Aliko (Alyko) Beach

Aliko Beach (also spelled Alyko) stretches along the southwest coast of Naxos, backed by one of the few remaining coastal cedar forests in the Cyclades. The beach is actually a complex of coves and shorelines—some wide and open, others tucked between low rock formations—all sharing fine white sand and shallow turquoise water.

What to Expect

The main Aliko strand is a long, gently sloping beach with powdery sand and water that stays ankle-deep for 20 meters out. There are no facilities, no umbrellas, and no road noise. Behind the beach, juniper and cedar trees provide patches of natural shade, especially in the early afternoon. The setting feels more remote than the northern beaches near Naxos Town, even though it's only about 18 kilometers away.

The Aliko complex also includes smaller beaches accessible on foot: walk south along the sand to reach the more dramatic cove known locally as Hawaii Beach, a pocket of white sand wedged between dark rocks and reached by a short, easy descent. The contrast between pale sand and volcanic stone makes it one of the most photographed spots on the island.

How to Get There

From Naxos Town, head south toward Agios Prokopios, then follow the main coastal road through Plaka, Mikri Vigla, and Kastraki. After Kastraki, watch for a small sign pointing inland toward Alyko. The turnoff is easy to miss. The final stretch is a rough dirt road (about 2 kilometers), passable by most rental cars but slow. Park near the trees; the beach is a short walk from where the road ends. Total drive time is 30–35 minutes from the port.

Tips for Visiting

• Bring everything you need: water, snacks, sun protection. There are no vendors, no tavernas, and no facilities.
• Morning and late afternoon offer the best natural shade under the cedars. Midday sun is unrelenting on the open sand.
• Flip-flops are fine for the main beach, but if you plan to explore Hawaii Beach or the rocks, closed shoes help.
• The dirt access road can be dusty or muddy depending on recent weather. Drive slowly and watch for other cars.
• Windy days (common in summer) kick up sand. This is not an ideal beach when the meltemi is strong.

Best Time to Visit

Aliko is quietest in June and September, when the water is warm but crowds thin out. July and August see more visitors, especially on weekends, though it never reaches the density of Agios Prokopios or Plaka. Avoid midday in high summer unless you have your own shade; the cedars only cover a small section of the beach. Early morning swims are calm and often solitary. Sunset views from the rocks south of the main beach are excellent, though the sun sets behind the island rather than over the water.

What's Nearby

Mikri Vigla Beach is 10 minutes north by car, known for windsurfing and kitesurfing when conditions are right. Kastraki Beach, just before the turnoff to Aliko, has a long stretch of sand and a handful of beach bars. If you're exploring the cedar forest on foot, stay on visible paths—the area is protected, and the ground cover is fragile.