MYKONOS BEACHES & BEACH CLUBS
Mykonos is the ultimate Cycladic escape, famous for its dazzling whitewashed villages, world-class nightlife, and stunning stretches of sand. It is a cosmopolitan hotspot where jet-set glamour meets the timeless beauty of the Aegean Sea.
This small island is a powerhouse of style and sun, offering everything from secluded, crystalline coves to non-stop beach parties at legendary, luxurious clubs. It’s the perfect blend of relaxation and vibrant, uninhibited fun.
Most Popular Attractions
South Coast Party Beaches & Clubs:
Super Paradise Beach: The island’s legendary party beach, known for its high-energy, all-day club scene, including the famous Super Paradise Beach Club.
Paradise Beach: Home to iconic nightclubs like Cavo Paradiso and Tropicana Beach Bar, where parties start in the afternoon and last well past sunrise.
Paraga Beach: A beautiful spot hosting two of Mykonos’ most stylish venues: Scorpios, famous for its bohemian sunset rituals, and SantAnna, with its massive saltwater pool.
Platis Gialos Beach: A lively, organized beach with golden sand, excellent restaurants, and a hub for water taxis to other southern beaches.
Psarou Beach: The island’s most exclusive and luxurious beach, home to the world-famous Nammos Mykonos, known for celebrity spotting and high-end dining.
Kalo Livadi Beach: A long, beautiful, and slightly more family-friendly beach, featuring popular spots like Solymar and its wide, soft sands.
Agrari Beach: A quieter cove next to Elia, offering a relaxed vibe, crystal-clear water, and a cozy beach bar/taverna.
Family-Friendly & Laid-Back Beaches:
Ornos Beach: A fully organized, beautiful, and often wind-sheltered beach. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and chic restaurants/clubs like Pasaji and Buddha-Bar Beach.
Elia Beach: The longest beach on Mykonos, offering plenty of space, a mix of organized sunbeds, a dedicated gay section, and a more tranquil atmosphere than the party beaches.
Agios Ioannis Beach: A small, serene beach with stunning sunset views facing the ancient island of Delos. Home to the relaxed Hippie Fish beach club.
Agios Stefanos Beach: A quiet, protected cove close to the new port and Mykonos Town, with calm waters and lovely seaside tavernas.
Northern & Secluded Beaches:
Panormos Beach: A beautiful bay with a slightly more rugged feel, home to the luxurious, high-design Principote beach club.
Ftelia Beach: A large, open bay that is a windsurfing and kitesurfing hotspot due to its consistent Meltemi winds. Features the bohemian Alemàgou Beach Bar.
Agios Sostis Beach: A pristine, unorganized, and beautifully secluded beach perfect for those seeking tranquility away from the crowds.
Fokos Beach: A hidden gem on the northeastern coast, a long drive but rewarding for its unspoiled setting and a simple, excellent taverna.
Mykonos Town (Chora) Highlights (Non-Beach):
Little Venice: Iconic 18th-century houses built right on the water’s edge, perfect for sunset cocktails and photos.
The Windmills (Kato Mili): A row of classic Mykonian windmills perched on a hill, offering panoramic views of Mykonos Town.
Paraportiani Church: A stunning, asymmetrical whitewashed church that is one of the most photographed religious structures in the Cyclades.
Archaeological Site of Delos: A UNESCO World Heritage Site (accessible by boat), one of the most important mythological and historical sites in Greece, the legendary birthplace of Apollo and Artemis.
Activities & Experiences
Secure a Daybed at a World-Famous Beach Club: Spend the day indulging at iconic spots like Scorpios (for bohemian chic and sunset rituals), Nammos (for high-end dining and celebrity spotting), or Principote (for luxury and expansive service).
Try Out Watersports at Elia Beach: For an adrenaline rush, head to the island’s longest beach where you can find parasailing, jet skiing, wakeboarding, and tube rides.
Sail to the Unspoiled Beaches of the South: Rent a small boat or join a cruise to discover the less-crowded coves like Fokos or Mersini, which offer a quieter, more natural beach experience.
Hike to Armenistis Lighthouse: While not beach-related, this offers a spectacular view of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding islands, providing a great break from the sun and sand.
