Skiathos Sailing Guide: Anchorages, Harbours and Tips

Skiathos (Σκιάθος) is the vibrant, cosmopolitan heart of the Northern Sporades, combining a bustling, pine-fringed harbor town with over 60 world-famous golden beaches.

Overview

While its lively capital offers upscale dining, vibrant nightlife, and full marine services, the island’s indented coastline reveals peaceful anchorages, dramatic cliffs, and tranquil uninhabited islets like Arkos and Tsougria.

For sailors, Skiathos provides the ultimate balance of urban convenience and natural beauty, serving as an ideal starting point or key provisioning stop for exploring the wider Sporades and Pelion coast.

Sailing Conditions in Skiathos

Sailing around Skiathos is generally straightforward, though its unique geography and heavy commercial traffic require attention:

• Prevailing wind: Summer Meltemi (N–NE), which can funnel through the channel and accelerate off coastal headlands.
• Town harbor: Skiathos Town is exposed to south-westerly swells and experiences heavy ferry wash throughout the new port. Strong northern blows bring gusty conditions over the town quay and pontoon.
• South and west coasts: Bays like Koukounaries, Kolios, and Koutsouri offer excellent shelter from northerly weather, while the northern coasts are exposed.
• Traffic: Expect high concentrations of rental boats, water taxis, and commercial ferries during peak summer months, particularly in the main harbor and around Tsougria and Koukounaries.

All Anchorages & Harbours in Skiathos

Skiathos Town Area

Best for provisioning, nightlife, crew changes, and first or last nights.

• Skiathos Town: Main harbour and vibrant capital with floating pontoon, town quay, full yacht services, and airport proximity.
• Megali Ammos: Spacious open-bay anchorage just southwest of the town, ideal when the harbour is full.
• Arkos Islet: Small green islet with western and southwestern coves, perfect for day stops and swimming.
• Tsougria Islet: Picturesque pine-covered islet featuring sweeping sandy beaches, an olive press, and a hilltop chapel.

South Coast

The best area during strong northerly winds.

• Koutsouri Beach (Diamandis): Popular southern beach cove with a well-known taverna and great northern shelter.
• Kolios Beach: Charming southern cove bordered by pine trees and upscale dining options.
• Tsirmokokkalo Beach (Platanias West): Scenic western beach cove offering calm shelter from northwesterly winds.
• Koukounaries Beach: Sweeping, world-famous pine-fringed bay on the southwest tip with fantastic natural shelter.

West Coast

Known for sunsets, beach bars, and clear water.

• Toufekoverga: Small secluded bight near the southwest tip known for clear water and stunning sunsets.
• Banana & Little Banana Beaches: Twin western coves featuring fine sand, beach clubs, and sunset views.
• Kryfi Ammos Beach: Breathtaking horseshoe-shaped northwestern cove with a family-run taverna.

North Coast

More dramatic and scenic, but heavily exposed to northerly weather.

• Elia & Agkistro Beaches: Twin northern beach coves surrounded by dense pine forests and excellent swimming waters.
• Megalos & Mikros Aselinos: Twin pine-framed northern coves offering wide sandy beaches, excellent southern protection, and beachfront tavernas.
• Kechria & Ligaries Beaches: Large, peaceful northwestern bay bordered by lush forests, offering pure sand anchoring and two acclaimed tavernas.
• Kastro Beach: Breathtaking scenic anchorage beneath the medieval fortress ruins, featuring clean sand and a beach taverna.
• Lalaria Beach: World-famous coastal site featuring white limestone cliffs, the Tripia Petra sea arch, and smooth round pebbles for brief day visits.

Skiathos Sailing Itinerary Ideas

• Skiathos → Alonisos → Kyra Panagia → Skantzoura → Skyros → Skopelos – Classic 7-day Sporades island-hopping route.
• Skiathos → Eastern Pelion Coast → Trikeri → Northern Evia → Skiathos – Mainland Pelion crossing.
• Skiathos Town → Tsougria → Koukounaries → Banana → Elia → Lalaria → Skiathos Town – Skiathos highlights.

Where to Anchor in Skiathos (Quick Guide)

• Main harbour: Skiathos Town
• Best anchorages in northerlies: Koukounaries Beach, Megali Ammos (Skiathos Town), and Kolios
• Best anchorage in southerlies: Elia & Agkistro Beaches
• Best swimming anchorages: Tsougria, Toufekoverga, Kryfi Ammos
• Best sunset anchorages: Toufekoverga, Banana, Kryfi Ammos
• Most scenic anchorages: Kastro, Lalaria

General Rules

• Reserve a berth in Skiathos Town well before arrival during summer.
• Use south-coast anchorages such as Koukounaries, Kolios, Tsirmokokkalo, and Koutsouri during strong Meltemi conditions.
• Use northern anchorages only in stable weather or when southerly winds are blowing.
• In case of light winds, don’t miss the chance to visit Lalaria.

Skiathos Sailing Map: Anchorages and Harbours

Below is an interactive map of all major anchorages and harbours in Skiathos including the Arkos and Tsougria islets. Click any location to jump to the detailed guide below.

Locations

Skiathos Town

Type: Quaint harbour town
Best for: Sightseeing, restaurants, nightlife

Skiathos Town (Χώρα Σκιάθου) is the vibrant, cosmopolitan capital of the island, built amphitheatrically around a picturesque natural harbor. Acting as the primary hub of the Sporades, it seamlessly blends traditional Aegean architecture—white-washed houses, terracotta roofs, and narrow stone alleyways—with a lively waterfront, upscale dining, and excellent provisioning facilities. Whether you are stopping for fuel and water, taking refuge from a Meltemi, or stepping ashore for a night out, Skiathos Town is the quintessential urban stopover on a Sporades itinerary.

What to See & Do

• Bourtzi Peninsula: Walk the pine-forested islet separating the old and new harbors to explore the ruins of a 13th-century Venetian fortress and enjoy panoramic views over the bay.
• Old Town & Papadiamanti Street: Stroll down the bustling pedestrian main street lined with boutiques, bakeries, and tavernas. Venture into the quiet residential alleys above the harbor to discover traditional architecture and hidden courtyards.
• Agios Nikolaos Church & Clock Tower: Climb the stone steps up to the church overlooking the harbor for the best sunset views across the town rooftops and surrounding islands.
• Plakes & The Old Port Bar Street: Enjoy an evening drink along the waterfront of the old port or along the rocky promenade of Plakes, where lounge bars set cushions directly on the stone steps by the water.

⚓Docking

In Skiathos Town, finding a berth can be challenging. Most of the new port (northeast of Bourtzi) and the old port (west of Bourtzi) are strictly reserved for professional fishing vessels and daily excursion boats. The port is managed by the Municipal Port Fund of Skiathos—it is highly recommended to contact them before arrival to check berth availability.

Contact information of the Municipal Port Fund of Skiathos

• Phone: +30 24270 29484
• Mobile: +30 6981 639 099
• Email: d.l.t.skiathos@hotmail.gr
• VHF: Channel 6

Mooring Locations

• Floating Pontoon (39°09.888′ N, 23°29.651′ E): Parts of the pontoon can feel dilapidated. It is fully occupied by charter fleets from Friday afternoon through Saturday afternoon, but berths are generally available during the rest of the week.
• Part of the town quay (39°09.844′ N, 23°29.534′ E): Right in the centre of the town.
• Old Port Pierhead (39°09.702′ N, 23°29.365′ E): Only two berths, generally reserved for megayachts.
• The official port map can be found here. Refer to our simplified diagram below for permitted mooring zones.

How to moor

• Mooring Style: Stern-to using your anchor. Alongside berthing is not permitted due to severe space constraints.
• Mooring locations:
  • Floating Pontoon (39°09.888′ N, 23°29.651′ E): Parts of the pontoon can feel dilapidated. It is fully occupied by charter fleets from Friday afternoon through Saturday afternoon, but berths are generally available during the rest of the week.
  • Part of the town quay (39°09.844′ N, 23°29.534′ E): Right in the centre of the town.
  • Old Port Pierhead (39°09.702′ N, 23°29.365′ E): Only two berths, generally reserved for megayachts.
  • The official port map can be found here. Refer to our simplified diagram below for permitted mooring zones.

• Northerlies: Expect gusts during strong Meltemi or N/NW weather. The south side of the floating pontoon offers the safest berth in these conditions.
• Southerlies: The harbor is exposed to the south, and a rolling swell enters even in light southerly winds. The north side of the pontoon is more comfortable during southerlies.
• Ferry Swell: Ferries generate significant wash and heavy swell throughout the entire new port area.
• Chain Scope: Lay plenty of chain to absorb ferry wash and hold against wind/swell, particularly during southerlies. A minimum of 50 meters is required, but 70+ meters is strongly advised.
• Space & Arrival: Space is extremely limited. Call ahead to the Port Fund and aim to arrive early.
• Mooring fees: Mooring costs around €7 per day for a 12–metre monohull.
• Water & Electricity: Available via quay pillars. Activation costs €15 for a full day of unlimited usage (sharing an already activated pillar is common practice among visiting yachts).
• Fuel Delivery: Delivered directly quay-side via tanker trucks:
  • EKO Raptis: +30 6972 326 892 / +30 24270 24055
  • ELIN Mitselos: +30 6944 774 233 / +30 24270 22921

⚓Anchoring

⚠️Warning (Anchoring Limit & Fine): Anchoring in the area northeast of the floating pontoon toward the airport runway around 39°10.003′ N, 23°29.982′ E is strictly forbidden, as it is used for ferry maneuvering. Anchoring there will result in an unpleasant visit from the Coast Guard and a €250 fine.

