Plaka Beach, Mikri Vigla, and Orkos Beach, Naxos - Image 1
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Plaka Beach Mikri Vigla Naxos and Orkos Beach Naxos

4.7
·209 reviews·, Greece

Naxos' western coast offers vast sandy beaches, ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing, with crystal-clear waters and vibrant beach life.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Calmer waters for swimming

CrowdLow
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Plaka Beach, Mikri Vigla, and Orkos Beach, Naxos - Image 1

Plaka Beach Mikri Vigla Naxos and Orkos Beach Naxos

Best Time

Morning

Calmer waters for swimming

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Naxos' western coast offers vast sandy beaches, ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing, with crystal-clear waters and vibrant beach life.

4.7
(209 reviews)

"A paradise for windsurfers and a beautiful spot for beach lovers, though be prepared for the wind!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Rent an ATV/Scooter

Explore multiple beaches easily! Great for discovering hidden gems along the coast.

💨 Embrace the Breeze

It's windy! Perfect for watersports, but bring a cover-up for sunbathing.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Windsurfing & Kitesurfing Spectacle

Windsurfing & Kitesurfing Spectacle

Mikri Vigla Beach

Witness thrilling aerial maneuvers as kitesurfers and windsurfers dance on the waves. A true spectacle of skill and athleticism.

Expansive Sandy Shores

Expansive Sandy Shores

Plaka Beach

Miles of soft, coarse sand meet crystal-clear turquoise waters. Perfect for long walks and soaking up the Mediterranean sun.

Unique Street Art Ruins

Unique Street Art Ruins

Alyko Beach (near Mikri Vigla)

Explore an abandoned hotel transformed into an open-air art gallery with vibrant street art.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Wind: Naxos' Windy West Coast

Plaka and Mikri Vigla beaches are renowned for their consistent winds, making them a paradise for windsurfers and kitesurfers. If you're seeking calm waters for swimming, consider visiting earlier in the day or exploring other Naxos beaches. The coarse sand here is a plus, minimizing sand blow-back even on breezy days.

Beach Hopping Adventure

These beaches are part of a stunning stretch of coastline. Renting an ATV or scooter allows you to easily explore neighboring spots like Agia Anna and Agios Prokopios, discovering hidden coves and diverse beach vibes. Don't miss the abandoned hotel ruins with street art near Alyko.

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Calmer waters for swimming
Crowd
Low
When
Early Afternoon
Why
Wind picks up for watersports
Crowd
Medium
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Spectate windsurfers
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

We found this gem while ATVing the west coast from Plaka Beach to Agia Anna. 10/10 recommend this ride–so many beautiful beachfront spots along the way. . . . #naxosgreece #naxosisland #naxostravel #naxosrestaurants #greeksummer #thingstodoinnaxos #naxosfood #foodieadventures
@sceneoverheard
6.2K likes • 110.9K views

🚗 Rent an ATV/Scooter

Explore multiple beaches easily! Great for discovering hidden gems along the coast. TikTok

💨 Embrace the Breeze

It's windy! Perfect for watersports, but bring a cover-up for sunbathing. Reddit

One of my favorite days in Greece. #naxos #naxosisland #yazoosummerbliss #plakabeachnaxos #plakabeach #greekislands #greekislandhopping #greekbeachclubs #yazoobeachclub
@sistersinvacationmode
4.6K likes • 176.1K views
Naxos – Day 2 🇬🇷 Beach-hopping heaven in the Cyclades! Explored Agiassos, Psilli Ammos, Pyrgaki, Alyko (with abandoned hotel ruins covered in street art), Glyfada, Mikri Vigla, Orkos, Plaka (worked up the courage to swim despite the cool temps), Agia Anna, and Agios Prokopis… one dreamy spot after another. One of the best things about travelling in the shoulder season – hardly any people! I had...
jess.healwritetravel
15 likes • 368 views

🍕 Pizza Perfection

Don't miss the Italian restaurant nearby for amazing pizza! Reddit

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Ideal for walking along the long sandy stretches. :athletic_shoe:

Top 3 reasons to spend your precious holidays on Naxos: - Wonderful beach vacation: Naxos is famous for its’ wonderful long sandy beaches such as: Ag. Prokopios, Ag. Anna, Plaka, Orkos and Mikri Vigla and Kastraki. Along this west coast of the island, you have all options for a beach vacation: just swim and relax and enjoy the turquoise colored crystal-clear water and enjoy long list of different...
villa_andalusia_naxos_greece
8 likes • 129 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Rent an ATV/Scooter

