Ios is an island in the Cyclades offering superb scenery. It’s an island much appreciated by young people for partying, but also (and this is no contradiction) prized by lovers of tranquillity and idleness. The beaches of Ios are numerous and magnificent.
On Ios, you’ll find a wide variety of beaches, from large sandy ones lined with beach bars to small, unspoilt coves sheltered from the crowds.
Here are our favorite beaches on Ios. Generally speaking, if you’re looking for peace and quiet, make the most of the beaches in the morning, when the party-goers are still in bed. Until midday, the beaches are virtually deserted, even in the middle of August (we speak from experience).
Ios’ most famous beach: Mylopotas
Mylopotas is certainly the best-known beach on Ios. This 1.5 km stretch of sand is located on the west coast, 2km south of Chora. It’s shaped like a semicircle and has the advantage of being fairly well sheltered from the wind.
With its seaside resort feel, Mylopotas has everything you need: hotels, a campsite, tavernas, bars…
This beach will delight water sports enthusiasts, and we’ve spotted a number of activities on the Manawa website that tempt us: windsurfing, wakeboarding or water-skiing, diving (for beginners or advanced), boat trips and snorkeling, canoeing…
One of the most beautiful beaches on Ios: Manganari
Just south of Ios, Manganari is a superb spot. It’s actually two large sandy beaches separated by a rocky islet, with smaller beaches on either side. The sand is fine and white and, above all, the sea is magnificent. It’s a real pleasure, especially in the morning when the sun gives the water a turquoise sheen.
There are also a number of parasols and deckchairs.
In fact, it was on this beach that one of the scenes of Luc Besson’s film “The big Blue” was filmed.
Koumbara
Koumbara is a small sandy beach located 3 kilometers west of Chora. It has been fitted out. There’s a tavern, beach bars and sun loungers and parasols. There are also a few small coves around the rocks.
The water is clear, transparent and shallow. Ideal for young children.
This beach is very popular with naturists.
Gialos (or Yalos / Yialos) beach
Gialos is a crescent-shaped beach. It is partly wild and partly developed.
Of all the beaches on Ios, this is not the most spectacular. But it has the advantage of being rather quiet and, above all, within walking distance of the port. It is lined with bars.
A convenient beach for families.
The “secret” cove: Tzamaria
Tzamaria is one of the least-visited beaches on Ios. It’s a pretty little undeveloped cove. It is located near the end of Gialos beach.
This beach is little known to travellers. And yet it’s very pleasant.
Kolitsani
Kolitsani is a beach accessible only on foot or by boat. Naturism is tolerated here.
This is a wild beach, so remember to bring sun protection and food and drink.
Agia Theodoti
Among the beaches on Ios, Agia Theodoti is also one of the least frequented. Yet it’s a beautiful beach, easily accessible. It is dominated by a 16th-century church.
The water is a magnificent aquamarine color.
Minor drawbacks: 1/ there’s no shade and 2/ this beach is windy because it’s exposed to the north wind.
Valmas: one of the smallest beaches on Ios
Valmas is a very small beach, accessible only on foot. It’s an easy drive from Chora (about 2km). The path leads from the Agia Irini church to the port. But be careful, as the return journey is tiring due to the steep gradient.
Plakes
Fifteen kilometers from Chora, this beach is also well worth a visit. It is fairly isolated and therefore little frequented.
Psathi
Psathi beach is a breeding ground for Caretta-Caretta sea turtles.
It’s a magnificent beach, bordered by hills and surrounded by small coves. It is popular with windsurfers. Naturism is prohibited.
If you settle here, be careful to respect the turtles’ nesting areas.
Lorentzena
Finally, let’s end our tour of the beaches of Ios with Lorentzena, an undeveloped beach located 5km from Chora. There’s no food or drink on site. So remember to take water.
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And to find out more about Ios, see also our articles :
Laure M.
Updated March 28, 2024
