The sea in Greece is beautiful, you know, but how many Greek islands have based their tourist fortunes on clear waters and clean beaches? Alonissos is considered the island with the cleanest waters in the Aegean, thanks also to the establishment of a marine park, the National Marine Park of Alonissos and the Northern Sporades.
The beaches of Alonissos are distinguished by their wild natural beauty and exceptionally clear waters, so much so that they are chosen as a habitat for the rare Mediterranean monk seal. Most shorelines are characterised by smooth white pebbles and coarse sand, framed by pristine pine forests and cliffs that create breathtaking views.
The east coast of the island concentrates the most beautiful and accessible beaches, while the west reveals wild coves and picture-postcard views. Each bay tells a different story: from the organised beaches near the port of Patitiri to the secret coves that can only be reached by boat, from the family-friendly shorelines to the coves ideal for lovers of pure nature.
Agios Dimitrios is unanimously considered the most beautiful beach in Alonissos and one of the most precious gems in the entire Aegean. Situated on the north-eastern coast of the island, this magnificent crescent-shaped bay offers a natural spectacle that takes one’s breath away: pure white pebbles glistening in the sun, crystal-clear turquoise-hued waters and a backdrop of maritime pines growing luxuriantly up to the shoreline.
The beach is partially organised with sun loungers, parasols and a play area for children, while it maintains large free areas for those who prefer more direct contact with nature. A characteristic seaside tavern and a cosy kiosk allow one to enjoy local specialities without straying far from paradise. Access requires a short walk up a path from the car park, through a gate set up to keep out the wild goats that inhabit the area.
Agios Dimitrios takes its name from an ancient monastery that stood nearby, destroyed by pirates but whose memory survives in the local toponymy. The crystal-clear waters and seabed rich in marine life make it ideal for snorkelling and diving, while the small village of Steni Vala nearby offers services and authentic fish tavernas.
Kokkinokastro, whose name means ‘red castle’, owes its name to the spectacular ochre-coloured cliffs that plunge into the sea depths creating a breathtaking colour contrast. This is undoubtedly one of the most photographed and spectacular beaches on Alonissos, where nature has created a natural amphitheatre of rare beauty.
The mixed beach of golden sand and multi-coloured pebbles is washed by a deep blue sea, ideal for experienced swimmers and diving enthusiasts. Huge reddish rock formations jut out underwater, forming a small promontory that offers exceptional underwater scenery. The area is of particular archaeological interest: excavations have revealed the existence of an ancient settlement, evidence of the long human history of these places.
The verdant pines that crown the cliffs complete a landscape that seems to be painted, where every hour of the day offers different plays of light. The contrast between the red of the rocks, the green of the vegetation, the white of the pebbles and the deep blue of the sea creates a kaleidoscope of colours that remains etched in the memory. Kokkinokastro is easily accessible by car and offers essential services, but it is its wild beauty that captivates every visitor.
Leftos Gialos is considered by many to be the most sought-after beach not only on Alonissos, but in the entire Sporades archipelago, attracting visitors even from neighbouring Skopelos and Skiathos. This true natural postcard is enclosed in a sheltered bay surrounded by thick pine forests, with greyish rock formations framing a shoreline of white sand mixed with pebbles.
The turquoise sea with its crystal-clear waters slopes gently down, making it ideal for long swims, families with children and snorkelling enthusiasts who can explore the rich marine fauna, especially in the rocky ends. The beach is very well equipped with sunbeds and umbrellas, and offers various catering services ranging from simple bars to typical taverns such as the renowned Eleonas, where one can enjoy local specialities at affordable prices.
The sheltered position of Leftos Gialos protects it from the winds, guaranteeing calm seas even on the windiest days. Particularly popular with young people for the festive atmosphere at sunset, it offers breathtaking views of the two uninhabited islets called ‘the Two Brothers’, which are part of the National Marine Park. Not far away is the picturesque bay of Tzortzi Gialos, another pearl that completes this corner of paradise on the island’s east coast.
Chrisi Milia is one of the few completely sandy beaches on Alonissos, a feature that makes it particularly popular with families and visitors who prefer the comfort of fine sand to the island’s traditional pebbles. Located on the east coast, this ‘golden mile’ – as its name suggests – offers a long stretch of golden sand bathed by crystal-clear turquoise waters.
The beach is busy and well-organised, with all the facilities needed for a perfect day out: sunbeds, umbrellas, beach bars and tavernas serving traditional Greek dishes and fresh fish specialities. The seabed slopes gently and the waters remain calm due to the sheltered shape of the bay, making Chrisi Milia ideal for small children and less experienced swimmers.
Mediterranean vegetation surrounds the beach, creating areas of natural shade, while the fine, soft sand allows for long walks along the shoreline. Chrisi Milia is easily accessible by car from Patitiri and is often included in the itineraries of boat trips that touch the most beautiful beaches of the island.
Megalos Mourtias is the most popular beach with the residents of Alonissos and one of the most convenient to reach from the main town Patitiri, which is only 5 km away. This beautiful bay of tiny pebbles offers the perfect combination of accessibility and natural beauty, making it ideal for those seeking relaxation without sacrificing amenities.
The beach enjoys a strategic position that protects it from the strongest winds, guaranteeing calm, turquoise waters ideal for swimming and snorkelling. The seabed slopes gently and the transparency of the water is exceptional, a characteristic shared by all the beaches of this protected marine paradise. Megalos Mourtias has all the amenities: sunbeds, parasols and taverns right on the beach where you can enjoy local dishes and fresh fish while admiring the view.
