The beach of Koukounaries is considered not only the most beautiful in Skiathos, but one of the most charming and renowned in all of Greece. This authentic piece of paradise is distinguished by its fine golden sand, crystal-clear waters with emerald reflections and a dense pine forest that embraces it, creating a breathtaking natural setting.
The beach is located in the south-western part of the island, about 16 km from Skiathos Town, and is embedded in a vast protected natural area that also includes Lake Strofylia, part of the Natura 2000 network of protected biotopes. It is this natural aspect that gives it the unspoilt charm that has made it famous, so much so that it has earned the nickname ‘Chryssi Ammos’ (Golden Sand) for the spectacular contrast between its sand and the deep blue Aegean Sea.
About 1.5 km long, Koukounaries offers enough space to accommodate the many visitors who flock there during the high season. Despite its popularity, it retains an enchanting natural appearance thanks to the dense vegetation that surrounds it and the special care of the environment.
The most convenient way to reach Koukounaries is to use the public bus service that connects Skiathos Town with the beach. This is the island’s main bus line that runs from the port of Skiathos Town (bus stop 1) to Koukounaries (bus stop 26, terminus). In the high season, runs are frequent, even every 20 minutes, and the journey from Skiathos Town to Koukounaries takes about 30 minutes.
Once you get off at stop 26, you have to follow the short path through the pine forest to reach the beach.
A picturesque alternative is the water taxis that leave from the port of Skiathos Town and arrive directly on the beach. This service allows one to admire the island’s coastline from the sea and avoid the traffic during the busiest months.
For those who prefer the autonomy of a private vehicle, the road to Koukounaries is well signposted and paved. A large car park is available near the beach, which is particularly useful for those arriving at peak times. You can rent a car at the Skiathos airport or in the town centre.
The beach of Koukounaries alternates between areas equipped with parasols and sunbeds and sufficiently wide stretches of free beach. The seabed slopes gently, making bathing safe even for children.
During the hottest hours of the day, the pine forest behind offers valuable shelter from the sun. Not to be missed is a visit to Lake Strofylia, which can be reached via paths from the beach, where various bird species can be observed.
One of the most characteristic aspects of Koukounaries is the lively atmosphere that is created in the afternoon, when beach bars such as the ‘Barracuda beach bar’ start offering music and DJ sets, turning the beach into a perfect place for a sunset aperitif.
The village of Koukounaries offers several accommodation options set in a natural environment of outstanding beauty. The area is characterised by accommodation ranging from luxury hotels and resorts to simpler, family-run establishments, all of which share the proximity to the famous beach and the relaxing environment surrounded by pine forests.
The area is ideal for those seeking a peaceful holiday in close contact with nature. The accommodations are mostly distributed between the hilly area, which offers beautiful panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, and the areas closer to the beach, surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation.
There are a few restaurants, convenience stores and traditional taverns in the vicinity of the accommodations, sufficient for daily needs. For a wider choice of evening entertainment, one must travel to Skiathos Town.
We offer a selection of hotels at Koukounaries to suit all categories of travellers. The most booked by tourists are the sea-facing hotels, often right on the beach. If you want to play it safe, choose one of the following: they are among the most booked hotels in Koukounaries, sorted by number of reviews.
If you prefer space, privacy and the ability to prepare your own meals to a hotel holiday, book a holiday home at Koukounaries. We recommend a few below, but in this case we advise you to book early because houses and apartments for rent at Koukounaries are in high demand.
Koukounaries is located on the south-western coast of Skiathos, about 16 km from the island's main town (Skiathos Town).
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Budget accommodations 
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