Paralia Monolithos (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Paralia Monolithos?
What makes it 91% Kids-Friendly: Very shallow water, on-duty lifeguard, fenced playground, sports park, toilets, and mini-market give children safe swimming and varied play; only occasional windblown sandstorms slightly reduce the ideal score.
Positives:
- Lifeguard on Duty: Staff monitor the shallow swim area daily from morning to late afternoon in high season.
- Natural Shade: A row of tamarisk trees offers free shaded spots for breaks or baby naps.
Challenges:
- Limited Shade Spots: Tree shade fills up fast; plan to rent an umbrella if you need reliable cover.
- Parking Space: Beach lot has limited spots; arrive before 10 AM to secure a space.
- Weekend Crowds: Beach can get busy on weekends, reducing play and lounge space.
What is Paralia Monolithos?
- A broad black-sand beach on Santorini’s eastern coast, formed by volcanic deposits and featuring a gently sloping seabed
- Backed by a stand of tamarisk trees and a modest waterfront promenade with seaside cafés and tavernas
- Dominated by the rocky outcrop known as Monolitho, topped by the diminutive whitewashed Church of Agios Ioannis
What is so special about Paralia Monolithos for with kids?
- Gently sloping black-sand shore perfect for kids’ wading
- Fenced playground and free beach sports courts on-site
- Lifeguard service and natural tamarisk shade for safety
- On-site mini-market and cafés for quick snacks
- Umbrella and sunbed rentals keep the family cool
Recommended visit duration: 3-4 hours
Why 3-4 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time to swim, play, rest under shade and grab snacks without rushing
Kids-Friendly Activities in Paralia Monolithos
Safe, Shallow Swimming:
Kids can wade in just 1–2 m of calm water over many metres.
Tip: Stay close to the lifeguard station and use floaties for toddlers
Children’s Playground:
Fenced sand-level playground with swings and slides.
Tip: Pack extra socks in case sand builds up and supervise at busy times
Family Beach Sports:
Open courts for volleyball, football and table tennis.
Tip: Bring your own lightweight ball to guarantee playtime
Visit Church of Agios Ioannis:
Small white chapel perched on Monolitho rock above the beach.
Tip: Climb early to avoid heat and carry water bottles
Snack at Mini-market:
On-site shop selling water, juice and simple snacks.
Tip: Buy early to avoid queues at midday
Sunbed & Umbrella Rental:
Shaded set to keep the whole family cool.
Tip: Rent near the playground to keep an eye on kids
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Paralia Monolithos
- Early Arrival: Get there by 9 AM to claim shade and parking close to facilities.
- Pack Beach Toys: Bring buckets or balls so kids can play even when courts are full.
- Use Changing Cabins: Use free cabins near restrooms to change kids off-sand quickly.
Reviews of Paralia Monolithos
Ryan Brown
Paralia Monolithos (Παραλία Μονόλιθος) is a serene beach on Santorini's east coast, perfect for families and relaxation. The black sand and shallow waters make it ideal for swimming, while the beach's quiet atmosphere offers a peaceful escape from busier tourist spots. Amenities include sunbeds, umbrellas, and nearby tavernas serving fresh seafood. Paralia Monolithos is a charming, tranquil destin...
Ags
Fabulous clean beach with super soft sand. Had fabulous time but did not pay whooping €15 per blue chair. We offered €10 for couple of hours but was not accepted. Loved the beach though. Calm and away from the crowds
Robert Bortos
Very good beach for families with kids, very shallow water (1,5 m after 200 m from shore), clean, black fine sand, with all amenities that tourists normally needs. I recommend it 100%!
Phyllis Lo
Very good beach . There are 2 sides. One is with sports and deeper in the sea. We went the other side when it’s so windy, water is less deep. You need to walk more to reach deep water. Good for families with kids. Traditional taverna is nearby.
Thavyness
We went to Kamari beach and Eros beach before finally deciding on Monolithos beach. All the reviews said this was THE family beach in Santorini. And they were absolutely right. We saw families and kids playing in the sand and the small waves. There are no rocks and it is quite shallow that my 6 year old was able to play in the water. Even my parents-in-law (late 60s) said this was the best place f...
When is the best time to visit Paralia Monolithos (Santorini, Greece)?
In peak summer (July–August) the sun is intense around noon; visit before 11 AM or after 4 PM. In May and September water is cooler and crowds are thinner.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Sunbed & umbrella rental | EUR 20 |
| Snacks & drinks at mini-market | EUR 10 |
| Lunch at beach taverna | EUR 60 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 90 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Paralia Monolithos
Address: Paralia Monolithos, Greece
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