From the beach there is a spectacular view of the island of Skopelos, which seems almost within reach on a clear day. The hillside behind is dotted with ancient olive trees that provide natural shade and create an authentic Mediterranean ambience. Megalos Mourtias can be reached either by car or on foot by following the old panoramic path through the Mediterranean maquis, offering striking views of the island’s eastern coastline. Its proximity to the town makes it perfect for those staying in Patitiri but looking for more beautiful beaches than the harbour.
Tzortzi Gialos offers what is probably the most idyllic view in all of Alonissos, a panorama that from the top of the surrounding hills embraces a bay of a thousand shades of blue and turquoise. This series of small, consecutive beaches stretches for about 2 kilometres in a deep inlet surrounded by centuries-old pine forests and hills covered with Mediterranean scrub.
The beach consists of sand mixed with pebbles and is in such a sheltered position that the sea often takes on the appearance of an alpine lake, with calm waters ranging in hue from turquoise near the shore to deep blue towards the open sea. The total absence of waves and currents, due to the shape of the bay, creates an ideal environment for families with children and those seeking peace and quiet.
The access to Tzortzi Gialos is an experience in itself: the last part of the road descends through a fragrant pine forest that delights the sight and smell, while from the top there are breathtaking views of the bay below. The beach is not organised with services, so it is advisable to bring a parasol and provisions, but this feature keeps it wild and unspoilt.
Milia represents the essence of the wild beauty of Alonissos: a secluded beach half-hidden by a dense pine forest that suddenly opens up to reveal deep blue waters shimmering among the pine trees. Located in a small sheltered bay on the east coast, this hidden gem attracts loyal visitors who return year after year to enjoy its intimate atmosphere.
Descending towards the beach through the fragrant forest, crystal-clear waters suddenly appear among the vegetation, creating a striking scenic effect. The mixed beach of sand and pebbles plunges into a sea of greenish tones that invite you to discover the wonderful underwater world full of fish and rock formations.
Milia maintains a completely natural character without organised facilities, making it ideal for those seeking an authentic experience of contact with nature. Its secluded location and non-immediate access ensure that it is never overcrowded, preserving the atmosphere of peace and tranquillity that characterises it. Regular visitors know that one of the cleanest and clearest seas in the Aegean is to be found here, perfect for long swims and snorkelling sessions to discover the underwater secrets of the Sporades. The surrounding pine forest also provides natural shade and a cool environment during the hottest hours of the day.
Rousoum Gialos is the beach of comfort and family atmosphere, located just a 10-minute walk from the port of Patitiri and easily accessible by car. This small bay of smooth white pebbles is strategically located, making it perfect for those who want to alternate moments of sea relaxation with explorations of the town centre.
The beach harmoniously combines free and equipped areas, offering sunbeds and umbrellas at affordable prices along with several taverns and bars that allow one to spend the whole day without moving. The atmosphere is lively but never chaotic, much appreciated by local families who choose it for relaxing afternoons and by young locals who meet here to socialise.
The crystal-clear waters, naturally sheltered from the winds, guarantee a calm and safe sea, while its proximity to Patitiri makes it convenient for those who need services or want to combine sea and shopping in the characteristic harbour shops. Rousoum Gialos retains its natural charm despite its proximity to the settlement, thanks to the clean waters and the striking contrast between the blue of the sea and the snow-white pebbles.
Votsi is more than just a beach: it is a small fishing village that retains the authentic charm of Greek fishing villages. This picturesque harbour, just a few kilometres from Patitiri, offers photographers picture-postcard views with its colourful boats rocking in the harbour and traditional houses overlooking the sea.
The well-polished pebble beach is small but perfectly integrated into the context of the village, surrounded by rock formations with coloured streaks and patches that dip into the turquoise water creating spectacular colour effects. The contrast between the white of the pebbles, the variegated colours of the rocks and the crystal blue of the sea makes every photo a natural work of art.
Access is very convenient with ample parking next to a fragrant pine forest and a stone staircase leading to the beach in total safety. The waters are extremely crystal clear and safe for swimming, while fishing and pleasure boats keep a safe distance from the shoreline.
Gialia is one of the most scenic and photogenic beaches on Alonissos, famous for its distinctive windmill perched on a rock that watches over the bay below. Located on the northern coast of the island, this small pebble beach offers a unique experience that combines scenic beauty and historical interest.
The bay opens up into a picturesque setting dominated by the perfectly preserved stone mill, which creates a magical atmosphere and is one of the most photographed subjects on the island. The beach itself is made up of smooth pebbles and has no organised facilities, maintaining a completely wild character that makes it ideal for those seeking a quiet swim away from the crowds.
Gialia hides a fascinating historical secret: the bay is littered with ancient shells, pieces of pottery and other artefacts from ancient times, turning it into a veritable ‘time portal to the sea’. These finds testify to the ancient human presence and give the beach an aura of archaeological mystery.
In the following map you can see the location of the main places of interest mentioned in this article.
For families with children: Chrisi Milia and Megalos Mourtias offer fine sand, sloping seabed and all the necessary facilities for a safe day out.
For lovers of wild nature: Milia and Tzortzi Gialos offer authentic contact with the unspoilt nature of the National Marine Park.
For comfort: Rousoum Gialos and Votsi make it possible to combine marine relaxation with services and comforts at your fingertips.
For photography enthusiasts: Gialia with its mill and Kokkinokastro with its red cliffs offer unique scenery.
For snorkelling and diving: Agios Dimitrios and Leftos Gialos guarantee crystal-clear waters and seabeds rich in protected marine life.
For romantic sunsets: West coast beaches such as Tzortzi Gialos offer breathtaking views in the evening hours.
For the authentic experience: Votsi and the small hidden bays allow you to experience the authentic spirit of the Greek islands before mass tourism.
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