Take a Scuba Diving or Snorkeling Trip: Explore the crystal-clear waters, shipwrecks, and diverse marine life around the island with a guided dive from centers near Kalafatis or Paradise Beach.
Learn to Windsurf or Kitesurf at Korfos Bay: This protected bay often offers the perfect conditions and has schools catering to all levels for these wind-powered sports.
Attend a Sunset Ritual or Party: Experience Mykonos’s signature evening transition. Head to Scorpios for their famous sunset gathering or party late into the night at Paradise or Super Paradise beach clubs.
Relax on the Family-Friendly Sands of Ornos Beach: A fully serviced, protected bay that is perfect for families or anyone looking for calm, shallow waters and a wide selection of restaurants.
Go Horseback Riding Along the Coast: Several stables on the island offer guided tours that take you along the beaches and through the rugged inland landscapes.
Enjoy a Traditional Greek Seafood Lunch: Step away from the international beach club menus and find a traditional taverna at Agios Sostis or Fokos for simple, fresh-off-the-boat grilled seafood.
Take a Day Trip to Delos: Spend a morning exploring the UNESCO World Heritage site of Delos, the legendary birthplace of Apollo and a stunning archaeological island, easily accessible by boat from Platis Gialos or Mykonos Town.
Local Tips & Transport
Mopeds/ATVs are Popular: Renting a scooter, moped, or an All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) is the most common way locals and visitors navigate the island. They offer the flexibility to reach smaller coves, but drive carefully as roads can be steep, narrow, and winding. Always wear a helmet.
Bus Network is Efficient: Mykonos has a reliable and affordable public bus system that connects Mykonos Town (Chora) with all the major beaches and villages. There are two main bus terminals in the town, and they are a great alternative to expensive taxis.
Fabrika Terminal: Connects to the south-coast beaches like Platis Gialos, Paradise, and Ornos.
Old Port Terminal: Connects to the northern areas like Agios Stefanos and the New Port.
Sea-Bus (Water Taxis): A fun and practical way to hop between the most popular south-coast beaches (Ornos, Platis Gialos, Paraga, Paradise, Super Paradise, Elia). Boats run regularly and save you from having to drive the narrow coastal roads.
Taxis are Scarce: Unlike other major tourist destinations, Mykonos has a very limited number of taxis (fewer than 40 for the whole island). During peak season, they are incredibly difficult to find, especially in the evening. Plan your transport in advance, use pre-booked private transfers, or rely on the bus/Sea-Bus.
Beach Etiquette: Mykonos beaches are generally very welcoming. Many, especially on the south coast, are fully organized with umbrellas and sunbeds for a fee. If you prefer to use your own towel, look for the designated free areas, which are often at the ends of the beach.
The Wind (Meltemi): The strong, dry Meltemi wind is a defining characteristic of the Cycladic islands in summer. Beaches on the south coast (Ornos, Platis Gialos, Elia) are generally more protected, while northern and western beaches can be very windy. Check the forecast and plan accordingly.
Dining Times & Beach Clubs: Beach clubs serve food and drinks all day, but reservations are essential for lunch and especially for the sunset/dinner sittings at popular spots like Scorpios or Nammos. Dining is typically late—lunch around 2 PM and dinner after 9 PM.
Cash is Still King in Many Places: While most major establishments accept credit cards, it’s a good idea to carry cash for small transactions, tips, or in smaller, more remote tavernas.
Hidden Gems & Quieter Coves:
Agios Sostis: A beautiful, undeveloped beach with a fantastic, traditional taverna (Kiki’s Taverna) that is famous for its no-reservations policy and views.
Fokos Beach: One of the most remote and untouched beaches on the island. It’s a great escape from the crowds, with a single, excellent taverna.
Lia Beach: Well-organized but much quieter than the famous beaches. It’s known for its clear water and excellent snorkeling.
Ano Mera Village: The only inland village on Mykonos and a great place to experience a quieter, more authentic side of the island. Its central square is surrounded by traditional tavernas.
