Ornos Beaches

Overview

Ornos, located in the stunning Aegean region of Greece, is a premier beach destination. Many visitors appreciate its welcoming atmosphere, particularly for families, thanks to its characteristically calm and clear waters ideal for swimming. The area's sheltered position generally protects it from strong winds, contributing to a relaxed yet cosmopolitan environment, distinct from Mykonos' more intense party hotspots.

The main beach, Ornos, acts as the vibrant heart of the area, known for its calm conditions and easy accessibility. For those seeking more activity, Platis Gialos is a popular choice, bustling with watersports and serving as a key point for exploring other southern beaches. If seclusion is what you desire, Kapari Beach offers an unspoiled, tranquil escape. Nearby, the world-renowned Psarou provides a touch of glamour with its luxurious setting.

Beyond these editor's picks, you might also discover the charm of nearby Agios Ioannis, often celebrated for its beautiful sunset views. Ornos is well-suited for various visitors, including couples seeking a picturesque getaway. To see all the coastal treasures this locale has to offer, please explore the longer list of beaches included in our guide.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Ornos beach good for families with children?

Yes, Ornos Beach is widely considered one of the most family-friendly beaches in Mykonos. Its waters are typically calm and shallow, with a sandy bottom, making it safe and easy for children to swim and play. The beach is well-organized and offers numerous amenities that cater to families.

Ornos

What's the water like at Ornos beach for swimming?

The water at Ornos Beach is generally crystal-clear, calm, and relatively shallow, especially in the southern part, making it excellent for swimming for all ages and skill levels. The beach is situated in a sheltered bay, which protects it from strong winds and large waves.

Ornos

How do I get to Ornos beach from Mykonos Town?

Ornos Beach is located about 2.5 to 3 kilometers south of Mykonos Town (Chora). You can reach it by public bus, which departs regularly from the Fabrika bus station in Mykonos Town and takes about 10 minutes. Taxis are also available, offering a quicker 5-10 minute ride. It's also possible to walk, though it takes around 30-35 minutes. Some visitors also arrive by water taxi from other southern beaches.

Ornos

Is Ornos beach very crowded?

Ornos Beach can get quite crowded, especially during the peak summer months of July and August and in the afternoons. It's a popular and well-organized beach, attracting many visitors. Arriving early is often recommended to secure a good spot or sunbeds.

Ornos

Are there hotels located directly on or very close to Ornos beach?

Yes, there is a wide variety of accommodation options, including many hotels, apartments, studios, and luxury villas, located directly on or very close to Ornos Beach. Many of these offer sea views and easy beach access, contributing to Ornos's resort-like atmosphere.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Ornos

What is the best time of year to visit Ornos beach?

The best time to visit Ornos Beach for a balance of good weather and fewer crowds is during the shoulder seasons: late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October). During these periods, the weather is still warm and pleasant for swimming, and the beach is less crowded than in the peak summer months of July and August. Most amenities and restaurants are open during these times.

Ornos

Are there sunbeds and umbrellas for rent at Ornos beach, and what do they cost?

Yes, Ornos Beach is well-organized with sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent from the various beach clubs and restaurants lining the shore. Prices can vary depending on the establishment and the row (front rows are often more expensive), typically ranging from around €20 to €50 or more for a set per day. Some places may include a towel.

Ornos

What kind of vibe does Ornos beach have? Is it a party beach?

Ornos Beach has a cosmopolitan and somewhat trendy vibe, but it's generally more relaxed and family-oriented compared to Mykonos' famous party beaches like Paradise or Super Paradise. While there are lively beach bars and restaurants, it's not primarily a party-focused beach, offering a more balanced atmosphere suitable for families, couples, and those seeking a comfortable beach day with good amenities.

Ornos

People Also Ask

Are there water sports available at Ornos beach?

Yes, Ornos Beach offers a variety of water sports. Visitors can typically find options such as windsurfing, water skiing, paddleboarding, and jet skiing, with schools and rental facilities available on the beach.

Ornos

Is Ornos beach suitable for couples?

Yes, Ornos Beach can be a great option for couples. It offers a beautiful setting, upscale restaurants and bars, and a more relaxed atmosphere than the intense party beaches, while still being lively. Many hotels in the area cater to couples, some offering rooms with private pools or hot tubs.

Ornos

How does Ornos beach compare to Platis Gialos?

Both Ornos and Platis Gialos are popular, family-friendly beaches on Mykonos' south coast with good amenities and bus connections to Mykonos Town. Ornos is often described as very sheltered and particularly good for young children due to its calm, shallow waters. Platis Gialos is also family-friendly and serves as a major hub for water taxis to other southern beaches. Both can be busy; some find Ornos to have a slightly more upscale or resort-like feel, while Platis Gialos is also very developed with many hotels and restaurants.

Ornos

Platis Gialos

Are there many restaurants and bars directly on Ornos beach?

Yes, Ornos Beach is lined with numerous beachfront restaurants, cafes, and bars. These establishments offer a range of dining options, from traditional Greek cuisine and fresh seafood to international dishes and cocktails, often with outdoor seating right by the sand.

Ornos

Is Ornos beach affected by the Meltemi wind?

Ornos Beach is located in a sheltered bay on the southwestern coast of Mykonos, which generally protects it from the strong northern Meltemi winds that can affect other parts of the island, especially during summer. This makes its waters typically calmer compared to more exposed beaches. Korfos Beach, which is very close to Ornos but faces north, is known for being windy and popular for windsurfing.

Ornos

Korfos

Can I walk to any other beaches from Ornos?

Yes, from Ornos Beach, you can walk to a few other nearby beaches. Korfos Beach, known for windsurfing, is just a short walk across the narrow part of the peninsula. Agios Ioannis Beach, famous for its sunset views, is also within walking distance, offering a scenic trail. Kapari Beach, a smaller, more secluded spot, can also be reached on foot from the Agios Ioannis area.

Korfos

Kapari Beach

Are there quieter spots or alternatives if Ornos beach is too crowded?

While Ornos itself can be busy, you might find quieter areas at the ends of the beach. For a distinctly different and often less crowded beach experience nearby, you could walk to Agios Ioannis Beach, which is known for being more relaxed. Kapari Beach, a bit further on foot, is a smaller, more secluded option often considered a hidden gem. Alternatively, taking a water taxi from Ornos can get you to other southern beaches which might have different crowd levels or vibes.

Ornos

Kapari Beach