Paros: Lively Towns and Serene Beaches
A short boat ride from the popular island of Mykonos brings you to Paros, a charming Cycladic Island known for its mix of bustling villages and tranquil beaches. The White Dunes is a luxury boutique hotel offering stunning views of the Aegean Sea and is just steps away from a pristine beach. The hotel’s location is perfect being just a stone’s throw away from Naoussa, a harbour town with a vivacious nightlife, wonderful restaurants and local tavernas.
Views from the Junior Suite at White Dune Hotel
A perfect eveing in Naoussa start with drinks at Agosta Bar overlooking the boats in the port while the sunsets behind the hills ahead, followed by a traditional Greek dinner at Tsachpinis.
Searocks Beach is an absolute gem you shouldn’t miss—an idyllic private spot with powder-soft white sand and crystal-clear waters. Just next door, the Kedros Restaurant awaits, helmed by the same chef as Searocks’ main eatery. Lunch is served in a serene setting perched on a rock over the sea with tables naturally shaded by the trees. The food is exquisite, particularly the taramasalata and Greek salad.
Arodo Beach, located near Parikia, is another must-visit. With tables set right on the seafront, you’ll dine with waves gently lapping beside you. The food is as flawless as the view. I particularly recommend the spaghetti with tuna and the salted mackerel.
Searocks Beach
For a change of pace, spend a day exploring the island’s traditional villages. Marpissa and Lefkes offer a glimpse into Paros’ quieter side with their cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and panoramic views of the countryside. While in Lefkes, enjoy a slice of tangy orange cake paired with a refreshing freddo cappuccino at I' Oraia Platia Ta Magkalakia.
Walking through the small cycladic streets of Marpissa
Lefkes town
One of the highlights of any trip to Paros is a day exploring Antiparos. We decided to rent a boat from SeacretCruises and the experience was truly unforgettable. Stocked with a cooler and snorkel equipment, the boat was a great size for a day out at sea.
It was simple to use, and the team were very helpful, sharing the best navigation routes and sharing the top sites to visit. Sailing to the famous Blue Lagoon and along cliffs and sea caves that are perfect for swimming or jumping into the sea, it was an ideal way to spend a day exploring the less accessible parts of the area.
Visiting the Blue Lagoon of Paros with Seacret Cruises
Milos: Unspoiled Beauty and Unique Landscapes
Just a quick boat ride from Paros lies Milos, an island celebrated for its striking rock formations, vibrant beaches, and untouched natural beauty. Ariadne Suites offers a peaceful retreat, featuring terraced rooms with private pools and stunning sea views. Its secluded location, near Plaka and Adamas, makes it an ideal base for both exploration and relaxation.
Milos boasts some of the most spectacular beaches in Greece. Sarakiniko, often referred to as the "moon beach," is renowned for its otherworldly white rock formations. Tsigrado and Firiplaka beaches are equally impressive. Reaching Tsigrado Beach requires rock climbing and navigating ladders, but the effort is worth it.
Exploring Milos by boat is essential, as many hidden treasures are best accessed by sea. Kleftiko, a breathtaking cove with turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs, and Polyaigos, an uninhabited island with an exceptionally bright blue cove. If travelling by yacht, Polyaigos is a fantastic place to dock.
Private terrace at Ariadne Suites
Dining on Milos is equally remarkable. O Hamos! is known for its authentic Greek cuisine and warm hospitality, set in a cosy location by the sea. In the wine region of Pollonia, Kostantakis Winery offers wine tastings, which pair perfectly with a local dinner at Yialos, where the seafood is fresh and locally sourced.
In Klima, the seaside village famous for its colourful houses, Astakas offers a delicious seafood dining experience with stunning sunset views over the water.
Medusa, located near Mandrakia Beach, is another iconic seafood spot, known for its grilled octopus and eel with fava. Visitors are encouraged to explore Firopotamos, a small fishing village on the water, ideal for a relaxing beach day.
Mandrakia beach located right by Medusa restaurant
The view above Tsigrado beach
For those in search of the perfect sunset, Utopia Café in Plaka offers panoramic views of the sea as the sun sets on the horizon. Plaka itself is a charming Cycladic town, full of shops and traditional restaurants.
Paros and Milos offer two distinct experiences, blending lively towns with tranquil villages and some of the most stunning beaches in the Cyclades. Whether with family, friends or in a couple, both islands promise an ideal Greek getaway.
Kostantakis Winery in Pollonia, Milos
