Sarakiniko Beach Milos, Greece: Everything You Need to Know

I’m sure you’ve seen it all over your social media threads, the iconic white ashy lunar landscape of Sarakiniko Beach Milos Greece against the deep blue azure backdrop of the Aegean Sea, but is it worth the hype? From personal experience of visiting this otherworldly Milos beach, it’s an exultant ‘heck yes’ from me. 

The majority of Milos island is made up of volcanic materials, and boy is it on show at Sarakiniko Milos Greece. Sarakiniko Beach boasts a greyish-white undulating landscape that falls into the lapping waters of the Aegean, peaks and valleys ripe for exploration and calm inlet waters for taking a dip. All of this and more make Sarakiniko one of the best beaches in Milos, if not the best.

Situated on the central northern coastline of Milos Sarakiniko Beach experiences amazing light all day long from sunrise to sunset and beyond. If your sole purpose of visiting this monumental beach is for photography, well, you’ll be right-pleased. 

If you are lookin’ for a lazy day at the beach with periodic swims in the sea, then Sarakiniko Beach is also for you. With so much to do at Sarakiniko, you could spend an entire afternoon here, if not longer.

This extensive guide on Sarakiniko Beach covers how to get there, when to visit, what to expect, things to do, photography tips and much more.

Let’s explore!

Spending time in the Cyclades? Check out this 10 Day Greece Itinerary

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Where is Sarakiniko Beach Milos Island

Located on the northern coastline of the island of Milos in Greece’s Cycladic island group is the iconic, otherworldly and picture-perfect Sarakiniko Beach. 

Sarakiniko Beach is a quick 10-minute drive north from the port town of Adamas (where the ferry will drop you), a 12-minute drive east from the old town capital of Plaka, and a 15-minute drive west of the seaside town of Pollonia. This means Sarakiniko Beach is easily accessible from all the major hotel hubs in Milos. 

WHERE | Sarakiniko Beach Milos Island Cyclades Greece

How to Get to Sarakiniko Beach Milos

How do I get to Sarakiniko Beach? Well, you have plenty of great options at your disposal to reach this iconic Milos beach. Beaches in Milos can all be reached via car, ATV, scooter, bus, or taxi. Sarakiniko Beach, in particular, can be reached by some pretty epic organized day tours by boat, where you will also experience the highlights and hidden gems of Milos Island Greece!

How do I get from Adamas to Sarakiniko Beach specifically? The most fun way to get to Sarakiniko Greece is to rent an ATV, or you can take the frequent and well-running bus system. 

Whichever way you decide to get yourself to Sarakiniko Beach Milos island, you are in for a real treat!

NOTE | Due to the nature of some of the roads near beaches like Tsigrado and Fyriplaka, I wouldn’t advise walking or cycling to any Milos attraction outside of the main towns

Organized Day Trip of Sarakiniko Beach

Hate to plan? If you are the type of person that just wants everything taken care of, or just don’t trust yourself to get to one of the best beaches Milos Greece has to offer (plus all the iconic sites on the island!) well this one is for you. 

This epic 4-hour organized day trip takes you to highlights like the ancient ruins of the Milos theatre and Phylakopi. The picturesque villages of Klima and the old town of Plaka. Along the way, you will see how local dairy and wine products are made, and of course, the star of the day Sarakiniko Beach Milos Greece!

Due to its easily accessible location, you can definitely manage a visit to Sarakiniko Beach without a Milos travel guide, although a Milos guide will provide you with a more robust and fulfilling experience where you will learn more about the history and culture of Milos. 

BOOK | Milos Archaeology + Culture Tour

Car Rental Milos 

If there are more than 2 of you, or you love the comfort and convenience of a full-sized vehicle to visit the best beach in Milos Greece, then a car rental is for you. Driving in Milos is actually quite the treat.

The main roads are really great, smooth and well divided. Once you get closer to attractions like Firiplaka and Tsigrado the road can get rougher, this is when a car hire Milos comes in handy.

The good thing about Sarakiniko beach Milos is the road leading up to the parking lot is actually really pleasant, albeit winding. You can rest assured, renting a car is the absolute best way to get to all of the beaches Milos has to offer, including the iconic Sarakiniko.

Check out Car Rentals in Milos for pricing and availability.

Scooter + ATV Rental Milos

If you are up for something a little more adventurous and want to visit Sarakiniko Beach Milos Greece at your own pace, you can try renting an ATV (4-wheeler) or scooter.

We rented from Apollonos Sunshine which I believe was the best ATV rental Milos could possibly offer. The bikes and helmets were in mint condition, and the customer service was great. 

TIP |  Do remember there is always a little room for negotiation, especially if you are willing to pay in cash and you are visiting in shoulder or off-season. Originally they had asked for €25, but we were able to negotiate down to €20 paid in cash.

The island of Milos can experience some really windy conditions, especially in summer, so when considering renting a scooter, make sure you are comfortable on roads with high crosswinds.

Bus to Sarakiniko Beach Milos

If having to drive your own car, ATV or scooter around an island you’ve never visited before just gives you the heeby-jeebys, I’d recommend using the well-established Milos bus system.

To get yourself to Sarakiniko Milos Island Greece the island has busses that run from almost all major and minor hubs in Milos plus they run from as early as 6:30 AM to close to 11 PM at night (for major routes). 

Check out the Milos Bus Schedule to see what the best route is for visiting Sarakiniko Beach.

Taxi to Sarakiniko Beach Milos

If you have cellular service or WiFi and are uncomfortable driving on unknown roads to get to one of the best beaches in Milos Island, you can call a Milos taxi at +30 22870-22219. 

If you are looking to pick up a SIM card when you arrive in Milos Island, you can find a Vodaphone in Plaka, my recommended cellular provider. Plus they have unlimited data for 30 days for only €15 (as of 2021). 

I’d recommend taking a taxi as a last resort to get yourself to Sarakiniko, one of the best beaches on Milos. The taxi drivers, while honest, do like to charge a premium to tourists for this service.

Best Boat Tour Milos 

What better way to see one of the best beaches Milos has to offer than by boat? Cruise on the azure waters and witness some amazing landscapes from the comfort of a sailboat.

For the best boat trip Milos I’d recommend this Milos Full-Day Sailing Cruise that will take you to all the Milos highlights, including the best beach Milos has (hint hint, it’s Sarakiniko), and hidden gems like Kleftiko and Sykia Caves. 

You can also find half day boat tour Milos style, but usually don’t include Sarakiniko Beach. If you have some real dough to spend, alternatively, you can seek out a yachting trip from Horizon Yachts Milos for some excellent yachting Milos can offer. 

BOOK | Milos Full-Day Sailing Cruise

Flights to Sarakiniko Beach

At the time of writing this guide on one of the best beaches in Milos, there are no direct flights to Sarakiniko Beach. You can arrive at the main Milos airport, then rent a car or take a taxi for the easy 15-minute duration to arrive at the beach at Sarakiniko Milos Greece.

How the ‘Moonscape’ was Formed at Sarakiniko Beach Milos

You’ve seen the amazing pictures of the lunar landscape or moon beach Milos, but how was it formed? Sarakiniko Milos, or what I consider the best beach in Milos, is made up of a variety of different geological materials, but what makes up the stunning white rock beach Milos is volcanic rock. 

The white ashy landscape that Sarakiniko is known for is the result of centuries of wind and waves forming interesting shapes in the volcanic rock giving it that ‘lunar’ look. Plus, the lack of vegetation, Sarakiniko can only be described as ‘otherworldly. 

Just beware, the white ash Aegean Milos dust that sits on top of the rock can get into clothes really easily. Luckily, it’s pretty straightforward to dust it off.

TIP | Due to the sandstone, pumice stone, ash and eroded volcanic rock, it would be wise to bring along some comfortable shoes, sandals or water shoes for your visit to Sarakiniko Beach.

Entrance Fee for Sarakiniko Beach

Sarakiniko Milos Island (and the best beach in Milos Island, in my humble opinion) is free of charge! Even if you do decide to rent a car, ATV or scooter, parking is complimentary at Sarakiniko Beach.

Best Time to Visit Sarakiniko Beach

What Season Should I Visit Sarakiniko Beach Milos?

Like most places in Europe, the best time to visit Sarakiniko Beach is in the shoulder seasons of late May and June and September and early October. I was lucky enough to visit in early October, and regardless of the wind, it was a very pleasant sunny day worthy of some time in the waves and tanning on the rock beach.

What Time of Day Should I Visit Sarakiniko Beach Milos?

For Sarakiniko Beach, Sun and Water

If you are going simply to get in some swimming and tanning at one of the best beaches Milos Greece has to offer then I suggest you come around 11 AM and spend a few hours soaking up the sun. Do be warned though, Sarakiniko Beach does not provide any, and I mean any, facilities. Come prepared!

For Photos of Sarakiniko Beach

Gosh golly, Sarkiniko is one of those magical places that can be photographed at absolutely any time of day which makes it a photographer’s dream.

Sunrise, mid-day, sunset and even nighttime are all amazing times to take photos at Sarakiniko Beach, depending on what you’d like to capture and what vibe you are going for. For reference, all photos taken in this blog post were taken at 10 AM in the morning. 

Download the AlpenGlow app to determine when sunrise and sunset will be at it’s finest. It’s my secret weapon for capturing great light at golden hour (the time just after sunrise and just before sunset).

Weather in Milos + Sarakiniko Beach

In general, you can expect bright sunny days and mild to hot temperatures for most of the year making Milos weather really quite pleasant. Below I’ve broken down what to expect from the weather in Milos Greece by season including Milos temperature to consider for your trip to Sarakiniko and Milos Island as a whole. 

Northerly Wind at Sarakiniko Beach 

The wind Milos can experience during the summer (and other months, but mostly summer) can be classified as the ‘hold on to your hats, folks!’ type of wind. The island of Milos has frequent bouts of northerly wind or what is meteorologically known as the Meltemi winds. 

These winds are strong and dry and can happen all year round, albeit more frequently in the summer months (I experienced them in October, at Sarakiniko no less!). Because Sarakiniko Beach is located on the north coastline, it can see extreme winds as high as 100 kilometres/hour… yes you read that right. 

The Meltemi winds can really ruin your day at Sarakiniko, and especially if you planned to see it by boat. Take a peek at other beaches on Milos to spend the day for when this arises.

Visiting Sarakiniko Milos in Summer Months

The summer months of July and August are the high season in Milos, and for a reason! Weather Milos Greece experiences in the summer is windy, sunny and hot, hot, hot. Because Milos can reach temperatures of 30° celsius during the day, make sure to bring a proper sun hat, sunscreen and carry a reusable water bottle with you to keep hydrated.

Visiting Sarakiniko Milos in Shoulder Months

Milos weather in September and Milos weather in October (or what are considered the shoulder months for visiting Sarakiniko Beach) can only be described as mild, sunny and breezy. 

Really, you can’t go wrong with visiting Sarakiniko Milos in these months. Fewer people, relatively long days, and temperatures of 22° – 26° celsius at the height of the day. During my two weeks in Milos in early October, I didn’t experience a single rainy or majorly cloudy day. Sunny days were plentiful!

Spring in Milos

Considered to be the months of March and April in Milos, these months can experience temperature highs of 15° – 19° with minor rain and clouds. If you are visiting Milos to laze on the beach and enjoy its azure sea then I’d advise against visiting in March and April as the water temperature is around 16° making for some frigid waters. 

This would be a great time to visit the island if you are less interested in beaches and more interested in archeology, outdoor sites and culture as the days are generally pleasant with much fewer crowds if any.

Winter in Milos 

Dropping to temperatures of 13° and lower, the weather in Milos in the months of November to February is really only for long-term visitors who want to experience local life on the Greek islands. Due to the lack of tourism in these months, a number of restaurants and facilities will close down until island lovers start arriving in May.

What to Expect at Sarakiniko Beach 

Parking at Sarakiniko Beach

If you decide to rent a car, ATV or scooter, you will be pleasantly surprised and delighted to know that plenty of parking is available at Sarakiniko Milos Beach. Plus, it’s free! 

Do note, that due to the popularity of Sarakiniko, the parking lot can fill up early in the morning (as early as 9 AM), leaving the only option to park up the road a bit, which is a minor inconvenience at worst. Throughout the morning, as people come and go, spaces will come available. 

Facilities at Sarakiniko Beach

As one of the best beaches Milos has to offer, it really is a shame that Sarakiniko is not graced with more facilities. For that matter, there are zero facilities available to you at this epic Milos destination. Absolutely no washroom, changing, food or water facilities. 

If I had it my way, there would be a nice little beach bar Milos style somewhere nearby, but alas, the lack of facilities aside, the miraculous lunar landscape of Sarakiniko really does stand on its own (even minus a cocktail).

How Long Should I Spend at Sarakiniko Beach Milos?

How long you should spend at Milos Sarakiniko Beach really depends on why you are visiting. Many come only to take photos of the epic landscapes, in which case you would only need a couple of hours. 

If you are looking to have a more immersive experience at Sarakiniko Beach that includes exploring, swimming and laying in the sun, then you can spend upwards of 4-5 hours here. But again, due to the lack of facilities at Sarakiniko Milos, come prepared with everything you could possibly need, from snacks to sunscreen.

