Famed for its dramatic rocky landscape, whitewashed buildings, lively nightlife and crystal-clear waters, there are many sides to Mykonos. But for those whose idea of holiday bliss includes waking up with a view of the big blue sea, the toughest question is which beach makes the best base for your next Greek getaway.
Elia Beach – the choice for a first-class flop and drop escape
If serenity, endless sand, water sports and a luxurious vibe are high on your holiday hitlist, then look no further than Elia Beach, the largest beach on the island’s south coast, approximately 10 kilometres from Mykonos Town.
A far cry from the pumping music and people watching at beach club hubs Paradise and Super Paradise, Elia Beach offers a sophisticated ambience for those who like to kick back and chill out with a cocktail or smoothie, fresh seafood and sunset views. Lined with comfortable sun loungers and parasols, Elia Beach is protected from Mykonos’ famous winds and ideal for escapists who like to head into town to explore the labyrinth-like cobbled streets, tavernas and boutiques, then escape the crowds to flop and drop in their own blissed-out balmy retreat.
For those who like to mix their mojitos by the pool with a little action and adventure, options include hiking from Elia Beach to Agrari Beach, jet-skiing, parasailing, kayaking, wakeboarding, windsurfing and stand-up paddleboarding. Beach-hopping enthusiasts can take a water taxi to nearby Platis Gialos or Ornos Beach for a change of scenery.
Accommodation at Elia Beach is built into the hillside for peak panoramic views, picture-perfect pool decks and easy access to the sandy shores below. The Myconian Collection offers a range of luxurious boutique properties overlooking Elia Beach, with guests enjoying reciprocal rights to enjoy the pools, spas and restaurants of each, and a dedicated complimentary shuttle transports guests between their hotel and Elia Beach. Concierges are on hand to arrange everything from luxury transports and unpacking services to private yachts, helicopter charters, personal shopping tours and private picnics.
Platis Gialos – a blissful balance between lively and laidback
One of the most popular beaches in Mykonos, Platis Gialos is renowned for its wide sandy beach and shallow clear waters. Set in a half-moon shaped bay, the beachfront is lined with restaurants, casual tavernas and bars – seafood is a stand out of course – and there are sunbeds, umbrellas and water sports including jet-skiing, windsurfing and banana boat rides.
With the beach set in front of an imposing granite landscape, the vibe here is upscale and romantic, and with Chora an easy and short bus ride away, Platis Gialos is the prime pick for travellers who like to be amongst the action and excitement of town, yet still go to bed and wake up to the sound of lapping waves and a refreshing sea breeze.
Ornos Beach – chic, cosmopolitan and close to the action
Chic yet family friendly, Ornos Beach lies at the heart of sheltered Ornos Bay and is a popular stop for yachts and offers a raft of restaurants, cafes, tavernas and a lively ambience. Located on the south coast of the island just 3.5 kilometres from Mykonos Town, Ornos Beach lies in front of a small fishing village showcasing iconic Cycladic architecture, and exudes a resort-like atmosphere with fine sand, sunbeds, umbrellas and calm crystalline waters made for swimming.
Ornos is a popular departure port for day trips on private yachts, beach-hopping tours, or to explore the ancient ruins on the nearby island of Delos.