Mikri Vigla

Mikri Vigla is a low rocky headland on Naxos's southwest coast, about 18 km south of Naxos Town. It splits the shoreline into two long sandy beaches: Liofagos to the north and Sahara (or South Mikri Vigla) to the south. Liofagos is usually calm and sheltered, ideal for swimming and families. Sahara catches the meltemi wind and is lined with kitesurf and windsurf schools from May through September. The water at both is clear and turquoise, the sand fine and pale gold, and the vibe is split between laid-back beachgoers and gear-laden windsurfers.

What to Expect

Liofagos curves gently northward from the headland. The water is shallow for the first 20 meters, the sand soft underfoot, and the wind is blocked by the rise of land behind you. A handful of tavernas and small hotels sit just off the sand. Sahara beach stretches south for nearly a kilometer. The wind here is consistent and side-shore, making it one of the most popular kitesurf spots in the Cyclades. You'll see kites in the air from midday onward in summer. There are a few beach bars and watersport centers; boards and kites are available for rent by the hour or day. Both beaches have sunbeds for hire, but there's plenty of open sand if you bring your own setup.

How to Get There

From Naxos Town, take the main south coast road toward Agia Anna and continue through Plaka and Orkos. The road is paved the entire way. After Orkos, follow signs for Mikri Vigla—you'll pass a small cluster of hotels and tavernas, then see the beach access roads branching left toward the water. The drive is about 25 minutes. There's free parking in several dirt lots along the beach road. Buses run to Mikri Vigla in summer, typically twice daily; check the current schedule at the Naxos Town KTEL station.

Tips for Visiting

• Choose your side: if you want calm water and easy swimming, park near Liofagos. If you want to watch (or try) kitesurfing, head to Sahara beach.
• Wind timing: the meltemi usually kicks in after 11 a.m. and peaks between 2 and 5 p.m.
• Bring shade: natural shade is sparse. Rent a sunbed with umbrella or bring your own.
• Footwear: the sand can get very hot by midday. Flip-flops or sandals are useful for the walk from parking to water.
• No major facilities: there are no large beach clubs or changing rooms. Tavernas have toilets for customers.

Best Time to Visit

June through September offers guaranteed sun and warm water. July and August are busiest, especially on the kitesurf side, but the beach is long enough that crowding is rare. May and early October are quieter, with less wind but still swimmable temperatures. Avoid midwinter—the wind can be biting and most tavernas close.

What's Nearby

Mikro Aliko, a small cove beach backed by low dunes and juniper trees, is a 10-minute walk south along a rough footpath from the end of Sahara beach. It's clothing-optional and has no facilities. To the north, Orkos and Plaka beaches are both within a 10-minute drive and offer more tavernas and a gentler scene. The village of Vivlos, about 5 km inland, has a bakery, mini-market, and a couple of traditional kafeneions.