Moutsouna Naxos Beaches

Overview

Moutsouna, nestled on the eastern coast of Naxos, offers a serene and picturesque beach escape, distinct from the bustling west coast of the island. This charming fishing village is ideal for those seeking tranquility and a connection with nature, with its series of quiet, sandy coves. While it sees more visitors in peak season, Moutsouna generally maintains a relaxed, nostalgic atmosphere, partly due to its history as an emery export harbor, with remnants of its industrial past still visible. The beaches here, such as the main Moutsouna Beach (also known as Ai Giannis), feature fine sand and shallow, crystal-clear waters, making them excellent for swimming, even on windy days.

Among the highlights, Moutsouna Beach itself is a key attraction, offering easy access and a unique historical charm. For a more exotic feel, Paralia Panormos stands out with its palm trees and opportunities for boat trips. If seclusion is what you're after, Psili Ammos is a hidden gem favored by locals, boasting fine sand and cedar trees. And for those who want to experience one of Naxos's most celebrated beaches, a visit to the iconic Agios Prokopios Beach on the west coast is highly recommended, known for its renowned beauty.

Moutsouna serves as a great starting point for exploring other beautiful and often quieter beaches along the southeastern coast of Naxos. The area is characterized by its natural, unspoiled charm, with many beaches remaining unorganized, meaning you won't typically find rows of sunbeds and umbrellas. This contributes to a more authentic and peaceful beach experience. For a wider selection of beaches across Naxos, including those with more amenities, be sure to check out our longer list of beaches in this guide.

FAQ

People Also Ask

Is Moutsouna a good place for a quiet beach holiday?

Moutsouna is a picturesque resort known for its tranquility, making it ideal for visitors seeking to enjoy the sea, sun, and nature away from large crowds. It features a series of quiet, sandy coves. While it becomes more active during peak tourist season, it generally maintains a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the bustling west coast of Naxos. During the low and middle seasons, it's particularly quiet.

What are the beaches in Moutsouna like?

Moutsouna has two main small beaches, Ai Giannis and Tigani, both with fine sand. Ai Giannis is located directly in front of the seaside tavernas, while Tigani is the next beach along. The waters are shallow and crystal clear, making them ideal for safe swimming. These beaches are not organized, meaning there are no umbrellas or sunbeds for rent, which contributes to their nostalgic, unspoiled charm.

Moutsouna Beach

Can you swim in Moutsouna even when it's windy?

Yes, the picturesque Moutsouna beach bay has shallow, clear, and calm waters, making it ideal for swimming even when winds are strong. Panormos beach, further south, is also known for being protected from winds.

Moutsouna Beach

What's the best time of year to visit Moutsouna for a beach holiday?

The best time for a beach holiday in Moutsouna is during the summer months, from June to September. During this period, the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea temperature is perfect for swimming and water activities. July and August are peak tourist months. For a quieter experience with warm weather, late September or early October are also good options, as the sea remains warm.

Moutsouna Beach

Are there many accommodation options right by the beach in Moutsouna?

Accommodation options in Moutsouna are somewhat limited as it's a small village. There are rooms and studios to rent, some with sea views and close to the beach, but no large hotels directly in Moutsouna village itself. It's advisable to book early, especially if you wish to stay very close to the beaches. Ostria Inn is a hotel located on Tigani Beach.

Moutsouna Beach

Are there any facilities like umbrellas and sunbeds at Moutsouna beaches?

No, Moutsouna's beaches are not organized, so you won't find umbrellas or sunbeds available for rent. The facilities are limited, mainly available due to the proximity of the village and its tavernas. Visitors should come prepared with their own beach gear.

Is Moutsouna suitable for families with children?

Yes, Moutsouna is suitable for families with children. The main beaches, Ai Giannis and Tigani, have fine sand and shallow, clear waters, which are ideal for safe swimming for younger children. The overall quiet and relaxed atmosphere of the village also contributes to a family-friendly environment.

Moutsouna Beach

How do you get to Moutsouna from Naxos Town?

The only way to reach Moutsouna by vehicle from Naxos Town (Chora) is via the village of Apiranthos. The total distance is approximately 37 kilometers. The road is asphalt all the way, but it becomes narrow and steep with tight hairpin bends after Apiranthos, requiring careful driving. There is an infrequent bus service in the summer from Moutsouna to Naxos town.

Moutsouna Beach

Are there places to eat near the beaches in Moutsouna?

Yes, there are lovely tavernas with panoramic sea views located right on the beach in Moutsouna, particularly near Ai Giannis beach. These establishments offer local cuisine and fresh fish. There are also a few more tavernas a bit further away.

Moutsouna Beach

What is the sand like on Moutsouna's beaches?

The beaches in Moutsouna, Ai Giannis and Tigani, both feature fine grain sand. This makes them comfortable for sunbathing and for children to play on.

Moutsouna Beach

Are there any quieter, more secluded beaches near Moutsouna?

Yes, the coastline south of Moutsouna offers several secluded coves and beaches. Psili Ammos beach, about 8km south, is known for its tranquility, sand dunes, and cedar trees. Panormos beach, about 24-25 km south of Moutsouna, is a very quiet and secluded cove with palm trees. Azalas beach is another secluded option just 500m from Moutsouna, with coarse sand and fine pebbles.

Psili Ammos Beach

Paralia Panormos

Is Moutsouna a good base for exploring other east coast Naxos beaches?

Yes, Moutsouna can serve as a starting point for exploring other beaches along the southeastern coast of Naxos. Beaches like Psili Ammos and Panermos are accessible from Moutsouna by road. The drive itself offers beautiful views of the coastline.

Moutsouna Beach

Psili Ammos Beach

What's the atmosphere like in Moutsouna?

Moutsouna has a nostalgic and traditional fishing village atmosphere. It was once a busy emery export harbor, and remnants of this industrial past, like the cable car system, are still visible, adding to its unique charm. It's generally a quiet and picturesque resort, especially outside of the peak tourist season, offering a relaxing and authentic Greek island experience.

How does Moutsouna compare to the beaches on the west coast of Naxos?

Moutsouna and the eastern Naxos beaches offer a quieter, more rugged, and less developed experience compared to the popular, organized, and often crowded beaches on the west coast like Agios Prokopios or Plaka. The west coast has long stretches of golden sand and more tourist facilities, while Moutsouna provides a more tranquil, traditional village feel with smaller coves and a sense of seclusion.

Moutsouna Beach

Agios Prokopios Beach

Plaka Beach

Is it easy to drive to Panormos Beach from Moutsouna?

Yes, you can drive to Panormos Beach from Moutsouna. The distance is approximately 24-25 kilometers to the south, and the road is asphalt all the way, running along the coastline. The drive itself is scenic, passing through the village of Kanaki. However, like the road to Moutsouna from Apiranthos, some sections can be narrow and winding, so careful driving is advised.

Paralia Panormos