
Koukounaries Beach Skiathos
A breathtaking stretch of fine golden sand framed by fragrant pine trees, offering crystal-clear turquoise waters and a protected natural reserve.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility

Koukounaries Beach Skiathos
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking stretch of fine golden sand framed by fragrant pine trees, offering crystal-clear turquoise waters and a protected natural reserve.
"The sand is stunning with golden shimmers in totally transparent water and pine trees around."

Bring your own umbrella 🌞
Sunbeds are pricey; opt for shade under pine trees or bring your own umbrella for a cheaper experience .
Beware of wasps 🐝
Wasps can be present, especially around food. Keep snacks sealed and be mindful .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Golden Sands & Pine Forest
Main beach area
Experience the famously fine golden sand and the fragrant pine trees that give the beach its name.

Crystal Clear Turquoise Waters
Shoreline
Swim in incredibly clear, shallow waters that shimmer with unique shades of blue and green.

Nature Reserve & Lake
Adjacent to the beach
Explore the protected natural area with its beautiful forest and serene lake, a peaceful escape.

Sunset Views
Big Banana Beach (nearby)
Catch breathtaking sunset views from the nearby Big Banana beach, a perfect end to the day.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Wasps
Sunbeds & Shade Strategy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring your own umbrella 🌞
Sunbeds are pricey; opt for shade under pine trees or bring your own umbrella for a cheaper experience.
Beware of wasps 🐝
Wasps can be present, especially around food. Keep snacks sealed and be mindful.
Water taxi adventure 🛥
Take a water taxi from Koukounaries to Skiathos Town for a scenic and fun journey.
Pack light for forest walks 🥾
The pine forest offers natural shade and a pleasant scent, perfect for a stroll.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring your own umbrella 🌞
Sunbeds are pricey; opt for shade under pine trees or bring your own umbrella for a cheaper experience.
Beware of wasps 🐝
Wasps can be present, especially around food. Keep snacks sealed and be mindful.
Water taxi adventure 🛥
Take a water taxi from Koukounaries to Skiathos Town for a scenic and fun journey.
Pack light for forest walks 🥾
The pine forest offers natural shade and a pleasant scent, perfect for a stroll.
Explore beyond the main beach 🌊
Consider nearby beaches like Big Banana for sunset views or Lalaria for unique pebbles.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Koukounaries Beach is widely praised for its stunning golden sand, incredibly clear turquoise waters, and the beautiful pine forest backdrop. Visitors appreciate the natural shade and the tranquil atmosphere, though some find the sunbed prices high and note the presence of wasps. The beach's vastness generally prevents overcrowding, but afternoon influxes of day-trippers can impact the idyllic feel.
"Beautiful sandy beach and clear blue water. There is a charge for the beds, local restaurant is nearby serving drinks and fantastic food. Sadly the toilets were not working so we had to walk 20 minutes to the other side of the beach. The beds are close together, its Europe so expect smokers and sadly that's all they do."
Dee Chin
"A go to beach, perfect sand, clean water, and its big so its never actually overcrowded. Its pricey cause its popular, a normall frape will cost you not less than 4.5 e, a beer 5-7 e (small-big) and sunbeds are 30e, but you can find place in the shade beneath the pine trees which are practically everywhere, and the smell they give is perfect."
VELJA -
"Beautiful beach with lots of natural shade, and also a beautiful forest with a lake just next to the beach. Enjoyed every moment here. Beach bars are whatever tho but they have everything you need like coffees, drinks and food."
Dimitrije Radojković
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Koukounaries Beach is easily accessible by car, scooter, or the local bus service (Line 13) from Skiathos Town. Water taxis are also a popular and scenic option, especially for returning to Skiathos Town.
Yes, there is parking available near the beach, though it can fill up during peak season. Arriving early is recommended.
While possible, it's a significant distance from Skiathos Town. Taking the bus or a taxi is generally more convenient.
Renting a car or scooter offers the most flexibility. The bus system is efficient for reaching popular spots like Koukounaries.
Some boat tours may include Koukounaries as a stop, or you can arrange private boat trips. Captain Kostas's cruises are known to anchor here.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee for Koukounaries Beach itself. However, sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent at a cost.
Sunbed prices can range from €20 to €30 for a set, which can be quite expensive. Many visitors opt for the free shade under the pine trees instead.
Koukounaries Beach is a public beach and is accessible at all times. Beach bars and facilities typically operate during daylight hours.
Yes, bringing your own umbrella is highly recommended to save money on sunbed rentals and ensure you have shade.
Generally, there are no specific entry restrictions. However, it's a protected natural area, so respecting the environment is encouraged.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
Koukounaries Beach is renowned for its incredibly fine golden sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and the surrounding fragrant pine forest.
Absolutely! The water is shallow, warm, and exceptionally clear, making it perfect for swimming and water activities.
Facilities can vary. Some reviews mention toilets not working, so it's advisable to be prepared. There are beach bars offering services.
The sand is described as extremely fine and golden, contributing to the beach's beauty and unique feel.
While popular, its large size means it rarely feels overcrowded. However, it can get busy with day-trippers, especially in the afternoon.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are beach bars and restaurants nearby offering drinks, coffees, and food. They can be a bit pricey, so consider bringing some snacks.
You can find typical beach bar fare like coffees, frappes, beers, and light meals. Some local restaurants nearby offer more substantial Greek cuisine.
Prices at the beach bars can be high. Bringing your own snacks or eating at tavernas further inland might be more economical.
Yes, beach bars are well-equipped to serve a variety of drinks, including cocktails and local beverages.
Yes, many visitors enjoy picnics, especially utilizing the natural shade of the pine forest. Just be mindful of any waste.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the stunning contrast of the turquoise water against the golden sand and lush green pine trees. The adjacent nature reserve also offers picturesque scenes.
Golden hour, both in the morning and late afternoon, offers beautiful lighting. Midday provides vibrant blues and greens.
The unique color of the water, the dense pine forest reaching the shore, and the vastness of the beach itself make for memorable shots.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and be respectful of other visitors' privacy.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and landscape. A polarizing filter can enhance the blues of the water and sky.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Natural Beauty of Koukounaries
This natural environment has led to Koukounaries being recognized as one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece and even voted as one of the most unspoiled natural beaches in the Mediterranean. The shallow, calm waters are perfect for swimming and wading, and the vibrant blues and greens are a photographer's dream. Visitors often remark on the unique scent of the pine trees, adding another sensory layer to the experience. It's a place where the land meets the sea in a spectacular display of natural harmony.
Navigating Koukounaries: Transport & Access
Parking is available near the beach, but it can become quite congested during peak times, so arriving early is advisable. For a truly memorable journey, consider taking a water taxi from Koukounaries back to Skiathos Town. This offers a different perspective of the coastline and is a fun experience in itself. Some boat tours also include Koukounaries as a stop, or you can charter a private boat for a more personalized experience.
Budgeting for Koukounaries: Sunbeds vs. Nature's Shade
Many visitors choose to set up their towels and chairs beneath the fragrant pine trees, enjoying the cool, dappled light and the pleasant aroma. This is a great way to save money while still having a comfortable spot on the beach. If you do opt for sunbeds, consider purchasing your own umbrella for around €10 and using it in the designated free zones. Planning ahead and understanding these options can help you enjoy Koukounaries Beach without breaking the bank.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit