Visiting Sarakiniko — the beach that looks like the moon
Where is Sarakiniko Beach?
Sarakiniko is located on the island of Milos, Greece and has gained insta-famous status in recent years for being a beach that looks like the surface of the moon. It’s giant white rock formations are reminiscent of the lunar landscape and with a backdrop of the crystal blue waters of the Aegean, this landscape is truly a work of art.
Visiting Sarakiniko is fairly straightforward, but there are a few things you may want to know before venturing out to the moonscape beach. Read on to find out how to get there and some tips for making the most of your experience.
How to get to Sarakiniko
There area a couple ways to reach Sarakiniko Beach on Milos, Greece. Start by making your way to the island’s capital, Adamas. From there, you can board a local bus, which is an affordable and convenient option, as it offers regular service to the beach and you will not have to worry about parking.
Alternatively, you can rent a car or an ATV to have a more flexible schedule for exploring the lunar landscape of the beach. The drive takes about 20 minutes, following the signs to Sarakiniko and parking is available near the bus stop (if it’s not busy) or alongside the road leading down to the beach. Just follow the crowds and once you’ve arrived you can freely wander about the rocks enjoying the numerous views Sarakiniko has to offer.
When is the best time to visit Sarakiniko?
The best time to visit Sarakiniko Beach on the island of Milos is during the late spring to early fall, particularly from May to September. During these months, the weather is nice and warm with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for sunbathing and swimming.
Because this is one of the most popular spots on the island of Milos, it’s best to plan a visit in the early morning or late afternoon. These times offer stunning light for photography and fewer crowds, allowing you to fully appreciate the unique lunar-like landscape and crystal-clear waters. If you arrive during peak midday hours, the sun can be very intense and there is little to no shade for relief.
Another thing to consider is the weather. The Greek isles are notoriously windy and it’s best to visit Sarakiniko Beach on a calm day. Too much wind will cause large waves making it unsafe to swim and also inhibit those iconic blue views.
What is there to do at Sarakiniko?
Sarakiniko Beach, with its striking moonscape rock formations and crystal-clear waters, is a goldmine for photo enthusiasts. You can spend a few hours just wandering the coastline, exploring the unique lunar-like landscape and taking in breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea.
Swimming and snorkeling in the pristine waters are also popular ways to relax and enjoy the vibrant marine life. And for those seeking some adventure, the rocks are also a popular spot for cliff jumping. A natural rock bridge and pool with a rope installed for climbing in and out of the water has tourists lining up to take part in the fun.
Are services available at Sarakiniko?
Unlike more commercial beaches across Greece, Sarakiniko has no standard services like bathrooms and restaurants. There is one lone food truck stationed on the road leading to the beach but other than that, you’re on your own, so be sure to pack snacks and plenty of water if you plan to stay for a few hours.
Tips for visiting Sarakiniko
Wear water shoes: The smooth-looking rocks are actually deceptively sharp and water shoes will make it much more enjoyable to explore.
Avoid windy days: Definitely try to visit Sarakiniko when the wind is calm. Too many waves could make swimming unsafe and cloud the crystal clear water.
Prepare for no shade: Especially at midday, the rocks are very bright and the sun can feel scorching. There’s very little shade here so be prepared with a hat, towel and sunglasses.
Expect crowds: Worse during the summer high season, this beach is a well-trafficked tourist destination, so expect lots of people. If you’d like a more secluded experience, go at sunrise or sunset.
Have you been to Sarakiniko? What did you think? Let us know in the comment section below and for anyone planning a trip to Greece, we hope you find this post helpful.
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About Us
We’re Rob and Lauren — a designer & photographer duo passionate about travel. We hope you find some travel inspiration here and the courage to go book that dream vacation.
With so many beautiful places, we can’t help but feel that somewhere is always waiting to be discovered.