Things to do at Sarakiniko Beach

Sarakiniko Beach not only looks stunning, but this Milos beach also has a lot to offer. Anything from baking in the sun to exploring old tunnels to something more adventurous like sea kayaking, here are the best things to do at Sarakiniko Beach Milos.

Shipwreck at Sarakiniko Beach

Once you’ve made your way down from the parking lot towards Sarakiniko Beach Greece you can venture to the right to find a shipwreck off in the harbour. It’s hard to spot, so keep your eyes peeled. The shipwreck is remnants of an African tanker that crashed in 2003 and broke into pieces. 

You can snorkel at the Sarakiniko shipwreck for a unique experience, and it really adds to the overall affair of visiting Sarakiniko, one of the best beaches in Milos.

Cliff Jumping at Sarakiniko Beach

If you are someone who enjoys an adrenaline rush and are wondering where can I cliff jump in Milos? Well, look no further. Sarakiniko is the pinnacle of cliff-diving in Milos. 

If you make your way to the left, around the sandy beach, and past the white rock beach you will find the coolest landscapes and cliffs to jump from. Make sure to visit when winds are low as it can be very dangerous due to high winds (up to 100km/ph!). Some of the best beaches in Milos Greece can be truly unpleasant during these winds.

NOTE | Sea urchins reside near the cliffs of Sarakiniko and you definitely don’t want to step on one of those! I advise you to bring some good quality water shoes for a safer, more enjoyable experience.

Old Mine Tunnels

Located at the back of the Sarakiniko inlet where you can find sparse trees and grasses is the entrance to the old mine tunnels at Sarakiniko. Mining was once the top income generator for Milos households, and although underground mining no longer happens in Milos, minerals like bentonite and perlite are still extracted. 

To explore these Milos Sarakiniko caves you will need a flashlight as it’s pretty dang dark inside.

Kayaking at Sarakiniko Beach

If you’d like to see the lunar landscape of Sarakiniko from the water but don’t fancy an organized day tour on a sailboat, kayaking is your answer. Sea Kayak Greece offers guided or unguided sea kayak tours of the Milos coastline at all times of the day. 
Sunset at Sarakiniko from a kayak? Yes, please!

Check out these epic trips to see the Sarakiniko Milos beach from the Aegean waters.

Swimming and Sunbathing

Any best Milos Beaches worth its salt will have some epic swimming and sunbathing, Sarakiniko Beach is no exception. Can you swim at Sarakiniko Beach? Oh heck yes. Sarakiniko Beach in Milos has some of the most unique swimming and sunbathing conditions in the Cyclades! 

Once you’ve left the parking lot, make your way to the left, around the itty bitty sandy beach (no one sunbathes there), and around the far side past the iconic Simba cliff point. Here you will find grooves and crevices to set up camp for the day. 

Some serious, shadowless sun can be enjoyed here for the majority of the day. Wade into the waters from here for some safe swimming during times when the Meltemi wind isn’t bashing the coastline causing unsafe water conditions.

Photography Tips for Sarakiniko Beach

Oh boy, where to start?! Sarakiniko Beach is one of the prettiest places in Greece and can only be described as a photography mecca. The many shapes, grooves, dips and points in the volcanic rock on display here will have you go absolutely camera happy. 

On top of this beach being easy on the eyes, Sarakiniko can also be photographed at any time of day. I’m talkin’ sunrise, mid-day, sunset and nighttime. It’s truly a photo dream come true and one of the most Instagrammable places in Greece in my opinion. 

SUNRISE | Creamy soft blue pink light and dark shadows

MID-DAY | Bright blue water, white ashy volcanic rock, no shadows

SUNSET | Orange light, red reflection on rock, sunset in the distance

NIGHTTIME | Spectacular stars, dark purply sky, the volcanic rock looks gray

That aside, there are some things to consider before venturing out to Sarakiniko Beach in Milos to get those beautiful Greece pictures and Milos photos:

High Winds

If you’ve read through the section on the weather in Milos, you’ll know that the island experiences some severe winds called the Meltemi winds. These winds are incredibly strong and dry and are experienced all over the Aegean Sea. 

Due to wind speeds of up to 100 km/h, Sarakiniko Beach can actually be a dangerous place to visit. If you are a drone owner, avoid these times at all costs. Unfortunately, when I visited in early October, we visited on one such day, so no drone photography was taken during this time. 

If you are a camera owner, make sure to have a proper strap and keep your camera around your neck at all times. One of these lens cap holders also comes in handy. 

North Facing Location

Sarakiniko is located on the North end of Milos island meaning it will experience harsh shadows early in the morning and close to sunset. The best time to visit Sarakiniko beach is between 8AM (before the tour groups arrive at 9AM) and 4PM. 