Dress Code: While Mykonos is very glamorous, the dress code is generally smart-casual, moving towards high fashion in the beach clubs and at night. Flip-flops/sandals are perfectly acceptable everywhere, but be prepared for high heels and designer wear after sunset.
Top Restaurants
Kiki’s Tavern [$30-$60] – A legendary, rustic, no-reservations tavern above Agios Sostis beach, famous for its wood-fired grilled meats and fish, fresh salads, and a beautiful, unpretentious atmosphere (no electricity).
Fokos Taverna [$25-$50] – A secluded and authentic taverna on the remote Fokos Beach, serving simple, high-quality Greek cuisine, including grilled fish and homemade salads, in a tranquil setting.
Nikolas Taverna [$25-$45] – A traditional, family-run taverna right on Agia Anna Beach (next to Platis Gialos), known for its fresh fish caught by the owner and classic Greek home-style cooking.
To Maereio [$25-$45] – A small, cozy, and highly-regarded taverna tucked away in Mykonos Town, offering authentic, homestyle Greek ‘magirefta’ (cooked dishes) and excellent traditional mezes.
Rizes Folklore Farmstead [$20-$40] – Located in Ano Mera, this restaurant on a working farm offers a taste of ‘Old Mykonos’ with classic, hearty oven-baked dishes and pies, using ingredients sourced on-site.
Limnios Tavern [$20-$40] – A quieter, well-established taverna near Mykonos Town, popular with locals for its spectacular views, classic grilled dishes, and large portions of Greek specialties.
Apostolis & Stamatina [$20-$40] – A no-frills, family-owned fish tavern on the small port of Tourlos, favored by locals for its ultra-fresh seafood and traditional, simple preparation.
Lefteris Grill [$15-$30] – A beloved local grill house in Mykonos Town (since 1994), celebrated for having some of the best souvlaki and gyros on the island, focusing on quality grilled meats.
Bakalo [$25-$45] – Located in the Lakka area, this restaurant is set in a traditional Mykonian house, offering authentic Cycladic dishes and a culinary tour of the island’s best local ingredients.
Tasos Taverna [$30-$55] – A charming, classic beach taverna right on Paraga Beach, serving fresh seafood, traditional Greek dishes, and local wine with a relaxed,
Spilia Mykonos Seaside Restaurant [$50-$100] – A truly unique and sought-after dining experience set in a natural cave at Agia Anna Beach (Kalafatis), specializing in ultra-fresh seafood and lobster pasta from a ‘sea pool.’
Alemagou [$40-$70] – Located on Ftelia Beach, this spot blends laid-back bohemian style with a refined Greek-Mediterranean restaurant focusing on high-quality, unpretentious dining with an emphasis on fresh catches and local produce.
Hippie Fish [$35-$65] – A refined, yet low-key beach restaurant on Agios Ioannis, known for its excellent food, friendly staff, and great swimming, offering Mediterranean cuisine with fresh seafood.
Beefbar Mykonos [$60-$120] – Situated on Agios Ioannis Beach, this upscale spot, inside Bill & Coo Coast Suites, is known for its premium meat cuts, seafood, and refined international cuisine in a sleek beachside setting.
Scorpios [$50-$90] – Located on Paraga Beach, while a famous beach club, the restaurant is highly regarded for its delicious, mostly Mediterranean-inspired menu emphasizing holistic, high-quality ingredients.
Buddha-Bar Beach [$50-$90] – Located at the Santa Marina Resort in Ornos Bay, this polished beach club offers a sophisticated Mediterranean-Asian fusion menu with exquisite sushi and cocktails in a luxury setting.
Nammos [$100-$300+] – On Psarou Beach, while extremely high-end and touristic, it is included as a worthy mention due to its status and reputation for impeccably fresh, world-class Mediterranean and sushi cuisine, and an iconic location. Be prepared for a very high price point.
SantAnna [$50-$80] – On Paraga Beach, this luxurious beach club and restaurant features a Mediterranean-inspired menu with quality seafood, meats, and raw bar options, suitable for a sophisticated beach-front lunch or dinner.
Principote [$80-$150+] – Located on Panormos Beach, this high-end beach club offers a sophisticated Mediterranean menu focusing on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients in a stunning and luxurious setting. Note: Prices here can be steep.
