Where to stay in Platys Gialos, Mykonos: The best areas and 16 accommodations

Platys Gialos is one of Mykonos' most organised beaches, situated on the island's south side, approximately 4 km from Chora. Its long sandy shore, beach bars, and hotels lining up almost directly on the beach have established it as a destination for those seeking comfortable sea access without needing to travel far.

A little further west lies Psarou, smaller in size but renowned for its more upscale beach clubs, such as Nammos, and its more cosmopolitan atmosphere. The choice between the two areas mainly depends on how much you wish to pay for the view and atmosphere, as well as how close to Chora you prefer to stay.

In this article, you'll find a detailed look at both areas, what each offers, their disadvantages, and specific accommodation suggestions to help you decide where best to stay in Mykonos.

What to see and do in Platys Gialos

Platys Gialos is approximately 4 km from Mykonos Town (Chora), a journey of about 10 minutes by car or taxi. During the summer, there's a regular public bus service connecting the beach with the island's centre at frequent intervals. Mykonos Airport is approximately 5 km from Platys Gialos, a journey of about 10 to 15 minutes, making the area easily accessible even for those arriving on a late-night flight.

Platys Gialos beach is sandy, with relatively calm waters due to its bay location, and is considered one of the island's most family-friendly, organised beaches. Along its entire length, you'll find sun loungers, tavernas, and beach bars. From here, traditional boats (kaikia) frequently depart, transporting visitors to more secluded beaches like Paraga, Paradise, and Super Paradise, a journey that takes approximately 10 to 20 minutes depending on the destination.

Psarou, a few minutes' walk or drive from Platys Gialos, is smaller but has established itself as one of the Mediterranean's most popular beaches for high society. It is home to the famous Nammos beach club, which attracts celebrities and business tycoons, with prices for sun loungers and food being among the highest on the island. Despite this, access to the beach itself remains free.

Mykonos Town, with its well-known white houses, narrow cobbled streets, windmills, and Little Venice, is, as mentioned, about 4 km from Platys Gialos. An evening stroll there, watching the sunset from the windmills, is one of the most popular activities for those staying in the area, allowing easy access for an evening meal or drink without needing to stay overnight in the centre.

In terms of gastronomy, Platys Gialos and the surrounding area offer everything from simple tavernas with fresh fish to more upscale beachfront restaurants, with prices rising significantly in July and August. Local cuisine includes the famous onion pie (kremmydopita), louza (a cured pork delicacy), and plenty of fresh fish, while many beach bars also serve as venues for afternoon drinks with music.

Mykonos experiences significant seasonality. July and August see the highest traffic and accommodation prices, with many establishments requiring bookings months in advance. June and September offer good weather with reduced crowds, while the meltemi, the characteristic northern Aegean wind, often blows in July and August, making the sea at more exposed beaches somewhat rough. Platys Gialos, thanks to its bay, remains relatively sheltered.

Access to Mykonos is either by air to the island's airport, with direct flights from Athens and several European destinations in summer, or by ferry from Piraeus, a journey lasting from approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes by high-speed ferry to 5 hours by conventional ferry. From Rafina, the high-speed ferry journey is usually shorter, around 4 to 5 hours depending on the route.

Beyond the beach, Platys Gialos is close to Ano Mera, the island's second-largest village, known for the Monastery of Panagia Tourliani, one of Mykonos' most important religious monuments. A visit there offers a quieter, more traditional glimpse of the island, away from the cosmopolitan atmosphere of the coastal strip.

The best areas for accommodation in Platys Gialos, Mykonos

Central Platys Gialos

The central part of Platys Gialos is the most practical base for those wanting to stay within walking distance of the beach, with several hotels built almost directly on the sand. The area has regular public transport to Chora and kaikia to more distant beaches.

Advantages:

• Direct access to an organised, sandy beach
• Regular public transport to Chora and kaikia to other beaches
• Wide variety of accommodations for different budgets

Disadvantages:

• Quite busy and crowded beach in July and August
• High accommodation prices at the peak of the season

Recommended accommodations:

1. The George Hotel Mykonos
A boutique hotel on the beach with modern Cycladic aesthetics and sea views.

• Average cost: approximately 220€ per night

2. Casa Grande Hotel
Hotel with simple, clean rooms and close proximity to the beach, offering good value for money.

• Average cost: approximately 140€ per night

3. Manos Studios
Studios with a kitchen, suitable for those seeking independence and affordable beachfront accommodation.

