s beaches?
The best time is from May to October, with warm weather, clear waters, and manageable crowds outside July and August.
How can you easily get around Ios’s beaches?
You can use the frequent KTEL bus service, rent an ATV, or walk coastal paths to reach most beaches on the island.
Are there any hidden or less-crowded beaches in Ios?
Yes, Kalamos, Kolitsani, and Tzamaria beaches are quieter, locally loved spots away from main tourist routes.
What practical tips should visitors know when going to Ios’s beaches?
Bring water, sun protection, and cash, as many remote beaches lack facilities, and always check the local bus schedule for return trips.
