The Most Beautiful Beaches in Milos, Greece

Best known for its moonscape aesthetic, thanks to the island’s volcanic geology – Sarakiniko has a unique colour and shape – no trees or vegetation grow here, and it is entirely made of rock. Even though it’s categorized as a beach, Sarakiniko isn’t a typical bucket and spade spot. The sand consists of a small area which divides Sarakiniko in half, and keep your eyes peeled to see the remains of a shipwreck just offshore. You can also dive from the cliffs here – start on the lower level before working up the courage to jump from the top.

Gerakas is a small sandy beach surrounded by white cliffs on the southern coast of Milos that can only be accessed by boat. The water is a particularly vibrant shade of turquoise, and you will see plenty of sea life if you dive in for a swim or snorkel. Boats can anchor here, so be sure to take some time soaking up the magical atmosphere of the hidden cove and its rocky backdrop.

Offering sand, shade and the inevitable clear water, Pollonia Beach has all the ingredients for a day’s relaxation. Protected by a natural gulf, this small bay has lots of handy tamarind trees and a few umbrellas and loungers to rent. There is a car park, bus stop and a few amenities in the nearby village, but many beachgoers go further afield, so this is predominantly a quiet spot.

Like almost all beaches on the west coast of Milos, Agathia is very difficult to access by land because of the sketchy dirt tracks. However, reach this remote beach in a 4×4 or by boat and you will be rewarded with a serene stretch of long, sandy beach with direct views of the uninhabited islet of Antimilos, which seems close enough to touch. There are no facilities here but plenty of privacy, which makes it a dreamy spot for couples.

Tucked away between volcanic cliffs on the island’s southern coast, Tsigrado Beach appeals to the more adventurous, as it can only be accessed by climbing down a narrow crack in a cliff using ropes and ladders to aid you. It might sound challenging, but it really isn’t that bad and many beachgoers have been clambering up and down daily. Aside from the seclusion factor, Tsigrado has heaps of caves to explore, so come prepared with lunch, drinks, sunscreen and a snorkel for an all-day stay.

Designed for holidaymakers, there is a welcome row of straw umbrellas lining the long stretch of beach at Fyriplaka – but they get snapped up quickly, so you may wish to bring your own. You can’t ignore the stunning natural archway carved into the sea here; swim through and see that the water is only about shoulder height, so it’s perfectly safe to go inside the cave for a closer look. You can find smaller rock pools and lagoons at the end which are ideal for snorkelling.

Papafragas is situated on the northeastern end of the island, tucked between vertical cliffs, which come with a warning of falling rocks. However, countless beachgoers have braved the descent, and you will be rewarded with a small stretch of sand forming a narrow canal to the sea. The waves can get quite choppy, but if you’re brave enough, there’s a small tunnel in the cliff that you can pass through before emerging in the open, turquoise sea.