As you plan your trip to Milos, Greece, the best beaches in Milos are likely at the top of your agenda. One destination that’s hard to miss is Sarakiniko, a moonscape-like formation that has captivated visitors with its otherworldly beauty. Before even considering visiting Milos, we had seen photos of this site and were already smitten. It’s no surprise then that it was one of the primary draws for us when planning our trip.
While Sarakiniko is commonly referred to as a single destination, there’s actually a beach associated with the site, which is worth exploring in its own right. The moonscape itself is often the main attraction, and combined with Kleftiko Beach (which can only be accessed by boat), it makes for one of the most unique beaches on Milos.
However, this blog post will delve into other hidden gems within Sarakiniko that don’t always get the same level of attention.
Whether you’re looking to explore, snap great photos, relax on the beach, or be adventurous, we’ll provide you with insider tips to help you make the most of your time at Sarakiniko.
Now that we’ve returned from our trip to Milos, we can attest that visiting Sarakiniko is one of the best experiences the island has to offer. It’s definitely the most popular spot on the island and one of the top beaches in Milos.
In fact, it’s the perfect setting for a romantic beach date while exploring the Greek Islands together.
During our week-long stay on the island, we spent five hours at Sarakiniko (more on that later) and are now ready to share our findings with you.
What is the best time to visit Sarakiniko in Milos
Sarakiniko is often touted as a must-visit spot in Milos, and for good reason – its stunning scenery draws crowds from far and wide. However, by arriving early or timing your visit just right, you can still enjoy this beautiful location without the chaos. We found that mornings and sunsets were particularly peaceful, with fewer visitors to contend with.
Our own experience had us arriving at around 8:30am, where we were one of only two cars on site for a good 15 minutes before the crowds started filtering in. By the time we left at 1pm, the parking lot was full and people were coming and going regularly, but it never felt overwhelming.
One thing that struck us about Sarakiniko was its sheer size – there’s plenty of space for everyone to spread out and enjoy the views without feeling crowded.
Additionally, visitors tend to come and go in short bursts, so parking spaces are frequently freed up as others depart. This makes it easy to navigate and find a spot.
Of course, timing is everything at Sarakiniko – the site is completely exposed to the elements, including the wind. On our visit, it was quite breezy, which added to the drama of the scenery but might not be everyone’s cup of tea.
If you get the chance, try to check the weather forecast and aim for a calmer day to maximize your enjoyment.
Visiting Sarakiniko at sunset
When planning your visit to Sarakiniko at sunset, consider the changing sunset times throughout the summer months. In mid-September, for instance, the sun sets around 7:30pm, making it ideal to arrive between 6:30pm and 7pm to capture some great photos before the light changes. Keep in mind that the setting sun will be behind the rocks, not the sea, showcasing vibrant colours in the sky. As you enjoy the sunset, don’t forget to dress accordingly for the cooling evening temperatures.
After 6:30pm, it’s likely to get a bit chilly, especially if there’s a breeze, so bring a light layer or sweater to stay comfortable. Remember to also bring your drinks and snacks with you when you leave, as there are no trash cans on site. Let’s work together to preserve the beauty of Sarakiniko by taking our waste with us.
How long do you need to stay at Sarakiniko
Given our limited time in Milos, Greece – just one week – we deliberately allocated about 5 hours to explore Sarakiniko, allowing us to absorb every aspect of this fascinating site without duplicating efforts. We also had the added luxury of taking photos, which naturally consumed some extra time. In hindsight, I’d recommend the following framework for your visit.
If you’re solely focused on exploring Sarakiniko and don’t plan on lingering at the beach, 2 hours should suffice to discover all its intriguing areas – even more so if you’re facing windy conditions or prefer a shorter stay. Conversely, if you intend to indulge in beach activities, I envision spending an entire day here, ensuring you bring along everything you’ll need for the day.
If photography is your priority, be prepared to spend hours capturing Sarakiniko’s breathtaking vistas – each cliffside view offers stunning perspectives, whether gazing out at the sea or taking in the landscapes. We struggled to tear ourselves away from our cameras!
Sarakiniko can be divided into its left and right sides; if you’re on Milos for an extended period, consider visiting one side first and returning another day to explore the other.
Alternatively, take advantage of the site’s natural beauty by visiting during sunrise or sunset to witness the shifting lights and colors.
