Megali Ammos Holidays

Megali Ammos means"Big Sand" in Greek and you can easily see why (the sand itself is just normal size, but 'oh mama there's a lot of it'). This gorgeous, long, sandy beach sits just a 15-minute stroll from Skiathos Town, giving you the best of both worlds: proper beach resort vibes with easy access to the island's buzzing capital whenever you fancy it.

The beach itself is a beauty – fine golden sand with hills that shelter the bay from those northerly winds that can whip up elsewhere on the island. It's one of the most popular spots on Skiathos for good reason: families love the calm, paddling-friendly waters, couples appreciate the convenience, and everyone enjoys the beachfront tavernas where you can enjoy a cold drink and some hot Greek food with your toes practically in the sand.

✅ Good to Know

☀️ Weather – Summer temps hit 28-30°C with up to 11 hours of sunshine. Sea temperatures reach a gorgeous 25-26°C in July and August, perfect for long lazy swims.

💶 Prices – A pint will set you back around €5, while a meal for two with drinks comes in at €30-50. Proper good value for a Greek island this popular.

🏖️ Fun fact – Megali Ammos has one of the best-organised water sports centres on Skiathos, offering everything from waterskiing to parasailing. If you'd rather just float about, the shallow waters are brilliant for that too.

🌟 Top Reasons to Visit Megali Ammos

• 🚶 Walking distance to Skiathos Town Just 1km from the harbour, cobbled streets and buzzing nightlife – no taxis required.

• 🏊 Calm, shallow waters Protected bay with gentle entry, ideal for families with little ones or anyone who just wants a relaxed swim.

• ⛱️ Fully organised beach Sunbeds, umbrellas, water sports and beachfront tavernas – everything you need without leaving the sand.

• 🚌 Brilliant transport links Bus stops right on the doorstep with regular services to beaches across the island, plus water taxis from nearby.

• 🌅 Best of both worlds Beach resort tranquillity by day, town centre action by night – and it's all within a short stroll.

🏨 Where to Stay in Megali Ammos

• Aegean Suites This 5-star adults-only retreat is a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World. Built on a hillside overlooking Megali Ammos beach, it features a large swimming pool with hot tub, gourmet restaurant, and spa treatments. Just 22 metres from the sand – proper boutique luxury.

• Lalaria Hotel Perched on a green hillside with sea and mountain views, this friendly hotel offers an outdoor pool, sun terrace and poolside snack bar. Rooms come with kitchenettes and balconies. The beach is just 100m away and Skiathos Town a 10-minute walk.

• Tomato Hotel A solid 3-star choice just 100m from the beach with spacious, comfortable rooms. Daily buffet breakfast sets you up for the day, and Skiathos Town is only 1km away for evening wanderings.

• Aria Hotel Family-run property set on a hillside with spectacular views over the Aegean. Just 200m to the beach and 700m to town – the snack bar serves breakfast and light bites, and there's genuine Greek hospitality throughout.

• Irida Hotel and Apartments Great value 3-star accommodation just 80m from the beachfront. Rooms feature balconies and you're close to the action, with shops, bars and tavernas right on the doorstep.

🌊 Top Things to Do in Megali Ammos

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families

• 🏖️ Megali Ammos Beach The main event – a long sandy stretch with calm, shallow waters perfect for paddling and sandcastle building. Sunbeds and umbrellas available, plus beachfront cafes for when the snack attacks hit.

• 🚤 Water sports at the beach centre One of the island's best-organised water sports setups, offering waterskiing, parasailing, paddleboarding and pedalos. Lessons available for beginners of all ages.

• 🛥️ Boat trip to Tsougrias Island Jump on a water taxi from nearby and discover this uninhabited island with pristine beaches and crystal-clear snorkelling waters. Pack a picnic and make a day of it.

• 🎬 Open-air cinema in Skiathos Town Catch a film under the stars at the Attikon Cinema – a magical experience for all ages. Classic films, Mamma Mia reruns and fresh popcorn, all with the night sky as your ceiling.

💑 Couples

• 🌅 Sunset drinks in Little Venice Stroll into Skiathos Town and find a harbourside spot for cocktails as the sun dips behind the boats. Properly romantic without trying too hard.

• ⛪ Evangelistria Monastery A 4km walk or short taxi ride into the pine-covered hills brings you to this serene 18th-century monastery where the first Greek flag was raised. The museum, peaceful gardens and mountain views make it worth the trip.

• 🛥️ Private boat to Lalaria Beach Hire a boat or join a tour to reach this famous beach – only accessible by sea. Dramatic white cliffs, smooth pebbles and impossibly blue water. One of Greece's most photographed spots.

