Paros island - South coast, Paroikia & Naoussa | family vacay
Updated: Aug 5
Paros is a big island in Greece, and when visiting (especially in August) I would recommend staying οn the South Coast as it is well protected from the strong summer winds called «Meltemia».
There are two villages you should also visit no matter what, and that would be the port named Paroikia and Naoussa.
We were hosted in a traditional Greek summer house on the south coast where our local friends stay during their summer vacations.
Lolantonis beach - a hidden gem
A stunning stretch of white sand and crystal blue waters! Located on the west coast of the mainland, it offers breathtaking views of the sea and nearby islands. The shallow water is great for swimming and snorkeling. No matter how windy the day is (north wind), it is always perfect here, as the beach is on the south of the island and protected by cliffs.
There is only one beach bar/restaurant named Cliff, offering cocktails, sunbeds, and unique high quality food.
We loved spending our day at the beach, and then just going straight up for lunch. We arrived early in the morning (before11am) to find the best spot on the beach, as there is not much space available and it's preferable to find a spot on right side, where there is no wind at all. There is a parking next to the restaurant.
Chrysi Akti {Golden beach}
Golden Beach is the largest beach in Paros and one of the most beautiful on the island. Its characteristics are the golden sands and its blue waters. The location of the beach is ideal for water sports lovers due to the strong winds. On the beach, you can find surf schools, scuba diving centers and beach bars with umbrellas/sunbeds to rent.
When the wind is north, there will be no waves in the sea but still it is very windy, so I wouldn’t recommend it for families with small children as we did. We went to the end of the beach to hide ourselves behind some rocks… Pick a calm day to enjoy it.
Kalogeros beach - a Natural Clay Treatment
If you’ re looking for a completely unique experience while visiting Paros in Greece, then Kalogeros is a perfect idea. A unique beach where you can give yourself a personal spa treatment and have some fun moments with your family! At Kalogeros Beach you’re welcome to cover yourself in clay, have a walk in the warm Greek sun, and let your body soak in all the powerful minerals.
You may choose going to the left or right to get to the cliffs where the argile is hidden. We mixed the clay from the walls with the sea water - scrub the walls of the rock surface with a stone to get crumbs of argyle if you can’t find clay. Once the clay concoction was done, we spread it all over our bodies (except our eyes) and waited for it to dry. It's known for its therapeutic abilities for skin conditions.
The beach itself is rocky and sandy at the same time, surrounded by steep cliffs and super protected from north winds. You should have all the necessary things with you, like water and snacks as there is no beach bar nearby.
Glyfa Beach
A peaceful small beach escape, protected from the north winds, with many trees providing shade. The beach is mainly sandy with just a few pebbles on one side. I would recommend snorkeling as there are many underwater treasures to be found! There is plenty of parking and a beach bar offering food and snacks (very polite service).
"Alyki" coastal village
Aliki is a beautiful coastal village with a harbor hosting fishing boats as well as tourists’ boats, having an overall tranquil ambiance. There are beaches nearby if you want to combine swimming and having lunch right after as you will find many seaside cafés and restaurants to choose from. At the entrance to the village there is a small playground for children, something rare to find in Greek villages so take advantage of it!
We decided thought to take things slow and had a late evening walk on the wide sidewalk by the sea, ending at the harbor. The sunset was beautiful, and we clicked some charming pictures to remember. After that we had a dinner at Theros restaurant, where we enjoyed the modern Greek cuisine and loved the location just in front of the beach as it got super comfortable watching the kids playing while eating our meal.
"Dryos" picturesque fishing village
A peaceful, verdant oasis in the southeastern part of Paros. Arriving by car, you will find a free parking just on the sea front. On the sea front of this picturesque fishing village, there is just one restaurant, one tavern and a cafe-bar beautifully situated. At the end of it, you will find a small cove, home to many fishing boats. It was a very calm evening and felt super safe for the kids. We ate our dinner at the taverna and had a lovely time.
Piso Livadi and the marina
A rising cosmopolitan settlement of Paros. The marina in Piso Livadi has always been a mooring spot for impressive rigs and quite large yachts bringing travelers from all over the Cyclades. The beautiful, seafront promenade leading to the marina is a true must in terms of the island’s gastronomy and, so, attract lots of visitors every day. Don’t limit yourself thought to a short seaside stroll and, make sure you explore the village’s uphill streets, that comprise of idyllic Cycladic views, where more and more shops open every year.