Located immediately southwest of Skiathos Town, Megali Ammos (Μεγάλη Άμμος) is the primary open-bay anchorage for visiting yachts seeking refuge when the town quay or pontoon is full—or when seeking to avoid the severe ferry wash inside the harbor. While visually uninspiring due to coastal development and beach umbrellas, it offers exceptional holding and vast space to ride out heavy northern weather.

Megali Ammos Anchorage

How to anchor

Megali Ammos is wide and offers ample room, though selecting the right patch of seabed is essential for a secure hold.

• Free Anchoring: Target bright sand patches in 6–8 meters of water. The southwestern section of the beach features significantly more open sand and less swim-zone activity compared to the northeastern corner.
• Seabed Caution: Posidonia seagrass covers large areas of the bay. Anchoring in the weed leads to dragging during heavy gusts. Aim strictly for visible sand patches and back down under power to verify holding.
• Chain Scope: Pay out generous chain (50–70 meters minimum), particularly during strong northern forecasts. Fall-wind gusts coming down the hills can reach 30–40+ knots during heavy Meltemi.
• Submerged Obstruction Warning: Exercise caution near position 39°09.530′ N, 23°28.520′ E. A large submerged tree trunk (8–10 meters in length) is present on the seabed in this area and moves periodically; avoid dropping anchor directly over it to prevent a foul anchor.
• Ferry & Traffic Swell: Expect frequent swell from passing ferries, hydrofoils, and superyachts entering the main port. While manageable, the rolling can become uncomfortable during high-traffic hours.
• Dinghy Access & Town Walk:
  • Avoid landing the tender directly on the main public beach, as breaking waves can flip dinghies.
  • Land in the northeastern corner of the bay using the dedicated dinghy channel near the diving center under the cliff. From there, it is a safe 10-minute walk into Skiathos Town center and the old harbor.
• Resupply & Services: Local supermarkets are within walking distance along the coastal road. Additionally, local delivery services (e-food) will deliver provisions directly to the beach road.

Arkos Islet

Type: Uninhabited islet anchorage
Best for: Lunch stops, swimming

Located just 1.2 nautical miles southeast of Skiathos Town, Arkos (Άρκος) is a small, green islet featuring two main anchorages on its western and southwestern coasts. It serves as an ideal day stop for a swim or lunch break, though persistent ferry wash makes it less suitable for overnighting.

How to anchor

Arkos offers two primary anchoring spots: the West Cove (in front of the beach bar) and the Southwest Cove (further south along the island’s rocky shore).

• West Cove (Beach Bar Spot): Drop anchor in 4–6 meters over clean sand patches about 100 meters off the beach. The beach features a small wooden pier and a seasonal taverna. Note that the taverna runs a noisy generator during daylight hours (typically starting around 9:30 AM), and numerous small rental boats crowd the area by mid-afternoon.
• Southwest Cove (Wild Spot): Located around the southern headland, this spot is quieter, wilder, and free from generator noise. Anchor in 5–9 meters over sand patches. A few goats frequent the cliffs above.
• Ferry Wash & Swell: Both anchorages suffer from frequent, sharp rolling caused by commercial ferries and hydrofoils passing to and from Skiathos port. The waves bounce off the rocky shoreline, creating a persistent sway even on calm days.
• Overnight Caution: Overnighting is only recommended during exceptionally calm weather with settled light winds. Meltemi or NW wind shifts can generate uncomfortable chop and swell.

Tsougria Islet

Type: Uninhabited islet anchorage
Best for: Day trips, swimming, beach bar, sunsets, visiting the hilltop chapel

Located directly south of Skiathos Town, Tsougria (Τσουγκριά) is a picturesque, pine-covered islet famous for its expansive sandy beaches, clear waters, and historic olive press ruins. Busy during daylight hours with day-trippers and water taxis from Skiathos, it transforms into a tranquil, secluded spot after 7:00 PM once the crowds leave.

How to anchor

Tsougria features two main anchoring areas along its western and northwestern shores.

