Sheltered bays, golden sand, shallow waters and beach bars. On these Cycladic beaches you'll spend your day as a family.
In the Cyclades we find some of Greece's most beautiful beaches, with turquoise waters, endless white sandy shores and enchanting landscapes. However, despite their paradisiacal appearance, many of them aren't easily accessible, have deep waters and are by no means suitable for families with children. For those of you looking for the most family-friendly beaches to visit on your holidays, we've gathered and recommend 10 magical, sheltered, shallow-water beaches on 10 popular Cycladic islands, ideal for swimming and play with kids big and small.
Otzias, Kea
Kea is the closest Cycladic island to Attica (just an hour by ferry from Lavrio) and one of the most tranquil for summer holidays. The large bay of Otzias offers protection from the winds and safe waters for children. It is the largest beach on Kea, where along much of it you'll find tamarisk trees, municipal umbrellas and sunbeds from the cafés. The scenery with the hills all around is magical, and the waters are cool and shallow. It's one of the most popular sheltered beaches, as it also has accommodation options, a playground and little tavernas for after your swim.
Episkopi, Kythnos
Kythnos, one of the islands closest to Athens, has around 100 beaches. One of the island's most beautiful, but also one of the easiest to reach, Episkopi is ideal for those seeking a serene environment for their holidays. A stone's throw from the port of Merichas, the beach has a parking area and a beach bar with sunbeds. However, there are also many tamarisk trees providing natural shade if you spread out your towel. Families also appreciate its sandy shore and shallow, clear waters, as well as the availability of accommodation in the area.
Chrysi Ammos, Andros
Andros is one of the most family-friendly islands in the Cyclades. Among the beaches with impressive waters, Chrysi Ammos or Psili Ammos is one of the best for children. It lies between Gavrio, the island's port, and Batsi, the most popular and cosmopolitan seaside settlement. The beach has golden sand (as its name suggests), is organized with sunbeds and also has space for play as well as to set up your own umbrella. As it's set within a cove, it's sheltered from the wind and isn't easily affected by the summer meltemi winds.
Livadakia, Serifos
Among the islands with the most relaxed atmosphere, Serifos is a destination for peaceful holidays yet also for going out. The picturesque Chora is perched high, while the port settlement is the largest and is preferred by groups and families. On Serifos there are many beaches ideal for children, as most are sandy. Next to the port lies the sheltered bay of Livadakia beach, where there are many tamarisk trees for natural shade and the waters are crystal clear and shallow. In addition, you'll find accommodation and a few eateries right by the sea. However, the best nearby option for food and a night out is Livadi.
Galissas, Syros
Syros is one of the most beloved islands for families with children of all ages. Parents prefer it as the distance from Piraeus is just 2 hours, and because Ermoupoli is the capital of the Cyclades and has everything, including the General Hospital. Most of the island's beaches are suitable for children, but Galissas stands out. It's one of Syros's most touristic villages, in contrast to earlier years when it was among the quietest. It's just 7 km from Ermoupoli and has golden sand, warm shallow waters and a spectacular sunset. In addition, the beach has been awarded a Blue Flag and is accessible to people with disabilities.
Agios Fokas, Tinos
Tinos is one of those islands that have gained devoted visitors who return every summer. Beyond the Holy Church of Panagia Evangelistria of Tinos, as it's known, there are so many reasons to visit, such as its beautiful villages. A popular beach for families is Agios Fokas, the island's largest, about 3 km long. It offers sunbeds and umbrellas, as well as quieter corners with natural shade from tamarisk trees. The shallow waters and sand make it ideal even for small children, while proximity to Chora ensures easy access and many options for food after your swim.
Ornos, Mykonos
The island famed for nightlife and parties also has another, more hidden side. It may not be imprinted as a family-holiday destination in the public mind, but Mykonos is a place many families choose thanks to its proximity to Athens and its beauty. There are many beaches on the island to visit with your children, one of which is the popular Ornos. It's just 3 km from Chora and is a fairly busy beach with many hotels, rooms to let and beach bars. It's sheltered and doesn't have big waves, while the waters are crystal clear and shallow, offering safety and ample space for play in and out of the sea.
Kamares, Sifnos
Arriving at the port of Sifnos, you'll see Kamares, a large, sandy beach. This particular beach has been awarded a Blue Flag and is an ideal choice for families, as there are many hotels in the area and you don't need to move at all for your swims. It's quite sheltered from the winds and offers safety and comfort for children of every age. You'll find organized spots as well as trees for natural shade. There are enough restaurants and cafés to spend your whole day there and enjoy a lovely Cycladic sunset with views of the boats coming and going.
Golden Beach, Paros
Golden Beach in Paros offers ample space for adults and children. It's one of the island's most popular beaches, not only because of its size but also for its many dining and accommodation options. On one side lies Golden Beach with shallow waters and on the other New Golden Beach, which surfers love when it's windy. In the area you'll find beach bars, restaurants and hotels if you don't want to move around much and prefer to walk to the beach. However, access is also easy from the picturesque village of Marpissa, as it's just 8 minutes away by car.
Agios Prokopios, Naxos
The largest island in the Cyclades fills each summer with people of all ages, including many families. Beyond its beautiful villages, Naxos also has many impressive beaches. One of the most popular is Agios Prokopios, known for its fine, golden sand. The waters are shallow and azure, which is why many families choose it. It's almost 6 km from Chora and is organized with sunbeds and umbrellas. Next to the beach there are several options for food and going out, as well as hotels and rooms.
