Lipsi Beaches

Overview

Welcome to Lipsi, a tranquil island in the Aegean Sea known for its authentic charm and wonderfully unspoiled beaches. Unlike more developed Greek destinations, Lipsi offers a peaceful escape where the coastline is intentionally kept natural, free from rows of sunbeds and umbrellas. The island provides a delightful variety of shores, from soft, sandy stretches perfect for relaxing to scenic pebble coves with crystal-clear water, ensuring every visitor can find their ideal spot.

Our editor's picks highlight the diversity of Lipsi's coastline. For ultimate convenience, Lientoú Beach is the main town beach, perfect for a quick and easy swim. The island's most iconic shore is arguably Platis Yialos Beach, celebrated for its breathtakingly beautiful turquoise bay. If you're looking for a fantastic meal with your sea view, Katsadia offers the perfect combination of a lovely beach and a nearby taverna. For pure scenic drama, the large white pebbles and intensely blue waters of Chochlakoùra Beach create a truly memorable landscape.

Beyond these favorites, many other shores await discovery. The sandy expanse of Kambos is another beautiful beach within easy reach of the main town. Lipsi is dotted with numerous coves and quiet spots, from the secluded pebbles of Monodendri to the calm waters of Papandria. Whether you seek the convenience of a town-adjacent beach or the solitude of a remote bay, this island delivers a serene and genuine beach experience. Explore our complete guide to find the perfect stretch of sand or pebbles for your visit.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Are the beaches in Lipsi sandy or pebbly?

Lipsi offers a mix of beach types. You'll find sandy beaches like Platis Gialos, Katsadia, and Kambos, which are great for relaxing and have shallow waters. There are also many pebbled and rocky beaches, such as Hohlakoura and Monodendri, which are often more secluded and offer crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling.

Platis Yialos Beach

Katsadia

Hohlakas Beach

Monodéndri Nudist Beach

How do you get to the beaches in Lipsi?

Many beaches, like Lientou and Kambos, are within walking distance of the main town (Chora). For more distant beaches such as Platis Gialos and Katsadia, you can take the local bus which runs several times a day in the summer, or a taxi. Renting a scooter or a car is also a popular option for those who want the freedom to explore the island's more remote coves at their own pace.

Lientoú Beach

Katsadia

Are there organized beaches with sunbeds and umbrellas in Lipsi?

No, a unique characteristic of Lipsi is that its beaches are intentionally kept natural and unorganized. You will not find rows of rental sunbeds and umbrellas. Instead, many of the main beaches have tamarisk trees planted to provide natural shade. Visitors should bring their own towels and any other beach equipment they might need.

Is Lipsi a good destination for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Lipsi is considered a great destination for families. Beaches like Platis Gialos and Lientou have shallow, calm, and sandy bottoms, making them ideal for children. The overall atmosphere of the island is relaxed and safe, far from the crowds of more mainstream tourist destinations.

Platis Yialos Beach

Lientoú Beach

Are there any hotels with direct beach access in Lipsi?

While Lipsi town is built around the main port, several accommodations are located just a short walk from the nearest beaches. For example, you can find hotels and studios very close to Lientou beach. Some properties, like the Lipsi Blue Hotel, are situated near Kampos beach. However, due to the island's commitment to keeping beaches natural, you won't find large resorts built directly on the sand.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Lientoú Beach

Kampos Beach

Can you swim in Lipsi in October?

Yes, you can comfortably swim in Lipsi in October. The average sea temperature is around 22°C (71.6°F). While the air temperature is milder than in the summer, the sea retains its warmth, making it pleasant for swimming, especially on sunny days.

Are there any nudist beaches in Lipsi?

Yes, Monodendri beach is known as the island's unofficial, designated nudist beach. It's a secluded, pebbly beach that requires a bit of a walk or a scooter ride to reach, offering privacy for those who prefer to sunbathe nude. Some smaller, more remote coves may also be used by naturists.

Monodéndri Nudist Beach

Which beaches in Lipsi have tavernas or beach bars?

Several popular beaches have tavernas nearby. Platis Gialos has a well-regarded taverna on the hill above the beach. Katsadia beach is known for the Dilaila beach bar and restaurant, a popular spot for a meal or a drink. While most beaches are unorganized, you can find food and drink options at these key locations.

Platis Yialos Beach

Katsadia

People Also Ask

What are the best beaches for avoiding crowds?

For a more secluded experience, you can venture to beaches like Hohlakoura, Tourkomnima, or Kamares. These beaches are further from the main town and may require a walk or scooter to access, meaning they are generally quieter and less crowded than the more popular spots like Lientou or Platis Gialos.

Hohlakas Beach

Platis Yialos Beach

Lientoú Beach

How do the beaches in Lipsi compare to those on Patmos or Leros?

Lipsi is much smaller and less developed than its neighbors, Leros and Patmos, which is reflected in its beaches. Lipsi's beaches are praised for being unspoiled, quiet, and retaining a natural charm, without the commercialization of sunbeds and large crowds. While Leros and Patmos have more organized beaches and amenities, Lipsi offers a more tranquil and authentic Greek island beach experience.

Is it windy on the beaches in Lipsi?

Like many Aegean islands, Lipsi can experience the 'Meltemi' winds, especially in July and August. Some beaches, like Platis Gialos, are in open coves and can be more affected by wind. However, the island has numerous sheltered bays. A unique beach is Tourkomnima, which is a double-sided beach on a narrow peninsula; if one side is windy, the other is typically calm.

Platis Yialos Beach

What is the water like for swimming?

The water around Lipsi is renowned for being exceptionally clear and clean with beautiful turquoise hues. Most beaches have calm waters, especially those in sheltered bays like Lientou and Katsadia. The sea is generally warm enough for comfortable swimming from May through October.

Lientoú Beach

Katsadia