About Kastro Beach

Kastro Beach lies directly below the medieval castle ruins of Skiathos’s ancient capital — a settlement built in the 14th century by inhabitants fleeing pirate raids. The beach is a sandy cove set against a dramatic backdrop of rocky cliffs topped with the stone ruins of the fortified town. It’s one of the most atmospheric beaches on the island — you can swim in crystal-clear water while looking up at 700-year-old walls.

Located 8.5 km northwest of Skiathos Town, it’s on the wild north coast and best reached by boat.

Getting There

By Land

A dirt road from the island’s interior leads to the castle ruins above, with a steep footpath descending to the beach. The drive is rough (4x4 recommended) and the walk down is about 15 minutes on a rocky path. Doable but demanding. Not suitable for those with mobility issues.

By Boat

This is the ideal way to visit. The beach faces north-northeast and is set into a small bay. From Skiathos Port, a 30HP rental boat reaches Kastro Beach in approximately 30–35 minutes along the north coast. The approach from the water reveals the full drama of the castle ruins towering above the beach.

Transfer

A transfer from Skiathos Town takes about 25 minutes. Cost: approximately €40–50.

The Beach

Kastro Beach is approximately 150 metres of sand and pebbles. It’s non-organized — no sunbeds, no umbrellas, no facilities of any kind. The water is exceptionally clear. The ruins above provide an unforgettable backdrop for swimming and photography.

Facilities

None at all — bring everything you need: water, food, shade, sunscreen
Natural shade from rocks and trees at the back of the beach (limited)
No toilets, no bar, no sunbeds

The Castle Ruins

The medieval castle of Kastro was Skiathos’s main settlement from the mid-14th century until the 1830s. Today, you can explore the ruins:

Remains of houses and streets
Several restored churches
A mosque from the Ottoman period
The old defensive walls and cannons
Panoramic views of the Aegean

The climb from the beach to the castle takes about 15 minutes via steep stone steps. It’s a must-do if you visit Kastro Beach — the combination of history and views is remarkable.

Boat Anchoring Tips

The cove offers reasonable shelter from southerly winds, but it faces north — so the prevailing northerlies can make anchoring challenging. Visit only in calm conditions (wind under 2–3 Beaufort). Anchor in 3–5 metres on a sandy/pebbly bottom.

Nearby Beaches to Combine

Ligaries (2 km west, 8 minutes by boat) — beautiful turquoise cove
Kechria (4 km west) — pine-backed pebble cove with taverna and snorkelling
Lalaria (8 km east, 25 minutes by boat) — the famous boat-only beach
Aselinos (5 km west) — wild, long sandy beach

What Sea Skiathos Offers

Self-drive no-license boat rental: Our team provides full north-coast navigation guidance. Kastro is a highlight of the north-coast route. Weather-dependent.
Skippered history-and-beach tour: Visit Kastro, explore the ruins (your captain can guide you up to the castle), then swim at the beach. Combine with Lalaria and Kechria.
Water taxi: Direct transfers. We’ll drop you at the beach and collect you after you’ve explored the castle.

Best Time to Visit

Calm, clear days: The north coast respects no compromises. Pick your weather.
Morning (before 10am): The beach is empty, the water is glassy, and the light on the castle walls is magical.
June and September: Best weather windows for north-coast exploration.
Combine with: A walk up to the castle ruins (allow 45–60 minutes for exploration).
Avoid: Northerly wind above 3 Beaufort.