• Average cost: approximately 110€ per night

4. BayBees Sea View Residence
Apartments with sea views, suitable for couples or small groups.

• Average cost: approximately 160€ per night

5. Mykonos Kosmoplaz Beach Resort Hotel
A large complex with a pool and private beach, a popular choice for families.

• Average cost: approximately 180€ per night

6. Mykonos Dove Beachfront Hotel
A beachfront hotel with comfortable rooms and service oriented towards couples.

• Average cost: approximately 190€ per night

7. Petinos Beach Hotel
A Cycladic-style hotel on the beach, with suites and spacious common areas.

• Average cost: approximately 230€ per night

South end of Platys Gialos

The south end of Platys Gialos has a slightly quieter character than the central part of the beach, with accommodations located on higher ground or a little further from the crowds, yet maintaining easy access on foot or by a short drive.

Advantages:

• Quieter atmosphere than the centre of the beach
• Often better value for money
• Close to beach clubs and restaurants in the area

Disadvantages:

• Some accommodations require a few minutes' walk to the beach
• Fewer nightlife options

Recommended accommodations:

8. Acrogiali Beachfront Hotel Mykonos
One of the area's most popular beachfront hotels, offering a rich breakfast and sea views.

• Average cost: approximately 210€ per night

9. Palladium Hotel
A hotel near Nammos beach, with simple rooms and good value for the area.

• Average cost: approximately 150€ per night

10. Pelican Bay Hotel
An art hotel with meticulous decor and close proximity to the main beach.

• Average cost: approximately 170€ per night

11. myMykonos Guest House
A small, affordable accommodation near the beach, suitable for couples on a limited budget.

• Average cost: approximately 100€ per night

12. La Playa Studio Mykonos
Studios in the centre of the coastal zone, a practical choice for a short stay.

• Average cost: approximately 120€ per night

13. Ostraco Suites
Boutique suites on a hillside with panoramic views of the Aegean, offering a quiet atmosphere just outside the main beach area.

• Average cost: approximately 200€ per night

Psarou

Psarou is smaller in area than Platys Gialos but internationally known for its cosmopolitan atmosphere, with the Nammos beach club being a landmark for high-budget visitors. The beach itself remains public and accessible to all.

Accommodations here are fewer in number but usually more luxurious, with an emphasis on privacy and views.

Advantages:

• Cosmopolitan atmosphere with renowned beach clubs
• Close proximity to Platys Gialos and Chora
• Quieter beach outside of peak hours

Disadvantages:

• High prices for sun loungers, food, and accommodation
• Fewer accommodation options compared to Platys Gialos

Recommended accommodations:

14. Mr & Mrs White Mykonos
Boutique suites with modern aesthetics, close to Psarou beach.

• Average cost: approximately 260€ per night

15. Nammos Hotel Mykonos
A luxurious accommodation next to the famous beach club, offering a high level of service.

• Average cost: approximately 450€ per night

16. Vencia Boutique Hotel
A boutique hotel with panoramic views of Chora and the Aegean, a few minutes from Psarou.

• Average cost: approximately 240€ per night

Practical tips for your stay

• Book early for July and August. The best accommodation options in Platys Gialos and Psarou sell out months in advance, especially for stays in July and August.
• Consider a car or ATV. If you want to explore other beaches beyond Platys Gialos, a car or ATV offers flexibility that the bus cannot.
• Check if the hotel has a private beach. Many accommodations in the area offer free sun loungers on a specific part of the beach, which helps reduce daily costs.
• Plan kaiki trips for early morning. If you want to visit Paraga or Super Paradise, morning departures are less crowded than midday ones.
• Ask about airport transfers. Many hotels in the area offer transfers to and from the airport, which is useful if you arrive late at night.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Platys Gialos from Mykonos Town (Chora)?

Approximately 4 km, a journey of about 10 minutes by car or taxi, with regular public transport in summer.

Is Platys Gialos a good choice for families?

Yes, thanks to its calm, sandy beach and organised facilities, it is considered one of the island's most family-friendly beaches.

What is the difference between Platys Gialos and Psarou?

Platys Gialos is larger and more affordable, while Psarou is smaller, more cosmopolitan, and significantly higher priced.

Do I need a car if I stay in Platys Gialos?

Not necessarily, as there is public transport and kaikia, but a car provides more flexibility for excursions.

How long does the ferry journey from Piraeus take?

From approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes by high-speed ferry to about 5 hours by conventional ferry, depending on the route.

Which season has less traffic in Platys Gialos?

June and September offer good weather with significantly less traffic compared to July and August.

Conclusion

Platys Gialos and Psarou cater to different needs within the same coastal zone, from family holidays with easy sea access to more cosmopolitan moments next to famous beach clubs.

Whichever area you choose, the close proximity to Mykonos Town allows you to combine relaxing days at the beach with evening strolls through the narrow streets and views of the windmills.

Also see our guides on where to stay in Sidari and where to stay in Agios Ioannis, Pelion.