Mykonos is a gem of a Greek island hidden among the Cyclades in the Aegean Sea. It is named after Apollo’s grandson, and mythological legend says that the island was formed from the bodies of the giants killed by Hercules. Mykonos may be famous for its windmills, but it is also home to spectacular beaches, some of which allow for naked sunbathing. The most famous is Paradise Beach.
Nudity at Paradise Beach
Paradise Beach is one of several stretches of sand that Mykonos is known for. It is located approximately three and a half miles southeast of Chora. This clothing-optional beach is packed in the summer months, and while total nudity isn’t that common anymore here, you’ll likely see topless sunbathing in the crowd.
Nudity is not illegal here, and is largely ignored by most people on the beach, so you don’t have to worry about getting weird looks or hearing sarcastic comments if you choose to strip down to your birthday outfit. But keep in mind that the beach can also be popular with families until the sun goes down, and then the party begins.
The party scene at Paradise Beach
If you like to party, with or without clothes, Paradise Beach is for you. Its reputation as a nude beach has given way to hordes of young people dancing in the evening, although the party is common while the sun is shining as well.
The Paradise Beach Resort has two beachfront bars, and the Tropicana Beach Bar staff make regular forays into the sand to order food and drink. There is also live music, DJs, and hammocks available for rent.
Note that things tend to calm down considerably in the off-season (fall through spring), but they are shoulder-to-shoulder parties from June to September.
Make sure you don’t confuse Paradise Beach with Super Paradise, a beach in a nearby cove. Both are beautiful, but Paradise Beach is known for its party atmosphere.
How to get to Paradise Beach
You can get to Paradise Beach by boat from Platy Yialos. You can also get there by taxi, but keep in mind that during peak season it can be difficult to get one, so be prepared to wait a bit. You can also hop on the convenient and inexpensive Mykonos public bus.
The Super Paradise Club also has a free shuttle service. The air-conditioned van leaves downtown Fabrika Square every thirty minutes, from 11 am to 11 pm, every day of the week. Return trips from the Super Paradise Club back to Plaza Fabrika take place every thirty minutes from 11:30 am to 11:30 pm
Where to stay near Paradise Beach
For those on a budget, a campground behind the beach offers an affordable place to stay, making this strip especially popular with backpackers. There are also several hotels near Paradise Beach, including the luxurious Paradise Beach Resort, the quaint Almyra Guest Houses, and the charming San Georgio Hotel.
Many of these resorts also offer seasonal discounts and deals, so keep an eye out for lower rates to save a few bucks. Just keep in mind that they probably cost full price during peak party season (the summer).
