Sivota Beaches

Overview

Sivota is a stunning coastal gem on Greece's Ionian coast, often called the 'Caribbean of Greece' for its incredible turquoise waters and the lush, green islets that sit just offshore. This picturesque village offers a diverse beach experience, with a coastline that features everything from soft sand to smooth, white pebbles, catering to every preference. The sea is famously calm and clear, creating a landscape of sheltered bays and coves that feel like natural swimming pools, making it an idyllic escape for couples and families alike.

The beaches here are as unique as they are beautiful. Among the most celebrated is Bella Vraka Beach, famous for the remarkable sandbar that allows you to walk through shallow water to reach the islet of Mourtemeno. For a truly breathtaking swim, many visitors rent a boat to find Piscina Beach, aptly nicknamed the 'Blue Lagoon' for its unbelievably clear, pool-like water. Families often gravitate towards the calm, shallow waters of Zeri Beach, while Gallikos Molos Beach offers the perfect convenience for a quick dip, being just a short stroll from the main harbour.

While several beaches are within walking distance of the village, renting a small boat is a quintessential Sivota experience, unlocking secluded coves and the hidden shores of the nearby islets. For those who prefer an organized beach with a lively atmosphere, the popular Mega Ammos Beach is a fantastic choice with its beautiful water and seaside tavernas. Whether you seek adventure, family fun, or quiet relaxation, the area's shores offer something for everyone, as you'll discover in our complete guide to the beaches of Sivota.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Sivota a good destination for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Sivota is considered an excellent destination for families. Many of its beaches, such as Gallikos Molos, Zeri, and Arillas, feature shallow, calm waters that are safe for children. Several beaches are well-organized with amenities like sunbeds and nearby tavernas, and some even have small water parks or playgrounds, making for a comfortable and entertaining family day out.

Gallikos Molos Beach

Zeri Beach

Arillas Beach

Are the beaches in Sivota sandy or pebbly?

Sivota offers a mix of both sandy and pebbly beaches. For instance, beaches like Gallikos Molos and Zeri are known for being sandy, while others like Mega Ammos and Bella Vraka are predominantly pebbly or have a combination of sand and fine gravel. The variety caters to different preferences, whether you prefer soft sand or the clear water often associated with pebble beaches.

Do I need to rent a boat to get to the best beaches in Sivota?

While many beautiful beaches in Sivota are accessible on foot or by car, renting a boat is highly recommended to experience some of the most stunning and secluded spots. Beaches like Blue Lagoon (Pisina) and Diapori, located on the nearby islets, are only accessible by sea. Renting a small boat for the day is a very popular activity and allows you to discover hidden coves that are otherwise unreachable.

Blue Lagoon Beach

How do you get to Bella Vraka beach?

Bella Vraka is famous for its unique access. To get there, you walk from the mainland to the islet of Mourtemeno through a narrow, shallow strip of the sea. The water is typically only knee-deep. You can drive close to the starting point and park, but parking is limited, so it's advised to arrive early or walk from the main town of Sivota, which takes about 15-20 minutes.

Bella Vraka Beach

What are the accommodation options near the beaches?

Sivota offers a range of accommodation with good beach access. You can find hotels and villas directly on or a short walk from beaches like Karvouno and Mega Ammos. Many visitors stay in the main village and walk or drive to the nearby beaches. For a more exclusive experience, some luxury hotels, like the MarBella Elix at Karavostasi Beach, offer private beach access, though they are a short drive from Sivota town.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Karavostasi Beach

Sivota or Parga: Which is better for a beach holiday?

The choice between Sivota and Parga depends on your holiday preference. Sivota is a smaller, quieter fishing village known for its tranquil atmosphere, beautiful islets, and numerous small coves best explored by boat. Parga is a larger, more bustling town with a vibrant nightlife, a large town beach (Valtos), and a more traditional resort feel. If you're seeking a peaceful escape with a focus on boating and exploring secluded beaches, Sivota is ideal. If you prefer more amenities, a livelier atmosphere, and large, organized beaches, Parga might be a better fit.

Can you walk to any beaches from Sivota town?

Yes, you can walk to several beaches from the main harbour area of Sivota. Gallikos Molos is the closest, located just a few hundred meters from the port. Zeri beach is also within walking distance, about a 10-15 minute walk. The famous Bella Vraka beach is also reachable on foot in about 15-20 minutes before you have to wade through the water. This makes it convenient if you are staying in the town center without a car.

Gallikos Molos Beach

Zeri Beach

Bella Vraka Beach

What is the water like for swimming in Sivota?

The sea in Sivota is renowned for its crystal-clear, calm, and turquoise-emerald waters, often compared to a swimming pool. The water is generally warm and pleasant for swimming from May through September. Some beaches, like Zavia, are known for having refreshingly colder water due to underground springs. The calm bays and coves are protected from strong winds, making for excellent swimming and snorkeling conditions.

People Also Ask

When is the best time to visit Sivota for a beach holiday?

The ideal time for a beach holiday in Sivota is from June to September. During these months, the weather is consistently warm and sunny, and the sea temperature is perfect for swimming and water sports. May and October are also pleasant, with fewer crowds and milder temperatures, though the sea will be cooler, especially in May. The peak season is July and August, which is the busiest and most expensive period.

Are there quiet, less crowded beaches in Sivota?

Yes, while popular beaches like Mega Ammos can get busy in peak season, Sivota is full of smaller, more secluded coves. To find quieter spots, consider renting a boat to explore the beaches on the islets of Agios Nikolaos and Mourtemeno. Beaches like Zavia can also be more serene. Even on the mainland, exploring further from the main town can lead you to less crowded gems.

Is there much nightlife in Sivota?

Sivota's nightlife is relatively low-key and centered around its picturesque harbour. The atmosphere is more about relaxed evenings than all-night clubbing. You'll find numerous charming bars and tavernas along the waterfront, perfect for enjoying a cocktail or a leisurely meal with a view. While some beach bars, like the one at Mikri Ammos, have a livelier vibe with music, Sivota is generally not considered a party destination.

Mikri Ammos Beach

Are there good snorkeling spots around Sivota?

Absolutely. Sivota's clear waters and rocky coastline create excellent conditions for snorkeling. The Blue Lagoon (Pisina beach) is a top spot due to its incredible visibility. Many of the small, secluded coves accessible by boat offer fantastic opportunities to see marine life. Beaches like Mega Drafi and Agia Paraskevi, with its nearby islet, are also great for exploring underwater.

Mega Drafi Beach

Agia Paraskevi Beach

Blue Lagoon Beach