7 Stunning Naxos Beaches: The Ultimate Guide to Finding Paradise

Dreaming of turquoise water, golden sand, and spending your days doing absolutely nothing? If so, Naxos’s beaches are calling your name. But with so many gorgeous beaches in Naxos, Greece, it’s hard to decide which ones are actually worth visiting.

I got sun-kissed at several beaches in Naxos at the end of July, and trust me, they’re not all equal. Some have lively beach bars and sunbeds that might make your wallet second-guess your life choices, while others offer plenty of space to throw down your towel and enjoy the sound of the Aegean.

Okay, my personal favorite was Maragkas Beach, and Plaka was a close second, especially if you want to skip the crowds. Agios Prokopios? Beautiful, but definitely busy.

I’m going to share all the deets on the best beaches in Naxos from my experience. If you’re planning more than just sunbathing, check out my favorite things to do in Naxos, Greece, for more island inspo.

Πάμε (Let’s go in Greek)!

Best Naxos Beaches: Quick Comparison

With so many beautiful beaches in Naxos, the hardest part might be deciding where to throw your towel down for the day. Luckily, I did the beach-hopping research (so hard, I know) and narrowed it down to seven worth checking out.

Short on time? Here’s a quick comparison to help you find your perfect beach.

Beach	Best for	What to expect
Maragkas Beach	Best overall	Soft sand, beach bars, and relaxed vibes
Plaka Beach	Peace and quiet	Long sandy shoreline with quieter spots
Agios Prokopios	Lively beach days	Clear water, plenty of sunbeds, and crowds
Agia Anna	Restaurants and swimming	Sandy beach with waterfront tavernas
Agios Georgios	Convenient	Shallow water and easy access from Naxos Town
Mikri Vigla	Watersports	Beautiful scenery, sandy beaches, and kitesurfing
Alyko Beach	Natural beauty	Secluded surroundings and no organized facilities

This was my experience during peak summer season. Crowds, sunbed prices, and beach conditions vary depending on when you visit.

7 Best Naxos Beaches I’ve Personally Visited

1. Maragkas Beach: My Absolute Favorite Beach in Naxos

If I could return to one beach in Naxos, it would be Maragkas. Ahhh, picture velvety golden sand, some of the clearest turquoise water, and a sunbed with your name written all over it. Okay, I’m sure you get the idea, right?

Located on the western coast of Naxos, just south of Agia Anna, Maragkas is a great spot for a relaxing beach day without sacrificing the comforts of a beach bar.

What really sold me was the soft sand and the lack of rocks here. Nothing ruins a graceful entrance into the Aegean like stumbling over rocks. If you’ve been to any beaches in Greece, you totally get what I mean.

I spent the day at Petrino, where I paid €30 for 2 sunbeds and an umbrella at the end of July. They offer food and drink service, so once I settled in, I had no reason to leave until after sunset.

I just really loved that I could enjoy all the comforts of an organized beach without feeling like half the island surrounded me. Now I say that’s a major win for a beach day!

Best for: Swimming, soft sand, beach bars, and spending an entire afternoon doing absolutely nothing.

Good to know: Sunbed prices can vary by season and beach bar.

2. Plaka Beach: Best for a Quieter Beach Day

If your perfect beach day means fewer crowds and a tad more room to spread out, Plaka Beach is your gal. And trust me, after visiting some of Naxos’s busier beaches, a little breathing room was very much welcomed.

Of all the beaches on Naxos, Plaka is known for its long stretch of golden sand and super pretty turquoise water. It’s one of those beaches where you forget about time, and really, isn’t that the whole point of a Greek island vacation?

What surprised me most was how peaceful it felt, especially since I visited at the end of July, right in the middle of peak tourist season. Of the seven beaches I explored, Plaka felt the least crowded, but maybe it was because I went at 5 p.m.

