Syros, Aegean, Greece

Galissas Beaches

Overview

Galissas, in the Aegean, Greece, is a charming beach destination offering a variety of experiences for visitors. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly holiday with calm, shallow waters, or a lively spot with a vibrant atmosphere, Galissas and its surrounding areas on the island of Syros have something to offer. The beaches here are known for their crystal-clear waters and many boast beautiful sandy shores. While some beaches are well-organized with amenities, others offer a more natural and secluded experience.

Among the highlights, Galissas Beach itself is the main, most visited, and family-friendly beach, known for its easy access and shallow waters, making it excellent for children. For those seeking picturesque scenery, Agathopes Beach is a popular choice with its golden sand and lively ambiance. If stunning sunsets and delicious seafood are on your agenda, Kini Beach offers a charming village feel with renowned tavernas. For a quieter and more natural experience, the secluded, nudist-friendly cove of Paralia Armeos near Galissas is a hidden gem. You can find more details on these and other beautiful spots in our longer list of beaches.

Visitors often wonder about the character of Galissas as a holiday spot. It successfully blends a relaxed daytime atmosphere with a good selection of bars and restaurants for evening entertainment, catering to those who want to unwind but also enjoy some nightlife. The island of Syros generally offers a more authentic Greek island experience and its beaches tend to be less crowded than some other popular Greek destinations, especially outside of peak season. Many beaches, including Galissas Beach, are recognized for their cleanliness and high standards.

FAQ

Is Galissas beach good for families with young children?

Yes, Galissas beach is considered excellent for families with young children. It's a long, sandy beach with very shallow and warm waters, making it safe and enjoyable for kids. The beach has also been awarded a Blue Flag, indicating its cleanliness and high standards. Many hotels in the area cater to families, offering amenities like kids' pools and playgrounds.

What is the water like at Galissas beach?

Galissas beach boasts crystal-clear, blue waters. The water is generally calm and very shallow, especially near the shore, gradually deepening. It's known for being warm, particularly during the summer months, making it ideal for swimming. The beach has received a Blue Flag award, which signifies good water quality.

Can you swim at Galissas beach?

Yes, you can definitely swim at Galissas beach. The waters are calm, clear, and shallow, making it ideal for swimming for all ages. The swimming season in Galissas typically lasts from June to November when the water temperature is comfortable.

How do I get to Galissas beach from Ermoupoli?

Galissas beach is about 7-9 km southwest of Ermoupoli. You can reach Galissas beach from Ermoupoli by bus, taxi, or by renting a car or scooter. The bus is the cheapest option, with direct routes departing from Ermoupoli and taking approximately 20-25 minutes. Taxis offer a faster journey of around 9-10 minutes. Rental cars and scooters provide more flexibility for exploring the island.

What kind of accommodation is available near Galissas beach?

Galissas offers a range of accommodation options within walking distance of the main beach. This includes hotels (some family-friendly resorts with pools), rooms for rent (pensions/guesthouses), apartments, and a campsite. Some accommodations offer sea views.

Are there sunbeds and umbrellas for rent at Galissas beach?

Yes, Galissas beach is well-organized and offers sunbeds and umbrellas for rent in some sections. There are also areas with tamarisk trees that provide natural shade if you prefer not to rent. Some parts of the beach remain without facilities for those who prefer a more natural setup.

What is the best time of year to visit Galissas beach for a holiday?

The best time to visit Galissas beach for a holiday is during the summer months, from June to September. During this period, the weather is warm and sunny, ideal for swimming and beach activities, and the water temperature is pleasant. While it's a popular beach, it's generally less crowded than some other Greek island destinations, especially outside the absolute peak of August.

Is Galissas beach windy?

Galissas beach is located in a bay that generally offers some protection from strong winds, particularly the north winds. However, like many Greek islands, Syros can experience windy conditions at times, especially the Meltemi wind during summer. Some sources mention Galissas can be breezy, which can be pleasant for some activities like windsurfing, while others state it's protected.

People Also Ask

Are there any watersports available at Galissas beach?

Yes, there are watersport activities available at Galissas beach. Visitors can typically rent canoes, sea bicycles (water cycles), and stand-up paddleboards (SUPs). Some sources also mention windsurfing as a popular activity in the area.

Is Galissas a good destination for a quiet, relaxing beach holiday or more for a lively one?

Galissas offers a blend. While it's a popular and well-organized tourist resort with amenities and some nightlife, it generally maintains a more relaxed atmosphere compared to very lively party islands. It's considered suitable for those who wish to relax during the day but also offers a good selection of bars and restaurants for evening entertainment. The beach itself has quieter sections with natural shade for those seeking tranquility.

Is there a nudist beach near Galissas?

Yes, Armeos beach, also known as Agia Pakou beach, is located next to Galissas and is popular with nudists. It's a smaller, more secluded pebble beach accessible by a short walk (about 10 minutes) over the hill via the steps to the Agia Pakou chapel, or by water bike/canoe from Galissas main beach. It has no tourist infrastructure.

What are the sunset views like from Galissas beach?

Galissas beach, being on the west coast of Syros, offers fascinating and beautiful sunset views over the Aegean Sea. The chapel of Agia Pakou on the hill next to the beach is also a popular spot for watching the sunset.

Are there places to eat and drink directly on or near Galissas beach?

Yes, there are several beachfront cafes, tavernas, and beach bars located along Galissas beach or within a very short walk in the village. You can find a variety of options for food and drinks.

How does Galissas beach compare to Kini beach?

Both Galissas and Kini are popular sandy beaches on the west coast of Syros. Galissas is longer and often described as exceptionally shallow and ideal for families. Kini is also family-friendly with shallow waters and is known for its picturesque charm, seafood tavernas right on the beach, and beautiful sunsets. Kini is also a departure point for boat trips to northern beaches. Both have good amenities and are Blue Flag awarded. The choice often comes down to personal preference for the specific atmosphere or facilities.

Is Galissas beach accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes, Galissas beach is mentioned as being wheelchair accessible and features a SEATRAC system. This is a mechanical sea access ramp that allows unassisted sea access for beach-goers with disabilities, with a chair on a fixed track operated by remote control.

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Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

Galissas: Weather Today

📅 Sunday, July 27, 2025
Today is shaping up to be a fantastic beach day in Galissas. Expect a high air temperature of 31.4 °C, perfect for soaking up the sun. There's no rain expected, and with completely clear skies, the sun will be strong, so make sure to apply sunscreen; the UV index will reach 8.3. The sea temperature is a pleasant 24.9 °C, ideal for a refreshing swim. The waves are moderate, and the wind might pick up at times, so it's great for some water sports.
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Air

Low / High27.8°C/31.4°C
Feels Like (High)35.2°C
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Sea

Sea Temperature24.9 °C
Wave Height1.2 m
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Rain

Rain Chance0%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset06:20/20:33
Sunshine Hours13.0 hrs
UV Index8.3
Cloud Cover0%
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Wind

Speed25.1 km/h
Gusts42.1 km/h
DirectionNW

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