Travel guide to Sarakiniko Beach in Milos Island, Greece, with tips on how to get there, accommodation, tourist attractions, guided tours, where to eat and practical information.
If you are looking for a unique and unforgettable beach destination, you should visit Sarakiniko on Milos Island, Greece. This beach is unlike any other in the world, as it is surrounded by white volcanic rocks that create a stunning contrast with the blue sea. The rocks have been shaped by the wind and the waves over millions of years, creating a lunar landscape that will make you feel like you are on another planet.
Sarakiniko Beach is often called the “moon beach” or the “lunar beach” because of its surreal landscape that resembles the surface of the moon. One of the most popular and photographed spots on Milos Island, and for a good reason. It offers many fun things to do for all kinds of travelers, from relaxing on the soft sand to exploring the caves and cliffs.
Here are some of the best activities and attractions that you can enjoy at Sarakiniko, Milos Island, Greece.
Be sure to check out our itinerary to discover the Top Greek Islands to visit in summer in Europe and What to do in Island of Lefkada, Greece: Attractions and Travel Tips.
Brief History of Sarakiniko Beach, Milos Island, Greece
Sarakiniko Beach is named after the Saracen pirates who used to hide in the caves and coves of the area. The beach is formed by volcanic eruptions that shaped the rocks into smooth and curved forms over millions of years. The rocks are made of bentonite, a type of clay that reflects the sunlight and gives them a bright white color.
Sarakiniko is part of the island of Milos, which is one of the most volcanic islands in Greece. Milos is famous for being the place where the Venus de Milo statue was found in 1820. The island has more than 70 beaches, each with its own character and beauty. Sarakiniko is one of the most popular and iconic beaches on Milos Island.
Where is and How to Go to Sarakiniko Beach, Milos Island, Greece
Sarakiniko Beach is located on the north coast of Milos Island, about 5 km from the main town of Adamas.
You can reach Sarakiniko by car, bus, taxi or boat. If you drive, you can park your car near the beach and walk for about 10 minutes to reach the shore. If you take the bus, you can get off at the stop near Sarakiniko and follow the signs to the beach. If you take a taxi, you can ask the driver to drop you off at the parking area or at the beach itself. If you take a boat, you can enjoy a scenic cruise along the coast and admire the rock formations from the water.
The best way to explore Sarakiniko Beach is on foot, as you can wander around the rocks and find your own spot to relax or swim. You can also climb on some of the rocks and jump into the sea if you are feeling adventurous. Be careful though, as some rocks can be slippery or sharp. You should also wear sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat, as there is no shade on the beach.
Service that can help your planning: Milos Island Highlights Private Tour with Hotel Pickup.
What are the Best Times to Visit Sarakiniko Beach, Milos Island, Greece
The best times to visit Sarakiniko Beach are in spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and sunny, and there are fewer tourists. In summer, Sarakiniko can get very crowded and hot, especially in July and August. In winter, Sarakiniko can be windy and cold, and some parts of the beach may be inaccessible due to high waves.
The best time of day to visit Sarakiniko Beach is in the morning or in the evening, when the light is soft and beautiful. You can also catch a stunning sunrise or sunset at Sarakiniko Beach if you are lucky. The colors of the rocks and the sea change depending on the time of day and the weather conditions.
Where to stay in Milos Island, Greece – Best Areas and Region (Best Resort, hotel, hostel and Bed & Breakfast)
There are no hotels or resorts directly on Sarakiniko Beach, but there are many accommodation options nearby. You can choose from different types of lodging depending on your budget and preferences.
Here are some of the best areas and regions to stay near Sarakiniko Beach:
- Adamas: This is the main port and town of Milos Island, and it is only 4 km away from Sarakiniko . You can find many hotels, hostels, and bed & breakfasts here, as well as restaurants, shops, and nightlife. Adamas is a convenient and lively base to explore the island and the beach.
- Pollonia: This is a charming fishing village on the northeast coast of Milos Island, and it is about 10 km away from Sarakiniko . You can find some cozy and elegant resorts, hotels, and bed & breakfasts here, as well as taverns, cafes, and a sandy beach. Pollonia is a peaceful and romantic place to enjoy the island and the beach.
- Plaka: This is the capital and the highest village of Milos Island, and it is about 5 km away from Sarakiniko . You can find some traditional and boutique hotels and bed & breakfasts here, as well as museums, galleries, and a castle. Plaka offers a panoramic view of the island and the sea, and it is a cultural and historical place to experience the island and the beach.
There are various accommodation options in hotels, hostels and inns, be sure to check them out at Booking.com page.
What to Do at Sarakiniko Beach
Sarakiniko Beach offers many fun activities for all kinds of travelers. Here are some of the things you can do at this amazing beach:
- Swim and snorkel. The water is clear and calm, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. You can see colorful fish and coral reefs under the surface, as well as some shipwrecks that add to the mystery of the place.