The beach has organized sections with sunbeds and beach bars, but you can also find quieter areas where you can bring your own towel and claim a little piece of paradise without paying for the privilege.

Would I return? Absolutely! Especially if I wanted to spend an afternoon doing absolutely nothing, with fewer crowds.

Best for: Those who want a quieter beach day, long stretches of sand, swimming, and space to relax.

Good to know: Plaka is a long beach, so the atmosphere and facilities can vary depending on where you go. It’s perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and explore beyond the busier, organized sections.

3. Agios Prokopios Beach: Best for a Lively Beach Day

Agios Prokopios might be one of the most famous beaches in Naxos, but apparently, everyone else got the memo too. Of all the beaches in Naxos I visited, this one was easily the most crowded.

Located about 5 kilometers south of Naxos Town, Agios Prokopios is known for its long stretch of golden sand and sparkling turquoise water. And yes, I get it, it’s absolutely gorgeous, so I can see why everyone wants to visit.

The beach is lined with sunbeds, umbrellas, beach bars, and restaurants, making it a convenient spot if you like having everything nearby. However, I found the sunbeds particularly pricey compared to other beaches I visited. Apparently, a prime spot by the Aegean comes with a hefty price tag!

I also checked out Sensu, but the prices were a little too steep for my liking, and sunbeds cost €60. Instead, I ate at El Greco, a great spot for a bite near the beach, then found a tiny spot to throw my towel down.

Would I visit again? Eh, but I wouldn’t do the expensive sunbeds. If you love a lively beach, this one might be right up your alley!

Best for: Travelers who enjoy energetic beaches, sunbeds, beautiful swimming spots, and plenty of nearby places to eat.

Good to know: You can easily get to Agios Prokopios from Naxos Town by car or public bus. If you’re visiting in July or August, arrive early for a better choice of sunbeds and to find parking if you’re driving.

4. Agia Anna Beach: Best for Swimming and Waterfront Restaurants

If your perfect beach day means swimming in turquoise water and then having a long lunch at a seaside taverna, head to Agia Anna Beach. Because let’s be honest, eating is half the reason we come to Greece anyway!

Located just south of Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna is a popular beach in Naxos, with golden sand, clear water, and plenty of restaurants lining the waterfront.

You’ll find organized sections with sunbeds and umbrellas, plus spots where you can throw down your towel without spending a euro. The beach is also close to several other popular beaches, making it easy to beach-hop for the day.

Agia Anna is especially appealing because so many waterfront tavernas are within walking distance. Spend the morning swimming, then grab a table overlooking the Aegean for fresh seafood and other traditional Greek dishes. If you’re not sure what to order, I’ve rounded up some of my favorite foods to eat in Greece to help you choose.

Best for: Swimming, seaside restaurants, organized sunbeds, and travelers who want to reach everything on foot.

Good to know: You can get to Agia Anna by car or public bus from Naxos Town. It’s also close enough to Agios Prokopios and Maragkas to combine several beaches in one day.

5. Agios Georgios Beach: Best Beach Near Naxos Town

Don’t feel like renting a car or traveling across the island to get your toes in the sand? Then head to Agios Georgios Beach!

Just a short walk from Naxos Town (Chora), Agios Georgios is one of the most convenient beaches in Naxos, especially if you’re staying in town.

The beach has fine golden sand and shallow water, making it a common pick for families and anyone who prefers wading rather than jumping into the deep end. It also has organized sections with sunbeds and umbrellas, plus beach bars and restaurants steps away.

One of the top perks is its location. Start your morning exploring Chora’s charming alleys, grab a bite at a local taverna, and head straight to the beach for an afternoon dip. No complicated planning required, just the kind of vacay it should be!

While Agios Georgios might not have the same peaceful atmosphere as the favs I mentioned, it’s a great option if easy is your priority. Plus, being so close to town means you can easily squeeze in a swim without dedicating a whole day to the beach.

Best for: Families, if you’re staying in Naxos Town, shallow-water swimming, and anyone visiting Naxos without wheels.