Explore multiple beaches easily! Great for discovering hidden gems along the coast. TikTok

💨 Embrace the Breeze

It's windy! Perfect for watersports, but bring a cover-up for sunbathing. Reddit

🍕 Pizza Perfection

Don't miss the Italian restaurant nearby for amazing pizza! Reddit

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Ideal for walking along the long sandy stretches. :athletic_shoe:

🍺 Grab a Cold Beer

Enjoy spectating the windsurfers with a refreshing drink from the nearby supermarket. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(209 reviews)

Reviews Summary

These beaches are praised for their stunning natural beauty, with clean, coarse sand and incredibly clear turquoise waters. They are a mecca for windsurfers and kitesurfers, offering constant entertainment. However, visitors should be aware of the strong, consistent winds, which can make sunbathing less comfortable and swimming challenging at times.

"Amazing beach: clean sand and wonderful water color (+ perfect visibility underwater). Not great for swimming when windsurfers arrive - in our case it was in the early afternoon - but a fantastic place to spend time at."

Oleg Borodin

"This is our favorite beach on Naxos, the sand is very coarse and clean, and even in the high wind, it doesn't blow in your eyes or onto your towel or clothes. There is constant entertainment as the kite suffers do tricks. Water is crystal clear, and there is an Italian restaurant close by that serves the best pizza on the island. If you visit Naxos, don't miss this gem!"

Robin Hoon

"Beautiful beach and entertaining to spectate the kite surfers. But it’s extremely windy so not a place to lounge or swim in.
There’s a supermarket very close by so was fun to grab a beer and spectate."

Real Yang

What People Like

Beautiful clear water
Coarse, clean sand
Windsurfing/kitesurfing action

What People Dislike

Very windy conditions
Not ideal for calm swimming

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach Plaka and Mikri Vigla beaches from Naxos Town by car, scooter, or ATV. The drive is approximately 10-15 km along the west coast. Local buses also service these beaches, though schedules may vary. Renting a vehicle offers the most flexibility for exploring the numerous beaches along this stretch. TikTok

Yes, local buses connect Naxos Town to Plaka and Mikri Vigla. However, for the best experience and to explore other nearby beaches like Alyko or Kastraki, renting a scooter or ATV is highly recommended. Instagram

It's a long walk from Agios Prokopios to Plaka Beach, but it's a beautiful coastal route. Many visitors enjoy walking between adjacent beaches like Plaka and Mikri Vigla. Reddit

Renting an ATV or scooter is the most popular and convenient way to hop between Plaka, Mikri Vigla, Orkos, and other stunning beaches like Alyko and Kastraki. TikTokInstagram

Yes, there are parking areas available at both Plaka and Mikri Vigla beaches, especially near the beach clubs and restaurants. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, both Plaka Beach and Mikri Vigla Beach are public beaches and do not have an entrance fee. You only pay for services like sunbeds, umbrellas, or food and drinks at the beach bars and restaurants. TikTok

Beach clubs and restaurants typically open in the late morning and stay open until the evening, especially during the peak summer season. Hours can vary, so it's best to check specific establishments. Reddit

During peak season, it's advisable to arrive earlier in the day to secure good sunbeds, especially at popular beach clubs. For specific events or prime locations, booking might be an option. TikTok

Generally, there are no specific restrictions for visiting the beaches themselves. However, be mindful of the wind conditions, especially if you're not participating in watersports. Reddit

The abandoned hotel ruins at Alyko are accessible and have become a popular spot for street art enthusiasts. It's an open-air exploration, so no tickets are required. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Plaka Beach is beautiful with clear waters, but it can get windy, especially in the afternoon, which is ideal for windsurfing. For calmer swimming conditions, visiting in the morning is recommended. TikTokReddit

Mikri Vigla Beach is famous for its strong, consistent winds, making it a prime destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It's also a great spot to watch these sports. TikTokReddit

Yes, these beaches are known for being quite windy, particularly in the afternoon. This is a major draw for windsurfers and kitesurfers but can be less ideal for those seeking a completely calm beach experience. Reddit+1

