Arkos Islet & Beach - Image 1
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Arkos Islet and Beach

4.6
·162 reviews·, Greece

A serene islet opposite Skiathos, offering pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a highly-rated taverna with breathtaking views.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Beat the crowds

CrowdLow
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Arkos Islet & Beach - Image 1

Arkos Islet and Beach

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Beat the crowds

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene islet opposite Skiathos, offering pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a highly-rated taverna with breathtaking views.

4.6
(162 reviews)

"The peace and tranquility of Arkos Beach is just about the perfect place to spend a relaxing day."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚤 Rent a Boat for Freedom

Renting a small boat offers the most flexibility to explore Arkos and nearby coves at your own pace .

📞 Book Taverna in Advance

Essential to reserve your table at the taverna, especially in peak season, to guarantee a meal .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crystal Clear Waters

Crystal Clear Waters

Arkos Islet Beach

Swim and relax in the incredibly clear, turquoise waters surrounding Arkos Islet. Perfect for a refreshing dip.

Secluded Beach Bliss

Secluded Beach Bliss

Arkos Islet Beach

Enjoy the peace and tranquility of this beautiful, less crowded beach. Ideal for a relaxing day away from the bustle.

Taverna with a View

Taverna with a View

Arkos Islet Taverna

Savor authentic Greek dishes with breathtaking panoramic views of Skiathos island.

Plane Spotting Spectacle

Plane Spotting Spectacle

Near Xanemos Beach (visible from Arkos)

Witness planes taking off and landing at Skiathos Airport, a unique spectacle visible from the islet.

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Planning Your Visit

Boat Access is Key

Arkos Islet is only accessible by boat, so plan your transport. Renting a small boat is a popular option for flexibility, or you can opt for water taxis from Skiathos town. Booking in advance is wise during peak season to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.Reddit

Book Your Taverna Table

The beach taverna is a major draw, offering delicious Greek cuisine with stunning views. It's highly recommended to reserve a table, especially during peak season, as the island offers no other dining options.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Beat the crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour views
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Romantic ambiance
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A gorgeous couple of days relaxing in Skiathos, Greece #Skiathos #ParaliaAgiaParaskevi #ArcoBeachHotel #KohyliTaverna #Mesostrato #MylosTavern #churchofsaintnicholas
@lizclargo0
16 likes • 1K views

🚤 Rent a Boat for Freedom

Renting a small boat offers the most flexibility to explore Arkos and nearby coves at your own pace.TikTok

📞 Book Taverna in Advance

Essential to reserve your table at the taverna, especially in peak season, to guarantee a meal.Reddit

Take a boat ride from the beautiful island Skiathos to get to this wonderful secret beach 📍 Arkos island #creatorsearchinsights #imissthebeach #greece
@sofiamaissen
23 likes • 726 views
Skiathos hidden beach 😂 #grecce #skiathos #skiathosisland #skiathosgreece #fall
@csonkagergo23
197 likes • 8.6K views

☀️ Pack Sun Protection

Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses as there's limited natural shade on the beach.

🤿 Snorkel Gear Recommended

The clear waters are perfect for snorkeling; bring your own gear to explore underwater life.

Summer ‘22 favorite spot 💙 #greece #fyp #memories #bananabeach #skiathos
@anavelickovic
50 likes • 4.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚤 Rent a Boat for Freedom

Renting a small boat offers the most flexibility to explore Arkos and nearby coves at your own pace.TikTok

📞 Book Taverna in Advance

Essential to reserve your table at the taverna, especially in peak season, to guarantee a meal.Reddit

☀️ Pack Sun Protection

Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses as there's limited natural shade on the beach.

🤿 Snorkel Gear Recommended

The clear waters are perfect for snorkeling; bring your own gear to explore underwater life.

💸 Budget for Lunch

Expect to spend around 50€ for two people at the taverna, including drinks.Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(162 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Arkos Islet is highly praised for its tranquil beach, crystal-clear waters, and delicious food at the taverna, offering a perfect day trip from Skiathos. Visitors rave about the stunning views and the relaxing atmosphere, though booking a table at the popular taverna is essential, especially during peak season.

