Milos, Greece : Stunning White Sand Beaches And Caves

Tucked away in the Cyclades, Milos isn’t as loud as Santorini or as glamorous as Mykonos—but maybe that’s what makes it so magical. It’s the kind of island that feels like a secret, one you want to tell everyone about, yet selfishly keep to yourself. With over 70 beaches, dramatic white cliffs, and caves carved by time and tide, Milos is a true hidden gem in Greece.

The island’s beauty doesn’t scream—it whispers. Whether you’re drifting through sea caves by kayak, lying on soft white sand untouched by crowds, or wandering through sleepy fishing villages where life moves slowly, Milos invites you to slow down and just... be.

Where Is Milos?

Milos is part of the Cyclades, the iconic group of islands in the Aegean Sea that most travelers associate with white-washed houses and endless blue horizons. It's located southwest of Athens and not far from its more popular neighbors—like Santorini and Paros—but Milos remains more rugged, less commercialized, and refreshingly authentic.

This volcanic island is known for its diverse geology, which explains why it looks so different from many other Greek isles. Think moonlike landscapes, multicolored cliffs, and surreal rock formations that seem to shift colors throughout the day.

How To Get To Milos

By Ferry:

Most people arrive by ferry from Athens’ Piraeus port. The high-speed ferries take around 3–4 hours, depending on the route. There are also ferries connecting Milos to other Cycladic islands like Santorini, Paros, and Naxos—perfect if you’re island-hopping.

By Air:

Milos does have a small airport with daily flights from Athens. It’s a quick 40-minute hop, ideal if you're short on time or just want to avoid the waves.

Once on the island, you’ll need a scooter, quad bike, or rental car to really explore. Public transport is limited, and some of the best spots are down winding dirt roads or hidden in remote coves.

Things To Do In Milos – Beaches, Boats, and Beauty

While Milos isn’t massive, it packs in an incredible variety of landscapes. One side might look like the Caribbean, another like the surface of Mars. Here's how to truly experience it:

1. Relax at Sarakiniko Beach

You’ve probably seen it on Instagram—Sarakiniko is that famous beach with blinding white rock formations that roll and curve like frozen waves. There’s almost no sand here, just smooth volcanic stone shaped by wind and water. People sunbathe on the rocks, jump from cliffs, or just float in the crystal-clear water below.

Go early or late to beat the crowds. Better yet, catch a sunrise here—watching the sky go from soft lavender to gold over that lunar landscape is something you won't forget.

2. Explore Kleftiko by Boat

Once a pirate hideout, Kleftiko is only accessible by sea—and that’s half the fun. Join a catamaran or traditional boat tour and set sail along Milos' southwest coast, where towering rock arches, hidden coves, and luminous turquoise water await.

Many tours include snorkeling stops, lunch on board, and a dip in sea caves that seem to glow from within. It's not just a boat ride; it’s an all-day adventure where you’ll feel like you’re discovering another world.

3. Swim at Firiplaka and Tsigrado

On the southern coast, Firiplaka Beach offers long stretches of white sand, shallow blue waters, and towering cliffs that change color depending on the light. It’s lively but not overrun, with a small beach bar and plenty of space to unwind.

Next door is Tsigrado, a tiny, hidden beach accessed by a steep rope-and-ladder descent through the rocks. It’s a bit of a scramble, but once you're down there, you’ll feel like you’ve found your own private paradise.

4. Visit the Fishing Villages

The postcard-perfect Klima, with its colorful boathouses (called syrmata), is one of Milos' most charming corners. Fishermen once stored boats below and lived above, painting the doors bright reds, greens, blues, and yellows. Today, some of these homes have been converted into cozy rentals—if you're lucky, you can sleep right by the sea.

Other villages like Pollonia (a laid-back harbor town with great seafood) and Plaka (the island’s quaint hilltop capital) offer narrow alleys, blooming bougainvillaea, and that classic Greek island charm.

5. Hike Up to the Venetian Castle

From Plaka, you can hike up to the Kastro (Castle) ruins just before sunset. The views from the top sweep across the Aegean, dotted with tiny islands, sailboats, and endless sky. As the sun dips behind the horizon, casting warm hues over whitewashed houses below, you’ll understand why the Greeks are so proud of their sunsets.

What’s Unique About Milos?

Aside from the sheer number of beaches, Milos stands out for its geology and history. It’s where the famous Venus de Milo statue was discovered (you know, the one in the Louvre without arms). There are also ancient catacombs, Roman theaters, and ghost towns once used for mining.

Speaking of mining, the island’s colorful cliffs are a result of mineral-rich soil. You'll see reds, oranges, and purples blending into the blues of the sea—nature’s palette at its finest.

And then there’s the pace. Milos moves slowly, sweetly. Locals greet you like family, and time stretches out like the horizon. It’s an island that hasn’t been overly polished for tourists—and that’s exactly what makes it feel real.

Best Time To Visit Milos

May to early July is ideal—warm weather, blooming landscapes, and fewer crowds.

August brings heat and tourists, but the island still never feels chaotic.

September is a dream: the sea is warm, prices drop, and the energy is relaxed.

Avoid the winter months if you're looking for beach days—things get quiet, and many businesses close for the off-season.

Milos doesn’t overwhelm you. It draws you in with a quiet kind of beauty—honest, natural, and unfiltered. It’s the sound of waves echoing through a cave, the feeling of warm sun on a white rock, the taste of just-caught octopus grilled over coals at a beach taverna.

It’s not about rushing from sight to sight. It’s about being present, about letting the island surprise you. You might go looking for beaches but find yourself staying for the simplicity—the unassuming charm that makes it feel like home.

So if you're dreaming of white sand beaches without the madness of crowds, and sunsets that make you forget your phone exists, Milos might just be your Greek island soulmate.