Elia is Mykonos' largest beach, one of the most beautiful, and the official unofficial nude beach. Like all of Mykonos, it has a "live and live" attitude, so it's no wonder that it's currently the favorite "gay beach," meaning where gay travelers prefer to spend their days in the sun.
It’s almost completely covered in parasols and sunbeds, but there’s always a small sunbed-free section for those who prefer to lie on the sand. It’s usually on that small section that you’ll see the rainbow flag and the gay crowds.
The water is crystal-clear and perfect for swimming. Continuing to the right, over the rocks, you reach Agrari Beach. In between, there are two other little beaches that are also favorites of the LGBT community.
How to Get to Elia Beach
Elia is 25 minutes by car from Mykonos Town. It can also be reached by bus, departing from the Old Port.
For more information about the Old Port bus terminal, look here: Mykonos Buses
For the exact location of the beach, see the Mykonos beaches map.
Hotels in Elia Beach
Elia Beach Resort
True to its name, this hotel is right on Elia beach, with rooms and suites facing the sea or a garden. Some of them have a terrace or balcony. Guests can also enjoy cocktails and seafood meals at the bar and restaurant.
Cova Mykonos Suites
This property stands above the beach with a view over the Aegean. It’s a boutique hotel with just a few rooms, each featuring a minimalist décor, and some with a sitting area or terrace. There’s also an inviting pool with a panoramic view.
Arte & Mare Luxury Suites & Spa
With its villas and suites accommodating as many as eight people, this hotel attracts groups of friends and families, as well as couples who enjoy spacious rooms. It’s just a few feet from the sand, and features a pool on the terrace, and private pools in a few of the rooms. Guests enjoy meals with sea views at the restaurant, and rejuvenate at the spa.
Greco Philia Hotel Boutique
Tastefully-decorated suites and villas make up this boutique hotel up on a hill. The magnificent location provides panoramic views over the Aegean and Elia from most of the units and common areas around the pool. For extra pampering there are different treatments at the spa.
Myconian Imperial Resort & Villas
If you're looking for a quiet place to relax but still be close to the beach, consider this hotel. It caters mostly to couples, reflected on the hearts that decorate some of the rooms, which may also have an outdoor hot tub or private pool. But there are also the large common pools and the restaurant, always with views over the sea.
Myconian Avaton Design Hotel
This resort has different types of rooms, suites and villas, all featuring a modern design and panoramic views. It also features a swimming pool, although many guests will have their own private pool in their room. It’s just a short walk from the beach, and includes services like a fitness center, a restaurant, and even a hairdresser.
Myconian Utopia Resort
Suites with private pools, hot tubs and/or sea views await you at this resort just a short walk from the beach. Everything from the rooms to the common areas is well designed, mixing contemporary and Cycladic-inspired pieces. The outdoor pool faces the sea, as does the restaurant.
Myconian Villa Collection
Yet another property of the Myconian chain by Elia beach, but this one is for lovers. There’s a “Lover’s Suite” with private pool, but any room is a good choice for couples, with their sea views and with some featuring hot tubs. The beach is about a 5-minute walk away, and can be seen from some of the rooms. There’s also an infinity pool, a spa, and a poolside bar and restaurant.
Royal Myconian Resort & Villas
This elegant resort is just a few feet from the beach, and overlooks the Aegean. Guests enjoy views from just about everywhere, including the large pool and the restaurant. The 5-star service includes a spa, gym, and shuttle service to Mykonos Town.