- Jump off the cliffs. If you are feeling adventurous, you can jump off the cliffs into the water. There are different heights and spots for jumping, but make sure you check the depth and safety of the water before you do it.
- Explore the caves. There are several caves along the coast that you can enter by swimming or walking. Some of them are large enough to fit several people inside, while others are more narrow and dark. Be careful not to get lost or stuck in them.
- Relax and enjoy the views. Sarakiniko Beach is a place where you can unwind and admire the natural beauty of the place. You can find a cozy spot on the rocks where you can read a book, listen to music, or just watch the waves.
- Take photos and videos. Sarakiniko Beach is one of the most photogenic places on Milos Island, so you will want to take as many photos and videos as possible. You can capture the stunning contrast between the white rocks and the blue sea, as well as the different shapes and forms of the rocks.
Top 10 Attractions in Sarakiniko Beach, Milos Island, Greece
Here are the best attractions to make the most of your visit to Sarakiniko Beach, Milos Island, Greece.
- The Shipwreck: One of the most iconic sights on Sarakiniko Beach is the rusty remains of a cargo ship that ran aground on the rocks in 2003. You can see it from the shore or swim closer to it for a closer look. It adds a touch of mystery and history to the otherwise surreal scenery.
- The Caves: The rocks on Sarakiniko Beach have formed many natural caves that you can explore by foot or by boat. Some of them are large enough to fit several people, while others are more narrow and hidden. You can find some amazing rock formations and colors inside the caves, as well as some marine life.
- The Cliffs: If you are feeling adventurous, you can climb up some of the cliffs on Sarakiniko Beach and enjoy the panoramic views of the sea and the coast. You can also jump off some of the cliffs into the water, but be careful and check the depth and the currents before you do so. Some of the cliffs are over 10 meters high, so this is not for the faint-hearted.
- The Sunbathing: One of the best things to do on Sarakiniko Beach is to relax and soak up the sun on the smooth white rocks. The rocks are warm and comfortable, and you can find some shady spots under some arches or overhangs. You can also bring a towel or a mat if you prefer. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen and drink plenty of water, as there is no shade or facilities on the beach.
- The Swimming: The water on Sarakiniko Beach is crystal clear and refreshing, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. You can see some fish and coral around the rocks, as well as some underwater caves. The water is usually calm and shallow, but it can get rougher and deeper when there is wind or waves. Always pay attention to the weather conditions and your own abilities when swimming.
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- The Photography: Sarakiniko Beach is a paradise for photographers, as it offers many opportunities for stunning shots. You can capture the contrast between the white rocks and the blue sea, the curves and textures of the rocks, the reflections of the water and the sky, and the dramatic light effects at different times of the day. You can also take some creative selfies or portraits with the rocks as a backdrop.
- The Hiking: If you want to explore more of the area around Sarakiniko Beach, you can hike along some trails that lead to other beaches or viewpoints. You can follow the coastline to Agios Konstantinos Beach or Mandrakia Village, or climb up to Voudia Hill for a bird’s eye view of Sarakiniko. You can also hike to Papafragas Cave, another spectacular spot on Milos Island.
- The Boating: Another way to enjoy Sarakiniko Beach is to take a boat tour that will take you around the coast and show you some hidden gems that are not accessible by land. You can rent a kayak or a paddle board and paddle along the rocks, or join a guided tour that will take you to some caves and coves. You can also take a sailing or a speed boat tour that will include other attractions on Milos Island, such as Kleftiko Bay or Sykia Cave.
- The Eating: After spending some time on Sarakiniko Beach, you might get hungry and thirsty. There are no restaurants or bars on the beach itself, but you can find some nearby options in Mandrakia Village or Adamas Town. In Mandrakia Village, you can try some fresh seafood and local dishes at Medusa Restaurant, which has a lovely terrace overlooking the sea. In Adamas Town, you can find more variety and choices, such as pizza at Il Postino Pizzeria or ice cream at Aggeliki Ice Cream.
- The Staying: If you want to stay close to Sarakiniko Beach, you can find some accommodation options in the vicinity. One of them is Sarakiniko View Studios, which offers cozy and modern studios with balconies overlooking the beach. Another one is Sarakiniko Rooms, which offers simple and comfortable rooms with garden views. Both of them are within walking distance from the beach and have free parking and wifi.
Suggestions for touristic attractions, activities and guided tours in Greece, Milos Island, Sarakiniko Beach:
Itineraries for 1 Day to Visit Sarakiniko Beach in Milos Island
If you only have one day to visit Sarakiniko Beach, Milos Island, Greece, here are some possible itineraries that will help you make the most of your time.