• West Anchorage (Main Beach & Sunset Spot):
  • Target visible sand patches in 5–8 meters of water. Avoid the dark Posidonia seagrass beds where anchors struggle to bite.
  • Swimming Zone: A row of swimming buoys connected by an underwater rope runs parallel to the beach at 1.5–2 meters depth. Keep clear of this line.
  • Do not attempt to tie up to the concrete jetty, as it lacks bollards and is used by local water taxis.
• Northwest Anchorage (Trendy Beach Bar Cove):
  • Features a chic beach bar with lounge music and sunbeds. The seabed drops off steeply here, requiring generous chain scope—pay out extra chain in 6–9 meters of sand.
  • Keep clear of the small jetty to the north to allow room for fast water taxis and excursion vessels.
• Atmosphere & Day Use: Both beaches are bustling during the day with rental boats, excursion ships, and beachgoers. Almost all day boats depart by 6:00 PM–7:00 PM, leaving the anchorage remarkably quiet for overnighting in stable weather.
• Overnight Caution: Only stay overnight during settled weather or light easterly winds. Any moderate to strong northern or western wind brings uncomfortable waves directly into the coves.
• Ashores & Hiking: Take the dinghy ashore to explore the abandoned historic olive press, or walk up the path to the hilltop Chapel of Agios Floros for stunning panoramic views and sunsets over Skiathos.

Koutsouri Beach (Diamandis)

Type: Beach anchorage
Best for: Swimming, lunch stops, day-use taverna dining, shelter from strong Meltemi

Located on the south coast of Skiathos, Koutsouri (Κουτσούρι) is a lovely, green-backed bay featuring a pristine sandy beach and a popular beach taverna. While busy with local shuttle boats and day-trippers during peak hours, it offers a peaceful atmosphere in the early morning and evening alongside excellent northern protection. The beach is also named Diamandis (Διαμαντής) from the name of the popular taverna.

⚓Anchoring

How to anchor

Koutsouri features a large, shallow shelf that allows vessels to anchor close to the beach, but careful seabed selection is required.

• Free Anchoring: Target the large, prominent patch of clean sand in 2–4 meters of water about 50–100 meters off the beach.
• Flat Reef Hazard: Avoid dropping anchor over the flat rock ledges scattered along parts of the seabed, as anchors will skid without setting.
• Meltemi & Fall Winds: The bay provides strong protection against northern winds. However, heavy NW wind gusts (30+ knots) can accelerate off the hills above the bay—ensure your anchor is fully dug into clean sand before settling.
• Ferry & Boat Swell: Heavy passing commercial traffic and local Skiathos water taxis generate frequent wash and roll throughout the day, though conditions calm down significantly at night.
• Taverna & Ashores: The beach taverna serves high-quality food during the day. Local shuttle boats dock close to the shore, so give their approach path a wide berth when setting your anchor.

Kolios Beach

• Type: Beach anchorage
• Best for: Quiet overnighting, dining, shelter from Meltemi

Situated on the southern coast of Skiathos between Kanapitsa and Koukounaries, Kolios (Κολιός) is a charming, green-backed cove bordered by pine trees and upscale beachside dining. It offers a much quieter alternative to neighboring Koukounaries for vessels equipped to anchor in deeper water, though careful attention must be paid to underwater hazards and mooring buoy clusters.

⚓Anchoring

How to anchor

Kolios Bay drops off rapidly, meaning most vessels will need to set up in deeper water while carefully navigating local buoy fields.

• Free Anchoring & Depth: Dropping anchor usually requires depths of 10 to 15 meters. Pay out extra chain scope (at least 45–50 meters) to ensure a solid set on the steeply sloping seabed.
• Seabed Selection & Rocks: Use satellite imagery or clear visual tracking to spot light sand patches amidst dark Posidonia seagrass. Note that thin sand over hard bedrock can cause anchors to skid—always back down under power to verify holding.
• Underwater Obstructions: Be cautious near the southern edge of the bay where shallow rock heads rise to within 3–4 meters of the surface. Old abandoned mooring gear and chains also litter parts of the seabed, posing a foul-anchor risk.
• Mooring Buoys & Crowding: The shallower, head-of-bay waters are densely populated with local motorboats, hire RIBs, and seasonal swimming buoys, making close-in anchoring impossible.
• Ferry Wash & Swell: Expect occasional rolling during the day from commercial ferries and passing motorboats. Conditions typically settle into a quiet, peaceful night under light northerlies.
• Tavernas & Dining: The beach features the high-end “Beach House” restaurant and bar and the fish tavern “Kolios“, while the acclaimed “Infinity Blue” taverna sits on the hill overlooking the bay, offering exceptional views and seafood.

