Sarakiniko Beach
Milos, Greece
Named for the Saracen pirates who once used this stretch of coast as a strategic lair, Sarakiniko Beach is one of the most striking on Milos, with a lunar landscape featuring smooth white-stone ridges, craters, and arches. Today, swimmers and sunbathers arriving by pleasure boat have replaced marauders and the beach is one of the top attractions on the island.
The basics
The moon-like coastline of Sarakiniko Beach is a favorite destination for private and small-group boat tours around Milos. There are various options available from Adamantas port, including small motor boats, catamarans, or sailboats. Alternatively, you can rent a boat without a skipper to explore at your own pace. Both boat tours and independent rentals offer the opportunity to dive into the azure waters and explore the coastal rock formations, or you can reach Sarakiniko Beach with a Milos driving tour since the beach is just a short walk from the parking area.
Things to know before you go
Expect to spend a minimum of four to five hours at sea with a boat tour of Sarakiniko Beach, including time to swim. Wear your bathing suit and pack a towel, sunscreen, and a hat.
Opt for a tour that includes food and drinks on board or grab supplies for a sack lunch during your day cruise.
Sarakiniko Beach has high rocks for diving, as well as a shallow beach area where younger swimmers can access the water.
This undeveloped beach has no services like restrooms, beach chair rentals, or snack bar.
Most boat tours are not wheelchair-accessible, though some larger motor boats may have ramp access. Make sure to confirm accessibility in advance.
How to get there
Most visitors reach Sarakiniko Beach by sea via a boat tour or rental boat departing from Adamantas port, the island’s main port where ferries arrive and depart. The beach is also accessible by land via an easy 5-minute walk along the trail from the parking area.
When to get there
This popular and relatively accessible beach fills with boat tours, swimmers, and sunbathers in summer, so visit first thing in the morning to enjoy the clear water and dazzling views before the crowds arrive. Alternatively, book a sunset cruise or boat rental to visit during the quieter early-evening hours.
Visit Milos by boat
Exploring the island of Milos by sea is one of the top things to do on the island, and there are two ways to set sail. The first is a private or small-group boat tour on board a motorboat, sailboat, or catamaran. Almost all boat tours stop so passengers can swim at one or two beaches. The other option is renting a boat without a skipper. Rental boats are small enough that you do not need a boating license to rent one, but some experience driving a boat is necessary.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!