About Kolios Beach

Kolios is a modest but lovely sandy cove on Skiathos’s southern coast, 8 km from Skiathos Town. Sitting between Platanias and Vromolimnos, it’s surrounded by steep pine-covered hills that create a natural amphitheatre around the water. The setting feels intimate and sheltered — one of the more picturesque spots on the south coast.

Getting There

By Land

Bus: Stop 16 (same as Vromolimnos). About 18 minutes from Skiathos Town, then a short walk.
Car/Scooter: 15-minute drive. Limited roadside parking.
Walking: Easy walk from Vromolimnos (8 minutes) or Platanias (5 minutes) along the coast.

By Boat

Kolios faces south directly into a small, deep cove. The wind shelter here is excellent — the hills behind the beach block northerlies completely. Anchor in 3–5 metres on sand. From Skiathos Port, a 30HP rental boat reaches Kolios in approximately 20–25 minutes.

Transfer

A transfer from Skiathos Town takes about 18 minutes. Cost: approximately €30–40.

The Beach

Kolios is approximately 250 metres of golden sand with unusually clear water — the cove’s enclosure means less sediment disturbance, so visibility is often exceptional. The beach is organized but retains a laid-back feel that larger neighbouring beaches have lost.

Facilities

Sunbeds and umbrellas (€8–12 per set)
One traditional seaside taverna — grilled fish, Greek salads, local wine — right at the water’s edge
Showers

The Taverna

The taverna at Kolios is one of the more authentic on the south coast. It’s family-run, serves fresh-caught fish (ask what came in that morning), and has tables practically on the sand. It’s worth planning your boat trip around lunch here.

Snorkelling

The rocky headland at the eastern end of the cove is the highlight for snorkellers. You’ll find small schools of fish, sea anemones, and the occasional octopus. Visibility is usually 5–15 metres.

Boat Anchoring Tips

Kolios provides excellent shelter. The cove is deep enough for multiple boats to anchor comfortably. Drop anchor in 3–5 metres on sand. The eastern side near the headland is best for swimming access.

Nearby Beaches to Combine

Platanias (300m east, 2 minutes by boat) — long sandy beach with hotels
Vromolimnos (1 km west, 3 minutes by boat) — lively beach bars
Agia Paraskevi (1.5 km west) — large organized beach
Troulos (3 km west) — sheltered family beach

What Sea Skiathos Offers

Self-drive no-license boat rental: 20–25 minutes from port. Easy south-coast route. Good anchoring conditions.
Skippered south-coast dining cruise: Stop at Kolios for lunch at the taverna, then explore nearby coves in the afternoon.
Water taxi: Direct transfers to this quieter beach.

Best Time to Visit

Lunchtime: Arrive by boat, anchor, swim, then walk up to the taverna for a long Greek lunch.
June and September: Fewer people, warmer water, the taverna is less rushed.
Morning: The cove is sheltered and the water is glassy until the early afternoon.
July–August: Busier but still manageable. The taverna gets full by 1:30pm — arrive early or book ahead.