Explore Mykonos's southern coast through two beautiful beaches. Experience Elia's long sandy stretch, perfect for water sports and relaxation, then discover Kalafati's windsurfing paradise with traditional tavernas—beach variety meets Cycladic coastal beauty in this seaside exploration.
Elia Beach is approximately 6 miles (10 km) from Mykonos Town, about a 15-minute drive. Kalafati Beach is around 7 miles (11 km) away, also roughly 15 to 20 minutes by car. Both are located on the southeastern coast of the island. The roads can be narrow and winding, making a private driver a far more comfortable option than navigating island transport on your own.
Kalafati is widely considered one of the best family-friendly beaches on Mykonos. Its protected bay means calmer, shallow water that is ideal for children and casual swimmers. Traditional tavernas sit close to the shore, serving fresh grilled fish and Greek dishes. The beach has a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere compared to some of Mykonos's more glamorous spots.
Just above the bay sits the small whitewashed church of Agia Anna, which is worth a short stroll for its views over the turquoise water and surrounding rock formations. The church is a picturesque example of traditional Cycladic architecture and makes for a lovely photo stop. The surrounding hillside also offers a pleasant vantage point over the bay.
Both beaches have excellent dining options. At Elia, beachfront tavernas serve fresh grilled fish, Greek salads, and mezze plates, with a lively beach bar scene to match. Kalafati is more traditional in character, with family-run restaurants offering local specialties in a quieter setting. A seafood lunch overlooking the Aegean at either beach is a highlight of the day.
The beaches are at their best from late May through September, when the sea is warm enough for swimming and the weather is reliably sunny. July and August bring peak crowds, particularly at Elia Beach. For a more relaxed experience with fewer visitors, aim for late May, June, or September. Water temperatures tend to be warm throughout the main summer season.
Elia is the longest beach on Mykonos, stretching over a kilometer of golden sand with crystal-clear turquoise water. It is spacious enough to feel uncrowded even during peak season. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available to rent, and several beach bars and tavernas line the shore. Watersport centers offer paddleboarding, snorkeling, and windsurfing lessons and rentals.
Essentials include high-SPF sunscreen (the Mykonos sun is strong in summer), a beach towel or sarong, sunglasses, a hat, and flip-flops or sandals. The meltemi winds can pick up in the afternoon, so a light cover-up is useful. Cash or cards for sunbed rentals, food, and water sports are also recommended, as not all beach facilities accept cards.
Elia Beach is a hub for water sports, with rental centers offering windsurfing equipment, paddleboards, and snorkeling gear. Kalafati has long been considered Mykonos's prime windsurfing spot, with consistent sea breezes and a well-equipped local club. Whether you are a beginner or experienced, both beaches provide great conditions for active water activities.
Day trips offer travelers private round-trip transportation to popular sightseeing locations. One of our professional drivers will pick you up in a luxurious, climate-controlled car, take you to the site of interest, and wait for you while you explore before driving you back to your hotel.
Yes! You’re free to choose the pickup and drop-off times that work best for you. However, the time spent at the destination is fixed and cannot be changed.
Each sightseeing stop has a recommended duration that includes plenty of time to explore. However, it is possible to customize the time spent at each sightseeing stop at a later stage in the booking process to best fit your unique schedule.
Your Daytrip driver will wait for you nearby for the duration of your exploration, meaning you’ll never have to wait for your return trip transportation to arrive. Your comfort and convenience are our top priorities, and we aim to close out your day trip with a return on your schedule.
The price of a day trip does not include any entrance tickets, guided tours, or meals you may partake in at your destination. The price covers round-trip transportation in a luxury vehicle with a professional driver who can provide local insights en route.
Day trip bookings can be canceled up to 24 hours before your trip for a full refund, no strings attached. While the destination and stops are predetermined, it is possible to change your pick-up point, whether it is at your hotel or some other location within the city.