Halki's Beaches

4 beaches accessible on foot, none of which have natural shade.

Pondamos, the only sandy beach, is 10 minutes walk from Emborio, up the concrete road, over the ridge into the next bay. It has a taverna, a cantina, and sunbeds with umbrellas for hire

Ftenagia's pebbly beach is beyond the rocky coves just round the coast from the hotel. It is accessible by the rocky path above the shore, or by road from the high road to the windmills, the route which is sign-posted. It is at least 15 minutes walk from Emborio. There is a taverna, with some sunbeds and umbrellas available.

Kania's beach of pebbles lies to the North of Emborio, near the fish farm, the road to which provides the easiest access route - about 25 minutes walk from Emborio. Take the signposted right turn off the concrete road, before Pondamos.

Yiali's tiny beach of white pebbles is found on the South side of the island, down a winding track leading from the old village at Chorio, below the Kastro. There are no refreshments, though the cliffs provide some shade. Swim with caution - currents here can be strong.

Other beaches are accessible by taxi boat only, and naturally have no refreshment facilities.

On the North of the island are Areta, the closest, St George's and Duo Yiali. All are accessible only in calm seas, and are pebbly, surrounded by high cliffs which give shade. These beaches are inadvisable for visiting late in the season, as they are in shadow.

To the South, below the Kastro, the peninsula of Trachea has 2 beaches on the neck of land joining it to Halki. As the Western beach is very subject to driftwood and flotsam, visitors are taken to the Eastern bay. Again the beach is of pebbles, and though the cliffs are low, shade can be found.

Photos © I. Richardson
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