"This was just a fantastic way to spend my birthday. The peace and tranquility of Arkos Beach is just about to perfect place to spend a relaxing day. The team remembered us from last year and gave us a delightful welcome back. We chose our sun beds and started to relax and enjoy the stunning views.
It was then time for lunch where we enjoyed the Bruschetta , Tuna Filet , Fried Squid and then a lovely surprise a complimentary slice of delicious Orange Cake . We then relaxed for a couple more hours before leaving with great memories of the perfect day.
Highly recommend a visit."

Lloyd Stevens

"Located opposite the main island of Skiathos this lunch place and beach are a MUST for visitors. Rent a boat and head over for lunch….its wow and superb!! Super tasty food that includes all the classic Greek dishes and served by very friendly service staff and an atmosphere to only dream about….put it on your bucket list and bring some friends! Happy days….."

J T G Nielsen

"This beach restaurant is a MUST. If you are I'm Skiathos hire a boat and get to this little island for the crystal blue sea and the Amazing fresh greek food. Marinated anchovies are so good. Highly recommend."

Aniello De Santi

What People Like

Peaceful and tranquil atmosphere
Crystal clear waters
Delicious Greek food

What People Dislike

Can get busy in peak season
Only accessible by boat

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Arkos Islet is only accessible by boat. You can rent a small boat from Skiathos town for a private experience,TikTok or arrange for a water taxi. Some tavernas might offer boat services, but it's best to confirm directly. The journey is short, offering scenic views of the coastline.Reddit

No, Arkos Islet is a separate island and cannot be reached by foot. Boat transportation is the only option.Reddit

You can rent small motorboats without a license from various rental agencies in Skiathos town. This gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.TikTok

While water taxis are available, there isn't a regular public ferry service. It's best to inquire locally about water taxi availability or consider a private boat rental.

The boat trip from Skiathos town to Arkos Islet is typically very short, usually around 10-15 minutes, depending on the type of boat and sea conditions.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There are no entrance fees or tickets required to access Arkos Islet beach itself. The costs are associated with your boat transportation and any food or drinks you purchase at the taverna.Reddit

Arkos Islet beach is accessible throughout the day. The taverna has specific operating hours, which are generally from late morning until early evening during the tourist season. It's advisable to check their hours closer to your visit.

No, the beach is free to access. You only pay for boat hire and your consumption at the taverna.

Arkos Islet is primarily a summer destination. While you can visit outside of peak season, the taverna may have reduced hours or be closed, and boat availability might be limited.

No booking is required for the beach itself. You can choose your sunbeds upon arrival, though it's wise to arrive early during peak times.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The main facility is the beach taverna, which offers food, drinks, and sunbed rentals. There are usually sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent.Reddit Restrooms are typically available at the taverna.

Yes, the beach taverna usually rents out sunbeds and umbrellas. It's a good idea to secure them early if you plan to spend the day relaxing.Reddit

You can swim in the clear waters, sunbathe, enjoy a meal at the taverna, and relax in the peaceful atmosphere. Some visitors enjoy snorkeling.TikTok

Yes, the calm, clear waters make it suitable for families. However, supervision is always recommended, and remember it's only accessible by boat.

It's known for its peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, offering a relaxing escape. The stunning views and good food contribute to a delightful experience.Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The taverna serves classic Greek dishes, with a focus on fresh seafood and local specialties. Popular choices include marinated anchovies, bruschetta, tuna filet, and fried squid.Reddit+1

The pricing is considered reasonable for the quality and location, with a budget of around 50€ for two people for a meal.Reddit It's a worthwhile splurge for the experience.

While not explicitly forbidden, it's generally expected that visitors will patronize the taverna, especially if using their sunbeds. Bringing some water is always a good idea.

The menu typically includes salads and vegetable-based appetizers that can cater to vegetarian diets. It's best to inquire about vegan options directly with the taverna.

Some reviews mention complimentary surprises, like a slice of orange cake, adding to the delightful dining experience.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of the crystal-clear turquoise water, the panoramic views of Skiathos island, the charming taverna, and the unique spectacle of planes flying overhead.TikTok

Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light for photography. Morning light is also excellent for capturing the vibrant blue of the sea.

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in Greece.

