About Maratha Beach
Maratha is a small, charming sandy beach on Skiathos’s south coast, 11 km southwest of Skiathos Town. Tucked between Troulos and Koukounaries, it’s often overlooked in favour of its more famous neighbours — which is exactly what makes it special. Maratha is quieter, more intimate, and surrounded by fragrant pine trees that provide natural shade on the sand.
Getting There
By Land
- Bus: Stop 18 on the main route. About 22 minutes from Skiathos Town. The beach is a 5-minute walk from the bus stop down a pine-shaded path.
- Car/Scooter: 17-minute drive. Small parking area available.
- Walk: You can walk from Troulos (15 minutes along the coast road).
By Boat
Maratha faces south into a gentle, open bay. The sandy bottom provides good anchoring in 3–6 metres of water. The pine forest behind the beach makes for a stunning approach from the water. From Skiathos Port, a 30HP rental boat reaches Maratha in approximately 30–35 minutes.
Transfer
A transfer from Skiathos Town takes about 25 minutes. Cost: approximately €35–45.
The Beach
Maratha is approximately 200 metres of soft golden sand. The water is exceptionally clear with a pale turquoise colour. The defining feature is the pine forest that reaches almost to the water’s edge, providing natural shade — a rarity on Skiathos’s south coast.
Facilities
- Sunbeds and umbrellas (€8–12 per set)
- One traditional taverna behind the beach
- Small beach bar for drinks and snacks
- Showers
- Natural pine-tree shade (free and plentiful)
Why Maratha Feels Different
Unlike its busier neighbours, Maratha hasn’t been overdeveloped. The pine forest is intact, the development is minimal, and the atmosphere is peaceful. It attracts visitors who want a proper beach experience without the noise and crowds.
Boat Anchoring Tips
The bay is open but generally calm in the prevailing northerly winds. Anchor in 3–5 metres on sand. There’s plenty of space — Maratha rarely has more than a handful of boats.
Nearby Beaches to Combine
- Troulos (1.5 km east, 5 minutes by boat) — larger family beach
- Koukounaries (2 km west, 5 minutes by boat) — the island’s most famous beach
- Banana (3 km west) — popular party beach
- Katharina (1 km west, between Maratha and Koukounaries) — tiny, secluded beach
What Sea Skiathos Offers
- Self-drive no-license boat rental: 30–35 minutes from port along the south coast. Easy navigation. Perfect for a quiet beach day away from the crowds.
- Skippered beach-hopping tour: Combine Maratha with Koukounaries, Banana, and Troulos. Spend as much time at each as you want.
- Water taxi: Direct, private transfers to this quieter beach.
Best Time to Visit
- Any time June–September: Maratha is consistently quieter than its neighbours due to being slightly less known.
- Morning (8am–11am): You may have the beach almost to yourself.
- Midday: The pine trees provide natural shade — something few other south-coast beaches offer.
- September: The water is warm, the crowds have thinned, and the pine forest smells incredible after the summer heat.
