- Last Updated: October 20, 2023
- Lande
Discover Family-Friendly Beaches in Naxos Greece: Sun, Sand, and Smiles
We hopped on a high-speed ferry for a quick trip from Santorini to the serene beaches of Naxos, Greece. After the adventure in Santorini, our 3-night beach getaway in Naxos was pure relaxation. The island’s laid-back, local vibe made it the highlight of our trip. I’ll always cherish the moment when the ferry door swung open, revealing the majestic sight of the Apollo Temple.
Where to stay
We were truly impressed with the Aphrodite Luxury Apartments in Agios Prokopios. Our 2-bedroom apartment was immaculate, featuring a full kitchen, hydro-massage shower, a sunlit private veranda, and a hot tub. Unlike many beachside accommodations, this place was exceptionally clean and well-maintained. It’s conveniently located just steps away from the beach, with restaurants and supermarkets nearby. Despite the lack of recent reviews, our stay was fantastic. They even offer laundry facilities, and the owner was incredibly friendly and helpful.
What to do
Day 1:
Upon unpacking, our first stop was the beach. Naxos has limited cabs, which we discovered at the port, I wish we opted for the efficient bus system instead. Conveniently, our apartment was close to a bus stop, which would have made it a preferable choice. Bus tickets are available at local supermarkets and buses run frequently. The beaches in Naxos have a unique feature – they are lined with restaurants that offer free beach chairs or palapas with a minimum food purchase, which we found quite affordable. Arriving around 3 pm, we were even granted free seating at Colosseo. We savored pizza and gyros there. After relaxing in the hot tub at our apartment, we ventured to a local Greek taverna for a delicious authentic meal.
Day 2:
In the mornings, I took a relaxing walk on the beach, where I saw people jogging and biking. I would stop daily at Kavourakia Grill House, family-owned place, to pick up coffee and delicious savory and sweet crepes for the family. Eating breakfast outside on the terrace was nice, and there weren’t any bothersome bugs. We also tried different pastries at Glikofournismata , a local bakery for breakfast and dessert. We chose to rent beach chairs at Kahlua Beach Cafe Bar, where the seats were clean, and the service was great. We met a lovely family there and ended up having dinner together in Naxos Town. The town has lots of restaurants, dessert shops, and souvenir stores to explore after dinner. We also visited the Apollo Temple at night, and it was breathtaking, although the windy and splashy path made it a bit exciting.
Day 3:
Our destination was Plaka Beach, a quick bus ride away. We opted for a relaxing day at Yazoo Summer Bliss. Plaka Beach offers a quieter atmosphere. While I enjoyed both Agios Prokopios and Plaka, I appreciated the variety of activities near Agios Prokopios. We also visited Aiga Anna, likely the quietest of all three. I recommend exploring at least Agios Prokopios and one other beach to enjoy different experiences. Plaka and Anna stood out with their less crowded and, in my opinion, more picturesque shores.
What to eat
Colosseo – Our first meal in Naxos was a delightful experience. We savored pizza, gyros, and milkshakes for the kids.
Traditional Greek Tavern Giannoulis – A popular local spot with a bit of a wait, but they offer complimentary wine and juice, making it worth the while. The restaurant exudes a fantastic local vibe, and everyone is welcoming. The food is mouthwatering.
Lefto’s Souvlaki Kebab House – The best place for affordable and delicious gyros.
Kahlua Beach Cafe Bar – While the food may not be extraordinary, we enjoyed the modern atmosphere and finger foods.
Glikofournismata Bakery Agios Prokopios – A superb local bakery for Greek pastries and ice cream.
Kavourakia Grill House – Their savory and sweet crepes were a daily breakfast delight, paired with iced coffee.
To Elliniko Restaurant – Our last-night visit was a pleasant surprise with local Naxos dishes and delectable seafood. Although there isn’t much shade, it’s perfect for a pleasant evening. They tend to get busy, so consider making reservations.
Waffle House – For delicious gelato in Naxos Town near the port, a sweet ending to a satisfying meal.
Yazoo Summer Bliss – Situated on Plaka Beach, this spot boasts a modern ambiance. It’s among the higher-priced options on the strip of restaurants.
Helpful Tips- Discover Family-Friendly Beaches in Naxos Greece: Sun, Sand, and Smiles
It’s challenging to secure a cab from the ferry, so I highly recommend prearranging transportation with your hotel or accommodation beforehand. All cabs have a flat rate of 25-30 euros. While the bus system is straightforward, it can be overwhelming on your first day.
We were pleased with our choice to stay in Agios Prokopios, as it offered plenty of dining options and we loved our apartment.
If you’re contemplating which Greek island to visit with kids, I wholeheartedly recommend Naxos.
I contacted all the restaurants in advance to make reservations, but it’s also possible to walk in and dine.
Flying to Athens was definitely the way to go, with only a 30-minute pre-flight wait and a shorter flight than expected. While the ferry can be a great one-time experience, it can be overwhelming with kids on multiple trips.
Remember, July can get scorching, so don’t forget your hat. Be sure to check out my other recommendations for international trips and essential pool items too.