In the collective imagination Ikaria is the island of slow-motion days and late-night panigyria, a place you go to stretch time rather than your towel. Yet its coastline is an unexpected study in contrast, proof that the Aegean still has secret chapters left to turn. When the summer meltemi sweeps in, the water acquires a spirited ripple, part invitation, part adrenaline rush, turning every dip into a flirtation with the elements. Surfers slice through the whitecaps, swimmers surrender to the rhythmic push and pull, and sun-seekers watch the show from sand the color of warm honey.
Choose your own tempo. At the livelier, serviced beaches loungers line up like well-mannered guests at a garden party, iced freddos arriving on cue. A short drive away, untamed coves wait in near-monastic silence, where the only soundtrack is cicadas stitching shadows into the pines. Whether you crave the convivial hum of beach bars or the luxury of hearing your own heartbeat beneath the waves, Ikaria’s shores remind you that time here isn’t just slow; it is generous.
01
Seychelles
This is the most famous beach on the island, named as such because of its exotic beauty. Located on the south side of the island, it is largely protected from the winds. You will approach it via a rocky path, but the beauty is worth the effort. The breathtakingly clear, turquoise waters, white pebble beach and granite cliffs combine to create a stunning setting for your swims. Ideal off-season when it’s less busy
02
Mesakti
Another famous beach, where there is a beach bar, sun loungers and a beach volleyball court. It is quite long, covered in fine golden sand, with crystal clear waters and natural shade in some areas from large tamarisk trees. The beach is organized, with umbrellas, sun loungers, changing rooms, showers, toilets, a lifeguard station, a canteen and a beach bar.
03
Kampos
A small, quiet beach, located on the west side of the island, with fine, golden sand and crystal clear, turquoise waters. It is surrounded by tall trees, providing natural shade. It is a good choice for those seeking tranquility and isolation.
04
Livadi
One of the best beaches on the island, with golden sand throughout and crystal clear turquoise waters. It is organized, with umbrellas, sun loungers, changing rooms, showers and toilets. The beach is surrounded by tamarisk trees, providing natural shade. It is also located near the village of the same name, where you will find taverns, coffee shops and rooms to rent.
05
Lefkada
A quiet and secluded beach, located on the west side of the island, with white pebbles and crystal clear turquoise waters. It is surrounded by tall, green trees and rocks, offering natural shade. It is a good choice for those seeking tranquility and isolation.
06
Armenistis
A beautiful, long beach with fine, golden sand and crystal clear, turquoise waters. It is located on the north side of the island, with natural shade from tall trees. It is organized, with umbrellas, sun loungers, changing rooms, showers, toilets, a canteen and a beach bar. There are also several restaurants, cafes and rooms to rent nearby.
07
Faros
One of the largest beaches on Ikaria, with sand and pebbles and a few rocks in some parts of the seabed. The waters are green and gradually deepen, making it a popular choice for families. It is organized, with Taverns, a beach bar, umbrellas and sun loungers. Along the shore you will find rooms to rent and several small coves with crystal clear waters.
08
Nas
Located near the village of Armenistis, Nas is known for its lively waves and sudden depth, and has thick sand and small pebbles. It may be one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, but when there is even a little wind, the waters become extremely dangerous for swimmers, so swimming is prohibited. It is not organized, but you will find taverns in nearby villages. The ruins of the Temple of Artemis are nearby.
09
Therma
The village is known for its curative thermal baths, which give it its name. It is located in Agios Kirykos, in a sheltered bay. The shore combines sand and pebbles, and in the area you will find restaurants and cafes.
10
Iero
Iero is a tranquil, secluded stretch of pebbled shoreline framed by rugged cliffs and crystalline waters. Known for its raw beauty and serene atmosphere, it offers a peaceful escape far from the crowds. The pebble beach attracts nature lovers and solitude seekers alike.
