Water, Water, Everywhere

When it comes to the Cyclades, anyone who invests in a mask, snorkel, and flippers has entry to intense, serene beauty.

But even without this underwater gear, this archipelago is a swimmer's paradise.

Most of the Cycladic islands gleam with beaches, from long blond stretches of sand to tiny pebbly coves.

The best beaches are probably those on the southwest coast of Naxos, though the ones on Mykonos are trendier.

Beaches on Tinos tend to be less crowded than those on other islands in the Cyclades.

The strands on Santorini, though strewn with plenty of bathers, are volcanic; you can bask on sands that are strikingly red and black.

As for water sports, there are many options that entice many sunseekers.

Waterskiing, parasailing, scuba diving, and especially windsurfing have become ever more popular.

Note that many water-sports venues change from season to season.