Last month I had the pleasure of making a European pitstop before heading back to my day job as lady in tech in Bucharest. Experiencing a touch of denial about the close of summer months, Athens and Mykonos beaches seemed like the perfect spot to transition to autumn.

With only four nights to spend in the Cyclades, I had a tough choice to make. Should I relax and unwind in Santorini or Mykonos?  While Santorini has some of Greece’s most picturesque views and romantic sunset, beach lovers should opt for Mykonos.

A new adventure on Mykonos Beaches

Mykonos, located in the heart of the Aegean sea, offers couples, families, and solo travelers a variety of adventure on and off the shore. In fact, there is a beach for every type of traveler here.

 

• Elia & Agrari Located on the southern coast of the island. Gay and nude friendly. The short walk (15 minutes) from Elia & Agari includes some stunning views of the Aegean. Bring comfortable shoes!

• Fokos Only accessible by car or scooter, which makes for a more serene experience. Located on the north side of the island, and includes one of the island’s best tavernas.

• Agios Ioannis Small bus accessible beach which includes picturesque views of ancient Delos island. Sunbed rentals available for around 20 euro a chair.

• Ornos Beach Family-friendly beach located in the southeast part of the island. Bus accessible with plenty of beachside tavernas to choose from.

• Psarou Beach resort brought to fame by the late Jackie Kennedy Onassis.

• Paradise & Super Paradise Party lovers, hop on the bus and head to these two beaches. Let the day rave begin!

• Panormos & Agios Sostis Located on the north part of the island. Few amenities are available, be sure to pack water and snacks.

 

How to get around Mykonos Island

Transportation may end up being the ‘toughest’ part of your daily island life, but luckily there are plenty of options to reach Mykonos beaches.

• Taxis With only 30 taxis existing on the island, (outside the land of Uber) I’d opt not to use them. The taxi stand is located in downtown Chora.
• Water Taxi At 10 euro one way, this is an expensive but viable option to get to the party beaches of Paradise & Super Paradise
• Scooter or ATV rental For those of you that want to explore the island at your own pace, scooters or ATVs are a great way to reach remote parts of the island. Beware, during the summer months parking can be tricky.
• Bus The most accessible and economical option. Routes cover the majority of popular beaches and run regularly out of Fabrika and Old Port. I never paid more than 5 euro for a round trip ticket. Tickets can be purchased at a kiosk or onboard (cash only).
• Your own two feet There are plenty of beach options to explore in the old town if you are willing to use your own two feet!

If interested in seeing Mykonos by the water, check out some catamaran tour options. Sailing Mykonos-style can be a luxurious option for getting around the island, or getting your bearing from the sea!

Where to Sleep on Mykonos

The answer to the accommodation is very specific to your own family and group travel needs. As a solo first time guest of the island, I found Chora (Old Town) to be the best spot to get the most out of your Mykonos beaches experience. With plenty of day-time transportation options, I’d head out to the beach during the day and return early evening.

Chora comes alive at night, with most shops and cafes closing well after midnight.  Exploration in the evening also allows you to avoid the day-time cruise crowds. When selecting accommodation, look for complimentary transportation from the airport and ferry terminal. Getting to your hotel when you arrive on the island is the most difficult cab ride, plan ahead for it!

• Chora Apartments (where I stayed) Mid-range hotel located steps from Fabrika bus station. Beautiful rooms decorated in the classic Cyclade style. Includes complimentary breakfast fit for a King or Queen!
• Kensho Boutique Hotel Luxury accommodations located steps from Ornos beach. This resort also offers a world-class spa.
• Mumua Studios Budget accommodation located in Fabrika square. Steps from all the action downtown.

Take a Break from Mykonos Beaches

It’s hard to believe that anyone would need a break from Mykonos beaches, however, it’s not a bad idea to get up off that sunbed. If you don’t you will certainly miss out on all that this island has to offer.

Catch a flick under the stars

During the summer and early fall months, a hidden gem in Chora awaits. If you are a movie lover, an open-air theatre and restaurant are tucked away behind shops and restaurants. With two showings daily, feel free to sit back, relax with a glass of local wine and catch a flick under the stars.

Windmills & Little Venice

Catch a sunset by the windmills for a picturesque view. There will still be a small crowd in the fall, but at least you’ll avoid the daytime ‘cruise’ rush.

Explore the ancient Ruins of Delos

The sacred island of Delos, known as the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, is a UNESCO world heritage site that shouldn’t be missed! A quick 30-minute ferry ride from Chora will land you right back into the 10 century BC. To make the most of your short time on this archeology site, be sure to hire a guide.

This may have been my first trip to Greece, but it most certainly will not be my last. With hundreds of islands to explore, there are always new adventures to be had.

 

If you want to see a variety of islands, check out this Greek island hopping itinerary, complete with a cruise!

Have you ever explored Mykonos beaches? What are your tips on making the most of your time in the Cyclades?