Tsirmokokkalo Beach (Platanias West)

• Type: Scenic beach cove / Natural anchorage
• Best for: Shelter from N–NW winds, swimming, quiet overnighting

Located in the western bight of Platanias Bay,Tsirmokokkalo (Τσιρμοκόκκαλο) features two small, picturesque sandy beaches backed by pine-covered hills and overhanging villas. It provides a much calmer, safer alternative to the main Platanias beach during strong northwesterly winds.

⚓ Anchoring

How to anchor

Tsirmokokkalo offers several clear sand patches close to shore, though underwater hazards require careful anchor placement.

• Foul Ground Warning (Foul Anchor Risk): Avoid dropping anchor around 39°08.233′ N, 23°25.780′ E (at the southwest entrance of the cove, roughly 40–50 meters off the shoreline). Multiple abandoned anchors and thick sunken chains lie on the seabed here and can easily foul your ground tackle.
• Seabed Selection & Holding: Target clear sand patches in 4–7 meters of water. Avoid dark Posidonia weed patches. Note that some sandy spots have flat bedrock immediately beneath a thin sand layer—test your anchor under substantial reverse power (high RPM) to ensure it digs deep rather than skidding.
• Underwater Rocks: Watch for scattered shallow rock heads (2.5 meters deep) in the inner shallows near the beach when backing in.
• Stern Lines: Dropping anchor in 6–7 meters and taking stern lines to the rocks along the shoreline allows vessels to settle comfortably in 4–5 meters of water right opposite the beaches.
• Ferry Wash & Swell: Passing commercial ferries generate occasional wash, but the cove remains well-protected from ocean sea-states during northern weather.

Koukounaries Beach

• Type: Iconic wide bay / World-famous sand beach
• Best for: Shelter from Meltemi (N), beach life

Recognized as one of the most famous beaches in Greece, Koukounaries (Κουκουναριές) is a sweeping, pine-fringed bay on the southwest tip of Skiathos. Backed by a protected wetland lagoon and stone pines that reach the water’s edge, it provides fantastic natural protection against northern winds. However, during peak summer daylight hours, heavy water-sports activity and fast commercial traffic make it a lively—and often noisy—day-stop rather than a quiet sanctuary.

⚓ Anchoring

How to anchor

Koukounaries is a vast, open bay with plenty of space to swing, but identifying the true seabed layout is crucial for a trouble-free stay.

• Seabed Identification: Search carefully for true sand patches in 6–10 meters of water. Be aware that smooth, light-colored rock slabs and flat boulders mimic the appearance of sand from above; dropping over these can cause your anchor to skid or your chain to hook under rock edges.
• Strict 200m Shore & Buoy Distance: The entire beach is bordered by a swimming zone marked with yellow buoys (which are connected underwater by continuous lines—do not cross them). The local Coast Guard / Water Police strictly enforce a 200-meter distance limit from the shoreline and swim buoys. Keep your vessel well outside this perimeter; violations result in heavy fines.
• Water Sports & Traffic Hazards: From late morning until sunset, speedboats, banana rides, water-skiers, and taxi boats operate continuously throughout the bay. Keep a close watch on swimmers and maintain a clear lookout while at anchor or when operating your tender.
• Dinghy Access & Port: Tenders can be safely moored inside the small fishing boat harbour located at the eastern end of the beach, around 39°08.907′ N, 23°24.388′ E, well clear of the swimming zones.
• Hiking: A scenic walking trail leads through the Mandraki pine forest behind the beache for exploring onshore. You can reach the northern beaches of Mandraki, Elia and Agkistros in about 30 minutes on foot.
• Overnight Environment: Conditions transform dramatically after sunset once the water-sports operators and day-trippers depart. The bay becomes exceptionally calm and quiet under northern winds.

Toufekoverga

• Type: Small secluded bight / Scenic cove
• Best for: Stunning sunsets, clear water swimming

Toufekoverga (Τουφεκόβεργα) is a small, dramatic bight tucked away near the southwestern tip of Skiathos, just around the headland from Koukounaries. Flanked by rocky outcrops and a private sandy beach, it offers an unearthly, pristine setting with clear waters. While day boats frequent the cove between 10:00 AM and 7:00 PM, it transforms into an isolated, peaceful haven in the evening.

⚓ Anchoring

How to anchor

Touphekoberga is best suited for 1 to 2 vessels anchored in the central section of the cove, away from the rocky flanks.

• Seabed Condition: The seabed features a beautiful patch of pure sand in 2 to 5 meters, but the sand layer can be thin over hard rock. Anchors may drag or plow 5–10 meters before digging in firmly—back down under power to verify the set.
• Rocky Outcrops: Mind the rocky outcrops framing either side of the entrance; keep your vessel centered in the sandy basin to avoid underwater ledges.
• Swell & Exposure: Being situated near the outer headland, the cove receives boat wake from day traffic and passing ferries, which can cause rolling on monohulls. Swell usually dies down after sunset during light winds.
• Overnight Conditions: Overnight stays are only recommended in settled, calm weather (1–2 Bft) or light easterly breezes. Avoid this anchorage during strong western or southern sectors.
• Atmosphere: Offers incredible sunset views over the water, and frequent visits from marine life (including occasional dolphin pods offshore).

