Plathiena Beach sits on the north side of Milos, close enough to Plaka to make an easy detour but far enough from the island's most photographed coves to feel calmer. The bay is sandy, sheltered, and straightforward, which is part of its appeal.
It is not as strange-looking as Sarakiniko or as broad as some southern beaches, but it works well when you want a swim after wandering the hill villages. Bring what you need outside high season, when services can be thin.