Galifos

Galifos is Agali's smallest secret: a cove of sand and pebbles ten minutes on foot from the western end of the beach, tucked between rocks, with a few trees shading the back and water so clear you can see the seabed from the path. It fits a handful of groups, there is nothing organised about it, and that is exactly why the people who know it love it.

How to get there

By scooter or ATV you ride to Agali, 5 km of paved road from Chora, and park above the beach. The path to Galifos starts at the western end of Agali, climbs a little above the rocks and drops into the cove in about ten minutes. It is easy but stony at the end; flip-flops are a bad idea.

The small boat from Agali calls at Galifos in the summer months, usually on its way to Agios Nikolaos. Ask at Agali for the day's sailings, because they change with the weather.

What to expect

A narrow strip of sand and pebbles, clear water that gets deep quickly and rocks on both sides that are among the island's best spots for a mask and snorkel. A few trees give shade at the back, but not for everyone; there are no sunbeds, no taverna, no showers and no parking. A few simple rooms sit above the cove.

The cove is sheltered from the meltemi, like the whole south coast. Galifos is traditionally nudist-friendly, with the discretion that a place this small calls for. It is not a beach for small children: the water deepens fast and shade is scarce.

Tips

Go in the morning: the cove is full by ten in August, and when it is full, it is full. Bring water, an umbrella and water shoes for the rocks, and leave whatever you do not need in the scooter's top box at Agali.

Nearby

Agali is the starting point and Agios Nikolaos the continuation of the path; Fira is the south coast's other walk-in cove. Read the hidden beaches guide and the beaches guide, and see our scooter rental page with the prices for the ride to Agali.