Instagrammable Spots at Sarakiniko Beach

Without a doubt, the entire beach is truly instagrammable, and Sarakiniko is most definitely one of the best beaches of Milos when it comes to Instagram-worthy shots. While there are a few places at Sarakiniko that can be deemed iconic locations, I’d really encourage you to wander around and get a different perspective. At Sarakiniko, there is no such thing as an ugly photo.

UNIQUE WHITE LANDSCAPE | Some truly beautiful backdrops can be found to the right after exiting the parking lot

SIMBA CLIFF | That pointy cliff just to the left of the sandy beach can be found all over Instagram

CLIFF HOLE | Just past the Simba cliff and through the white rock beach is the cliff hole

Other picture-worthy beaches in Milos are Tsigrado Beach Milos and Kleftiko Beach Milos located on the south side of the Island.

Nearby Attractions you can Visit in the Same Day

Are you wondering what to do in Milos Greece besides Sarakiniko Beach? Well, these best things to do Milos are just a 5-minute drive away and can be done on the same day. 

Here are the best places in Milos close to Sarakiniko Beach:

Papafragas Beach and Caves 

Just 5 minutes down the coastline to the right is Papafragas Beach and Caves. A similar landscape to Sarakiniko Beach can be found here (albeit, not as epic) where you can laze on the small sand beach and explore the cliffside and caves.

Mandrakia Milos

Mandrakia Milos is a quaint seaside town with a picturesque half-moon cove and colourful houses lining the bay. There isn’t much in regards to facilities here besides a couple of guesthouses, a restaurant and a beautiful church.

Alternatively, you can check out Firopotamos or Klima, equally as beautiful.

Pollonia Town + Pollonia Beach Milos

Pollonia Milos is a great place to stay if you have been to the island before or are trying to take a quieter vacation. Its location on the far northeast tip of the island boasts a long beach, and two different town centres full of restaurant options. Make sure to visit the church on the far left point.

Where to Stay Near
Sarakiniko Beach Milos

Sarakiniko Beach Hotels are pretty few and far between due to the sparseness of the landscape surrounding Sarakiniko Beach Milos. But you can find a couple of real gems here that are worth booking if you want to be out of the hubbub of the main towns and experience a quieter more rural lifestyle while visiting the island. These boutique hotels in Milos are super close to Sarakiniko.

Also check out where to stay in Milos for the best access to this famous beach.

Sarakiniko View Studios | Mid-range

Boasting epic views of Sarakiniko Beach in the distance and the lunar-like landscapes of Milos’s north coast, Sarakiniko View Studios is a great place to stay if you have a car and can explore the region. The apartment comes with free parking, free WiFi, and a kitchenette to create your own meals. Comfy cute white decor is on feature.

From Sarakiniko Studios Milos you can reach Adamas (the ferry point) within a 10-minute drive, Sarakiniko Rooms also comes with a yummy complimentary Aegean breakfast every morning.

BEST FOR | Couples with a Car

WHERE | Sarakiniko View Studios & Rooms Milos Island, Greece

BOOK | Stay at the quiet Sarakiniko View Studios

Cave Suites Milos | Luxury

If you are looking for a luxury experience in Milos, well Cave Suites Milos has you covered. Located up on the hill above Sarakiniko Beach this Sarakiniko hotel boasts a beautiful pool, lounging area and luxury furnishings. You can beat the view from this place!

This Sarakiniko hotel Milos has one offering and one offer only, a stunning superior suite with a sea view & a private pool. Planning a honeymoon or proposal? This is the one for you. Want some quiet time to ponder life and bake in the sun? Yup, Cave Suites Milos has you covered.

BEST FOR | Couples or Friends

WHERE | Cave Suites Milos, Greece

Where to Stay in Milos

Looking for the best place to stay Milos?

The following guide outlines the best area to stay in Milos and the best hotels in Milos, including 5 star hotel Milos options, Milos boutique hotels and cool apartments Milos has on offer. Whether you are staying 2 days in Milos, 3 days in Milos, 4 days in Milos or longer, you can rest assured that this guide has the best option for you.

On my extensive 2 week visit to Milos, I visited all the major hotel hubs and towns on the Island. In my opinion, there are three great places to base yourself, especially if you don’t have a car. Milos isn’t one of those islands that has a plethora of Milos beach hotel options, rather inland options with views, convenience and serenity.

