Renowned for its laid-back nature and picture-perfect harbour, Halki is an island people escape to for peace and tranquillity. But is it a good island for a beach holiday?
Halki is a dream destination for those seeking a slice of authentic Greek island life. You can while away hours ambling through the flower-lined streets of Emborio, watching fishermen bring in their catch or people-watching from a harbourside café.
And while it doesn’t offer long, stretches of white sandy beaches like some Greek islands, the beaches here are picturesque and, best of all, tranquil and relaxing. Here’s our guide to the best beaches in Halki.
Pondamos
Located between Emborio and the abandoned town of Chorio, Pondamos is the main beach on Halki and one of the most popular. It takes less than ten minutes to stroll here from Emborio – and despite its popularity it never gets that crowded.
Composed of blonde sand and small pebbles, Pondamos sits at the lee of a sheltered bay, and its shallow waters are ideal for families with young children. There are sunbeds and sun umbrellas to hire throughout the season, along with a narrow sandy strip where you can lay your towel if you prefer.
Nick’s Taverna overlooks the bay offering delicious food and refreshments throughout the day – so you can squeeze every last minute out of your chilled beach time!
Ftenagia
Wander south of Emborio for around 15 minutes along a lovely scenic route, and you’ll stumble upon the small, rocky beach of Ftenagia. What this beach lacks in sand, it certainly makes up for in beauty!
The rocks and offshore reefs mean you’ll probably want swim shoes to protect your feet while swimming, but it makes the water ever clearer with mesmerising shades of blue – it’s a superb spot for snorkelling.
Its proximity to Emborio means this is also a popular beach, and it’s well set up with sunbeds, sun umbrellas and a small taverna.
Kania
Located on the east of Halki, Kania is the perfect spot if you like an organised beach offering beauty and tranquillity. It’s more of an effort to reach Kania – it takes around 30 to 40 minutes to walk there from Emborio, or you can go by boat or car. But that means fewer people make the trek.
This small beach sits at the head of a sheltered bay and is mainly composed of coarse sand and small pebbles. There are sunbeds and sun umbrellas for comfort, while a sprinkling of trees offer additional shade.
There’s also a small, friendly taverna here offering superb lunches, snacks, refreshments and ice cream.
Trachia
If you’re after something a little wilder visit Trachia beach, two small pebble beaches on the neck of the Trachia Peninsula. Located beneath the medieval castle, there are two routes to get to this stunning spot: by road to Chorio followed by a walk of around 20 minutes, or a boat trip from Emborio.
This little pebble beach lines both sides of the strip of land, so you can swim and snorkel from either or both beaches. However there is no shade and no facilities here, so go prepared with a sun umbrella, food and drink, and plenty of sun cream!
Yiali
If you fancy a little more of an adventure, follow the winding path to the right of Chorio, which descends through high-sided cliffs to the small pebbly beach of Yiali. Like Trachia, this beach isn’t organised although the cliffs provide some natural shade.
You can also reach Yiali beach by boat, but beware that currents can make swimming a little trickier.
Discover the Best Beaches in Halki with Nissia Holidays
If you fancy exploring the tranquil beaches in Halki, check out our selection of Halki accommodation.
To find out more about the island, see our Ultimate Guide to Halki.
For more information or to book your holiday to Halki, contact Nissia Holidays on 01455 289421 or email us: info@nissiaholidays.com.