Liasti [$35-$65] – Located on Frangias Beach, this taverna-style beach bar is less crowded and known for its simple, fresh Mediterranean food, friendly service, and a beautiful, relaxed beach atmosphere.
Goa [$30-$50] – A low-key beach restaurant on Agrari Beach, offering quality Greek and Mediterranean food with a great view and a much more relaxed, casual vibe than its neighbors.
Kavos Taverna [$30-$50] – A charming, long-established spot by the sea near Kaminaki, offering traditional Greek cuisine and excellent fresh seafood with stunning sunset views.
M-eating [$50-$80] – Widely considered one of the island’s best restaurants, located in a beautifully restored Mykonos Town house. It offers exquisite modern Greek cuisine with creative twists on local ingredients.
Krama [$60-$100] – Sophisticated Greek fine dining in Mykonos Town (Semeli Hotel), offering a world-class menu that reinterprets traditional Greek ingredients with modern techniques.
Nōema [$50-$90] – A sleek, contemporary Greek restaurant/bar in Mykonos Town (Hora) that focuses on bold, shareable dishes rooted in Cycladic tradition, with a raw meze bar and excellent cocktails.
Interni [$50-$80] – Located in a cosmopolitan garden setting in Mykonos Town, this open-air restaurant is known for its modern Mediterranean cuisine with international touches and a stylish, lively atmosphere.
La Maison de Katrin [$50-$80] – A classic, long-standing spot in Mykonos Town (since 1971) offering a refined blend of traditional French and Greek cuisine in a charming, traditional setting.
D’Angelo [$35-$60] – An excellent Italian restaurant near the Windmills in Mykonos Town, known for its homemade pasta and authentic Italian-Mediterranean dishes.
Avra Restaurant Garden [$40-$70] – Located in a beautiful, tranquil garden setting in Mykonos Town, offering a refined blend of Greek and Mediterranean dishes with a contemporary touch.
Katrin [$60-$100] – An elegant and historic Mykonos Town establishment, famous for its French-Mediterranean menu and charming atmosphere.
Compass [$40-$70] – Situated in the new port of Tourlos, offering modern Greek cuisine and fresh seafood with a beautiful sea view, slightly removed from the bustle of Mykonos Town.
Kalita [$50-$90] – High-end Greek fine dining in the charming garden of the Rochari Hotel, known for its creative and artfully-prepared dishes.
Mamalouka [$35-$65] – Located on a charming outdoor patio in Mykonos Town, its motto is “Eat local,” focusing on Mediterranean dishes with a commitment to local, seasonal ingredients.
Koukoumi [$40-$70] – Located in Ano Mera, this is Mykonos’ first all-vegan hotel restaurant, offering a creative, plant-based fine dining menu with Mediterranean and Japanese influences.
COYA Mykonos [$70-$120+] – An internationally acclaimed restaurant with Peruvian influences, offering a vibrant atmosphere, exceptional cocktails, and a unique blend of Peruvian, Spanish, Japanese, and Chinese cuisine.
Zuma [$80-$150+] – Located on Psarou Beach, this upscale spot is known for its contemporary Japanese cuisine, including sushi, sashimi, and robata grilled dishes, in a sophisticated beachfront setting.
Mr. Pug [$60-$100] – Located outside Mykonos Town, this multi-awarded restaurant specializes in high-quality Asian Fusion and Thai food, known for its unique flavors and atmosphere.
Solymar [$50-$90] – Located on Kalo Livadi Beach, this restaurant offers a sophisticated Mediterranean and Peruvian-Japanese-inspired menu in a sleek, seaside setting, favored for lunch and late afternoon drinks.
Niko’s Taverna [$20-$40] – A popular, large, yet traditional Greek taverna near the Mykonos Town waterfront, known for its bustling atmosphere, huge selection of fish/seafood, and classic Greek plates. A worthy mention due to its local institution status.
To Kafeneio tou Bakoya [$15-$30] – A small, traditional Greek ‘kafeneio’ (cafe) opposite the fish market in Gialos, perfect for a casual, local-style meze of fried squid, sausages, and sea urchins.
