A guide to the best beaches in Samos
The large Greek island of Samos is full of luscious green scenery, archaeological sites and – of course – incredibly gorgeous beaches. Samos beaches are known for having stunning pine-tree backgrounds and clear water – all extremely Greek and idyllic. Many of the beaches are organised with sunloungers and parasols for hire, but they still preserve their natural beauty. Whether you fancy doing a bit of snorkelling, hitting the water windsurfing, sunning on the sands or eating at a beach taverna during your Samos holidays, there’s a coastline on the island for you.
Lemonakia, Kokkari
This sheltered bay is located just a 10-minute drive north west of Samos Town and is near the village of Kokkari. It’s a narrow stretch of sand but can be easily accessed via a 100-metre-long path from the main road. Even though it’s a pebble beach Lemonakia is extremely popular and has parasols for rent – as well as a beach bar and taverna to grab a few drinks.
The clear water here is surrounded by high cliffs, trees and bushes. Because of its rocky floor it’s not an ideal spot for beach activities, but the clarity of the water makes it a great spot to do a bit of snorkelling.
Livadaki, Agia Paraskevi
Just north of Samos Town is the idyllic out-of-the-way coastline of Livadaki. The sandy beach here slopes gently into calm warm water and sunloungers are available free of charge. There’s several places to eat along the shore, including a beach bar and cafe serving delicious cocktails and milkshakes. The drive to Livadaki beach can be fairly bumpy, but when you reach the coast you’ll be greeted with uninterrupted sand that’s practically postcard-worthy. You can also try out the beach’s watersport equipment including pedalos and kayaks.
Balos Beach, Koumeika
After a stunning walk through mountains and green landscapes you’ll reach Balos Beach. This long expanse of sand-and-pebble shore lines a blue lagoon. Located on the southwest coast in Ormos Koumeika, this coastline has sunloungers and parasols to rent as well as several tavernas where you can have lunch. The water in the lagoon only comes up to chest height so you can easily walk or swim across its entire length.
The scenery at Balos Beach is almost wild-looking, and the foliage spills out over the mountains and down to the beach making for incredible views of exploding colours – dark green vegetation meeting the bright blue lagoon.
Psili Ammos
Situated around a 10-minute drive south of Samos Town is the sand and small white pebble beach of Psili Ammos. This area is unspoilt and quiet and the cliffs surrounding the beach protect it from any harsh winds. Down near the water, pine trees line the sand and when you look out towards the sea you can spot hills and mountains in the distance. If your stomach is grumbling there’s a few tavernas and supermarkets nearby where you can easily grab a bite to eat.
Cruise ships often pass by this beach to give their guests a taste of a real Greek island holiday, and the clear water makes for an excellent spot to try out your snorkelling gear. Further down the coast you’ll find the naturist section for those wanting that all-over tan.
Tsabou Beach, west of Avlakia
This shingle beach is often not as crowded as its surrounding coastlines so you’ll have plenty of room to stretch out on your beach towel or sunlounger. There’s places to eat and grab cocktails – some beach bars will even bring drinks and snacks directly to your sunlounger. Tsabou Beach is easy to get to and has a convenient car park near the water.
The surrounding landscape is rocky and covered with the beautiful green pine trees that cover most of the area. Tsabou beach’s seabed is fairly deep so make sure to keep an eye on any kids you might have swimming in the water.