>> READ MORE | Where to Stay in Milos + Area Guide

Adamas

Adamas or Adamantas is the main tourist hub in Milos and where the ferry port is located.  Adamas has a small old town in the centre and many great restaurants. If you stay in Adamas, you can conveniently rent a car or scooter, visit a decent beach, a 15-minute walk down the coast and be centrally located for all of the best things to do in Milos. 

BEST FOR | Convenient Location

>> READ MORE | Complete Guide to Adamas Milos

Eclipse Tales | Luxury 

Eclipse Tales is an upscale apartment located in the elevated old town area. Welcome to your new modern home in Milos! This apartment is fully equipped with a full-sized kitchen, dining room, a large L-shaped lounging area, a patio with a view of the bay. 

This Airbnb Milos style apartment comes with two spacious rooms with queen-sized beds.

BEST FOR | Friends,  Small Family

Athina Milos Suites | Mid-range

Athina Milos Suites is a light and bright, well-decorated suites option in the centre of Adamas.  This one-bedroom deluxe apartment is very conveniently located off the main road, yet still enjoying proximity to all of the best restaurants in Adamas. 

With textured white surfaces, creamy white walls and black accents, it’s truly one of the most beautiful apartments in Adamas, and for a great price!

BEST FOR | Design Lovers, Friends, Couple

WHERE | Athina Milos Suites, Adamas, Milos Island, Greece

Livanios Studios | Budget

Livanios Studios is a comfortable budget accommodation in Adamas that enjoys a very central location on the main road. Steps away from everything you could possibly need, Livanios Studios has great hosts and unique decor.

BEST FOR | Backpackers, Solo Traveller

WHERE | Livanios Studios, Adamas, Milos Island, Greece

Pollonia

Pollonia, located on the most northeastern point of the island, is a 20-minute drive from Adamas’s ferry port. You can easily catch a transfer on the smoothly operating bus system from the port to downtown Pollonia. 

Pollonia is a quiet seaside town with two centres split by a long sweeping sandy beach. Great for people who want to have easy access to a great beach, have a bit more serenity but also the convenience of great restaurants and amenities with pretty harbour views.

BEST FOR | Access to a Beach

>> READ MORE | Ultimate Guide to Pollonia Milos

Milos Breeze Boutique Hotel | Luxury

Milos Breeze Boutique Hotel is located just up on the hill in the centre of Pollonia, giving it beautiful and expansive views of the harbour. The luxury property comes with indoor and outdoor pools (with epic views, I might add). 

Depending on the room you select, you will spend your time with a picturesque balcony, or even a private plunge pool! Boasting classic modern Cycladic decor of white and blue with hints of medium wood and rock, Milos Breeze is memorable.

BEST FOR | Luxury Seekers, Couples

WHERE | Milos Breeze Boutique Hotel, Pollonia, Milos Island, Greece

Delmar Apartments & Suites Pollonia | Mid-range

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Situated on the south end of Pollonia near some great restaurants are the spacious Delmar Apartments & Suites. Boasting a comfortable queen bed, sofa, kitchenette and cozy modern creamy beige decor, booking this spot will feel easy. I’d consider this a pretty great Milos beach hotel.

BEST FOR | Couples, Solo Traveler

WHERE | Delmar Apartments & Suites Pollonia, Milos Island, Greece

Captain Stavros | Budget

A quick 5-minute walk from Captain Stavros will have you lazing on the Pollonia Beach and frolicking in the waves. The Cycladic sugar-cube-style apartment building is well located and has everything you need for a great stay in Pollonia. 

Each studio room at Captain Stavros comes with a small kitchenette for creating your own meals and a small balcony for enjoying the pretty harbour views.

BEST FOR | Backpackers, Friends

WHERE | Captain Stavros, Pollonia, Milos Island, Greece

Plaka

Plaka is the capital of Milos. Situated high up on a hill in the centre of the island, many hotels will have epic panoramic views or at least access to epic views within a few minutes’ walk. The charming old town boasts winding alleyways and cute cafes. Plaka can best be described as the artsy centre of Milos.

BEST FOR | Culture and Cute Cafes

>> READ MORE | Visitor’s Guide to Plaka Milos

Plaka Suites | Luxury

Plaka Suites has everything you need for a great trip to Milos. Located in the picturesque old town neighbourhood of Plaka, you really don’t get better than this. Each suite comes with a kitchenette, expansive patio with stunning views of either the sea beyond or the charming town below.

BEST FOR | Creative People, Couple

Bougainvillea Home at Plaka | Mid-range

Bougainvillea home in Plaka simply feels like home. The white-washed walls, cozy decor, and amenities all equal a home-away-from-home vibe. This Airbnb Mios Greece also experiences close proximity to all of the cute cafes that the town has to offer. If you need to write a book or just get away from life for a bit, this is your choice.

