Agali

Agali (Angali) is the beach most people picture when they think of swimming on Folegandros: a wide arc of fine sand on the sheltered south coast, water that turns from turquoise to deep blue a few metres out, and a small hamlet of tavernas and rooms behind it. It is the island's easiest proper beach day, and the one that works with small children, with a rented scooter and with no plan at all.

How to get there

By scooter it is 5 km of paved road from Chora, about ten minutes. The Agali branch leaves the main road and drops to the bay in tight bends; take them slowly, especially two-up and on the climb back. Park in the area above the beach and walk down the last stretch.

An ATV uses the same asphalt. Nothing here needs four-wheel drive, but a quad is the sensible choice if the same trip also includes Katergo or a dirt track later in the week. In summer there is a bus from Chora as well.

Small boats usually run from Karavostasi and Agali in July and August, several times a day. Agali is the hub for the coves further west, so the boat is as much a way out as a way in.

On foot, Agali links to its neighbours: Galifos is ten minutes along the coastal path and Agios Nikolaos about twenty. Walking down from Chora means following the road, so most people ride and save their legs for the path.

What to expect

Umbrellas and sunbeds cover part of the sand, there are showers, and Pacheri and Papalagi sit a few steps back with rooms above them. The bay faces south, so it stays swimmable while the meltemi flattens the north coast in July and August; only a southerly turns it choppy, and that is rare in high summer.

The sand shelves gently, which is why families come, and the rocks at both ends are good for snorkelling. This is not a nudist beach. From late July to mid-August the organised strip is full by noon while the far ends stay calm; in June and September it is close to empty.

Tips

Come in the morning or early afternoon, while the umbrellas still give shade. Bring cash, water shoes for the rocky ends and a hat, and leave room for water if you plan to walk on along the path.

Nearby

Agios Nikolaos, Galifos and Fira are the neighbouring coves; the Chora guide and our Folegandros beaches guide cover the rest. Road Runner delivers free to your hotel or Karavostasi port, with helmets and 24/7 assistance: see scooter rental and rental prices.