In this post, I’m sharing everything you need to know about visiting Naxos with kids, from the best time to go, best beaches to visit, to the great places to stay with ample space for families. If you’re ready for sunny days, good food (hello, fresh fish and olive oil), and a warm welcome on one of the most beautiful islands in the Cyclades, you’re in for a treat!
Getting to and around Naxos with Kids
Getting to Naxos with kids is easier than you might think! You can take a fast ferry from Athens, which is a great way to kick off your family trip with some views of the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea. Ferry tickets are usually easy to book, but keep in mind that ticket prices can be a bit higher during high season, so planning ahead is a good idea. We took the ferry and it worked out well for us!
If you prefer to skip the ferry, there are also direct flights and domestic flights that land right on the island. Once you’re there, getting around is a breeze. Many of the best beaches, like Agios Georgios Beach, the first beach we visited on day one, and Agios Prokopios Beach, are just a short walk or an easy drive from the main town, making it super convenient for families with small children or young kids.
Plus, staying in a central location like Naxos Chora gives you easy access to shops, restaurants, and the ferry port. Whether you rent a car to explore mountain villages and archeological sites, or just stroll around the old town, Naxos is super family-friendly and perfect for a stress-free family vacation.
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Where to Stay in Naxos with Kids
Fikas Hotel
Fikas Hotel is a great place for families looking for a warm welcome and a relaxed vibe. It’s located just a short walk from St. George Beach and the town center, so it’s super easy to get around with small children. They offer family rooms, a great pool, and plenty of sunny days to enjoy by the water, all at a great value for a family vacation. Book your stay here.
Suola
Suola is a charming spot perfect for families who want a cozy, traditional Greek island house experience. It’s in a quiet area but still close to the heart of Naxos Town. and has space for the whole family and a fully-equipped kitchen for easy meals after a day at the beach. It’s a great way to feel at home while exploring the beautiful beaches and local culture of Naxos. Book your stay here.
Korali
Korali is a perfect place for families who want to stay close to the action but still enjoy peace and quiet. The rooms are a great size and it has easy access to Agios Georgios Beach, it’s ideal for young kids who love playing in the shallow waters. Book your stay here.
Grandmother
Grandmother is a hidden gem that feels just like visiting your own Greek yiayia (grandma)! This charming traditional Greek island house offers a true taste of local culture with cozy, comfortable spaces for the whole family. We stayed here for four nights in two different rooms and we loved it! It’s in a perfect location near old town Naxos, so you’re just steps away from good food, beautiful beaches, and a real sense of island life.
Where to Eat in Naxos with Kids
Trata
Trata is an awesome spot for fresh fish and a super relaxed atmosphere. It’s right near the water, so while you’re enjoying some grilled seafood, the kids can stay entertained watching the boats come and go. Total win for family dinners!
Cinnamon and Sugar
If your kids love sweet treats (who doesn’t?), Cinnamon and Sugar is a must-visit. Their crepes and waffles are next-level good, and it’s the perfect stop for a midday treat or an after-beach snack.
Caya
Caya is such a cozy little place right in town. They have a mix of Greek and modern dishes, and the laid-back atmosphere makes it super easy to eat there with kids. Plus, the pasta and burgers are a safe bet for picky eaters!
Panteboy
Panteboy is a great casual option for a quick and tasty bite. Think gyros, souvlaki, and big fresh salads. It’s fast, affordable, and perfect when the kids are hangry after a day at the beach.
Flisvos Sportclub Beach Café
Flisvos is right on the beac, literally steps from the sand, and it’s a great place to grab a bite without leaving the seaside fun. The menu’s got something for everyone, and there’s plenty of open space for kids to roam.
Asteria Beach Café Bar
Asteria is another beachside gem that’s super easy with kids. They’ve got snacks, sandwiches, coffee, and plenty of shade. Plus, you’re right on St. George Beach, so the kids can be back in the water in no time.
Avaton
Avaton feels a little more stylish but is still totally kid-friendly. It’s a great spot for a relaxed evening meal with tasty Greek dishes, local vibes, and a great view. Bonus points if your kids love grilled meats and fries!
Nikos
Nikos is a classic, no-frills Greek taverna, and it’s seriously good. Big portions, friendly service, and a menu packed with kid-pleasers like souvlaki and fries. Plus, it’s affordable, which is always a nice bonus on a family trip!
Pizza Prokopias
Sometimes you just need pizza, and Pizza Prokopias totally delivers. It’s casual, fast, and the pizzas are big enough to feed the whole family after a long beach day. Definitely a good go-to for an easy, crowd-pleasing meal.
What to See in Naxos with Kids
Georgios Beach
St. George Beach (aka Georgios Beach) is perfect for young kids thanks to its shallow waters and fine sand. It’s super close to Naxos Chora, so you can easily pop over for a swim or build sandcastles without much planning. Plus, there are tons of cafés nearby if you need snacks or a coffee break!
