Skiathos has more than sixty beaches, most of them sandy and sheltered by pine forest. The south coast beaches are accessible by the bus that runs from Skiathos Town to Koukounaries; the north coast beaches are wilder and mostly reached by boat or on foot.
Koukounaries is the island's most famous beach — a long curve of golden sand backed by a protected stone pine forest and a lagoon. It is well organised with sunbeds and watersports, and gets very crowded in high season. Arrive early or come in the shoulder months.
Banana Beach, just east of Koukounaries, is split into two parts: Big Banana, which is organised with loungers and a beach bar, and Small Banana, a more relaxed stretch popular with nudists.
Lalaria, on the north coast, is Skiathos's most dramatic beach — smooth white pebbles beneath towering limestone cliffs with a natural rock arch at one end. It is only accessible by boat from Skiathos Town. The water is startlingly clear.
Vromolimnos is one of the liveliest beaches on the south coast, with waterskiing schools and beach bars. Good for a day that mixes swimming with activity.
Agia Paraskevi is a long, sandy beach with shallow water that suits families. Waterskiing and jet skiing are available.
Kastro Beach sits below the ruins of the island's medieval capital on the north coast. The setting is striking — a tiny cove beneath crumbling fortress walls. Accessible by a walking trail through the forest or by excursion boat.
Tsougria, a small uninhabited island just off Skiathos Town, has three quiet beaches with clear water and no development. Small boats run from the harbour in summer.
Aghia Eleni, on the southwest coast, catches the afternoon breeze and tends to be less crowded than the beaches further east. A good option when the south coast feels windless and hot.
Mandraki and the beaches along the north coast — including Agistri and Xerxes — are for those who want solitude. No facilities, no crowds, just pine trees and sea.