Is Santa Maria beach in Paros very windy?
Santa Maria beach can get windy, especially when the Meltemi (northern winds) are blowing, which is common in the Aegean during summer. However, the bay offers some protection. On very windy days, the waves can be choppy. Mikri Santa Maria (Small Santa Maria), located nearby, is often more sheltered and calmer on windy days. Some sources suggest Santa Maria is less exposed to winds than other beaches, while others recommend avoiding it on days with strong north winds.
What's the difference between Santa Maria beach and Mikri Santa Maria?
Santa Maria beach is a long, wider coastline, often more organized with more amenities, beach bars, and water sports. It can be livelier and sometimes has a party atmosphere. Mikri Santa Maria (Small Santa Maria) is a smaller, often quieter and more protected cove located about a kilometer or a 5-minute drive north of the main Santa Maria beach. It's known for calmer waters, especially on windy days, and can offer a more relaxed vibe, though it also has amenities like sunbeds and a beach bar.
Is Santa Maria beach good for families with young children?
Yes, Santa Maria beach is generally considered good for families with young children. The main beach has shallow waters near the shore, and the sand is soft. Mikri Santa Maria is also often recommended for families due to its calmer, protected waters. Both offer amenities that can be convenient for families.
What kind of water sports can I do at Santa Maria beach?
Santa Maria beach offers a variety of water sports. You can find facilities for windsurfing, kitesurfing, paddleboarding, jet skiing, snorkeling, and diving. There are water sports centers and a diving school located on the beach.
What are some good accommodation options with easy access to Santa Maria beach?
There are several accommodation options near Santa Maria beach, ranging from hotels and villas to campsites like the well-known Santa Maria Surfing Beach Camping & Bungalows. Some hotels offer direct beach access or are within a short walking distance. Staying in nearby Naoussa also provides easy access to Santa Maria beach while offering a wider range of dining and shopping options.
How crowded does Santa Maria beach get, and when is the best time to go to avoid crowds?
Santa Maria beach can get quite crowded, especially during the peak season of July and August, due to its popularity and the presence of a campsite and beach clubs. To avoid the biggest crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (May, June, September, early October) or going earlier in the morning during peak summer. Mikri Santa Maria might sometimes be slightly less crowded than the main beach, but it's also popular.
How do I get to Santa Maria beach from Naoussa or Parikia?
From Naoussa, Santa Maria beach is a short drive (about 2-5 km, around 10-15 minutes by car or scooter). You can also take a local bus from Naoussa, and some traditional boats (caiques) might offer trips from Naoussa's port. From Parikia (the main port and capital of Paros, about 15 km away), you'll typically need to go to Naoussa first if using the bus, then connect to Santa Maria. Driving from Parikia takes about 25 minutes. Taxis are also available from both locations.
Are there sunbeds, umbrellas, and tavernas at Santa Maria beach?
Yes, Santa Maria beach is well-organized with sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent. There are also beach bars and tavernas/restaurants directly on or near the beach where you can get food and drinks. Mikri Santa Maria also has organized sections with sunbeds and a beach bar.
What's the water like at Santa Maria beach? Is it clear and good for swimming?
The water at Santa Maria beach is generally crystal clear with an emerald or turquoise hue and is considered excellent for swimming. The seabed slopes gently, especially at the main beach, making it pleasant for wading and swimming. Snorkeling is also popular due to the clear waters and marine life.
Is Santa Maria beach sandy or pebbly?
Santa Maria beach primarily features soft, golden or white sand. Some areas, particularly parts of the seabed or transitions to other coves, might have some pebbles or rocks, so water shoes could be useful in certain spots.
When is the best time of year to visit Santa Maria beach for good weather and swimming?
The best time to visit Santa Maria beach for good weather and swimming is generally from May to September or early October. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea is warm enough for comfortable swimming. July and August are the hottest and busiest months. The shoulder months of May, June, and September can offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds.
Is Santa Maria more of a party beach or a relaxed family vibe?
Santa Maria beach can offer a mix. The main beach, particularly areas with beach clubs like Santa Maria Beach Bar, can have a lively, party atmosphere with music and a younger crowd, especially in peak season. However, its size allows for quieter spots, and it's also popular with families due to its shallow waters and amenities. Mikri Santa Maria generally offers a calmer, more relaxed vibe, though it also has organized facilities.
Are there any quieter, less organized spots near the main Santa Maria beach?
Yes, while the main Santa Maria beach is largely organized, you might find quieter areas towards its ends or by exploring the coastline. Mikri Santa Maria is often considered a quieter alternative to the main stretch. Additionally, Lageri beach, located a bit further south of Santa Maria (accessible by a walk from the road), is known for being more secluded and is also a nudist-friendly option.
How does Santa Maria beach compare to Golden Beach (Chrissi Akti) in Paros?
Both are popular, long sandy beaches. Santa Maria is closer to Naoussa, known for clear waters, a mix of lively and family-friendly areas, and good for various water sports including snorkeling and diving. Golden Beach (Chrissi Akti) is further south, famous for its fine golden sand and is a premier windsurfing destination, even hosting international competitions. Golden Beach can be windier but is also well-organized and family-friendly with shallow waters.
Is it easy to find parking at Santa Maria beach?
Yes, there is generally a free parking lot available at Santa Maria beach. It's typically a dirt parking lot, and while spacious, it can get busy during peak times in July and August, so arriving earlier in the day is advisable.