We visited the village at sunset, and I would recommend doing so, because as time passes by more and more visitors arrive and parking may be a problem – there is only one small public parking lot. I would suggest also to have a table reservation as you may not find a place to sit by the sea, and it is totally worth it. There is also a place to eat crepes and waffles.
Naousa downtown - The highlight of Paros
One of the prettiest villages and increasingly one of the most popular destinations in the Cyclades, located in a bay in the northern part of the island. The lovely village of Naoussa is built around a tiny, picturesque port where little colorful fishing boats (kaikia) moor - undeniably beautiful.
The main appeal is simply wandering its labyrinth of streets through the traditional, whitewashed architecture and quaint stone-paved roads, decorated with the natural shrubberies (called vokamvilia) that color the walkways.
In addition, the village has many beautiful churches to visit such as the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin, which is located on the highest spot of the village, or the Church of Agios Nikolaos (Saint Nicholas), so when finding one, just enter, light a candle, and find your moment of peace. The narrow-cobbled alleyways are a delight to wander around but in high season it may be too crowded. There are a few traditional Greek tavernas, but these are outnumbered by swanky international cuisine and chic cocktails bars, with a generous side helping of expensive designer clothing boutiques, a little bit of that cosmopolitan vibe that Mykonos Chora is known for. When you visit the village, make sure to have lunch or dinner reservations, but keep in mind that prices are higher than average but still much lower than in Mykonos or Santorini.
The area is also famous for its numerous golden beaches filling the natural bay, such as Kolymbithres, Agioi Anargyri, Monastiri and places such as the Paros Park.
Parikia {Paroikia} the port
Τhe epicentre of life and commerce on Paros, Parikia is the capital and the main port on the island! There are ferries that float into town all day from different parts of the Greek Cyclades. It’s here where locals go about their daily lives, so the town has a far more raw feel to it. The town caters not only for tourists, but for locals too, so prices are normal, and you can find just about anything you need on the streets. While we wouldn’t spend any longer than a day exploring the town, if you get away from the waterfront, the interior of the town of Parikia is a labyrinth of narrow streets and alleys, small hidden churches, whitewashed stone Cycladic houses and neo-classical mansions with small shops, cafes and restaurants!
The church of Panagia Ekatontapiliani with the Hundred Doors is located a few meters from the port, and it is one of the best-preserved Paleo-Christian monuments in Greece. Try to combine visiting Parikia with your arrival or departure if travelling via boat.
Tips
Paros is a Cycladic Island, means it can often be windy, especially in August. When going to free beaches I would recommend taking a good quality beach umbrella with you or an anti-wind beach shade.
While sitting on the beach, don’t put your stuff near the sea, because when a ship passes by (you may not see the ship but that doesn’t mean it’s not out there) big waves are created and many things, like towels or toys too close to the shore are are taken out to sea…
Don’t hesitate to eat fruit from the trees. Especially the figs in August are one of a kind!
Please use your sunscreen. If not, getting burned is a piece of cake and may frankly ruin your vacations.
Greeks may never be on time, but the ferries are, so don’t get fooled by the chill island vibes and be at least 30 minutes before departure.
Try to keep up with the Greek time schedule to live the island’s life at its fullest. Have a siesta nap (3-5pm) and stay up till midnight (at least). Children too!
Transportation
The main ferry port on Paros is Parikia and is well-connected with Pireaus & Rafina and other islands in the Cyclades. See Ferryhopper for ferry connections and tickets. Before travelling via ship, especially the fast ones like jets, don’t drink lots of water and try eating mainly solid food in order not to get dizzy. We travelled to Paros via Fast Ferries from Rafina port in Attica.
KTEL Paros for bus routes and timetables. There is a small bus station right next to the ferry port and buses frequently run. The buses don’t run frequently so make sure to check the return schedule beforehand. Still, I would recommend renting a vehicle.
Rent a car - you will find some option in the port (we prebooked on karent)
Taxis are difficult to find and if you do it will cost you approximately 50€.
It also has an airport, currently domestic flights only – see Skyscanner for flights and deals.
Naoussa has a popular marina – see Marina Reservation for further info.
Paros is a huge island and each time I am visiting this place I discover new hidden gems, like villages or beaches. When staying on the south coast and there is extra time available I would recommend seeing also villages Marpissa, Lefkes, Marmara and Kostos.
Sonia Gerodimou
Proof-reader Valerie Kousoulis
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