Banana & Little Banana Beaches

• Type: Twin sandy coves / Sunset & beach club anchorages
• Best for: Sunset views, beach clubs, fine sand,

Located on the western coast of Skiathos, this picturesque double bay consists of Banana to the south and Little Banana (Μικρή Μπανάνα) to the north, separated by a narrow pine-covered ridge. Both coves offer fine golden sand, crystal-clear water, and front-row views of the sunset over the Pelion peninsula. While Banana is wide and active, Little Banana is smaller, and traditionally serves as a clothing-optional / nudist beach.

⚓ Anchoring

How to anchor

Both coves feature broad sandy shelves that slope gently down to 8–10 meters, offering straightforward anchoring in settled weather.

• Seabed Selection & Holding: Target clear, light sand patches in 5–8 meters depth. Anchors set quickly and securely in the sand once clear of the seagrass beds.
• Submarine Cable Hazard (Little Banana): Pay close attention to the northern end of Little Banana Beach—there is a submarine power cable laid on the seabed here, marked by a “No Anchoring” sign on the shore. Avoid dropping anchor in the immediate vicinity of this cable.
• Swim Buoy Perimeter & Tender Access: Stay well clear of the yellow swimming buoys in both coves. At Little Banana, tenders can access the shore via a designated channel through the swim buoys.
• Water Sports & Traffic: Expect frequent activity from jet skis, towable inflatables, and speedboats during daylight hours, particularly around Big Banana.
• Music & Beach Bars: Both coves feature lively beach bars. While music generally winds down around sunset at Big Banana, the beach venue at Little Banana can occasionally play loud music late into the evening (until midnight).
• Swell & Northerly Shift: During moderate northerly or northwesterly breezes, a persistent, rolling swell often funnels down the channel between Skiathos and the mainland, causing monohulls to roll uncomfortably. If swell builds or the wind shifts north, relocate around the southern headland to Toufekoverga or Koukounaries for immediate shelter.

Kryfi Ammos Beach

• Type: Small secluded cove / Scenic beach anchorage
• Best for: Clear water swimming, taverna dining, stunning sunsets, quiet overnighting in calm weather

Located on the rugged, northwestern coast of Skiathos (just north of Banana Beach), Kryfi Ammos (Κρυφή Άμμος—meaning “Hidden Sand”) is a breathtaking, horseshoe-shaped cove bordered by dramatic red cliffs and pine trees. Featuring shallow turquoise water over fine sand, it offers a tranquil haven with a family-run taverna overlooking the beach. Because space inside the cove is tightly constrained, it can only accommodate two to three vessels comfortably.

⚓ Anchoring

How to anchor

Kryfi Ammos features a gently sloping, shallow sandy seabed, but its narrow geometry requires careful spatial planning.

• Free Anchoring & Capacity: Aim for the central section of the cove in 4–6 meters over pure sand. Due to the tight swinging room, only 2 or 3 boats can anchor here safely at one time without crowding.
• Landlines / Shore Lines: Taking stern lines to the rocks on the eastern side of the bay is highly recommended. This fixes your heading, prevents swinging into neighboring vessels or shallow rocks, and keeps your bow facing out toward incoming swell.
• Rock Hazards: Keep well clear of the rocky ledges flanking the eastern and western sides of the cove entrance, particularly when dropping anchor in shallow depths.
• Swell & Westerly Exposure: A chop or swell can enter from the northwest, making the anchorage uncomfortable for monohulls if the wind shifts westward. Check forecasts carefully before overnighting.
• Cell Coverage Warning: Mobile network signal and cellular data are extremely weak or non-existent inside the cove due to the surrounding high cliffs.
• Taverna & Ashores: The shore features “Kryfi Ammos Restaurant“, a charming, family-run beach taverna offering fresh local dishes, drinks, and fantastic sunset views over the water.

Elia & Agkistro Beaches

• Type: Twin northern beach coves
• Best for: Clear-water swimming, beach taverna dining

Located on the wilder, pine-fringed northwestern coast of Skiathos (just north of Mandraki), this double bay consists of Elia Beach (Ελιά) to the west and Agkistro Beach (Άγκιστρο) to the east. Surrounded by dramatic hills and dense pine forest, both coves feature fine sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and laid-back day tavernas. They offer fantastic shelter during southern weather, transforming into quiet, deserted havens once the daytime visitors leave.