The entire beach area offers great views. For a different perspective, consider photos from your boat as you approach or leave the islet.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive sea and sky. A waterproof camera or phone case is useful for capturing underwater shots.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Arkos Islet offers a wonderful family-friendly escape, primarily due to its calm and shallow crystal-clear waters, which are perfect for children to splash and play in safely.TikTok The beach provides a relaxed environment where families can unwind. The taverna offers a good selection of food that usually appeals to younger palates, and the novelty of arriving by boat can be an exciting part of the adventure for kids.

Remember that boat access is essential, so ensure your children are comfortable with boat travel. Bringing along beach toys and snorkeling gear can enhance the fun. While there aren't specific playgrounds, the natural beauty and gentle sea provide ample entertainment. Booking a boat that allows for flexibility in departure times can be beneficial for managing nap times or early departures.

💰 Budget Travelers

While Arkos Islet can be enjoyed on a budget, it's important to be strategic. The main costs will be boat transportation and food at the taverna. To save money, consider renting a small boat with friends to split the cost, or look for water taxi services that might offer group rates. Packing your own snacks and plenty of water can help reduce spending on drinks at the beach.

For dining, focus on more affordable Greek staples like salads or appetizers rather than expensive seafood entrees. Alternatively, if you have a boat with a cooler, you could pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the beach, though be mindful of respecting the taverna's space if you are using their sunbeds. Visiting during the shoulder season might also offer slightly lower boat rental prices.

💖 Couples Seeking Romance

Arkos Islet is an idyllic spot for couples looking for a romantic getaway. The tranquil atmosphere, stunning sea views, and the secluded feel of the beach create a perfect setting for relaxation and connection.Reddit Enjoying a leisurely lunch at the taverna with its panoramic vistas, followed by swimming in the clear blue waters, makes for a memorable day.

Consider visiting in the late afternoon to experience the magical golden hour light, which is ideal for romantic photos. A private boat rental can add an extra touch of exclusivity to your visit. The peaceful ambiance allows for intimate conversations and shared moments away from the crowds.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating to Arkos Islet

Reaching Arkos Islet is an adventure in itself, as it's only accessible by sea. The most popular method is renting a small boat from Skiathos town. This offers the ultimate freedom to explore the coastline at your own pace and even discover hidden coves.TikTok Many rental agencies in Skiathos harbor provide these boats, often without requiring a special license for smaller models. Alternatively, water taxis can be arranged for a more direct transfer, though this offers less flexibility. The journey is brief, typically taking only 10-15 minutes, providing lovely views of Skiathos as you depart.

When planning your boat trip, consider the time of year. During the peak summer season, demand for boat rentals and water taxis is high, so booking in advance is strongly recommended to avoid disappointment.Reddit If you're visiting during the shoulder seasons, you might find more availability. Always check the weather conditions before setting out, and ensure you have adequate supplies like water and snacks, especially if you plan to spend a full day exploring.

The Arkos Islet Taverna Experience

The Arkos Islet Taverna is a central part of the experience, renowned for its delicious Greek cuisine and breathtaking views. Visitors consistently praise the freshness of the food, highlighting dishes like marinated anchovies, tuna filet, and fried squid.Reddit+1 The menu offers a good selection of classic Greek favorites, ensuring there's something to satisfy most palates. The atmosphere is described as dreamy, with friendly service contributing to a memorable dining experience.Reddit

Due to its popularity, reservations are highly recommended, especially during the busy summer months. The taverna is often the sole dining option on the island, making it essential to secure a table to avoid missing out.Reddit The cost is considered reasonable for the quality and unique location, with an estimated budget of around 50€ for two people for a meal.Reddit Enjoying a leisurely lunch here, with the stunning vista of Skiathos across the water, is a highlight for many visitors.Reddit

Unique Plane Spotting

A rather unique and captivating aspect of visiting Arkos Islet is the opportunity for plane spotting. The islet offers a vantage point from which you can observe planes taking off and landing at the nearby Skiathos Airport (JSI).TikTok This spectacle adds an unexpected element of excitement to a relaxing beach day. The proximity of the airport means you can witness aircraft at a relatively close range, which is a thrill for aviation enthusiasts and a novel experience for others.

While the primary focus of Arkos Islet is its serene beach and excellent taverna, the planes provide a dynamic backdrop. It's a fascinating contrast to the otherwise tranquil environment. Many visitors find this an enjoyable and memorable part of their visit, adding a touch of modern marvel to the natural beauty of the Greek islands.TikTok

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