Sivota Beaches

Overview

Sivota, a stunning seaside village on the coast of Epirus, is a true paradise for beach lovers, often called the Caribbean of Greece. Its unique coastline is defined by a collection of lush, green islets that create a sheltered network of bays and coves with famously clear, turquoise waters. Visitors will discover a wonderful variety of shores here; Sivota offers a delightful mix of both pebbly and sandy beaches, catering to every preference. The area is prized for its tranquil atmosphere, providing a peaceful escape focused on natural beauty and exploration.

Among the area's top spots, you'll find beaches with unique character. For ultimate convenience, Gallikos Molos Beach is located right in the village, just a short walk from the harbor. The most famous and exotic shore is arguably Bella Vraka Beach, which offers the unforgettable experience of wading through shallow sea to reach an islet. For pure scenic beauty, Agia Paraskevi Beach is celebrated for its picturesque setting and a small island you can swim out to. Meanwhile, Mikri Ammos Beach provides a more cosmopolitan and lively atmosphere, popular for its vibrant beach bar.

While many of Sivota's beaches are accessible by land, the true magic of the coastline is best discovered by boat. Renting a small motorboat for the day allows you to find your own secluded cove or visit iconic spots that are otherwise unreachable, such as the breathtaking Blue Lagoon, also known as Pisina Beach. This freedom to explore is the essence of a Sivota beach holiday. For a comprehensive look at all the stunning locations, from the most popular to the most hidden, see our longer list of beaches in this guide.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Do you need to rent a boat to enjoy the beaches in Sivota?

While many beautiful beaches in Sivota are accessible by car or on foot, renting a boat is highly recommended to discover the area's most secluded and stunning spots. Some of the most famous beaches, like Pisina (Blue Lagoon) and Diapori, are only reachable by sea. Renting a small boat for the day, which often doesn't require a special license for engines up to 30hp, allows you to explore the small islets of Agios Nikolaos and Mavro Oros, finding your own private coves. Alternatively, numerous daily boat trips and water taxis are available from the harbor.

Blue Lagoon Beach

Are the beaches in Sivota sandy or pebbly?

Sivota offers a mix of beaches. You will find both pebbly and sandy shores. For example, Gallikos Molos and Zeri beach are known for being sandy and having warm, shallow waters, making them ideal for families. Mega Ammos and Mikri Ammos are popular, organized beaches that are mostly pebbly. The famous Bella Vraka has fine white sand. The variety means you can choose a beach based on your preference for sand or pebbles.

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

The choice between Sivota and Parga depends on your holiday style. Sivota is often described as more of a tranquil, unspoiled village set in a bay with lush green islets, ideal for those seeking relaxation, boating, and exploring secluded coves. Parga is a larger, more cosmopolitan town with a livelier atmosphere, a bustling harbor, and vibrant nightlife, especially in the high season. While both have stunning beaches, Sivota is often preferred for its unique coastline explorable by boat, whereas Parga offers a more traditional town feel with large, popular beaches like Valtos.

Is Sivota a good destination for families with young children?

Yes, Sivota is considered a great destination for families. Several beaches, such as Gallikos Molos, Zeri, and Karvouno, have calm, shallow, and warm waters, making them safe and enjoyable for children. Zeri beach even features small water slides. The village atmosphere is generally relaxed and family-friendly. Many accommodations are also geared towards families.

Gallikos Molos Beach

Zeri Beach

How do you get to Bella Vraka beach?

Bella Vraka is uniquely accessible. It is located on the islet of Mourtemeno, but you don't need a boat to get there. You can reach it by walking from the mainland through a narrow, shallow strip of sand and water that typically comes up to your knee. It's about a 15-20 minute walk from Sivota's center. Driving is also an option, but parking near the access point is very limited, so it's best to go early in the morning.

Bella Vraka Beach

What is the water like for swimming in Sivota?

The sea in Sivota is renowned for its crystal-clear, turquoise, and emerald waters, often compared to the Caribbean. The water temperature is generally comfortable for swimming from late May through October. Some beaches, like Zavia, are known for having cooler currents, which can be refreshing on hot days, while others, like Zeri, are known for being particularly warm. The waters are typically calm, especially within the bay and around the islets, making for excellent swimming and snorkeling conditions.

Zeri Beach

Are there organized beaches with sunbeds and restaurants in Sivota?

Yes, Sivota has a good selection of organized beaches. Mega Ammos and Mikri Ammos are two of the most popular, featuring numerous sunbeds, umbrellas, beach bars, and tavernas right on the beach. Other beaches like Agia Paraskevi and Zavia are also well-organized. However, Sivota is also loved for its unorganized, natural beaches like Bella Vraka and the coves on the islets, where you'll need to bring your own supplies.

What's the best way to get around the different beaches from Sivota town?

The best way to get around depends on the beach. Many beaches are within walking distance or a short drive from the main harbor. For beaches further out, like Agia Paraskevi, a car is recommended. Taxis are also available, especially during the summer. However, the most rewarding way to explore the coastline is by renting a small motorboat, which gives you access to otherwise unreachable coves and the famous Blue Lagoon. A tourist train also runs from Sivota to the beaches of Mega Ammos and Mikri Ammos.

People Also Ask

Is it warm enough to swim in Sivota in May or October?

The swimming season in Sivota generally runs from May to November. In May, the average sea temperature is around 19°C (66°F), which some may find a bit chilly but is generally considered refreshing for swimming by many. By October, the sea has retained much of the summer warmth, with average temperatures still pleasant for swimming. The weather is generally sunny and warm during these months, though less predictable than the peak summer season.

Are there any hidden gem beaches that locals recommend?

Beyond the famous beaches, locals and seasoned visitors often seek out quieter spots. The small islets of Agios Nikolaos and Mavro Oros, accessible only by boat, are dotted with numerous secluded coves that feel like private beaches. Diapori beach, located in a narrow passage between two islands, is a stunning and less crowded alternative to the Blue Lagoon. Exploring by boat is the key to discovering these hidden gems away from the main tourist spots.

Blue Lagoon Beach

What is the 'Blue Lagoon' and how do I get there?

The 'Blue Lagoon' is the popular name for Pisina beach, located on the islet of Mavro Oros. It's famous for its incredibly clear, turquoise water that resembles a swimming pool ('pisina' in Greek). It is a top spot for swimming and snorkeling. The only way to get to the Blue Lagoon is by boat. You can either rent your own self-drive boat for the day or join one of the many organized boat tours that depart regularly from Sivota harbor.

Blue Lagoon Beach

Is Sivota a party destination?

Sivota is generally not considered a party destination. Its vibe is more relaxed and centered around nature, boating, and family or couples' holidays. While you'll find plenty of lovely harbor-side bars and cafes for evening cocktails, and Mikri Ammos beach has a lively beach bar, the nightlife is relatively low-key compared to other Greek destinations like Kavos in Corfu or Parga. It's more suited for those seeking a peaceful evening than all-night clubbing.

Mikri Ammos Beach