With 60 Beaches (& an Airport!) Skiathos is the Ideal Greek Islands Escape
Looking for the perfect Greek island? Located in the Sporades, this beauty has epic beaches, a charming port, and direct flights from Europe.
If you’re dreaming of a Greek island that’s easy to get to, packed with stunning beaches, and just the right mix of chill and fun, put Skiathos, Greece on your radar.
Part of the Sporades island group in the northwest Aegean Sea, Skiathos is often overshadowed by the more famous Cyclades—but that’s exactly why it’s such a great find.
It’s lush, laid-back, and has over 60 picture-perfect beaches tucked along its pine-covered coastline (including one that I consider one of the best beaches in Greece!).
And unlike many smaller islands, Skiathos has its own airport, which means you can fly straight in from Athens or even several European cities.
Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to book through these links, I receive a small commission, which I will undoubtedly blow on more flights (it’s a vicious cycle). All of this internet voodoo takes place at no additional cost to you.
No need to string together a ferry and flight schedule just to get here.
My husband and I recently spent a week island-hopping in the Sporades islands and Skiathos was our gateway to the islands.
It also turned out to be our favorite.
Read More: Get 3 Stunning Greek Islands for the Price of One With a Trip to This Lesser-Known Island Group
So if you’re looking the perfect, well-rounded Greek island for your next beach vacation, let’s talk about why Skiathos is a great pick.
Planning a trip to Greece in 2025?
From the most spectacular beaches to the tastiest treats to try, here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip to the Greek Islands!
I’ll start at the beginning…
How to Get to Skiathos
Very few Greek islands actually have an airport, most are only reachable by ferry. That’s the first thing that makes Skiathos a great pick.
By Plane ✈️
Skiathos is home to the only airport (JSI) in the Sporades island group so it’s easy to get to from Athens or mainland Europe. Located just outside the main town, you’ll be poolside within minutes of landing and it’s the easiest way to get to Skiathos.
From Athens: Both Olympic/Aegean Air and Sky Express operate several daily flights. Flight time is a quick and easy 35 minutes.
Direct flights from Europe (seasonal): During the summer months, there are nonstop flights from cities like London, Amsterdam, Vienna, Milan, and Munich. We actually flew nonstop to Skiathos from Pisa, Italy on Ryan Air.
By Ferry ⛴️
Unless you’re Greek, you probably won’t arrive on Skiathos by ferry. But if you prefer to travel by sea—or are coming from another island, ferries run regularly to Skiathos from:
- Volos (mainland port, about 2.5–3 hours)
- Thessaloniki (less frequent but available in summer)
- Skopelos and Alonissos (perfect for island hopping)
Ferries dock in Skiathos Town, the island’s main port and capital.
Tip: The absolute best site for booking ferries in Greece is FerryHopper.com.
Where to Stay on Skiathos
Skiathos may be small, but it offers a good range of areas to stay depending on whether you prefer town or beach.
Skiathos Town is where you’ll find the most buzz—colorful houses, cute shops, and lively tavernas right on the harbor. It’s an excellent place to base if (like us!) you like to walk to dinner or want easy access to the ferry or boat trips.
There are great hotel and boutique options in town or on nearby Megali Ammos Beach.
If you’re mostly here for sand and sea, Koukounaries is another good option. Just steps from Koukounaries Beach, one of the most popular in Greece, it’s a quieter scene at night but still has beachfront tavernas and a few laid-back bars.
Whether you decide to go with town or beach, here are my favorite places to stay:
Dafni’s House (Skiathos Town) – This is where we stayed on Skiathos because we wanted a little more space (and a washing machine!). We loved this roomy home with a fully-equipped kitchen just a 5-minute walk from the Old Port.
Aegean Suites Hotel Skiathos (Megali Ammos) – For romance and luxury, it’s hard to top this adults-only boutique-style resort with amazing sea views.
Mandraki Village Boutique Hotel (Koukounaries) – This chic hotel near one of the island’s best beaches is perfect for a beach vacation.
La Piscine Art Hotel (Skiathos Town) – This stylish, adults-only hotel is known for its lovely pool area and just a 5-minute walk from town.
How to Get Around Skiathos
Water Taxis & Boat Trips 🚤
One of the most scenic and relaxing ways to explore Skiathos is by boat—and that’s how we chose to get around. Between water taxis and organized day trips, you can get just about anywhere.
- Water taxis run from Skiathos Town to many of the south coast beaches, including Koukounaries, Vromolimnos, and Banana Beach.
- You can also book organized boat trips to harder-to-reach places like Lalaria Beach and Tsougrias Island.
- Most depart from the Old Port in Skiathos Town and are easy to book on the day of or in advance.
Local Bus 🚌
Like most Greek islands, the local bus is a surprisingly efficient way to get around the island’s more developed southern side.
- The main route runs from Skiathos Town to Koukounaries Beach, with frequent stops at popular beaches and resorts along the way.
- Buses are cheap, reliable, and run regularly in summer—every 15 to 20 minutes in peak season.
- You can buy tickets onboard or at mini markets and kiosks.
Rent a Car, Scooter, or ATV 🚗
If you want to explore the island’s northern coast or remote inland areas, a rental is your best bet.