Sarakiniko beach in Milos, Greece
Sarakiniko Beach in Milos, Greece, is a unique gem that stands out from its counterpart in Parga on the mainland. The beach’s sandy section may be small, but it can accommodate a decent number of people and boasts some of the finest white sand I’ve seen. Behind this section, you’ll find a few trees providing welcome shade for those who want to escape the sun. Upon arrival, the beach remains inconspicuous until you walk towards the left, when it suddenly comes into view.
It only takes a few minutes to reach the shore. The beach’s rock formations and moonscape-like landscape are actually a major draw for visitors, as they create a fascinating scenery that invites exploration. Many people choose to walk around these formations and then move on to another beach for the rest of the day. We’re not sure if this was due to the windy weather or early timing, but it’s clear that Sarakiniko Beach is best visited in the morning to secure a spot.
As the day wears on, the beach gets busier. If the sandy section is packed, you can still find a comfortable spot on the surrounding rocks, which are smooth and easy to navigate. One of the highlights of our visit was the exceptionally shallow water. You can walk for several meters without getting wet! Additionally, the cliffs and rock formations that encircle the beach provide excellent protection from the wind, making it an ideal spot when gusts are strong.
The water at Sarakiniko Beach has a reputation for being crystal-clear, although our visit saw slightly opaque conditions due to the wind and waves. Nonetheless, the view was still stunning.
Moonscape of Sarakiniko
What sets Sarakiniko beach apart is its extraordinary lunar landscape, often referred to as ‘the moonscape’. This natural wonder stretches for kilometers along the left side of the parking lot when facing the sea. The unique formation has been shaped by the relentless combination of wind and waves eroding the volcanic rock. As you explore the moonscape, you’ll discover a diverse array of geological features, including towering cliffs, hidden cenotes, mysterious caves, and picturesque canyons.
One of the most striking aspects of Sarakiniko is its majestic cliffs. From the center of the beach, you can gaze up at these massive formations and easily walk to the top for breathtaking views. There are two notable cliffs, one situated just before the beach and another right after it – perfect spots for capturing stunning photos.
Moving further along, you’ll come across a colossal cenote, also known as a vast hole in the white rock formations.
This spot is particularly popular among thrill-seekers who enjoy cliff jumping. While it’s essential to exercise caution when participating in this activity, especially during windy and rough sea conditions, it can be an exhilarating experience.
Sarakiniko’s lesser-known gem is its network of canyons. After taking in the vistas from the cliffs, I was drawn to the rear area of the beach, where I discovered these natural wonders.
The canyons are remarkably well-protected from the wind and offer a unique opportunity for great photos.
To locate the canyons, continue walking past the beach, the cenote, and start scanning your left side. With this knowledge, you should be able to spot them easily. Be mindful of the brittle rocks in the canyons, which require extra care when handling camera equipment to prevent damage.
Desert of Sarakiniko
The lesser-known right side of Sarakiniko is just as captivating as its moon-like landscapes and beaches. Dubbed the ‘desert of Sarakiniko’, this area boasts a unique blend of lunar formations, rocky outcroppings, and arid vegetation that will transport you to the American Southwest’s Joshua Tree National Park. As you venture into this desert-inspired realm, you’ll initially encounter more pinnacles and canyons similar to those on the moon-like side.
However, as you delve deeper, the landscape undergoes a striking transformation. The white rock formations remain, but the terrain becomes increasingly rocky and arid, punctuated by scattered herbs and dry bushes. This side of Sarakiniko is less windy than its counterpart, allowing for more leisurely exploration. We spent considerable time exploring this area, marveling at the dramatic landscape shifts that occur from one side to another.
When visiting Sarakiniko, be sure to venture beyond the well-trodden moonscape and beach paths. If the moonscape becomes crowded, head towards the left side for a peaceful respite. The ‘desert of Sarakiniko’ offers a serene atmosphere perfect for taking in the breathtaking views without the distractions of crowds. For the more adventurous, keep walking towards the shipwreck on your right, where the cliffs give way to a passage and a series of fascinating canyons waiting to be explored.
Sarakiniko Shipwreck
Just beyond the seemingly barren landscape of Sarakiniko lies a fascinating attraction that’s slowly disappearing into the sea. The Sarakiniko Shipwreck, which dates back to 2003, was once a prominent tanker from Africa that crashed against the cliffs before gradually being eroded by the elements. Today, only two distinct remnants remain visible above the waterline: the ship’s prow and its mast. This unusual sight is definitely worth exploring when visiting Sarakiniko.
Old Mining Tunnels
Tucked away behind the lush vegetation that borders Sarakiniko beach lies a hidden gem – a secluded valley sheltered by towering cliffs. As you venture further, you’ll discover remnants of an ancient mining operation, with tunnels expertly carved into the rugged rock formations. Exploring these abandoned passageways is an adventure not to be missed.
