3 Best Sights in North Coast, The Cyclades

At Agios Sostis all you will find is turquoise waters lapping against the sand and small-pebble shore. Without natural shade, or any touristic development whatsoever, beachgoers who need shade should come prepared. This is a beach with hidden elements, though, so be sure to go in search of the small unnamed beach, accessible by footpath and tucked in between it and neighboring Panormos, or head north with your best beloved to tiny Lover's beach. Off another path that leads to the main road, you'll find the small church that this beach is named after. Amenities: food and drink; parking (no fee). Best for: solitude; swimming.

Ftelia is famous for its winds, which attract windsurfers who love to test out the sparkling waves. The beach's smooth sand is free of sun beds or umbrellas, so when you approach it, all you’ll see is a wide-open stretch of yellow sand—if the wind isn’t blowing it all about. There is a good beach club, Alemagou, at the far eastern side that has its own section of shore with daybeds and umbrellas . Amenities: food and drink; parking (no fee); water sports. Best for: windsurfing.

A fine golden-sand beach with bright waters, Panormos caters to all kinds of beachgoers. Nudists head to the far south for peace and quiet, but there's an all-day beach bar and restaurant, Principote, that offers music, food, and drinks to the left; it's popular with couples and singles. This is a great spot when the southern winds attack; otherwise it's positioned to get the full brunt of the northern island winds. Water-sports equipment, umbrellas, and chairs are available for rent. Amenities: food and drink; parking (no fee); water sports. Best for: nudists; swimming.