BEST FOR | Solo Traveler, Couple

Getting to Milos by Air + Sea

Milos is located in the Cycladic group of Islands in the Aegean sea and is easily accessed by plane or ferry. 

Do note, because Milos and most Cycladic islands can experience some very strong winds, ferry crossings and plane routes can be cancelled last minute. As long as you are aware of it and build some buffer time into your schedule, you are still looking at a great holiday!

Day Trip to Milos

If you are planning to visit nearby islands such as Sifnos, Paros or Naxos, and are limited on time then a day trip to Milos could be just the ticket. 

Book yourself a fast ferry running from Paros or Naxos and you should get to the port of Adamas in Milos in just over 1.5 hours. Take the earliest ferry, and you have plenty of time to explore the island. This Milos half-day tour would be a great fit.

By Plane

The island boasts its own airport in Milos, making it convenient to get to from nearby islands of Paros and Naxos, to further away islands such as Mykonos or Santorini and even larger mainland cities like Athens. The airport Milos offers is small but receives many direct flights.

By Air from Athens to Milos

Due to Athens’s position in the world as an international hub, you can transfer through Athens to Milos from almost anywhere in the world. Airlines like Aegean fly direct to Milos every day and in high season, multiple times a day. The flight takes an easy 40 minutes.

You’ll see a major decrease in air service to Milos in the winter due to weather and lack of tourism.

Flights from Santorini to Milos 

Due to Santorini’s popularity as one of the most scenic islands in the Cycladic group, there is high demand for flights from Santorini to Milos. During the summer months of May-October, Aegean airlines offer this route daily. The flight duration is 40 minutes direct.

Again, you will see a decrease in this route’s offering in the winter months.

By Ferry

>> BOOK FERRY TICKETS TO MILOS

One of the most common ways to island-hop in the Cyclades is by fast ferry. Many companies like SeaJets will get you from A to B the fastest, while Blue Star Ferries will offer a larger variety of prices and durations. 

During my month in the Cyclades, I exclusively used Ferry Hopper to find the best ferry to each island.

Ferries from Athens to Milos

The best Athens port to depart from to get to Milos is Piraeus. This is your most direct and shortest route to Milos. The journey will take roughly 3.5 hours.

Ferries from Santorini to Milos

As a common route in the Cyclades, ferries Santorini to Milos are plentiful. You will always find a plethora of options from the budget, multistop, longer-duration ferries to high speed, direct, more expensive ferries. Durations range from 2 hours to 7 hours.

Because I was taking my time through the Cyclades and had endless amounts of time, I opted for the more economical 7-hour ferry. Due to weather, this was a terrible decision as the boat was incredibly rocky, but during less windy times, I’d recommend taking this one.

Ferry Sifnos to Milos

About 30 minutes from Milos is the hidden gem of Sifnos. Visiting this small island as a day trip of Milos could be a great option if you have a week or more on the island.

How to Get Around Milos

How do I get around Milos? Well, you have plenty of great options at your disposal to explore everything this beautiful island has to offer. From epic beaches, charming hill towns and azure-coloured harbours, there is so much to see in Milos. 

Some beaches like Sarakiniko Beach can easily be accessed by scooter, bus or taxi due to the good conditions of its roads, but beaches like Tsigrado and Firiplaka require a more hefty transport option like an ATV or car. All the popular beaches in Milos are also accessible by bus if you’d prefer not to go through the hassle of renting. 

In this guide on how to get around Milos, I’ve outlined all your options to start exploring, from renting a car, ATV or scooter to the smooth-running bus system, to taxis and even organized day tours by car or boat.

NOTE | Due to the nature of some of the roads near beaches like Tsigrado and Fyriplaka, I wouldn’t rely on walking or cycling to get to all of the beautiful Milos destinations.

Organized Day Trip

Taking an organized day trip around Milos is great for people who just don’t like to plan or want to get the most out of their Milos experience in a short amount of time. With an expert local guide to give you a more robust history and cultural insight into life on Milos, you can’t go wrong.

Milos has a lot to offer in regards to culture and archeology, besides the beautiful beaches Milos is famous for. This epic 4-hour organized day trip will have you visiting highlights and hidden gems like the ancient town of Phykakopi and the ancient theatre of Milos. 

The picturesque villages of Klima and the old town of Plaka are also explored along the way, and you will see how local dairy and wine products are made (which are incredibly yummy!). 

