There are dozens of public beaches on the island, ranging in size from small to expansive, with most of the more popular ones located on the south coast. And where once you could just throw your towel on the sand and find shade under a tree, many have evolved to offer a range of slick facilities, mainly through sun lounger and parasol hire, with daily rates varying hugely . Many are now also surrounded by luxury hotels and villas, and boast chic beach clubs and restaurants where the action doesn’t stop just because the sun sets. Choose.
For more Mykonos inspiration, check out our guides to the island’s best hotels, restaurants and activities.
paradise
This is certainly the best known and one of the most popular, thanks to its relaxed atmosphere and picturesque setting. Located on the island’s south coast – which can be buffeted by the famous wind, or ‘meltemia’ – it is a long stretch of gravelly sand, fringed by clear, turquoise water. Behind the sea is a campsite, established in 1969, and other facilities include a reasonably priced cafeteria and a few beach bars. From this season, sun loungers and parasols can be rented for a fee from €25; the amount creeps up every year. Far from the beach is the Paradise Beach Club, which has a quieter pool bar and a raunchier ground floor bar. The music gets louder as the day progresses, culminating in the live DJ sending the crowd into a frenzy.
How do you get there: You can drive directly from Fabrika, Chora or take a bus; it takes about 15 minutes.
Super paradise
Super Paradise is hidden behind a headland on the other side of Paradise and is traditionally known as the island’s first dedicated gay beach. Today it is more mixed and attracts clubbers and revelers who become more involved with the dance music as the day progresses. There is a bar that also serves light snacks such as fruit and yoghurt, and you can rent jet skis, go parasailing or do other water sports. The Super Paradise Beach Club also rents sun loungers and parasols (price varies).
How do you get there: For years you could only reach this by water taxi. Now there is a shuttle bus that takes you directly from Fabrika (this is operated by the Super Paradise Beach Club).
Panormos
Located on the north side of Mykonos, Panormos was one of the most modest and sleepy beaches on the island until a few years ago. Today there are still a handful of simple apartments along the hill above, and two small restaurants, including Kiki’s Tavern. The game changer – with plush sun loungers, beehive-shaped rattan lampshades, billowing white curtains and natural, blond wooden furniture – is Principote, a sleek, glossy restaurant and beach club founded a few years ago. They charge from €50 per lounger, and as a result it’s packed with punters who like to order champagne while they sunbathe. If you don’t want to pay these prices, you can spread your beach towel on the sandy beaches to the left or right, including in a charming, sheltered cove known as Lovers’ Beach.
How do you get there: Buses run fairly regularly from the Oude Haven.
Elijah
This has taken the mantle of Mykonos’ main gay beach in recent years and nudity is allowed (and widely practiced). It’s a fairly quiet stretch of sand – the music isn’t overpowering – and you can hire sun loungers and parasols, and in some cases a cocktail is included in the price, usually if you want one close to the sea. You can also reserve sun loungers at the stylish Elia Beach Hotel. The restaurant serves beautifully presented and tasty dishes, such as grilled octopus with olive oil puree, set in a tasteful, nature-inspired decor.
How do you get there: Buses leave from the old port.
Agios Ioannis
Located at the top of a small peninsula jutting out into the southwestern corner of the island, this beach has a glamorous film history: it featured in the classic film Shirley Valentine and the little taverna where she treats herself to a glass of wine is still there , although it’s now called Hippie Fish. It serves sushi, but also more classic Greek dishes. This beach is more popular with families as it is fairly quiet and the water is calm and crystal clear – ideal for swimming and snorkelling. It overlooks the island of Delos, the famous archaeological site.
How do you get there: Buses leave from Fabrika and first stop at Ornos.
Paraga
This is one of the more developed beaches, lined with restaurants and bars, which also provide sun loungers. There are plenty of rental options along the beach itself, and there is a large floating pier that you can swim from. It is patrolled by a lifeguard and, like most larger beaches, feels safe, but is also prone to loud music. To the west, looking from the sea, is the hip hangout of Scorpios, which attracts the rich and famous, with sun lounger and cabana prices to match (from €100/£90 per person).
How do you get there: Buses run regularly from Fabrika.
Ornos
Ornos beach, which borders a charming former fishing village of the same name, is becoming increasingly popular with families and is therefore usually full. It is the closest major beach to Chora and offers a diving school and places to hire windsurfers. There is also a long, low complex that stretches along most of the beach and offers a range of different restaurants and bars, which rent out loungers at various prices (most above €10). [£9] marking). There is a branch of the fashionable Buddha Bar, serving cocktails, sushi and Balearic beats, as well as other popular eateries such as Kuzina, serving crowd-pleasers such as fried calamari, grilled chicken skewers and lobster spaghetti.
How do you get there: Buses leave from Fabrika.
Platis Yialos/Platys Gialos
This charming beach is lined with dozens of hotels, making it an increasingly popular place to stay. There are numerous facilities available, including water sports, restaurants, cafes and mini markets. You can also take a water taxi from here if you want to spend a few hours exploring a nearby beach; they go to Paradise and Super Paradise. For lunch with a stunning view, head to Eclipse, an Italian restaurant on the roof of the Germanic-sounding Kosmoplaz Beach Hotel and Resort. Expect handmade pasta and pizza, overlooking the bluest water you’ve ever seen.
How do you get there: It is just over 10 minutes from the Fabrika bus station.