Good to know: Agios Georgios is within walking distance of central Naxos Town, so you don’t need a car or bus if you’re staying in Chora or nearby.

6. Mikri Vigla Beach: Best for Watersports and Stunning Scenery

If you’d rather get your adrenaline pumping than work on your tan all day, head to Mikri Vigla Beach. Apparently, some people prefer flying across the water on a kiteboard instead of lounging on a sunbed with a cocktail. To each their own!

On Naxos’s southwestern coast, about 12 kilometers from Naxos Town, Mikri Vigla offers turquoise water, golden sand, and excellent wind conditions for kiteboarding or windsurfing.

Mikri Vigla has two distinct beach areas. The northern side, often called Parthena Beach, is popular with kitesurfers thanks to the strong Meltemi winds. The southern side, known as Sahara Beach or Limanaki, is a tad more sheltered for swimming and relaxing.

You don’t have to be a watersports junkie to enjoy this beach, though. Plenty of spots let you lay down your towel, or you can use the organized areas if you prefer.

If you’re visiting during the summer, keep in mind that the wind can make a big difference in your beach experience. What might be perfect weather for kitesurfing might become an arm workout when you’re trying to keep your beach towel from taking flight.

Best for: Kitesurfing, windsurfing, beautiful scenery, and those who want a mix of thrill and relaxation.

Good to know: Mikri Vigla is easiest to explore with a car if you plan to visit both areas. Before heading that way, check the wind conditions, especially if you’re planning to swim.

Be prepared for those Meltemi winds, and check out my Greece packing list next so you know what is actually worth packing.

7. Alyko Beach: Best for Natural Beauty and Seclusion

If you want to escape the rows of sunbeds and beach bars, Alyko Beach is where the scene gets a little wilder. By wild, I mean you’ll need to pack your own snacks, water, umbrella, and beach towel. No server will show up with a cocktail here!

Located on Naxos’s southwestern coast, Alyko is one of the island’s more natural beaches, surrounded by dunes, rocky coves, and a beautiful cedar forest.

It is quite a walk from the parking area to reach the beach, so keep that in mind if you’re toting half your belongings for a beach day. If you do decide to visit, keep in mind there are large rocks and shallow water, so swimming is different from the soft, sandy beaches I enjoyed at some of the other beaches.

Personally, Alyko is a great choice if you appreciate natural surroundings and don’t mind sacrificing a few comforts. But if your idea of paradise includes a sunbed, an umbrella, and service, you might be happier at Maragkas.

Best for: Nature lovers, photography, exploring secluded coves, and those who don’t need organized facilities.

Good to know: Come prepared, as there aren’t any organized beach facilities.

What to Know Before Visiting Naxos Beaches

Before you grab your bikini and head off to any of these beautiful beaches of Naxos, there are a few things worth knowing. From getting around the island to avoiding overpriced sunbeds, plan ahead to save time.

Do You Need a Car to Visit Naxos Beaches?

Well, not necessarily! During the tourist season, you can reach several popular beaches, like Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna, and Plaka, by public bus from Naxos Town.

I explored the island with a friend who had a car, which made beach hopping incredibly convenient. We could visit several beaches in one day without worrying about bus schedules or finding a taxi. But we did have the parking headache.

If you’re planning to explore more remote spots like Alyko, I’d recommend renting some wheels for flexibility. However, if you’re staying in Naxos Town and mainly want to visit the popular western beaches, you can certainly manage without one.

Keep in mind, though, that bus schedules change by season, so check the latest routes and departure times before heading out.

How Much Do Sunbeds Cost in Naxos?

Ah, the million-dollar question. Okay, maybe not a million, but some beach clubs come close!

Sunbed prices will vary depending on the beach you visit and time of year. During my trip at the end of July, I paid €30 for sunbeds at Petrino on Maragkas Beach. I saw prices ranging from €30 to €60.

