The Best Beaches in Paros: In Our Expert Opinion

Paros has everything you'd hope for from a trip to the Cyclades - blue-domed churches, whitewashed houses, and charming tavernas. Though perhaps not as famous as its neighbours Mykonos and Santorini, the island is arguably a better bet for travellers in search of some of Greece’s most beautiful beaches. So much so, that narrowing down the choice of where to lay your towel (or lie back on a luxurious sun lounger) can be quite a challenge - will it be stylish Santa Maria, otherworldly Kolymbithres, or the natural spa of Kalogeros? Fear not, for we here at Plum Guide have done the heavy lifting for you (you're welcome). We've put our expert heads together and curated this guide, so all you have to do is pack the suncream. Read on for our pick of the best beaches in Paros.

• Kolymbithres Beach

• Santa Maria Beach

• Monastiri Bay

• Chrisi Akti Beach

• Kalogeros Beach

• Faragas Beach

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Why stay in Greece when you can visit another world? Seemingly plucked straight from a sci-fi movie, the somewhat ethereal rock formations of Kolymbithres have made it the most famous of Paros’s coastal strips. As one of Greece’s natural wonders, the fine golden sands of Kolymbithres are a must for anyone who enjoys their beach days with a side of awe. Being in the midst of nature doesn’t mean, however, that you have to miss out on great Greek food or creature comforts - the beach road is lined with bars and restaurants. An array of sun loungers and a range of water sports are also available, so you'll always be catered for. For ultimate seclusion, get here early to snag one of the small stretches between the rocks, where it feels like your own private beach. Set in the western part of Naoussa Bay, Kolymbithres is accessible by car, public bus, or boat from Naoussa harbour - not bad transport options for a trip to another world (or, at the very least, one of the best beaches in Paros).

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For a beach with a decidedly stylish feel, look no further than the white-gold sands of cosmopolitan Santa Maria. Located on Paros’s northeast coast, this vibrant strip is particularly popular among families with children, thanks not least to the calm shallows (perfect for paddling), excellent snorkelling conditions, and water sports centres offering kitesurfing, scuba diving, canoeing, and windsurfing. The bars and restaurants that back onto Santa Maria mean there’s no chance of going hungry, but that there’s every chance of your beach visit evolving into a chic party. Pro tip: when Santa Maria gets windy (as it can do in the height of summer), head just a little further north to the sheltered cove of Mikri Santa Maria (Little Santa Maria).

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With its name coming from the Monastery of Agios Ioannis (St. John), which is perched atop a rock next to the beach, Monastiri is a compact but picturesque bay surrounded by steep rock cliffs. The beach’s coarse sands play host to sun beds and umbrellas, as well as a beach bar, but the real treasure is the near-emerald waters - don’t forget to pack your snorkel to explore some of the best of Paros’s marine life. Monastiri is found within the bounds of Parοs Рark, an еnvironmental and сulturаl park which even has a small amphitheatre - beachgoers hoping to pack in some extra culture will appreciate the screenings and concerts that take place during the Summer Festival. The most picturesque way to get there? Hop on a converted fishing boat from Naoussa.

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For a bonus dose of adrenaline, head to Chrisi Akti, home of the Windsurfing World Championship. Thanks to the meltemi - the strong, dry, northerly Aegean wind - Chrisi Akti is Paros’s prime windsurfing spot, with lessons and rental available through several local water sports centres. Once you’ve had enough excitement for one day, fall back onto one of the comfy sun loungers that dot the golden sands, or refresh and refuel at one of the chic beach clubs. A must-mention in any list of the best beaches in Paros, Chrisi Akti (also known as Golden Beach) is accessible by public bus, so you'll never struggle to make your way there.

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Forget paying to go the spa - simply head down to Kalogeros Beach and slather yourself in healing mud, known for its therapeutic properties. This all-natural spa treatment comes courtesy of the bay’s clay cliffs, which you’ll find at the northern end of the beach. It really is as simple as breaking off a chunk of clay and mixing it with the water to make a mask - once it has dried, take a dip in the sea and enjoy your super smooth skin. As an unorganised beach in a protected Natura 2000 area, Kalogeros offers a chance to get off the beaten track and be at one with nature - not to mention the free facial. But this does mean you need to come equipped with supplies - there won't be any last minute camera shopping here.

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Located on the southern coast of Paros, Faragas Beach offers silky sands, crystal-clear water, and plentiful sun loungers. The main beach has a lively feel, with water sports facilities, a taverna, and the dulcet tones of Greek pop lingering in the air - the perfect summer soundtrack. If peace and solitude are the order of the day, the neighbouring bays provide a tranquil alternative, with some impressive rock formations to boot. So put your feet up, stare out into the Aegean, and enjoy - that's as tough as your job will get.

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