Prokopias Beach
Agios Prokopios Beach is one of the best beaches on the island, and for good reason! The crystal-clear waters are calm enough for little ones, and the fine sand is perfect for digging and playing. There’s a long stretch of beach here, so you’ll always find ample space for the whole family to spread out.
Plaka Beach
If you’re looking for a more relaxed beach day, Plaka Beach is the spot. It’s a little quieter and more laid-back than some of the busier beaches, but still super kid-friendly. The soft sand, crystal clear waters, and chill vibes make it one of the best choices for a peaceful afternoon.
Downtown Naxos
Exploring Downtown Naxos (aka Naxos Chora) with kids is so much fun. Wander through the cute alleys of the old town, grab an ice cream, and soak up the island’s local culture. It’s also a great place to shop for little souvenirs and enjoy some good food while you’re right in the heart of Naxos Town.
Temple of Apollo
The Temple of Apollo is famous for the iconic Portara, and it’s a must-see! It’s a super short walk from the ferry port and a fun little adventure for kids who like to climb and explore. Plus, if you go at sunset, the views over the Aegean Sea are seriously unforgettable, a perfect photo op for your family holiday!
What to Do in Naxos with Kids
Walk Beaches
I’ve talked about beaches a lot in this post, and that’s because one of the easiest and best things to do in Naxos with kids is just walk the beaches! There’s something magical about letting the kids run barefoot in the fine sand while you soak up the Aegean Sea views. Plus, it’s free and a great way to burn off some energy!
Cabanas on Beaches
Renting a cabana at the beach is a total game-changer for family travel. You get a shady spot to chill, the kids have a home base for sandcastle building and snack breaks, and you can actually relax a little. Beaches like Agios Prokopios and Plaka usually have cabanas for rent, totally worth it, especially during the high season.
Shopping
Shopping in Naxos Town (Chora) is super fun with kids and surprisingly low-stress! The old town has tiny shops selling everything from toys and jewelry to olive oil and handmade souvenirs. It’s a great way to sneak a little local culture into your trip.
Wind Surf
If you’ve got older kids with lots of energy, trying windsurfing is such a blast! Mikri Vigla and other beaches offer beginner lessons, and the calm yet breezy waters are perfect for first-timers. Even if they wipe out a few times, it’s all part of the fun and it’s a great way to make family memories.
Paddle Ball
Paddle ball on the beach is practically a Naxos tradition! You’ll see families playing everywhere, and it’s an easy, no-planning-required way to have some fun between swims. Grab a cheap set at a shop downtown and get ready for lots of laughs.
Swimming
Of course, swimming is a must! With all the amazing beaches like Agios Georgios and Agios Prokopios, the crystal-clear waters and calm waves make it ideal for young kids and confident swimmers alike. Plus, the water’s super warm during the summer months, so nobody will want to get out!
Check out more Naxos attractions here.
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What You Should Know About Traveling to Naxos with Kids
Ferries
The ferries in Greece are impressively on time and super efficient, even in the crazy high season.
Ferry Cafés
The cafés on the ferries actually have good food, affordable prices, and even offer simple kids’ meals, making travel days way less stressful!
First Ferry Stop From Santorini
Naxos is usually the first ferry stop from Santorini, making it a super easy hop if you’re doing a little island hopping with kids.
50 Minute Ferry to Paros
You can jump on a fast ferry and be in Paros in about 50 minutes, which is perfect for a little day trip!
Beaches
Naxos has over 30 gorgeous beaches to explore, from lively ones with cafés to hidden, quiet coves perfect for family adventures.
Size of Naxos Island
It’s actually the largest island in the Cyclades, which means there’s ample space to explore and plenty of family-friendly activities.
Mosquitoes
There are tons of mosquitoes in the summer, and they’re HUGE. Be sure to be prepared to deal with them!
History of Apollo Temple
The Temple of Apollo (with its iconic Portara) dates back to the 6th century BC and was never finished, but it’s still one of the best things to see for a little history lesson with the kids.
Rental Car
If you’re renting a car, know that newer models can cost around €100/day, a bit steep if you’re planning to stay put most days.
Parking at the Beach
Most beaches have easy access and free parking, but during high season, it’s smart to get there early to snag a good spot.
Buses
The local buses are reliable and a great way to get around, but they can get super crowded during the busy summer weeks.
Bus Tickets
You’ll need to buy bus tickets ahead of time at places like Panteboy in town. You can’t just pay the driver when you hop on.
Taxis
Taxis are available, but they’re definitely pricey compared to the buses (something to keep in mind for family travel budgets).
Renting a Cabana
If you want a front-row cabana on the beach, expect to pay around €40–50, or about €25–30 for one a little farther back, totally worth it for a full beach day!
Best Time to Visit Naxos
The best time to visit Naxos with kids is late May to early July or September, when the weather is warm, the sea is calm, and the crowds are smaller. These months will be more relaxed, with plenty of open restaurants, beaches, and activities for families.