The sand at these beaches is coarse and clean, which is a significant advantage as it tends not to blow into your eyes or onto your belongings as much as finer sand. Reddit

Many of the beach clubs and organized sections of Plaka and Mikri Vigla offer facilities such as restrooms and showers for their patrons. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Absolutely! There are several beachfront tavernas and restaurants. One highly recommended spot near Mikri Vigla serves 'the best pizza on the island.' Reddit

You'll find a range of options from casual beach bars serving snacks and drinks to more formal tavernas offering traditional Greek cuisine and international dishes. TikTok

Most Greek tavernas offer fresh salads and vegetable-based dishes that can often be adapted for vegetarian or vegan diets. It's always best to ask your server. Reddit

Prices can vary, with beach clubs often being a bit pricier. However, you can find more affordable options at traditional tavernas slightly away from the main beachfront. Reddit

Yes, there is a supermarket very close to Mikri Vigla beach, which is convenient for grabbing drinks, snacks, or picnic supplies. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vibrant kitesurfers against the blue sea, the expansive sandy beaches, and the unique street art at the abandoned hotel near Alyko. Sunsets here are also spectacular. TikTokInstagram

The golden hours (early morning and late afternoon) offer beautiful light. Midday can be harsh, but it's perfect for capturing the action of the windsurfers. TikTok

The colorful kites of the windsurfers, the long stretches of sand, and the graffiti-covered walls of the abandoned hotel at Alyko are iconic photo spots. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the beaches. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on the windsurfers' action. Don't forget a polarizing filter for the water. :iphone:

Drone regulations can vary. It's always best to check local rules and be mindful of other beachgoers and watersports participants before flying a drone. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the wind can be a factor, Plaka Beach offers a long stretch of sand that can be fun for kids to play on. The coarse sand is less likely to get everywhere. For swimming, aim for the early mornings when the water is calmer. Nearby beach clubs often have amenities that can be helpful for families. Consider bringing beach toys and a windbreak for added comfort. TikTok

🏄‍♀️ Watersports Enthusiasts

You've found your haven! Mikri Vigla and Orkos Beaches are world-class destinations for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Numerous schools offer lessons for all levels, and the consistent winds provide thrilling conditions. The vibrant community of watersports lovers adds to the energetic atmosphere. TikTokReddit

📸 Photographers & Art Lovers

Beyond the stunning beach landscapes, the abandoned hotel ruins at Alyko offer a unique canvas for photography, covered in impressive street art. Instagram Capture the dynamic action of kitesurfers at Mikri Vigla, the expansive sandy shores of Plaka, and the beautiful sunsets that paint the sky. The contrast between natural beauty and urban art makes for diverse photographic opportunities.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Wind Factor: A Double-Edged Sword

Plaka Beach and Mikri Vigla Beach are celebrated for their consistent winds, a defining characteristic that shapes the visitor experience. For windsurfing and kitesurfing enthusiasts, this is paradise. The steady breezes create ideal conditions for both beginners learning the ropes and experienced athletes performing impressive aerial tricks. Videos often showcase the vibrant spectacle of colorful kites against the azure Aegean Sea, a testament to the area's popularity for these sports. TikTok+1

However, for those seeking a tranquil day of sunbathing and swimming, the wind can be a significant factor. Travelers often note that while the sand is coarse and less prone to blowing, the wind can still make lounging less comfortable, especially in the afternoon. Reviews suggest that visiting in the early morning offers calmer conditions for swimming and relaxation before the wind typically picks up. Reddit+1 This duality means understanding the wind's role is key to planning your perfect beach day.

Beach Hopping Along Naxos' Western Coast

Plaka and Mikri Vigla are just two gems in a string of stunning beaches lining Naxos' western shore. Many visitors recommend renting an ATV or scooter to explore this coastline thoroughly. This allows for easy access to neighboring beaches like Orkos Beach, known for its windsurfing schools, and the more secluded Kastraki Beach. TikTokInstagram

A particularly unique stop is Alyko Beach, which features an abandoned hotel complex now adorned with vibrant street art. This offers a stark contrast to the natural beauty and is a popular spot for photographers and urban explorers. Instagram The ability to seamlessly transition from the lively atmosphere of Plaka to the artistic intrigue of Alyko, and then to the watersports hub of Mikri Vigla, makes this stretch of Naxos incredibly diverse and rewarding for exploration.