Skiathos, in the Northern Sporades, stands out for its sandy beaches backed by pine trees and an active harbor scene. Peak season is July-August; shoulder months May-June and September offer warm weather with fewer visitors. Koukounaries is the best-known beach; Banana Beach and a smaller neighboring cove attract diverse crowds. The port area around Bourtzi hosts summer cultural events. Check current timetables and listings before you travel.

Why Skiathos feels like a paradise

Skiathos is a compact, pine-fringed island in the Northern Sporades that keeps surprising visitors with sheltered bays, sandy beaches and a lively harbor town. The island's mix of shallow, warm swims and fragrant pine groves makes it unusually accessible for a Greek island - an easy choice whether you want calm family beaches or a lively coastal scene.

When to go

The island is busiest in July and August. For warm weather with fewer crowds, visit in May-June or September. Greek Easter often brings local celebrations and extra life to the towns if your dates are flexible. Winters are quiet and green, but many tourist services scale back outside the main season.

Beaches worth planning for

Skiathos has dozens of beaches, many with fine sand backed by pine trees. Koukounaries is the best known: a long, sandy bay with shallow water and a protective pine lagoon behind the beach. It fills up in high summer but remains the island's prime spot for families and sunbathers.

Other stretches of sand and small coves reward boat trips and short drives. One popular shore is known locally as Banana Beach (sometimes called Big Banana) and has historically attracted a mixed crowd, including people who look for a freer beach experience. A nearby smaller cove often called Small Banana (or Spartacus Beach in some guides) is also well known.

Culture and evenings at the harbor

The port area around Bourtzi and the Old Town hosts open-air concerts, exhibitions and performances during the summer season. Nights here are relaxed: cafés and tavernas line the waterfront and the pedestrian streets behind it. The schedule and scale of events vary year to year, so check current listings before you travel.1

Practical tips

  • Getting around: local buses and frequent boat services make beaches reachable without a car. Taxis and rental scooters are available in town. 2
  • Pack reef shoes for rockier coves and a sun-hat for the open beaches. Bring cash - some smaller vendors prefer it in low season.
Skiathos keeps the tone of a traditional Greek island while serving modern holiday needs. Its mix of sandy bays and lively harbor evenings explains why many visitors call a stay there unforgettable.
  1. Confirm the total number of beaches on Skiathos (commonly cited as around 60).
  2. Verify the current official name, location and naturist history/status of Banana Beach and the so-called Small Banana/Spartacus Beach.
  3. Check the annual cultural program and events held at Bourtzi in the port and verify season/timing.
  4. Confirm the frequency and coverage of local buses and boat services to major beaches year-round.
  5. Verify whether local vendors on Skiathos commonly prefer cash in low season.

FAQs about Holidays To Kiathos

When is the best time to visit Skiathos?
For warm weather with fewer crowds, go in May-June or September. July-August is high season. Easter also brings local celebrations but can be busy in town.
Which beach should I not miss?
Koukounaries is the island's most famous beach: long, sandy, shallow and backed by pine trees. It gets crowded in peak season.
Are there naturist beaches on Skiathos?
Some beaches, historically including Banana Beach and a nearby smaller cove, have been known for naturist visitors alongside other beachgoers. Customs and enforcement vary, so check local guidance.
How do I get around the island?
Local buses and regular boats connect major beaches with Skiathos Town. Taxis and vehicle rentals are available in season.