Agios Prokopios

Agios Prokopios is one of the long sandy beaches of Naxos, on the south-west coast a few kilometres from Naxos Town. It is named for Saint Procopius, and it runs as an almost continuous strip with neighbouring Agia Anna, so many people treat them as one stretch. The sand is fine and pale gold, the bottom slopes gently into shallow water, and the sea is clear and a lighter turquoise than on rocky coasts. That makes it very good for families and for swimmers who like to walk in a long way before the depth increases.

The beach is long enough to have different moods. Parts of it are lined with sunbeds, umbrellas, cafes and beach bars, where music plays and watersports operate, and other parts are quieter, with fewer facilities and more open sand. Walking along the shore gives a sense of the variety, and you can choose between a lively spot with food and drink nearby or a quiet patch with only the sound of waves. Behind the beach are small hotels, apartments, tavernas and shops, so it is easy to stay close by.

The location also has a natural advantage. The south-west coast of Naxos is often more sheltered from the meltemi, the strong northerly wind that blows across the Cyclades in summer, than beaches on the north and east, so the water tends to be calmer here. Windsurfers and kitesurfers prefer other beaches on the island, such as Mikri Vigla, where the wind is steadier, so Agios Prokopios stays gentle. The area around the southern end has a protected lagoon and wetland that attracts birds, and its sand dunes and salt marsh give a bit of a wild feel.

A regular bus service links the beach with Naxos Town, a journey of about ten to fifteen minutes, and the road is also easy by car or bike. Facilities include showers, toilets, parking and places to eat, and many hotels in the area have direct access. The beach is open every day and free to enter, with only the sunbeds charged.

Early morning is peaceful and the best time for a long swim or walk. In July and August the beach is busy by midday. Wear sun protection, since there is little natural shade beyond the umbrellas, and bring water shoes if you want to explore the rocky ends.