⚓ Anchoring

How to anchor

Both coves feature shallow, gently sloping sandy bottoms that allow vessels to anchor close to the beach in 3 to 5 meters of water.

• Elia Beach (Western Cove): Target clean sand patches in 3–5 meters directly in front of the beach taverna. Anchors hold exceptionally well in sand, even in winds exceeding 20 knots. Be mindful of submerged rocks framing the eastern and western promontories of the cove.
• Agkistro Beach (Eastern Cove): Offers extensive sandy ground in 3–5 meters with great holding. If strong SW winds or minor swell enter the bay, tuck as close as possible to the western side of the cove for optimal shelter.
• Rock Hazards: Keep a close eye on your depth sounder when approaching the outer headlands bordering each cove, as shallow rock ledges extend outward from the cliffs.
• Snorkeling & Marine Life: The clear waters and rocky edges around both coves make this one of the best snorkeling spots on the island (frequent sightings of stingrays and fish along the sandy seabed).
• Southerly Shelter vs. Northerlies: While these coves provide outstanding shelter from southern sectors, they are fully open to the north and northwest—avoid staying overnight if northerly winds are forecast.

Ashore

• Tavernas: Both beaches host charming day-use tavernas serving local dishes and drinks (open during daylight hours, with no loud music).
• Hiking: A scenic walking trail leads through the Mandraki pine forest behind the beaches for exploring onshore. You can reach Koukounaries beach in about 30 minutes on foot.

Megalos Aselinos & Mikros Aselinos

• Type: Beach coves
• Best for: Clear water swimming, beach tavernas

Located on the rugged northern coast of Skiathos, Megalos Aselinos (Μεγάλος Ασέληνος) and its smaller neighbor Mikros Aselinos (Μικρός Ασέληνος) are two picturesque, pine-framed coves set beneath dramatic hills. Megalos Aselinos features a wide sandy beach with a taverna, while Mikros Aselinos offers a more secluded, semi-wild atmosphere with steep rocky cliffs, sea caves, and a small beach bar.

⚓ Anchoring

How to anchor

Both coves offer clean sand bottoms with straightforward anchoring, though their northern exposure dictates when they can be safely used.

• Megalos Aselinos (Western Cove): Anchor in 4–5 meters of water over clean sand. Favor the western side of the bay for the best sand coverage, as underwater rocks are present along the eastern edge.
• Mikros Aselinos (Eastern Cove): Anchor in 4–6 meters over sand in the central basin. The rocky shores drop off steeply into deep water, making it possible to take shore lines to the rocks if you wish to fix your heading (though climbing the rocks requires care). A small sea cave is located on the port side when entering the cove.
• Rock Hazards: Maintain a safe margin from the rocky ledges framing the outer points of both coves when approaching or setting anchor.
• Southern Shelter vs. Northerlies: Both coves offer excellent refuge from light-to-moderate southern winds (S, SE, SW). However, they are completely exposed to the north—avoid anchoring here if northerly winds are forecast, as heavy swell and choppy seas build quickly.

Kechria & Ligaries Beaches

• Type: Wide bay / Beach anchorage
• Best for: Swimming, tavernas, sunsets, hiking

Located on the quiet northwestern coast of Skiathos, Kechria (Κεχριά) and its adjoining neighbor Ligaries (Λυγαριές) form a large, peaceful bay backed by lush hillsides and a famous streamside forest. Free from jet skis and heavy commercial tourist traffic, this wide anchorage offers crystal-clear water, spacious anchoring over pure sand, and access to two acclaimed beachfront tavernas.

⚓ Anchoring

How to anchor

The bay features a broad, gently sloping seabed that accommodates numerous vessels with plenty of swinging room.

• Free Anchoring & Spot Selection: Target the vast sandy shelf in 4–8 meters of water. The holding is outstanding, with anchors biting instantly into clean sand. Positioning toward Ligaries Beach (the larger, southern section of the bay) provides ample space and keeps your vessel clear of the shallower northern Kechria beach approach.
• Wind Funneling: High mountains behind the bay can create a natural funnel for southerly or southeasterly winds, causing sudden, sharp gusts to accelerate down the valley. Ensuring your anchor is firmly set with generous chain scope (e.g., 40–50 meters in 6 meters depth) will easily handle these gusts.
• Seabed Obstructions: Most of the seabed consists of clear sand with rounded stones that pose no threat of chain fouling. However, avoid approaching too close to the northern shoreline, where isolated rocky ledges and shallow rocks are present.
• Bathing Zones: Respect local swimmer safety by keeping your anchor drop and swinging circle well outside the marked beach swim zones.
• Cell Coverage Warning: Mobile 4G/5G data network signals can be weak or intermittent inside the anchorage due to the steep surrounding topography.

