Naxos is the gentle giant of the Cyclades — the largest island in the group, blessed with fertile valleys, towering mountains, and some of the finest beaches in all of Greece. The iconic Portara, a massive marble gateway standing alone on a peninsula, greets every arriving yacht with a scene straight from mythology. Unlike its more tourist-focused neighbours, Naxos retains a deeply agricultural character: the interior is a patchwork of olive groves, vineyards, and Byzantine-era villages connected by ancient marble footpaths. For charter guests, Naxos offers the rare combination of world-class beaches, genuine cultural depth, and outstanding local cuisine — all without the crowds.
The colossal marble gateway of an unfinished 6th-century BC Temple of Apollo — Naxos's iconic landmark, spectacular at sunset.
Agios Prokopios, Plaka, and Mikri Vigla offer kilometres of unbroken golden sand — some of the best in the Mediterranean.
Apiranthos, Halki, and Filoti are marble-paved villages in the mountainous interior, each with its own character.
Naxos produces exceptional potatoes, Graviera cheese, Kitron liqueur, and olive oil — the island is a foodie's paradise.
June to September. The beaches are at their best in July–August, though the Meltemi can be strong. June and September offer calmer seas and warm water.
Sailing yachts and catamarans are perfect for Naxos — the island's long coastline and reliable winds make for outstanding sailing. The shallow, sandy anchorages suit catamarans particularly well.
Where to moor your yacht at Naxos
Main harbour with the Portara visible from anchor. Good holding in sand, some swell in Meltemi.
Beautiful anchorage off one of Greece's best beaches. Excellent holding in sand, good shelter from north winds.
Quiet east coast anchorage near the old emery loading jetty. Excellent shelter from Meltemi.
Anchor between Naxos and the Small Cyclades for a remote, idyllic experience.
The best swimming spots at Naxos
4km of pristine golden sand backed by cedar trees. The southern end is virtually deserted.
Consistently rated among Greece's top 5 beaches. Shallow turquoise water and fine sand.
Split beach — calm on one side, windy on the other. Perfect for both swimming and kitesurfing.
Wild, unspoiled beach in a protected cedar forest. No development, pure nature.
Where to eat at Naxos
Creative taverna in Naxos Town serving reinvented Greek classics with local ingredients.
Beachfront taverna at Kastraki with the freshest fish and stunning sunset views.
Beloved Chora restaurant known for its Naxian cheese selection and slow-cooked meats.
Rooftop dining with Portara views. Excellent wine list featuring Naxian producers.
The best experiences at Naxos
Walk from the harbour to the Portara peninsula for the most dramatic sunset viewpoint in the Cyclades — or watch from your anchored yacht.
Rent a car and explore Apiranthos (the 'marble village'), Halki (with its Kitron distillery), and Filoti beneath Mount Zas.
The Meltemi funnels perfectly at this beach, creating world-class kitesurfing conditions from June to September.
Visit a local dairy to taste this PDO-protected hard cheese, aged in caves and considered the finest in Greece.
At 1,004m, this is the highest peak in the Cyclades. The 3-hour round trip rewards with panoramic views of the entire island group.
Anchor off Plaka beach and take the tender ashore for lunch at one of the cedar-shaded tavernas. Walk south along the sand for 20 minutes and you'll have a kilometre of beach entirely to yourself.
Let Katerina plan your perfect Naxos itinerary with handpicked yachts and local knowledge.
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