Remezzo [$60-$100] – An iconic restaurant and bar in Mykonos Town overlooking the sea, known for its glamorous atmosphere, inventive cocktails, and Mediterranean menu with international flair.
Ling Ling by Hakkasan [$80-$150+] – A high-end Cantonese restaurant with a lively atmosphere, offering signature dishes from its global chain in an open-air Mykonos setting.
Interni [$50-$80] – Located in a cosmopolitan garden setting in Mykonos Town, this open-air restaurant is known for its modern Mediterranean cuisine with international touches and a stylish, lively atmosphere.
Buddha Bar Beach [$50-$90] – At Santa Marina Resort in Ornos Bay, this polished beach club offers a sophisticated Mediterranean-Asian fusion menu with exquisite sushi and cocktails in a luxury setting.
White Star [$30-$50] – A slightly more casual, yet high-quality restaurant on a quieter part of Paraga Beach, focusing on fresh seafood and traditional Mediterranean fare.
Nice n Easy [$35-$65] – Located on Little Venice, this popular spot focuses on organic, healthy, and farm-to-table cuisine with American and Mediterranean influences.
Blue Myth Restaurant [$35-$60] – Located at the Myconian Ambassador Hotel in Platis Gialos, offering traditional Mykonian and Mediterranean cuisine with stunning sea views.
Ftelia Beach Club [$40-$70] – While a beach club, its open-air restaurant is known for its refined Greek cuisine that captures the essence of the northern Ftelia Beach.
Mykonos Social by Jason Atherton [$80-$150] – A high-end, Michelin-starred chef experience at the Santa Marina Resort, offering modern, globally-inspired Mediterranean cuisine.
Baos [$60-$100] – Located near Mykonos Town, this elegant restaurant focuses on refined Greek seafood, with sophisticated plating and modern techniques.
Thioni [$50-$90] – A fine dining experience in Mykonos Town with a modern take on traditional Greek cuisine, located in a beautiful setting.
Cabbanes [$70-$120] – Located in a resort with stunning sea views, offering elevated tasting menus of Greek cuisine with a focus on seasonal, high-quality ingredients.
Meraki [$50-$90] – A sophisticated restaurant with a terrace overlooking the coast, known for its grilled meats, ember-charred seafood, and traditional Greek dishes with a modern flair, like lobster giouvetsi.
Branco Mykonos [$40-$70] – On Platis Gialos Beach, this beach club restaurant offers a menu of Mediterranean, Asian, and South American influenced dishes with high-quality ingredients.
Lio Mykonos [$60-$100] – While primarily an entertainment venue, the dinner is high-quality, focusing on sophisticated Mediterranean dishes in a theatrical setting.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Scorpios: Located on a secluded peninsula on Paraga Beach, this holistic haven transitions from a sophisticated beach lounge at sunset to a hedonistic club with its famous “Sonic Journeys” DJ sets, all with a bohemian, earthy aesthetic.
Nammos: Found on the prestigious Psarou Beach, this globally-renowned beach club is synonymous with luxury. Known for attracting celebrities, it offers an exclusive atmosphere, exquisite dining, and flowing champagne, perfect for a high-energy, upscale party experience.
JackieO’ Beach Club: Situated on Super Paradise Beach, this is an iconic, sophisticated, and openly LGBTQ+ friendly spot. It offers a pool, jacuzzi, signature cocktails (like the JackieO Paloma), drag shows, and lively entertainment that continues well into the night.
Alemagou: Nestled in a remote bay on Ftelia Beach, this spot is the definition of bohemian chic. Its rustic, Cycladic-inspired design, chilled-out bohemian music sets, and creative cocktails provide a more relaxed, upscale atmosphere compared to the island’s major party hubs.
Pasaji: Positioned on the beautiful Ornos Beach, this beach club is known for its Mediterranean-Asian fusion cuisine and signature cocktails. It offers a more family-friendly, welcoming vibe and remains open for drinks from morning until late.
Hippie Fish: Located on Agios Ioannis Beach, this club offers a more refined and low-key experience. It’s a great spot for excellent food and good swimming, featuring music that’s present but doesn’t “thump,” ideal for a more relaxed sunset cocktail.