Ashore

• Tavernas: Two excellent beach tavernas operate onshore (Taverna Ligaries and Kechria Taverna), offering traditional Greek meals (note that kitchens often close early, around 7:00 PM–8:30 PM).
• Hiking: A scenic, red-and-white marked trail leads inland from the beach through the stream-fed “Magic Forest” up to the historic Monastery of Panagia Kechria.

Kastro Beach

• Type: Open cove / Historical anchorage
• Best for: Visiting Kastro ruins, taverna dining, swimming, sunsets

Located at the northernmost tip of Skiathos directly beneath the dramatic cliffs of the medieval fortified city, Kastro (Κάστρο) is a breathtaking, scenic anchorage. Surrounded by soaring rock formations and crystal-clear water, it serves as the primary base for hiking up to the ruined fortress and the historic 17th-century Church of the Nativity of Christ.

⚓ Anchoring

How to anchor

Kastro offers a straightforward sandy shelf, but its exposed location requires careful attention to weather conditions.

• Free Anchoring & Capacity: Drop anchor in 5–7 meters of water over clean, uncluttered sand. The anchorage holds exceptionally well once the anchor bites, with space for roughly 3 to 4 vessels.
• Swell & Passing Traffic: Excursion boats and tourist traffic pass frequently during daylight hours, creating a persistent swell.
• Katabatic Winds & Overnights: The steep cliffs directly behind the beach can generate katabatic gusts that accelerate down the slope at night, exceeding forecast wind speeds. Overnight stays are only recommended in exceptionally calm, settled weather with zero northern wind or swell.
• Northern Sector Warning: The bay is completely exposed to the north. Leave immediately if northerly winds or Meltemi build up.

Ashore

• Kastro Ruins & Church: A steep, scenic footpath leads from the beach up to the medieval ruins of Kastro and the 1650 Church of the Nativity of Christ, offering sweeping views and sunsets. Note: The castle site gates may remain closed before 9:30 AM.
• Taverna: A traditional, family-run beach taverna sits right by the shore, serving fresh local Greek dishes.
• Excursions: The iconic sea arches and pebble beach of Lalaria (Λαλάρια) are located just around the headland to the east and can easily be visited by dinghy in calm conditions.

Lalaria Beach

• Type: Open cove / Iconic coastal site
• Best for: Swimming, sea arches, short day stops

Famous worldwide for its dramatic white limestone cliffs, striking natural sea arch (Tripia Petra), and clear turquoise waters, Lalaria (Λαλάρια) is one of the most photographed locations in the Sporades. Accessible only by sea, it is a magnificent location for a brief stopover, though it presents challenging anchoring conditions and heavy daylight excursion traffic.

⚓ Anchoring

How to anchor

Lalaria requires extreme caution when anchoring and is suitable strictly for brief day visits in calm, settled weather.

• Fouling & Snagging Hazard: The seabed consists primarily of flat, solid rock ledges and large scattered boulders. Anchor chains and flukes foul or tangle very easily here; using a trip line or keeping chain scope to the minimum safe length is strongly advised.
• Shallows & Underwater Pinnacles: Do not attempt to approach close to the beach or the Tripia Petra sea arch. Several large rock formations rise 5–6 metres up from the seabed to just below the surface (some lying barely 2 metres deep), posing a severe threat to keels and rudders.
• Positioning: The safest area to drop anchor is toward the middle of the beach, roughly 30–35 metres off the shoreline in 7–10 metres of water. Clear water allows for good seabed visibility in daylight to pick out flat ledges, but anchors will tend to drag rather than dig in.
• Tourist Traffic & Swell: From 10:00 AM onwards, a steady stream of excursion boats and water taxis arrives, generating substantial wash and swell.
• Overnight Warning: Absolutely not recommended for overnight stays. The bay offers no protection against northerly winds or swells, and the steep cliffs behind the beach can generate unexpected downdrafts.

Ashore

• Natural Features: The beach is famous for its smooth white round pebbles (lalaria) and the iconic Tripia Petra rock arch on its eastern end. (Note: Removing pebbles from the beach is prohibited by local law).
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning (before 9:30 AM) offers pristine conditions, quiet surroundings, and the best lighting for photographs before tourist boats arrive.
• Facilities: None. The beach is completely wild with no tavernas, shade, or amenities. Ensure you take all rubbish back to your vessel.
• Dinghy Access: Landing a dinghy on the steep pebble shore can be awkward if any swell or excursion boat wash is running. Keep a crew member on watch aboard the main vessel during shore visits.