Perfect white pebbles and clear blue water. That is what you are in for when you visit the Seychelles Beach along the southern coast of Ikaria, Greece. For anyone looking for the idyllic Greek beach to see while they are on vacation, this is the place to visit.
Seychelles Beach
Seychelles Beach is recently new, created during the construction of the tunnel on the main road that leads to Manganitis. The construction of the tunnel created a landslide that opened up this gorgeous beach.
The Drive
All the roads in Ikaria are windy and narrow. Got to love those small European cars! Our large American cars would have taken up the whole road. The roads hug to the edges of the mountains as you make your way along the coast. You will find the parking area on the right just after passing through a short tunnel through the rock. We parked our car, crossed the road, and began our journey down. The path is mostly easy, but there are a few hairy spots where you have to rock scramble down. Just make sure you have a backpack handy to carry all your beach needs.
The Beach
The beach itself is so lovely. Several large rocks are available for sun bathing and climbing up on, if you are so inclined. We parked our stuff against a large rock wall, finding refuge in the shade. The stones are white so when the sun is out, everything is quite bright. If you have sensitive feet, you may want to bring swimming shoes to walk across the stones as they are quite hot and angular.
There used to be a cove that was one of the main attractions of this beach. When we were there, we did not get to see it as it has since fallen in. There is a small cave on the very east part of the beach. This is only accessible by water, but once you get there you can swim into it climb up it onto land.
The Water
We were at Seychelles Beach in May and though the water was cold at first, our bodies quickly acclimated to it. I’ve heard the Aegean is the warmest in August. This beach has a gradual decent into the water so you can inch your way in if you choose to.
Be careful
Ikaria has very narrow roads which can be a bit intimidating at first, but you will quickly get used to them. I learned to appreciate the main roads or red roads as they call them, after taking the local roads. Do take the turns slowly. You never know who or what will be just around the bend, be it a car, goat, or fallen stone.
The walk down follows what looks like an old road that is now just a waterway that exists seasonally (it was dry during our visit). Architectural remains dot the path. The walk starts off easy but becomes fairly treacherous as you approach the beach. It’s not really for those who lack flexibility.
Where is it located?
Seychelles Beach is located on the southern shore of the island of Ikaria, Greece, about a 45 minute drive west from the capital, Agios Kirikos along the main road, and just a 5 minute drive east from the village of Manganitis.
For another fun trip in Ikaria, check out my post, Drakano Tower – Ikaria’s Hellenistic Watchtower.