Paxos, Ionian Islands, Greece

Gaios Beaches

Overview

Gaios, the charming main port of Paxos, offers an idyllic setting for a beach holiday, appealing to those who cherish stunningly clear waters and picturesque coves. Most beaches in and around Gaios feature smooth, white pebbles, a characteristic of Paxos that contributes to the exceptional clarity and beautiful turquoise hues of the Ionian Sea, making for delightful swimming conditions. While predominantly pebbly, the unique character of these shores is a significant part of the island's tranquil appeal.

From the convenience of Gaios town, you can easily access several lovely spots. Gianas Beach is a popular choice for a quick, refreshing dip and is favored by local families. Nearby, Plakes Beach offers beautiful clear waters among its distinctive rocky plates, perfect for a convenient swim. For those who prefer a sandier experience, Paralia Moggonisi stands out as the main sandy beach on Paxos, providing a different texture and a family-friendly environment. If dramatic coastal scenery and unforgettable sunsets are what you seek, the wild beauty of Erimitis Beach is a must-see. Our comprehensive guide features a more extensive list of beautiful beaches waiting for you to explore around Gaios and Paxos.

Several smaller coves are within walking distance of Gaios, allowing for easy and spontaneous swims. To discover more of Paxos' diverse coastline, including secluded bays or the dramatic cliffs and sea caves of the west coast, consider exploring by boat. A boat trip is also the best way to reach the famed sandy beaches of nearby Antipaxos, an excursion many visitors count as a holiday highlight. You'll find more details on these and many other coastal gems throughout our guide to the beaches of Gaios.

FAQ

Are the beaches in Gaios sandy or pebbly?

Most beaches in and around Gaios, like much of Paxos, are pebbly. These white pebbles contribute to the crystal-clear turquoise waters the island is famous for. It's a good idea to bring water shoes. While there are a few smaller coves with some sand, the only predominantly sandy beach on Paxos is Mongonissi, which is man-made and located south of Gaios.

Can you swim at the beaches near Gaios and what's the water like?

Yes, swimming is excellent at the beaches near Gaios. The water is known for being exceptionally clear, calm (especially on the east coast where Gaios is located), and a beautiful turquoise color. The pebbly seabed contributes to this clarity. Water temperatures are warmest from June to October, typically ranging from 22-26Β°C in peak summer.

Are there beaches within walking distance of Gaios town?

Yes, there are several small pebble beaches you can walk to from Gaios town. Giannas beach is very close to the center and popular with locals. Plakes beach is also nearby, just south of Gaios. Kaki Lagada is about a 1km walk north of Gaios. While convenient, these might be smaller than beaches further afield.

What's the best way to get to beaches around Gaios and Paxos?

For beaches close to Gaios, walking is an option. To explore more of Paxos' coastline and reach more secluded beaches, renting a scooter or a small car is popular. Hiring a boat (with or without a skipper) is a fantastic way to discover hidden coves and the west coast beaches, many of which are only accessible by sea. There is also a local bus service that connects Gaios with other villages and some beaches. Water taxis also operate, particularly for trips to Antipaxos.

Are the beaches near Gaios suitable for families with children?

Yes, several beaches near Gaios are family-friendly. Mongonissi beach, south of Gaios, is particularly good for families as it's sandy (man-made) and has shallow waters and facilities. Giannas beach, close to Gaios, has shallow areas and is popular with local families. Beaches on the east coast, where Gaios is located, generally have calmer waters than the west coast. Harami and Kanoni beaches near Lakka (a short drive or bus ride) are also often recommended for families due to shallow waters.

When is the best time to visit Gaios for a beach holiday?

The main swimming season and best time for a beach holiday in Gaios is from May to October. July and August are the hottest months with the warmest sea temperatures (22-26Β°C) but also the busiest. May, June, and September offer pleasant warm weather, warm seas, and fewer crowds, making them ideal for many. October still has warm enough waters for swimming, though facilities might start to reduce hours.

Are there organized beaches with sunbeds and tavernas near Gaios?

Yes, some beaches near Gaios offer facilities. Monodendri beach (north of Gaios, accessible by road) is well-organized with beach bars, sunbeds, and restaurants. Kloni Gouli, on the way into Gaios from the north, sometimes has sun loungers and a nearby bar. Mongonissi beach also has facilities including a taverna and watersports. However, many Paxos beaches, including some near Gaios, are more natural and unorganized, so it's good to check in advance or be prepared to bring your own supplies.