Principote: An extremely luxurious and exclusive beach club on Panormos Beach, famous for its grand aesthetic, plush sunbeds, and extravagant parties that kick off as the sun goes down, drawing a crowd looking for high-end revelry.
Kalua: Operating on Paraga Beach, this spot lives up to its motto, “Every day is a beach party!” Known for its lively atmosphere, trademark cocktails, and non-stop fun that often features guests dancing on tables.
Buddha-Bar Beach: Found in Ornos Bay, part of a luxury resort, this beach club and restaurant is known for its chill-out world music, extensive sushi and seafood menu, and inventive cocktails in an exotic, upscale setting.
Beefbar on the Coast (at Bill&Coo Coast): Located on Agios Ioannis Beach, this elegant beach club is known for its exclusive dining experience focused on premium meats, which can be enjoyed from your squishy beach loungers alongside top-shelf cocktails with stunning bay views.
SantAnna: Another luxurious complex on Paraga Beach, this mega-club features a massive free-form pool, seven private ‘island’ lounges with their own bars, and hosts major parties with international headliners, making it a full-scale entertainment destination.
Liasti: Offering a laid-back, “locals vibe” on the tranquil Lia Beach on the southeast shore, this beach club and restaurant is a good choice for those preferring a peaceful day by the sea with refreshing drinks.
Lio Mykonos: While primarily known for its cabaret performances, this venue, located close to Mykonos Town, transforms into a popular, stunningly architectured nightclub with a garden, perfect for a late-night cocktail before the main party gets in full swing.
Void Mykonos: A premier nightlife spot in the heart of Mykonos Town (Lakka), known for its elegant, minimalist design and hosting world-class DJs, making it a sophisticated clubbing option away from the beach.
Queen of Mykonos: A glamorous champagne and cocktail bar in Mykonos Town, popular among the fashion-forward crowd for pre-party drinks in a chic, central location.
Cavo Paradiso Club Mykonos: Perched high on a cliff overlooking Paradise Beach, this is one of the most legendary open-air clubs in the world, famous for hosting international superstar DJs and for parties that last until after sunrise.
Super Paradise Beach Club: A straight-up party institution located on Super Paradise Beach. It starts with a more mellow vibe during the day for sun-lazing with cocktails, but the music and party atmosphere cranks up in the afternoons, attracting a huge, energetic crowd.
Tropicana Beach Bar & Restaurant: Hailed as one of the “sexiest” beach bars in Mykonos, located right on Paradise Beach. It is famous for its wild, all-day party atmosphere that features go-go dancers and high-energy music from the afternoon until late.
Paradise Club: Located on Paradise Beach, this is a dedicated, large-scale nightclub with multiple levels. It consistently ranks among the world’s best, bringing in major international electronic music DJs for intense, unforgettable night-long parties.
Skandinavian Bar: A true Mykonos Town institution sprawling across a small square near the Old Port. It’s an indoor/outdoor bar that starts mellow but quickly becomes a vibrant dance club, known for its affordable drinks and attracting a diverse, dance-loving crowd.
Astra: Located in Mykonos Town in a former house, this small but hip club is a curious blend of a mellow lounge bar in the early evening, perfect for pre-club cocktails, and a high-energy dance spot later at night.
Bao’s Cocktail Bar: Found in Little Venice, this stylish bar/club offers fantastic cocktails and divine sunset views, often transitioning into a spot for all-night dancing right along the waterfront.
Negrita Mykonos: Also located in Little Venice, this bar is the perfect place to watch the sunset while sipping generously-proportioned drinks, with waves crashing against the wall below. It maintains a lively atmosphere day and night.
Scarpa Bar: Another popular spot in Little Venice with direct waterfront seating, offering refreshing cocktails and views of the famous Mykonos windmills and the Aegean Sea, perfect for a lively but intimate evening.
54 Cocktail Bar & Sunset Lounge: A popular venue in Mykonos Town that transforms from a day-time spot into a vibrant lounge bar and dance club at night, predominantly (but not exclusively) catering to the gay community.