The best places to swim on Paxos

From secluded, sun-drenched beaches to luxurious pools, Paxos provides a myriad of options for every kind of swimmer. This article takes you on a journey to discover the best spots to immerse yourself in the waters of this beautiful island.

The beaches of Paxos are a mosaic of hidden gems and popular spots, each providing a distinct swimming experience.

• Gianna Beach, embraced by lush greenery, is a snorkeler’s paradise with its clear, calm waters revealing an underwater world of marine life.
• Soulanena, with its golden sands and gentle waves, is ideal for families and those seeking a leisurely swim in a picture-postcard setting.
• Kipiadi Beach, a bit more off the beaten path, rewards those who make the trek with its secluded charm and crystal-clear waters, perfect for a peaceful dip.
• Kaki Langada, a charming and relatively long beach on Paxos’s east coast, offers a serene swimming experience. It’s located just a 30-40 minute walk or a short drive from Gaios and features amenities like sunbeds, umbrellas, and a taverna.
• Monodendri Beach is not just about swimming; it’s a lively hub with various beach bars and tavernas, making it perfect for social swimmers who enjoy a lively atmosphere.

Each of these locations encapsulates the pristine beauty and serene ambiance of Paxos, creating unforgettable swimming experiences.

Apart from the beaches, Paxos is also celebrated for its natural caves, which provide an adventurous twist to the usual swimming experience.

• Ypapanti Cave, accessible only by boat, offers a secluded spot where the water glows in mesmerizing shades of blue. Swimming here feels like entering a different world, one of tranquility and awe.
• The Blue Caves, a series of sea caves, are a natural wonder where the light and water interact to create stunning shades of blue and green, offering swimmers a magical and surreal experience.

These off-the-beaten-track spots are also great for snorkelling.

For those who prefer a more refined swimming experience, Paxos hosts several luxurious pools in its hotels and villas. If you choose to stay at Paxos Glyfada Beach Villas & Restaurant, you can enjoy the two swimming pools that blend seamlessly with the natural beauty of the surroundings. These pools offer an alternative to sea swimming, with freshwater that challenges swimmers with greater resistance, enhancing strength and technique. The Paxos Club Resort is another option, as it allows non-guests to use its pool for a fee. Both these locations offer ample amenities, making your swimming experience comfortable and enjoyable.

Paxos enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. This climate significantly influences the water temperatures, making it ideal for swimming for a good part of the year. During the peak summer months, from June to August, the sea temperatures are delightfully warm, typically ranging from 22°C to 26°C. As autumn approaches in September and October, the water remains quite warm (around 20°C to 23°C or 68°F to 73°F), offering comfortable swimming conditions, especially for those who prefer a less intense heat. Winter sees a drop in water temperatures, going down to about 15°C to 17°C (59°F to 63°F) from December to February. While this may be cool for some, it’s still suitable for a brisk swim, particularly on sunny days when the air temperature is mild. Spring brings a gradual warming of the waters, making it a lovely time for early-season swimming.

Whether you are drawn to the natural allure of its beaches and caves or the luxurious comfort of its pools, Paxos promises a swimming experience like no other. Book your stay at Paxos Glyfada Beach Villas & Restaurant to enjoy our beach and pool facilities.