8 Best Things to Do in Schinoussa 2026: Sixteen Beaches & Total Serenity.

Last updated: May 2026 · A tiny island with sixteen beaches

Schinoussa is one of the Lesser Cyclades between Naxos and Ios, a small, walkable island famous for cramming around sixteen beaches into its modest size. With a single hilltop Chora, a sleepy port and a web of footpaths, it's made for slow, barefoot summers.

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🏘️ The Chora

1. Stay in the Chora

The island's whitewashed capital sits on a central ridge, a single main street of tavernas, cafés and rooms with views over the sea on both sides, the natural base for exploring on foot.

2. Mersini (the Port)

Boats dock at the little harbour of Mersini below the Chora; a short, scenic climb links the two.

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🏖️ The Beaches

3. Tsigouri

The most popular beach, a sandy bay a short walk from the Chora with shallow turquoise water and a beach taverna.

4. Almyros

A long, beautiful stretch of sand backed by a salt marsh and cedar trees, wilder and quieter than Tsigouri.

5. Lioliou, Psili Ammos & Gerolimnionas

A string of remote coves reached by footpaths, several you'll often have to yourself, the reward for a little walking.

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🥾 Walking & Quiet

6. Walk the Footpath Network

Schinoussa's old donkey paths connect the Chora to every beach and hamlet, walking is the way to discover the island, and most beaches are 15–45 minutes from the Chora.

7. Sunsets & Stargazing

With no light pollution, the Chora's western edge is a perfect sunset and stargazing spot, drink in hand.

8. Eat Local & Unwind

Family tavernas in the Chora serve goat, local cheese, fresh fish and home-grown vegetables; days here are measured in swims, naps and long dinners.

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Practical Info 2026

→ Complete Schinoussa guide → → Ferry tickets →