An alternative to the more popular island of Paros is its smaller neighbor Antiparos. Connected to Paros by a frequent ferry (departing from the port of Pounda), it can be reached in less than 10 minutes. Once you arrive at the port, just walk a few feet to the right, and you find the main street with lots of places to eat, and several hotels facing the sea. From there, it’s a short walk to the camping beach, to Psaraliki and Sifneiko (see below). On the opposite side of the island, to the south, is the village of Agios Georgios, with a couple more beaches nearby. Most beaches are within walking distance of the main town, or can be reached by bus.
Antiparos remains one of the most peaceful and traditional islands, with an unspoiled natural beauty and sandy beaches. One of them is an official nude beach, something that’s actually surprisingly rare in a country with so many beaches where nudity is common.
The Best Beaches in Antiparos
The beach by the island’s camping site is an official nude beach since the 1970s. Don’t go if you’re not comfortable with nudity and not willing to wear nothing but your birthday suit, but know that in that case, you’re missing one of the Greek islands’ best beaches. It’s a very relaxing sandy beach with a small uninhabited island across from it, which many swim to (you can also walk to it, as the water in between is shallow enough). It’s just a short walk from the main town (about 10 minutes) and the port.
On the western side of the island, by the village of Agios Georgios and 11km from the main town, is this beautiful beach of the same name. It’s a sheltered bay looking out to the uninhabited island of Despotiko, and is the option for those looking for a more secluded beach. There are a couple of traditional restaurants nearby, and boat trips to Despotiko often depart from here.
This beach is one of the most popular on the island, and, with its bar, umbrellas and sunbeds for rent, is the most similar to that of the other more famous islands’ “party beaches.” It tends to attract young couples and locals, and fewer families with children, as the water is not as shallow and it has a few rocks. Those who don’t want to pay for the shade of the umbrellas, often find shade under the trees -- but you have to get there early to get a spot.
During the summer, there are buses departing by the port to this beach.
This is really two beaches in one, Psaraliki I and Psaraliki II. Its central location (it’s a 5-minute walk from the port), shallow waters and shade from the trees attract families and those who enjoy water sports. It’s a fairly organized beach, so you have several options, from windsurfing to beach tennis. If you prefer to just sunbathe, there are sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, where you can lie as you watch the boats going between the island and neighboring Paros.
Facing the island of Paros, Glyfa is for those looking for a more off-the-beaten-path beach. It’s found in a southern, rural part of the island, about 6km from the main town, and remains calm and unspoiled, with golden sand and clear waters. That makes it a favorite of families, and an alternative to the more popular Psaraliki.
The small beach of Sifneikos is named after the neighboring island is Sifnos, which can be seen in the distance. It has crystal-clear waters, but it can be windy, and on those windy days the calm waters can turn into waves. Its alternative name is “Sunset Beach,” as it’s the island’s best spot to watch the sunset.
To get to this beach, walk up the main street of Antiparos to the main square, and go through the low arch. Follow the road that turns left, and you’re there.
Recommended Hotels in Antiparos
Artemis Hotel
This family-owned hotel is within walking distance of several beaches and of the main street, where you find all kinds of restaurants and shops. Some of the rooms have balconies, and a small buffet breakfast is served on a terrace facing the sea.
Kouros Village Hotel
Found right by the sea, just a short walk from the port and the main beaches, this hotel has a large pool and spacious rooms. It’s a good choice for families, and babysitting is available upon request.
Nicolas Studios
Offering simple self-catering studios and apartments for families, groups of friends or couples, this is a good budget option close to the beaches and the port.