Things to be aware of when visiting Sarakiniko
When venturing to Sarakiniko, it’s essential to be mindful of a few key aspects to ensure an unforgettable experience. Building upon earlier points, this section aims to provide further clarity and insight for visitors. As you plan your trip, keep the following in mind: [insert additional details as per the original draft].
The Wind
While Sarakiniko can experience strong winds, this doesn’t necessarily deter visitors from exploring the area. During our trip, we encountered significant gusts yet still managed to thoroughly explore the cliffs and rock formations, despite the challenges presented by the wind. However, there is a minor drawback to visiting on windy days – the dust and debris kicked up by the wind can be quite bothersome. The source of this dust is the brittle cliffs and rock formations themselves.
To minimize any discomfort, I recommend donning sunglasses for added eye protection. Furthermore, when visiting during windy conditions, be prepared to leave with a subtle layer of white dust on your person.
The Sea
While windy conditions often bring choppy waves to the sea, it’s crucial to prioritize your swimming abilities and exercise caution when taking to the water. Sarakiniko beach, despite being protected, may still present challenges in terms of exhaustion or difficulties returning from the open sea. To avoid unnecessary risks, consider your own limitations and be prepared for the possibility that you might need to cut short your swim due to fatigue or other factors.
The good news is that the beach’s accessibility makes it easy to retreat and reattempt your swim when conditions improve.
Sea Urchins
During our adventures in Milos and Sarakiniko, we encountered a plethora of sea urchins. As we engaged in cliff jumping and swimming activities, it’s essential to exercise caution when interacting with these marine creatures to avoid any potential harm. It’s crucial to be aware of your surroundings at all times, as there are no medical facilities available on site should an accident occur or if you require any sort of medical attention.
Jellyfish
Jellyfish may be visually striking, but their sting can quickly turn a pleasant beach experience into an uncomfortable one. During our stay at Sarakiniko beach, I ventured into the water, unaware of the potential marine life lurking beneath the surface. The opaque water due to the waves limited my visibility, but the shallow depth put me at ease.
However, just minutes later, another beachgoer emerged with a pained expression, revealing that she had been stung by a jellyfish in the exact same spot where I had recently entered the water. While most jellyfish stings are harmless and only cause temporary discomfort, it’s reassuring to be aware of their presence at Sarakiniko before taking a dip.
Food and drinks
When venturing to Sarakiniko, it’s essential to be prepared for an adventure without the amenities of a typical restaurant or facility. Considering the scorching heat that can arise from sitting on the rock formations, packing snacks and water is highly recommended for extended stays. Although we didn’t come across any food vendors during our visit, there was a drink truck situated near the parking lot, offering drinks and bottled water to quench your thirst.
However, it’s unclear if they served any edible options.
Accessibility
Reaching Sarakiniko by vehicle is straightforward, and the dirt path leading from the parking lot to the site is navigable for those with mobility aids. While it may not be suitable for wheelchair users without assistance, it’s doable with some help. However, once you arrive at the initial stopping point, accessing both sides of the site requires a bit of climbing, as there are no defined pathways.
What to wear and bring to Sarakiniko
When exploring Sarakiniko during the peak summer months (June to September), consider packing a bathing suit and wearing sunscreen, as well as a hat for added protection from the sun. The rocky terrain can become scorching hot, and there are numerous spots perfect for a quick dip or even cliff jumping. Despite the site’s lack of shade, you’ll be glad you brought sun protection. As for footwear, flip flops proved sufficient during our visit – no need to lug around hiking shoes!
However, if you plan on getting wet or engaging in water activities, consider bringing sea shoes to safeguard against sharp rocks and potential encounters with sea urchins. Additionally, a thick beach towel can be a lifesaver on crowded days, providing an extra layer of comfort as you soak up the sun.
Budget to visit Sarakiniko, Milos
Visitors to Sarakiniko are treated to a unique experience, with free admission and parking available. For those who don’t have access to a vehicle, public transportation options like buses or renting an ATV provide an affordable alternative. This budget-friendly destination is particularly well-suited for couples looking to keep costs in check.
If you have any questions about planning your trip, feel free to leave them in the comments below or reach out to us on Instagram – we’ll respond promptly!
— SAVE THIS POST —
Whether you enjoyed this article or found it thought-provoking, we’d love for you to spread the word by sharing it with your network. If you’re eager to revisit this content later, simply bookmark the page or save the images below on Pinterest and return whenever inspiration strikes.