Where do you throw your towels down (or not) in-between sampling Sifnos‘ famous gastronomic flavours? While the island’s main draw is not stunning shores, Sifnos boasts a particular benefit for young families: an attractive set-up of shallow bays nestled within relaxed villages boasting an excellent choice of seaside tavernas and cafes – a joy for parents with little legs to herd around.
Of all the easily accessible options, we list our favourites here. Some “organised” (as they say in Greece, providing loungers and parasols), others offering natural shade, and all complete with dining options for an easy skip from sunbed, to taverna, or beach bar.
PLATIS GIALOS
Wide and sandy in the southern end of Sifnos, Platis Gialos is our pick for the island’s most attractive swimming. The left corner (as you face the beach) is free from rocky hindrances on its seabed, with glassy waters inching up to waist height after a lengthy 100 meters. While organised, it’s not smothered with sunbeds. And if you’ve left your beach toys behind, the mini market next to dining hotspot Omega3 has fishing nets, shovels, and buckets. Fringed by boutique hotels, chic cafes, smart restaurants and traditional taverns, there’s also a small playground by the beach (next to NUS restaurant).
The seaside villages of Kamares and Vathy have a similarly convenient set-up. All organised, sheltered shorelines and shallow waters make these alternative child-friendly options. Yet, we found the unobstructed panorama of Platis Gialos more attractive than both (towering mountains flank the deep-set harbour of Kamares, while in sleepy Vathy, the omega-shaped bay feels more like swimming in a lake).
APOKOFTO
Touched with the charm of Chrisopogi church sitting serenely in its corner, Apokofto’s azure waters are marvelously clear. The seabed, however, is slightly steeper than in Platis Gialos, and rocky in parts. It’s wavier here than at Platis Gialos, and better with older kids in company. Unorganised, a scattering of tamarisk trees offer relief from the sun. Go early to secure a spot.
Tucked away behind the beach, Way Cup roaster is serious about good coffee. Aside from a perfect cappuccino, it also serves cocktails, smoothies and juice. Hang out on their sun-dappled terrace, or save your drinks for the beach. For post-swim meals, there are two taverns by the sea. We happily dined at Chrisopigi tavern twice in seven days.
GLYFO
The three mini beach bays of Glyfo, Faros, and Fassalou sit in sequence southeast of the island. Glyfo, separated from Faros by a small village, is the most attractive in its picturesque seclusion. Without road access (you park at Faros), a short trek through a teensy village (with Gorgona cafe and another tavern sitting prettily at its foot) will lead to the bay. Unorganised, shade-giving tamarisk trees line its shore, where calm and shallow waters stretch out for about 50 meters. On the opposing end from where you enter, a short and scenic hiking path leads you the the church of Agios Charalampos, and then to Chrysopigi.
