Mykonos is renowned for its legendary parties. However, there is so much more about Mykonos besides a vibrant (sometimes even absolutely crazy!) party scene. In fact, the beautiful Cycladic pearl is a scenic and utterly gorgeous family-friendly Greek island in the Mediterranean offering many chances to have fun and entertain yourself. Rich in ancient sights, full of natural allures, blessed with lovely weather almost year-round, cobalt waters, pristine sugary beaches, and lots of things to do, Mykonos is perfect for party-goers and families alike. Here are some fab places to stay in Mykonos, for superb holiday adventures with the little ones.
1. Platis Gialos
The bustling resort is around 6 km from Mykonos Town, along the south coast. What is most appealing with Platis Gialos is that it has a vivid nightlife while also combining cafes, hip bars, family-friendly restaurants, and clubs. It is not busy every single night, though, which gives you the opportunity to enjoy both a more relaxed and more vibrant kind of time. That aside, the beach is gorgeous, with pale sand, calm waters (perfect for kids), lots of space, and pristine water sports facilities to try out from wakeboarding and waterskiing to snorkeling and jet skiing. However, do prepare for lots of crowds as Platis Gialos is a large resort town with thousands of tourists annually.
2. Psarou Town
A favourite beach town with a lovely stretch of white sand and crystalline waters. Protected from the strong Meltemi winds, the homonymous beach is in a sheltered cove that enables you to enjoy the sun and the sea without being battered by the winds. Psarou hosts a wealth of hotels, restaurants, and apartments arranged around the beach, whose gentle incline into the turquoise waters is more than inviting for grown-ups and children alike. The watersports facilities are good as well. Plus, it exudes a more relaxed vibe than other resorts on the island, primarily due to its relatively small size that favours more peace of mind. Nevertheless, do ensure you book your accommodation early as the options are rather limited here.
3. Ornos Village
Definitely one of the most charming villages in Mykonos, featuring an organised beach (with umbrellas) and an inviting scoop of golden sand, giving access to tranquil, crystal-clear waters. Lined with cheerful cafes and bars, it allows you to enjoy your cocktail while the children have their own share of beach fun. The place itself is much preferred by families and extended families, along with those seeking a peaceful location with a delightful beach to soak up some rays and a good smattering of tavernas and restaurants. Don’t expect many large resorts here. However, the few ones you will find, such as Mykonos Kivotos boutique hotel, offer exceptional sea views, ultimate pampering, on-premises fine gastronomy, utmost luxury, and an impressive array of VIP services and amenities.
4. Elia Beach
Although not a Mykonos location per se, it is a beach lined with a nice range of waterside restaurants and tavernas and excellent water sports facilities. Nicely tucked on the southern coast, Elia Beach is one of the last (and longest) stretches of sand if you want to move away from the crowded Mykonos Town. At the same time, it is 8 km far from the island’s beating heart, giving you easy access to it. Expect a well-organised beach that feels spacious and several massive resorts that keep the shore looking pristine with their sun loungers and all. Fly-and-floppers, beach breakers, watersports fans, and families will most likely see Elia as a good getaway option, though quite crowded.
No matter which place you choose to spend your Mykonos vacations, chances are you will be gracefully rewarded, even if taking in heart-stopping views of the Aegean Sea, enjoying the warm waters and the sugary beaches, and mingling with friendly locals, sharing a glass of locally-made wine or ouzo (and some accompanying appetizers) is all you do!