ARKOS ISLAND
Everything You Need to Know
Arkos is a small, uninhabited island lying just 15 minutes away from the Old Port of Skiathos Town. Known for its distinct topography, the island's star feature is a massive sand dune that flows down the hillside directly into the turquoise sea. The beach offers incredibly clear waters, golden sand, and a sense of true island seclusion. It is less commercialized than Tsougria, making it the perfect destination for travelers looking for peace, rustic Greek gastronomy, and untouched natural beauty.
🌿 Natural Preservation Note
Arkos Island is a protected ecosystem with minimal development. The local beach taverna operates under independent solar and generator power. Visitors are strongly encouraged to keep the beach clean, respect the delicate sand dunes, and take all personal garbage back to the main port of Skiathos.
Where to Eat & Drink
Arkos holds a massive reputation among food lovers thanks to its single, iconic establishment:
Arkos Island Taverna
This is not just a standard beach canteen—it’s a highly rated, authentic Greek taverna. Set right on the water edge under shaded pergolas, it serves exceptional fresh seafood, local homemade Greek dishes, cold beer, and traditional ouzo. The taverna also sets up a small number of sunbeds and umbrellas on the sand for its guests.
Activities & Wonders
Arkos offers a highly relaxing day with a few unique exploration points:
Climbing the Sand Dune
A popular activity for the adventurous is hiking up the deep sand dune that blankets the cliffside. The climb can be a workout, but running or sliding back down into the soft sand and shallow water is an absolute highlight.
Snorkeling Around the Rocks
The rocky edges framing the main sandy cove are excellent spots for snorkeling. The water visibility between Skiathos Town and Arkos is pristine, providing clear views of vibrant schools of Mediterranean fish.
Important Tips for Visitors
Maximize your day trip to Arkos Island with these practical insights:
- South-Facing Shelter: The beach on Arkos faces west-southwest, meaning it is beautifully protected from the heavy northern Meltemi winds. If the northern coast beaches are too rough to swim, Arkos will be calm and flat.
- Inquire About Water Taxis: Unlike Tsougria, large commercial excursion boats don't make scheduled stops here all day long. You will usually need to arrange a quick ride with a private water taxi or rent your own small boat.
- Perfect for a Half-Day: Because of its extreme proximity to town, it’s an excellent spot for a quick morning swim followed by a long, lazy seafood lunch before returning to Skiathos in the afternoon.
How to Get There
Arkos can be reached **exclusively by sea**. It is situated roughly 2.5 km from Skiathos Port. Small private speedboats, water taxis, and rental boats can get you from the town waterfront to the Arkos pier in less than 10 to 15 minutes. Always double-check your pickup times with your chosen boat driver!
💡 Insider Tip from Locals
If you plan to have lunch at the Arkos Taverna during peak season (July & August), mention it to your water taxi captain or call ahead if possible. Space under the shade is limited and tables fill up fast with boaters who anchor their yachts in the bay just to eat here!
Emergency Info: Cellular network coverage on Arkos is excellent due to its direct line of sight with Skiathos Town. The taverna operators maintain emergency marine radios and basic medical kits. In any critical situation, dial 112.