These are some of the incredible beaches of Anafi, without beach bars but with wonderful waters and special vibes.
Although located east of Santorini, Anafi is relatively unknown to tourists, meaning one can still have an authentic beach experience in the Cyclades. Most beaches have wonderful and calm waters, and some have more difficult access and are without infrastructure, but all of them are worth your time.
Here are the best options for seaside fun and relaxation in this particularly charming corner of the Aegean.
Kleisidi
Kleisidi is probably the easiest beach on the island to access. It is only a short drive from Chora and the Port, and you can reach it on foot in only 15 to 30 minutes.
Its waters are shallow, and to a large extent, it is protected from the winds. These elements, combined with the fact that it has some infrastructure for food and coffee, make it popular with families as well.
Tamarisk trees and a large rock on the left side of the beach provide natural shade, making Kleisidi an excellent choice for an afternoon swim.
Katsouni
A few years ago, Katsouni could be considered the "best-kept secret" of Anafi. Now, the beach is quite well known, but that does not mean that it does not remain beautiful and - comparatively - deserted.
To reach Katsouni, you will follow a path that starts from Kleisidi, which is of moderate difficulty and will take 10-15 minutes to get there.
Its waters are crystal clear and shallow, its sand fine but not to a disturbing extent, while the beauty of the landscape is a given.
Also, we must note that there is no infrastructure in Katsouni, so it would be good to have supplies with you, at least drinking water.
Agios Nikolaos
Anafi is gifted with beautiful beaches. Even in the island's port, the bay of Agios Nikolaos, the beach is wonderful. The waters are crystal clear and calm, and a small sandy beach complements the idyllic setting.
There is not much space for umbrellas, but a large rock creates natural shade. In addition, since this is the island's port, access to it from Chora is easy, and there are also accommodation and dining options around. Another advantage is that it is protected from strong winds.
Roukounas
Roukounas is by far the most famous beach of Anafi and one of the Cyclades' timeless alternative spots. The waters are wonderful; initially, they are shallow and gradually deepening. There are places with natural shade, but in the high season, it will be difficult to get a place in them.
Access to it can also be done by bus and then with a short walk, while for coffee and food, the beach taverna serves wonderful food.
It is certain that every vacationer in Anafi will visit Roukounas at least once and will probably spend the longest part of their beach vacation there.
Monastiri - Prasies
Monolithos is Anafi's best-known natural attraction. It is a 460-metre limestone rock on Mount Kalamos, the second-highest monolith in the Mediterranean after Gibraltar. At its peak is the monastery of Panagia Kalamiotissa.
This long beach with coarse sand and fine pebbles is in the shadow of the Monolith. Combining a bath and visiting the Monolith is not the easiest, as the ascent takes some hours, but that doesn't mean it can't be done.
Livoskopos
On the north side of the island, there is a small beach with exceptional natural beauty. To get there, leave the car after the dirt road and go down the moderately difficult path.
The easiest solution, of course, is to take the boat around the island. In any case, you will be compensated by the beautiful, crystal-clear waters and the view. It is not organised, and if you exclude two tamarinds, it has no shade, while it is best to avoid it on a northerly day.
Agioi Anargyroi
The route to Agioi Anargyroi includes a difficult descent for about 10 minutes and a similar ascent on the way back, but the beach makes up for it.
The sand is fine, almost like powder. The waters are crystal clear and transparent, and you will see the bottom even without a mask. The beautiful church of Agioi Anargyroi completes the scene perfectly.
It goes without saying that you have to come here with your supplies, at least plenty of water, as there is no infrastructure. In the morning hours, you have to bring an umbrella with you because the big disadvantage of the beach is the lack of shade.
In addition, if possible, avoid coming to this beach during the peak season, as the sand beach is not long, and you may not be particularly comfortable. Alternatively, you can come in the afternoon to enjoy a wonderful sunset.
Some tips for Anafi and its beaches
As access to several beaches on the island requires some walking, it is a good idea to bring at least a pair of sports shoes with you. For the same reason, the beach equipment you bring should preferably be light and easy to carry.
As will become clear from the text, the waters in Anafi are wonderful. On the other hand, if you are looking for beaches with beach bars or lots of infrastructure and possibilities for water sports, it is better to choose another island.
In the summer, Anafi is connected at least four times a week with the ports of Piraeus and Lavrio, with the trip taking an average of 10-11 hours. Alternatively, you can travel by air to Santorini, which is connected daily by ferry. The Santorini-Anafi journey takes about an hour and a half.
Anafi is truly a hiker's paradise, with an extensive network of paths that reach 18 kilometres.
READ MORE: Astypalaia: Unveiling the Dodecanese's Rising Sustainable Star.
