When to Visit Skiathos
June & September - The Sweet Spot
Weather: Warm 23-28°C (73-82°F), perfect sea temperature for swimming.
Why locals recommend it: Uncrowded beaches, 30-40% cheaper than peak season, authentic experience, everything is open. June is the busiest tourism month for good reason.
July-August (Peak)
Hot 28-35°C, vibrant nightlife, all facilities open.
Crowded beaches, highest prices. Book 3-6 months ahead.
October-April (Off-Season)
Mild 10-18°C, peaceful, lowest prices (especially May).
Many places closed. October still nice for beaches.
Getting to Skiathos
By Air (Fastest)
From Athens: 30 min, multiple daily flights (May-Oct)
From Europe: Direct from UK, Germany, Netherlands (summer)
Pro tip: The runway approach over Xanemos Beach is spectacular!
By Ferry (Scenic)
From Volos: 2.5-3 hours
Island hopping: Connects to Skopelos & Alonissos
Perfect for multi-island adventures
Getting Around
Rent a car to access secret beaches and local spots (€30-50/day). Buses cover south coast beaches (€1.80), but miss the best hidden gems. Boat tours (€30-50) are great for beach hopping.
Secret Beaches Locals Love
Skip the tourist crowds - these are where locals actually go:
Xanemos & Psarochoma Beach
Local secret: 20-min walk from Mandraki
Locals-only pebble cove near the airport. On weekends, you'll see Greeks bringing umbrellas and picnic baskets - no operators, no crowds, pure authenticity. The airport runway approach is spectacular from here.
Krifi Ammos (Hidden Beach)
True to its name: West coast secluded bay
Called "Hidden Beach" for good reason - surrounded by large rocks, hills, and trees. Organized but never feels crowded. Crystal waters perfect for snorkeling. A local favorite.
Diamanti Beach
Local gem: Maximum 10 couples
"A little piece of Paradise" - you'll rarely see more than 20 people here. €8 for 2 sunbeds and canopy. Pristine waters, peaceful atmosphere. This is Skiathos before mass tourism.
Elia & Mandraki Beach
North coast escape: Wide dunes, untouched
Neighboring beaches attracting an older, quieter crowd even in August. Wide dune landscape, plenty of space to spread out. Mandraki has a good restaurant; Elia is almost untouched nature.
Megalos & Mikros Aselinos
Hidden pair: North coast with greenery backdrop
Two beaches side-by-side, surrounded by greenery. Megalos has a taverna; Mikros is more secluded. Pure relaxation, rarely crowded. Rent a jeep to explore the quiet north coast.
Kechria Beach (Near Our Villas)
Best for: Morning swims, snorkeling
Pristine, uncrowded beach with crystal-clear waters. Small taverna serves fresh fish. Popular with locals. Just 10 minutes from Damari villas. Arrive early before day-trippers.
Pro tip: Visit in June or September for nearly empty beaches. The north coast is always quieter than the south. Rent a car or jeep to access the best hidden spots.
Authentic Tavernas (Not Tourist Traps)
These are where locals actually eat - family-run, traditional, and worth the trip:
Mesogia Taverna
The OG: 102 years old, Plakes district | €15-25
The oldest taverna in town. Traditional, delicious food that's a refreshing change from tourist traps. Family-run for over a century, serving classic Greek dishes the way they're meant to be. Packed with locals.
Kabourelias Ouzeri
Fishermen's spot: Skiathos Town | €18-30
Want to eat like a local? This is where they go. Packed with Greeks savoring special fish mezzes and seafood. If you see fishermen here, you're in the right place. Authentic ouzeri experience.
Anatoli (The East)
Hidden gem: Kalivia area (away from town) | €15-25
Escape the cosmopolitan tourist restaurants and head to Kalivia. The owner cooks homely traditional rooster and goat stews with locally sourced ingredients. This is grandma's cooking, not Instagram food.
Amfiliki Taverna
Secret location: Near old Acropolis, sea views | €20-35
Traditional Skiathos cuisine - a perfect marriage of fish, shellfish, and vegetables. Hidden near the Acropolis with stunning sea views. More authentic than anywhere else. Worth the search.
To Kalo Pigadi
Tsipouradiko: Skiathos Town | €12-20
Traditional tsipouradiko (ouzo/tsipouro bar with small plates) at the site of the town's historic well. Locals come for the atmosphere and mezze. Authentic Greek drinking culture.
Bourtzi Restaurant
Special occasion: On small peninsula, harbor views | €30-45
Set on a small islet/peninsula overlooking Skiathos port and town. Beautiful setting, quality food, romantic atmosphere. Not exactly a local secret, but it's the real deal - not a tourist trap.
Wine Lovers:
Parissis Winery near our villas offers tastings and tours of Skiathos' only vineyard. Open daily 10:30 AM-9:30 PM with guided tours at 12:30, 3:30, and 6:30 PM. Book 2 days ahead. €40 for 7 wines + cheese board. Stunning hilltop views. (Details below)
Where to Stay
For authentic island living with privacy and space, villas beat hotels - especially in the exclusive Kechria area:
Damari Villas in Kechria
Quick Essentials
Practical Info
- Currency: Euro (€). ATMs in town, cards widely accepted.
- Language: Greek, but English spoken everywhere touristy.
- Budget: €60-100/day mid-range, €150+/day luxury (excl. accommodation).
- Driving: Right-hand side. Some narrow mountain roads.
Packing Tips
- Sunscreen: Bring from home - expensive on the island.
- Beach shoes: Essential for pebble beaches like Xanemos.
- Light layers: Evenings can be breezy, even in summer.
- Car rental: Book ahead to access hidden local spots.