How do the beaches in Gaios compare to those in Lakka or Loggos?

Gaios, Lakka, and Loggos are the main villages on Paxos, each with nearby beaches. Beaches near Gaios are convenient to the capital, ranging from small town beaches to slightly larger coves. Lakka, in the north, has a sheltered bay with family-friendly beaches like Harami and Kanoni. Loggos, a smaller village, has charming nearby pebble coves like Levrechio and Marmari. All feature the characteristic clear Ionian waters and pebbles. The choice often comes down to the desired village atmosphere and specific beach characteristics.

People Also Ask

Is it worth taking a boat trip to Antipaxos from Gaios for the beaches?

Absolutely! A boat trip from Gaios to the nearby island of Antipaxos is highly recommended and a very popular excursion. Antipaxos is famous for its stunning sandy beaches, Voutoumi and Vrika, which have incredibly clear, turquoise waters often compared to the Caribbean. The journey takes about 15-20 minutes by sea taxi or organized tour.

Are there any quiet or secluded beaches near Gaios?

While Gaios is the busiest part of Paxos, you can still find quieter spots. Exploring by foot along the coast south of Gaios can reveal smaller, less crowded coves. Renting a small boat is the best way to find truly secluded beaches, especially along the west coast or less accessible parts of the east coast. Beaches like Plakes or Balos (south of Gaios) can be quieter than the main town beach. Further afield, beaches like Orkos or Lakkos require a bit more effort to reach and can be more peaceful.

What should I bring for a day at the beaches in Gaios?

Given that most beaches are pebbly, water shoes are highly recommended. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essential. While some beaches have facilities, many don't, so bringing your own water, snacks, and a beach umbrella is a good idea. Snorkeling gear is also great to have, as the clear waters are perfect for it.

Are there any clothing-optional or nudist beaches near Gaios?

While Paxos doesn't have officially designated nudist beaches, some of the more remote and secluded coves, particularly those accessible mainly by boat or a longer walk, may be used by naturists. Discretion is always advised. There isn't a specific well-known nudist beach directly near Gaios town itself.

Can I swim in Gaios harbour?

While the water in Gaios harbour is generally clear, it's not recommended for swimming due to boat traffic and residues. There are several small beaches very close to Gaios town, like Giannas or Plakes, which are much better and safer options for a swim.

Is Gaios primarily a beach holiday destination?

Gaios, and Paxos in general, is an excellent destination for a beach holiday, particularly for those who appreciate beautiful, clear waters, charming coves, and a relaxed atmosphere. While it offers more than just beaches (like scenic villages, boat trips, and good food), the coastline is a major draw. It's ideal for those seeking a quieter, more authentic Greek island experience rather than large resort-style beaches or intense nightlife.

Are there any beaches on the west coast of Paxos accessible from Gaios?

The west coast of Paxos is characterized by dramatic cliffs and sea caves, and its beaches are generally more rugged and often accessible only by boat. From Gaios, you can take boat trips that explore the west coast, including stops at beaches like Erimitis or Galazio. Some, like Erimitis, can be reached by a challenging hike, but boat is the easiest and most common way. Renting a car/scooter from Gaios would allow you to reach the starting points for any land-accessible west coast beaches, though these are fewer and require more effort than east coast options.

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Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

Gaios: Weather Today

πŸ“… Saturday, July 26, 2025
It's a glorious day for the beach in Gaios! Expect a very warm day with a maximum air temperature of 33.8 Β°C. The sun will be strong, so be sure to apply sunscreen as the UV index will reach 8.15. The sea temperature is a pleasant 25.2 Β°C, with gentle waves around 0.6 m. There's practically no chance of rain and very little cloud cover, so you can look forward to uninterrupted sunshine. The light breeze will be refreshing. Overall, perfect conditions for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the Ionian sea.
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Air

Low / High25.5Β°C/33.8Β°C
Feels Like (High)36.8Β°C
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Sea

Sea Temperature25.2 Β°C
Wave Height0.6 m
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Rain

Rain Chance0%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset06:34/20:57
Sunshine Hours13.0 hrs
UV Index8.15
Cloud Cover0%
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Wind

Speed10.6 km/h
Gusts19.8 km/h
DirectionSW

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