- Northern beaches like Mandraki, Aselinos, or Kehria are not accessible by public bus
- Roads are mostly paved, but some inland or northern routes are rougher—drive carefully
- Parking in Skiathos Town can be tricky, especially in high season
Best Things to Do on Skiathos
Now, let’s get to the good stuff! Here are the best things to see and do around Skiathos:
1. Lalaria Beach and the Blue Caves
If you only have time for one excursion when you visit Skiathos, make it Lalaria Beach.
It’s easily one of the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever seen in my life (and I’ve been to 175 countries so that’s saying a lot!).
Lalaria easily makes my list of the top 15 beaches in Greece.
Read More: 15 Stunning Beaches in Greece Worth Planning an Entire Trip Around
The stark white cliffs, caves, and white stones make this vast stretch of shoreline feel like a secret paradise. Set against a glowing turquoise sea, a swim here is next-level dreamy.
Lalaria is only reachable by boat, so don’t miss this opportunity. There’s nothing here except nature’s beauty so be sure to bring anything you need with you (drinks, snacks, sunscreen).
Most tours leave in the morning from Skiathos Port and last 5–7 hours. Many day trips also include the nearby Blue Caves and a stop Kastro Beach.
2. Beach-Hop Along the Coast
Skiathos is basically a masterclass in beach variety. Whether you’re looking for lively beach bars or quiet coves, there’s a stretch of coastline for you. We’ve already covered Lalaria, here are a few more worth a visit:
Koukounaries Beach – Famous for its soft golden sand, pine forest backdrop, and calm waters.
Banana Beach – Divided into Big and Little Banana, this is the party beach scene with music and cocktails.
Vromolimnos – Great for younger crowds, water sports, and sunsets.
Agia Eleni – A more peaceful option with a relaxed beach bar and west-facing views.
Tsougrias Beach – A well organized sandy beach with regular water taxi service from the Old Port and New Port.
Tip: Consider taking a beach-hopping boat tour from Skiathos Town or Koukounaries to discover some of the lesser-known, hidden beaches too.
3. Visit the Monastery of Evangelistria
Built in the 18th century, this monastery sits high in the green hills above town. It’s historically significant as the place where the first Greek flag was raised in the War of Independence.
There’s a small museum and a gift shop selling local products like honey and wine. You can drive or hike here—it’s about 5 km from town.
4. Enjoy Sunset Drinks at Bourtzi
This little peninsula juts out between the old and new ports of Skiathos Town. It’s home to a ruined Venetian fortress, pine trees, and a cafe with unbeatable sea views.
Ideal for coffee in the morning, an afternoon swim off the dock, or cocktails at golden hour. There’s also an open-air theater here that sometimes hosts summer concerts.
5. Hike to Kastro, the Island’s Abandoned Medieval Town
If you’re up for a bit of adventure, head to the northern tip of the island to explore Kastro—the fortified clifftop village where locals once lived to escape pirates.
The ruins are atmospheric, with sweeping views of the sea and surrounding cliffs. There’s a small beach below with an excellent taverna if you want to cool off after your hike.
Tip: Many of the “Discover Skiathos” cruises include a stop here as well as Lalaria Beach.
6. Island Hop to Skopelos or Alonissos
Skiathos is a perfect base for day trips to its neighboring Sporades siblings.
On Skopelos, you can visit the Mamma Mia filming spots, seaside villages, and even more great beaches.
Read More: Calling All Dancing Queens: Meet the Idyllic Greek Island That Stole the Show in Mamma Mia
Alonissos is the sleepiest of the Sporades islands but it’s a real beauty. Known for its National Marine Park and dolphin and seal sightings, it’s a must-do day trip.
Ferries leave from Skiathos Town, or you can book organized boat trips for the day.
Here are the top-rated organized boat trips:
- Island Hopping from Skiathos – This full-day trip includes both Skopelos and Alonissos
- Day Sailing Skiathos Skopelos with Lunch on Rainbow Yacht – A full-day sailing trip to some of the best beaches on Skiathos with views of Skopelos from the sea.
- Mamma Mia Cruise From Skiathos Island – An affordable trip that will get you to the Mamma Mia Beach (to get to the chapel, you’ll need an optional bus ticket).
So consider Skiathos for your next Greece vacation!
Skiathos is that rare combo: an island that’s easy to get to, easy to love, and perfect for both first-timers and Greek island pros.
It has just the right amount of development without being overbuilt. You can spend your days exploring beaches, eating seafood in the Old Port, hiking through pine forests—or doing absolutely nothing at all.
It’s a great standalone destination or a fantastic jumping-off point for a Sporades island-hopping adventure like the one we did.
And with an airport right on the island, getting here is as breezy as the Aegean wind.
Looking for more fabulous Greek Islands to visit? Start here:
10 Irresistible Greek Islands to Visit This Summer (#8 is Greece’s Best-Kept Secret) ☀️
The 7 Best Greek Islands for Beaches (You’ve Never Heard of #4)
Car-Free Hydra is This Summer’s Chic Greek Island Escape
Stunning Koufonisia Island is Where Greeks Vacation (& You’ve Never Heard of It)
