About Megas Gialos Beach
Megas Gialos (meaning “Big Bay” in Greek) is a remote beach on Skiathos’s northern coast, approximately 5 km northeast of Skiathos Town. Despite its name, it’s not particularly big — but it is wild, undeveloped, and difficult to reach. The beach is a mix of pebbles and coarse sand, surrounded by rugged, rocky terrain. Only those willing to brave the north-coast access ever see it.
Getting There
By Land
A very challenging dirt track leads to Megas Gialos from the interior. The road is rough, unpaved, and difficult to navigate. 4x4 essential. Most GPS systems won’t help. Few visitors succeed via land.
By Boat
Megas Gialos faces north and is exposed. It can only be visited by boat in calm conditions (wind under 2 Beaufort). From Skiathos Port, a rental boat reaches Megas Gialos in approximately 20–25 minutes by heading east, then north around the airport peninsula.
Transfer
A transfer from Skiathos Town takes about 18 minutes in calm conditions. Cost: approximately €25–35.
The Beach
Megas Gialos is approximately 200 metres of pebbles and coarse sand. The water is clear but often carries a swell from north-coast exposure. Completely non-organized with no facilities. The beach is flanked by rocky headlands on both sides.
Facilities
- None — no sunbeds, no umbrellas, no bar, no toilets
- No shade (bring a beach tent)
- Water shoes recommended
The Challenge-Reward Dynamic
Megas Gialos is for adventurers. The difficulty of reaching it — by land or sea — keeps it empty. If you want a north-coast beach to yourself but don’t want to travel all the way to Kechria or Mandraki, Megas Gialos is a closer alternative on the right day.
Boat Anchoring Tips
Weather-dependent. The beach faces north and is fully exposed. Only anchor in completely calm conditions. When safe, anchor in 3–5 metres. Watch for submerged rocks near the headlands. Not recommended for beginners.
Nearby Beaches to Combine
- Xanemos (nearby to the east, around the headland) — sandy, partly organized, nudist-friendly
- Glyfoneri (further east along the coast) — remote rocky beach
- Lalaria (accessible by continuing north around Cape Gournes, ~20 minutes) — the famous boat-only beach
- Skiathos Town (return south, 20 minutes)
What Sea Skiathos Offers
- Self-drive no-license boat rental: For experienced, weather-trained self-drivers only. Not recommended for first-time boat operators.
- Skippered north-coast expedition: Your captain will choose the best north-coast destinations based on the day’s conditions.
- Water taxi: Weather-dependent transfers.
Best Time to Visit
- Perfectly calm days only: Essential. This is not a forgiving beach in rough conditions.
- June and September: Best weather windows.
- Morning: Calmest water. Best chance of glassy conditions.
- Avoid: Wind. The north coast demands respect.
