Pirgaki Beach (Pyrgaki)

One of the more remote beaches to be found on Naxos, it’s more correct to say that this large expanse of fine white sand is made up of three individual coves that get better the further south you meander. Also spelt Pyrgaki, the sands are mixed with some shells and small pebbles, particularly at the water’s edge, though this doesn’t stop those in the know heading to Pirgaki Beach for a relaxed day on the coast.

Sheltered from northern winds, Pirgaki lies on the southwest coast of the island. It has a wonderfully scenic setting, with ancient cedar trees growing along the seafront among low dunes. The shallow sweep into the alluring blues of the Aegean Sea make it a great beach for swimming for all age groups, though Pirgaki rarely ever gets crowded.

A handful of locally-owned traditional tavernas provide the usual food and drink offerings, while there are also a couple of smaller hotels and studio rooms for rent should you prefer to linger a little longer than a day. Either way, the irregular bus services even during the summer months mean visitors are better off reaching Pirgaki with their own transport, as well as umbrellas and sunbeds should they wish to use them.