- Itinerary 1: Sunrise to Sunset
- Wake up early and head to Sarakiniko before the crowds arrive. Enjoy the sunrise and the peaceful atmosphere on the beach. Take some photos and swim in the calm water.
- After a couple of hours, hike to Papafragas Cave, a stunning natural pool surrounded by cliffs. Swim and snorkel in the cave and admire the rock formations.
- Return to Sarakiniko Beach and have a picnic on the rocks. Relax and sunbathe for a while, or explore some of the caves and cliffs.
- In the afternoon, rent a kayak or a paddle board and paddle along the coast. Discover some hidden coves and caves that are not visible from the shore. Stop at Agios Konstantinos Beach for a break and a snack.
- In the evening, return to Sarakiniko Beach and watch the sunset. See how the rocks change color and reflect the light. Take some more photos and enjoy the view.
- Itinerary 2: Land to Sea
- Start your day in Adamas Town, where you can rent a car or a scooter and drive to Sarakiniko Beach. It will take you about 15 minutes to get there.
- Spend some time on Sarakiniko Beach, swimming, sunbathing, and exploring. Climb up some of the cliffs and jump into the water if you dare. See the shipwreck and take some selfies with it.
- After a few hours, drive to Mandrakia Village, a charming fishing village with colorful houses and boats. Have lunch at Medusa Restaurant, where you can taste some delicious seafood and local specialties.
- In the afternoon, join a boat tour that will take you around the coast of Milos Island. See some of the most beautiful spots on the island, such as Kleftiko Bay, Sykia Cave, Gerontas Beach, and more. Swim and snorkel in the crystal clear water and see some amazing underwater scenery.
- In the evening, return to Adamas Town and have dinner at one of the many restaurants there. Try some pizza at Il Postino Pizzeria or some ice cream at Aggeliki Ice Cream. Walk along the harbor and see the lights of the town.
Where to Eat in Sarakiniko Beach – Tips for Bars and Restaurants
As mentioned before, there are no bars or restaurants on Sarakiniko Beach itself, so you will need to bring your own food and drinks if you plan to spend some time there. However, there are some nearby options that you can try if you want to have a meal or a drink after your visit.
- Medusa Restaurant: This is one of the closest and most popular restaurants near Sarakiniko Beach. It is located in Mandrakia Village, about 2 km away from the beach. It has a lovely terrace overlooking the sea, where you can enjoy some fresh seafood and local dishes. The prices are reasonable and the service is friendly. Some of their specialties are grilled octopus, fried calamari, lobster pasta, and fish soup.
- Il Postino Pizzeria: This is one of the best places to have pizza on Milos Island. It is located in Adamas Town, about 5 km away from Sarakiniko Beach. It has a cozy and rustic interior, where you can choose from a variety of pizzas with different toppings. The pizzas are large and tasty, and they also have vegan and gluten-free options. The prices are affordable and the staff is helpful. Some of their best pizzas are margherita, capricciosa, quattro formaggi, and vegetariana.
- Aggeliki Ice Cream: This is one of the best places to have ice cream on Milos Island. It is also located in Adamas Town, next to Il Postino Pizzeria. It has a small but colorful shop, where you can find many flavors of homemade ice cream made with natural ingredients. The ice cream is creamy and delicious, and they also have sorbets and frozen yogurt. The prices are cheap and the portions are generous. Some of their flavors are chocolate, vanilla, pistachio, strawberry, lemon, mango, and coconut.
Naxos: Half-Day Cooking Class at Basiliko Family Tavern – Learn the secret of Naxian cuisine on a 4-hour cooking lesson experience. Visit one of the most traditional villages of Naxos and learn cooking secrets from your instructor with plenty of hands-on cooking!
What to Bring to Sarakiniko Beach
Sarakiniko is not a typical sandy beach, so you will need some extra items to enjoy your stay. Here are some things you should not forget to bring:
- A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. The sun can be very strong and there is not much shade on the beach, so you need to protect yourself from sunburns and heatstroke.
- A towel or a mat. The rocks can be hard and rough, so you will need something soft to lie on.
- Water and snacks. There are no shops or cafes on the beach, so you will need to bring your own food and drinks. There is a water fountain near the parking lot where you can refill your bottles.
- Shoes or sandals. The rocks can be slippery and sharp, so you will need some footwear to walk on them safely.
- A camera or a phone. You will want to capture the beauty of Sarakiniko Beach and share it with your friends and family.
Milos: Half day electric bike tour with Sarakiniko beach – Ride an electric bicycle with a local guide and discover the highlights of Milos. Visit the catacombs, swim at the most famous beaches and learn the history of the island.
Sarakiniko Beach is a must-see destination on Milos Island, Greece. It will make you feel like you are on another planet, with its white rocks and blue sea. It is a perfect place to have fun and relax in a stunning setting.
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