Of course, visiting the iconic Sarakiniko Beach is included in this half-day tour of Milos. 

CHECK PRICES | Milos Archaeology + Culture Tour

Car Rental Milos 

If there are more than two of you, or you love the comfort and convenience of a full-sized vehicle to visit all of the top-notch Milos destinations, then a car rental is for you. 

Driving in Milos is actually quite a pleasant experience. The main roads are really great, smooth and well divided. Once you get closer to attractions like Firiplaka and Tsigrado the road can get rougher, this is when a car hire Milos comes in handy.

You can rest assured, renting a car is the absolute best way to get to all of the beaches and quaint towns Milos has on offer. 

>> Check out ferry tickets for Milos for pricing and availability. 

Scooter + ATV Rental Milos

If you are up for something a little more adventurous and have a properly classified license you can try renting an ATV (4-wheeler) or scooter. We rented from Apollonos Sunshine which I believe was the best ATV rental Milos could possibly have. The bikes and helmets were in mint condition, and the customer service was great. 

TIP |  You can always negotiate the price! Especially if you are willing to pay in cash and you are visiting in shoulder or off-season. Originally the shop had quoted €25 per day, but we were able to negotiate down to €20 paid in cash.

NOTE | The island of Milos experiences severe dry winds called Meltemi winds. They are especially present in summer but can blow all year long. If you are considering a scooter rental, make sure you are comfortable on roads with high crosswinds.

Bus Around Milos

The island of Milos is graced with a really great, smooth-running bus system. If the idea of having to drive your own car, ATV or scooter during your holidays just makes you sad, then this could be an option for you. 

To transport yourself to any major tourist attraction or town in Milos you can check out the Milos Bus Schedule to plan the best routes. 

The bus system runs from almost all major and minor hubs in Milos and at times as early as 6:30 AM to almost 11 PM at night (for major routes).

Taxi Around Milos

If you’ve purchased a SIM card for your travels or have access to WiFi and are uncomfortable driving on unknown roads you can call a Milos taxi at +30 22870-22219. 

I personally recommend getting a SIM card upon arrival in Greece, especially if you aren’t from the EU. You can find a  Vodaphone in Plaka, my great cellular provider, in my opinion. Plus they have unlimited data for 30 days for only €15 (as of 2021). Do note, that WiFi has always been a bit spotty in the Cycladic islands and Milos is no exception. 

I’d recommend taking a taxi as a last resort to get anywhere on the island. The taxi drivers, while honest, do like to charge a premium to tourists for this service.

Best Boat Tour Milos 

Cruise on the azure waters and witness some amazing landscapes from the comfort of a sailboat. What better way to see the island of Milos? 

For the best boat trip in Milos, I’d recommend this Milos Full-Day Sailing Cruise that will take you to all the Milos highlights and hidden gems, including the iconic Sarakiniko Beach, Kleftiko Beach (only accessed by boat) and Sykia Caves. 

The tour includes homemade Greek food and drinks, snorkelling gear and underwater cameras.

You can also find a half-day boat tour Milos style, but usually don’t include Sarakiniko Beach. If you have some real dough to spend, alternatively, you can seek out a yachting trip from Horizon Yachts Milos for some excellent yachting Milos can offer. 

Where to Eat in Milos

Milos is a surprising culinary hub, with retired metropolitan chefs and home cooks alike making for a great food scene. The majority of the best restaurants Milos offers can be found in Adamas, Pollonia and Plaka. 

Best Restaurants in Adamas

MILORS | Best Greek breakfast

GYROS OF MILOS | The best quick-eat gyros on Milos plus vegetarian option

NOSTOS | Upscale contemporary seafood by the harbour

Best Restaurants in Pollonia Milos

RAKOMELO | Mediterranean cuisine with a pretty harbour view

DECK MILOS | Great brunch and cocktails

Best Restaurants in Plaka Milos

AVLI-MILOS | Traditional Greek food in Cycladic digs

BARRIELLO | Contemporary Greek cuisine with patio

Is Milos Very Touristy?

The Milos Greek Islands (including the minor islands of Antimilos, Glaronisia, and Folegandrοu) are becoming more and more popular over the last few years largely in part to the epicness of Sarakiniko Beach’s lunar landscapes.

While I don’t believe Milos to be a very touristy island in the Cycladic Islands group in Greece, I do believe its popularity will reach new heights over the next five years as influencers flock to the island’s special terrain. 

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Top Milos Boutique Hotels
Top Milos Beaches
Adamas Milos Travel Guide
Plaka Milos Travel Guide
Pollonia Milos Travel Guide
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