About Agia Paraskevi Beach
Agia Paraskevi is named after the small whitewashed chapel that sits at the eastern end of the beach, practically touching the sand. Located 8 km southwest of Skiathos Town, it’s a long, wide stretch of golden sand with shallow, crystal-clear water that deepens very gradually — making it one of the safest swimming beaches on the island.
Getting There
By Land
- Bus: Stop 15 on the main route. About 16 minutes from Skiathos Town.
- Car/Scooter: 12-minute drive. Parking area available but fills quickly.
- Walk: You can walk from Vromolimnos (5 minutes east along the coast).
By Boat
The beach faces south-southwest with gentle exposure. The sandy bottom makes for easy anchoring in 3–6 metres of water. From Skiathos Port, a rental boat reaches Agia Paraskevi in approximately 22–28 minutes.
Transfer
A transfer from Skiathos Town takes about 18 minutes. Cost: approximately €30–40.
The Beach
Agia Paraskevi is approximately 500 metres long and wide enough that it rarely feels cramped even in peak season. The sand is soft and golden, and the water is exceptionally clear with a pale turquoise colour in the shallows.
The Church of Agia Paraskevi
The small white and blue chapel at the eastern edge of the beach adds a postcard-perfect Greek island touch. It’s modest but charming, and you can peek inside during the day. The area around the church offers natural shade from tamarisk trees.
Facilities
- Sunbeds and umbrellas (€8–12 per set)
- Multiple beach bars
- Traditional taverna directly on the beach
- Showers and changing rooms
- Lifeguard on duty (peak season)
- Wheelchair-accessible boardwalk
Family-Friendly Features
Agia Paraskevi is particularly good for families:
- Very gradual depth — children can safely wade far out
- Soft sand — no pebbles or rocks in most areas
- Natural shade from tamarisk trees at the eastern end
- Toilets and showers on site
- Several taverna options for lunch without leaving the beach
Boat Anchoring Tips
Anchor in 3–5 metres on the sandy bottom. The beach faces southwest and is generally calm. In a strong southerly wind, the bay can develop a swell — check the forecast. The western end tends to be slightly quieter for anchoring.
Nearby Beaches to Combine
- Vromolimnos (next beach west, 3 minutes by boat) — popular beach bars and dining
- Kolios (1.5 km east) — a quieter sandy cove
- Platanias (1 km east) — long sandy beach with hotels
- Troulos (2 km west) — popular family beach
What Sea Skiathos Offers
- Self-drive no-license boat rental: 22–28 minutes from port. Straightforward south-coast route. Easy anchoring.
- Family-friendly skippered tours: Half-day trips with stops at Agia Paraskevi and nearby beaches. Your captain knows the safest swimming spots for children.
- Water taxi: Direct drop-off and pickup. Particularly convenient for families with beach gear.
Best Time to Visit
- June and September: Warm water, fewer crowds, all facilities open.
- Early morning: The water is glassy-smooth and the beach is nearly empty. Perfect for families.
- July–August: Popular but spacious enough to absorb the crowds. The chapel area (eastern end) is always the quietest.
- Avoid: Strong southerly wind days — the bay can get choppy.