• 🍷 Wine tasting tour Discover Skiathos's growing wine scene with a vineyard visit. Sample local varieties paired with Greek nibbles – a lovely afternoon away from the beach.

👯 Groups

• 🏰 Kastro adventure Take a boat trip to the island's medieval fortress town, perched on a rocky promontory on the north coast. Explore the ruins, swim at Kastro Beach below, and grab lunch at the beach shack with stunning views.

• 🍻 Skiathos Town bar crawl The harbour comes alive after dark with everything from chilled cocktail spots to proper party bars. Easy walking distance means you can sample a few before stumbling home.

• 🎉 Mamma Mia tour to Skopelos Board a boat and visit the neighbouring island where the hit musical was filmed. Sing along, swim at the movie locations and feel like a dancing queen for the day.

• 🚗 4x4 island safari Explore Skiathos's wild interior on an off-road adventure. Pine forests, hidden beaches, monastery visits and wow-factor photo stops included.

🏛️ Culture Lovers

• ⛪ Evangelistria Monastery Founded in 1794, this historically significant monastery played a key role in the Greek War of Independence. The museum houses the loom where the first Greek flag was woven, plus manuscripts, icons and ecclesiastical treasures.

• 🏰 Kastro ruins The island's medieval capital, abandoned in 1830 when residents moved to modern Skiathos Town. Wander the remains of churches, houses and fortress walls while enjoying panoramic Aegean views.

• 📚 Papadiamantis House Museum Visit the birthplace of Alexandros Papadiamantis (1851-1911), one of Greece's most celebrated writers. The modest house offers a glimpse into traditional Skiathos life and the author's simple existence.

• 🎭 Skiathitiko Spiti An old townhouse turned museum in Skiathos Town, showcasing how islanders lived in centuries past. Finish with a taste of homemade local liqueur from the owner.

☀️ When to Visit Megali Ammos

Megali Ammos enjoys Skiathos's lovely Aegean climate – long sunny summers, warm seas and that pine-scented breeze drifting down from the hills. The beach is at its best from May through October, with peak season bringing the liveliest atmosphere and warmest waters.

🌸 Spring (April–May)

The island wakes up after winter with wildflowers carpeting the hillsides and temperatures climbing to a pleasant 18-23°C. A brilliant time for walking, exploring and having the beaches more to yourself.

• 🐣 Orthodox Easter (April 20, 2025) – Skiathos's biggest celebration of the year, with candlelit processions, midnight church services, fireworks and traditional lamb feasts. A truly special time to visit.

• 🐴 Agios Georgios (late April) – Horse races, traditional dancing and a proper Greek feast at this local celebration. Great fun and very authentic.

• 🌷 Quieter beaches – Beat the summer crowds and enjoy Megali Ammos at its most peaceful. Sea might be a touch fresh for swimming but the sun is warm.

☀️ Summer (June–August)

Peak season means temperatures of 28-30°C, sea temps hitting 25-26°C and up to 11 hours of glorious sunshine. Book ahead – this is when Skiathos really buzzes.

• 🎵 International Music Festival (June) – Local and international artists perform across the island, adding a cultural edge to your beach holiday.

• ⛪ Feast of the Assumption (August 15) – Religious celebrations honouring the Virgin Mary take place island-wide, with church services and community gatherings.

• 🎬 Open Air Cinema Festival (August) – Catch classic and contemporary films under the stars at outdoor venues around the island. Pure holiday magic.

🍂 Autumn (September–October)

September is arguably the sweet spot – still hot (24-26°C), seas at their warmest, but the summer rush thinning out. October stays pleasant but quieter, with some venues winding down.

• 🍷 Skiathos Wine Festival (September) – Celebrate the grape harvest with tastings of new vintages, live music, traditional dancing and plenty of delicious food.

• 🏊 Warm seas – The Aegean holds its heat well into autumn, making September perfect for proper swimming without the crowds.

• 🌅 Golden light – Photographers love this time of year when the softer sunshine gives everything that gorgeous warm glow.

🏖️ Nearby Resorts

Skiathos Town – 1km/15-min walk – The island's vibrant capital with cobbled streets, harbour-side bars, boutique shopping and buzzing nightlife. Everything you need when you want a change of scene.

Achladies – 2km south – Family-friendly beach resort with water taxi connections. Sandy beach, calm waters and a good selection of tavernas and shops.

Troulos – 8km southwest – Small but mighty beach resort perfect for families and couples. Clear waters, slow mornings and tavernas serving everything from Greek salads to seafood spaghetti.

Kolios – 6km southwest – Top choice for chilled family holidays with calm, shallow waters, sandy beach and easy access to restaurants and minimarkets. Peace without being too remote.