Looking for the most beautiful Hydra beaches for swimming, diving, and sunbathing? This guide provides all the essential information to choose the best Hydra beaches for your trip.
Although Hydra Island doesn’t have many sandy beaches, its pebbled shores, stone formations, and concrete platforms offer a unique seaside experience. Use this guide to explore the beaches of Hydra.
Hydra Island
Hydra, part of the Saronic Islands group, is one of the closest islands to Athens.
Despite its proximity, Hydra is known for its distinct character, traditional architecture, thriving artist community, and rugged terrain, earning it the nickname “The Rock.”
An hour’s ferry ride from Athens, Hydra is ideal for day trips and short breaks. It offers a mix of history, contemporary art, great food, and scenic hiking trails around Mount Eros.
Hydra is one of the few pedestrian-only islands in Greece, with no cars or scooters. While the main town is near the port, many beaches require at least 30 minutes of walking.
Known as a sophisticated retreat, Hydra attracts celebrities and artists who mingle with locals and visitors. Beach excursions from the port are a convenient way to explore the coastline.
TIP: Bring swimming shoes, as Hydra’s beaches are rocky.
Map of Hydra Beaches
1. Spilia Beach – Hydra Town
Close to Hydra town and port, Spilia is one of the most convenient spots for travelers.
Located on the left side of the port along the road to Kamini, Spilia is named after a small water cave below its beach bar. The area is known for its steep rocky landscape and dramatic concrete platforms.
The water here is deep and ideal for experienced swimmers who enjoy diving. The platforms also provide a great vantage point for watching boats enter and leave the port.
Characteristics: Rocks and concrete platforms, ladders for sea access, and a jumping platform. Limited shade except at the beach bar.
Amenities: Beach bar with drinks and snacks, nearby restaurants.
Accessibility: Within a 10-minute walk from Hydra’s port. Easily accessible on foot.
2. Hydronetta Beach – Hydra Town
Adjacent to Spilia, Hydronetta Beach also features rocky and concrete plateaus with ladders leading into the sea. Facing west, Hydronetta enjoys sunshine all day, making it popular for sunset views and swimming.
The swimming area is surrounded by high cliffs, giving it a wonderfully secluded atmosphere. The beach bar is a Hydra favorite, especially during the evening.
Amenities: Beach bar offering cocktails and snacks, nearby restaurants.
Accessibility: A 15-minute walk from Hydra’s port along the coastal road.
3. Avlaki Beach
Avlaki Beach is just outside Hydra town. This small pebble beach is surrounded by pine trees and includes a few concrete platforms.
The beach has clear waters and is popular among locals. It’s an excellent spot for snorkeling because the rocky seabed attracts lots of marine life.
Characteristics: Pebbles and concrete platforms, natural shade from pine trees, and no on-site facilities.
Amenities: Nearby Téchnē restaurant for food and drinks.
Accessibility: About a 10-minute walk from Hydra’s port. Access involves steep steps.
4. Kamini Beach
A 15-minute walk from Hydra town along the coast road leads to Kamini, a small fishing village with a pebble beach.
Located below the Castello restaurant and bar, Kamini is sheltered from winds, making it ideal for families.
The water at Kamini is shallow and calm, making it great for children. There’s a pretty marina, with fishing boats and small yachts moored nearby.
Characteristics: Small pebble beach, parasols and loungers available, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Amenities: Beach bar with loungers and parasols, nearby restaurants such as Kodylenias Taverna.
Accessibility: A 15-minute walk from Hydra’s port along a paved coastal road.
5. Vlichos Beach (Vlychos Beach)
A 45-minute walk from Hydra town brings you to Vlichos, an organized beach with clear waters and a mix of sand and pebbles. The gradual sea access and facilities make it a good choice for families.
The beach is relatively large compared to others on Hydra and is framed by charming whitewashed houses. Its calm waters make it a favorite for swimmers of all ages.
Characteristics: Sand and pebbles, easy sea access, umbrellas and loungers, and beach bar facilities.
Amenities: Umbrellas, loungers, beach bar, and nearby tavernas.
Accessibility: Reachable by foot in about 45 minutes from Hydra’s port. Beach boat services are available for €5 one-way.
6. Bisti Beach
Bisti Beach is on Hydra’s western side, nestled in a secluded bay. Accessible by regular beach boat services, it’s a good spot for snorkeling, diving, and relaxing under pine trees.
The waters at Bisti are incredibly clear, with excellent visibility for underwater exploration. Pine trees offer natural shade, creating a peaceful retreat from the midday sun.
Characteristics: Pebbles, walk-in sea access, facilities provided by the local diving club, and clear waters.
Amenities: Sun loungers, umbrellas, and a small snack bar run by the diving club.
Accessibility: Regular beach boats from Hydra’s port (€20 round trip). Water taxis are also available (€100 for a group).
7. Agios Nikolaos Beach
Located on Hydra’s southern coast, Agios Nikolaos Beach is a white-pebble beach surrounded by cliffs. Its clear waters and remote location make it worth visiting.
The beach is a long U-shape and offers a sense of seclusion, perfect for visitors looking for privacy. The surrounding cliffs provide dramatic scenery and shelter from strong winds.
Characteristics: Pebbles, walk-in sea access, facilities including parasols, loungers, and a beach cantina.
Amenities: Parasols, loungers, and a small cantina for snacks and drinks.
Accessibility: Accessible by a 30-minute boat ride from Hydra’s port. Water taxis are available (€140 round trip for groups).
8. Mandraki Beach Resort
Mandraki Beach Resort, Hydra’s only sandy beach, is located 1.5 miles from the port. It offers cushioned sunbeds and attentive service.
The sandy shore makes it one of the most comfortable beaches on Hydra. It’s a well-maintained spot, ideal for those who enjoy luxury beach experiences (and sand rather than pebbles!)
Characteristics: Sandy beach, gentle sea access, and full facilities.
Amenities: Cushioned sunbeds, parasols, restaurant, and waiter service.
Accessibility: A 30-minute walk from Hydra’s port. Sea taxis available for €30.
TIP: For a more affordable option near Mandraki Bay resort, Mandraki 1800 offers a mix of sand and pebbles along with basic amenities. There was a Greek snack bar here but it has closed.
9. Plakes Beach, Four Seasons Resort
Plakes Beach is a tranquil spot located in front of the Four Seasons Hydra Luxury Suites. The beach features smooth pebbles and exceptionally clear waters.
Plakes offers full facilities, including sun loungers, umbrellas, and food and beverage service provided by the Four Seasons.
Characteristics: Pebble beach with walk-in sea access, and clear waters.
Amenities: Sun loungers, umbrellas, and food and drink service from the Four Seasons.
Accessibility: Accessible via private boat, water taxi, or a 20-minute walk from Hydra’s port.
Hydra’s beaches offer a mix of lively spots and quieter retreats. Whether you’re diving, sunbathing, or exploring underwater, Hydra has a beach for everyone. Don’t forget your water shoes!
