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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