Agios Prokopios was noticeably more expensive, and some of the prices seemed a little ridiculous. Beautiful water is one thing, but I’m not trying to take out a small loan for an afternoon by the sea.

If you’d rather save your euros for a nice seaside Greek dinner, beaches like Plaka have stretches where you can bring your own towel and umbrella instead of renting sunbeds.

Keep in mind that these are prices and impressions from my visit, not guaranteed current rates.

Are Naxos Beaches Crowded in July and August?

July and August are peak tourist season in Naxos, so expect the popular beaches to be a little crowded, especially those with beach bars and sunbeds.

If you’re visiting in the summer, arrive earlier in the day or head to the less organized stretches of beach.

How Windy Are the Beaches in Naxos?

One thing you should know about Naxos is that the Meltemi winds can make an appearance during the summer months, especially in July and August.

These strong northern winds bring pure joy to kitesurfers, especially around Mikri Vigla, but they aren’t ideal if you’ve planned a relaxing day at the beach. You will more than likely be removing sand from places it has absolutely no business being and holding down your beach towel.

Wind conditions pretty much depend on the beach and the day. Some coves offer a little more shelter than others, so it’s worth checking the forecast before you decide where to spend your afternoon.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Naxos for Beaches?

If you’re dreaming of long beach days and warm swimming weather, June through September is an awesome time to visit Naxos.

July and August bring hot weather, vibrant beach bars, and plenty of sun, but they also come with more crowds and higher accommodation prices.

But even during my late-July visit, I still found quieter spots like Plaka, so don’t assume every beach will be swarming just because it’s peak season.

For a potentially more laid-back experience, consider June or September, when you can often enjoy warm weather with fewer people.

Check out my best time to visit Greece post month if you’re still unsure which month is best for your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions About Naxos Beaches

What Is the Nicest Beach on Naxos?

The nicest beach on Naxos depends on what paradise means to you. Want to spend the afternoon being waited on with a cocktail? Then head to an organized beach like Maragkas. Prefer a little peace? Plaka might steal your heart. My advice? Visit a few before picking a winner. You don’t need to commit too soon!

Which Beach in Naxos Is Better, Plaka or Agios Prokopios?

Choosing between Plaka and Agios Prokopios depends on your beach personality. Plaka is great for a laid-back afternoon, while Agios Prokopios has a zippier atmosphere. Neither is a bad choice, but if your dream vacation means fewer crowds and more personal space, you know which one I’d choose!

What Are Some Hidden Gems on Naxos?

Some hidden gems on Naxos include Alyko Beach and the quieter areas of Plaka Beach. Alyko has beautiful natural surroundings, like a cedar forest, and secluded coves. Plaka technically isn’t a secret, but I was surprised by how peaceful it felt in peak season. Both are great alternatives to some of the other organized beaches.

Which Is Better, Santorini or Naxos?

Whether Santorini or Naxos is better depends on your ideal vacay. I’d personally choose Naxos for its sandy beaches, traditional villages, and more relaxed atmosphere. Santorini obviously wins for its dramatic caldera views and iconic sunsets. If you’re considering visiting outside the summer season, I have plenty of tips for visiting Santorini in winter. Both islands have their charms, but for beach lovers, I vote for Naxos!

And for more island inspo, I listed some of the best Greek islands to visit for first-timers, grouped by vibe.

Final Thoughts on the Best Beaches in Naxos

If there’s one thing Naxos does well, it’s beaches! If you’re craving a lazy afternoon with a freddo espresso or somewhere to escape the crowds, this gem has plenty of options.

My advice? Don’t settle for just one beach during your visit. Explore a few, find your favorite, and leave plenty of time for doing absolutely nothing. You’re in Greece, right?

Before you pack your bags, check out my Greece travel tips for a few things you should know, because the only surprises you want on your trip are the good ones!

Πολλά φιλιά (Many kisses)!