If you want to have an unforgettable beach vacation, Ikaria is a beautiful destination for you. This Aegean Sea island is just 10 nautical miles southwest of Samos. The island gets its name from Icarus, the son of the deity Daedalus. While you’re here, take a look at the various beaches on the island.
Faros beach
Faros beach is a large sandy cove that is a popular destination for families. It’s nestled in a sheltered bay with a number of pretty rocks. There are windsurfing and kayak rental services here. It also has a volleyball court. Faros is also easily accessible from the main road to the village. The nearby Iero beach is more of a secluded paradise, but is still accessible by car.
Faros is located in the southern part of the island, just a short drive from the airport and has many lodging options. The beach is a mixture of small pebbles and sand, and has a pier to accommodate small boats. The calm water is perfect for swimming and other water sports, and there are even beach volleyball tournements held there during the summer.
Magganitis beach
The beach is very accessible from the village of Armenistis and offers a wide variety of amenities including sunbeds and umbrellas. It is also near the archaeological sites of Gialiskari and offers several options for accommodation. There are also many water sports and canoe rentals. During the summer months, there is a lifeguard on duty to ensure the safety of swimmers.
For a more secluded experience, visit Seychelles beach, a small bay with high cliffs and turquoise water. There is a small, medium-difficult trail that leads to this beach. It is ideal for families as there is very little traffic and is perfect for snorkeling and diving.
Livadi beach
Livadi beach has fine golden sand and turquoise water, and is perfect for families with kids. It is situated between the towns of Messakti and Armenistis, and is also great for snorkeling. You can also relax on the sun loungers that line the beach. If you’d like to explore more of this gorgeous Greek island, you can hike along the Livadi trail, which cut through the island from east to west. The trail begins at a stone shelter and briefly follows the official path.
Livadi beach is surrounded by lush green vegetation, and has a shallow, gentle sand beach. The area also features several taverns and accommodation options. The beach is also popular for water sports, including surfing.
Paralia Mesakti beach
Paralia Mesakti beach is a popular choice among tourists. This beach is easily accessible from the town of Ikaria and offers golden sand and crystal-clear waters. There are also some restaurants and bars nearby. Other nearby beaches are Paralia Armenistis, Paralia Iero, Kampos Beach, and Paralia Faros. These beaches are ideal for families and water sports enthusiasts.
Another popular beach in Ikaria is Nas beach, which is 6 km away from Armenistis. It has an interesting history and has the ruins of a temple dedicated to the goddess Artemis. Surrounded by streams and lush vegetation, Nas beach is an earthly paradise surrounded by pristine nature. The crystal-clear waters make for perfect swimming and sunbathing.
Armenistis beach
The beautiful Armenistis beach is located on the northwestern part of Ikaria. It is a pebbled beach with some sand, and the water is crystal clear. It is a popular destination for travelers. There are many accommodations and hotels in the village and a variety of restaurants.
Visitors should be aware of strong currents in this beach. It is best to stay on the beach and avoid swimming in rocky areas.
Christos Rahon village
The Christos Rahon village is a mountainous village located 55 km west of the capital of Ikaria. It is a picturesque spot with a beautiful view of the sea. The village is home to several traditional taverns, cafes, and shops. The atmosphere is relaxing, with a slower pace, and shops remain open late. During summer, the town hosts a unique festival called Panigiria, where locals perform traditional Greek music.
The island’s natural beauty is incredibly diverse, with southern Ikaria being home to some of the most pristine wild beauty in the world, and the northern region home to some of the most beautiful beaches. Nearby is the Halari gorge, a series of narrow rivers and small lakes surrounded by verdant forests. You can hike through the gorge to reach Christos Rahon village. You can also visit the old oak forests of Ikaria, which are among the oldest in the Balkans.
Christos Rahon thermal springs
Christos Rahon is a mountainous village 55 km west of the capital of Ikaria. It is surrounded by pine and oak trees, and offers stunning views of the sea and mountains. The town has several accommodation facilities and old churches, including the cathedral of Christ. It is renowned for its nightlife, and many shops remain open well after the sun has gone down.
The island is surrounded by a diverse range of landscapes, from the rugged mountains in the southern part to the beautiful beaches in the north. The island’s dramatic scenery includes the Halari gorge, which features narrow rivers and small lakes tucked into verdant vegetation. Trekking is also possible, with trails leading from the beach of Nas to the village of Christos Rahon. The island also has eight natural thermal springs, which are known for rejuvenating the body and soul.