Paralia Monolithos (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Paralia Monolithos?
What makes it 80% Solo-Friendly: The calm, shallow Aegean, free volleyball and basketball courts, plus low-cost cafés and sun-beds let a solo traveler swim, exercise, and mingle safely, but limited nightlife keeps the score below perfect.
Positives:
- Calm waters: Shallow entry and gentle waves suit relaxed swims.
- Free sports facilities: Beach courts welcome casual players without fees.
- Local beach bar: Offers a social setting to meet fellow travelers.
Challenges:
- Limited shade: Tamarisk trees fill quickly; bring a beach umbrella if needed.
- Strong midday sun: UV levels peak between 11 AM and 3 PM; carry sunscreen.
- Sparse late transport: Buses run hourly until early evening; plan return accordingly.
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 solo trip?
- Calm, shallow waters ideal for stress-free swimming.
- Complimentary beach sports courts like volleyball and ping-pong.
- Natural shade under tamarisk trees for resting or reading.
- Beach bar offers drinks and a chance to socialize.
- Kitesurfing taster lesson available for adventure-seeking travelers.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Enough to swim, play sports, and enjoy a coffee at the beach bar without rushing.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Paralia Monolithos
Swim in shallow waters:
Wade into calm Aegean Sea where waist-deep water extends meters out.
Tip: Head here early to find a quiet spot and avoid midday crowds.
Play on beach sports courts:
Join free volleyball, basketball, or ping-pong games on sand courts.
Tip: Bring your own ball or check the rack for spare equipment.
Relax under tamarisk trees:
Use natural shade for reading or naps.
Tip: Grab a spot near the play area to mix rest with nearby action.
Socialize at the beach bar:
Order coffee or soft drinks and meet other travelers.
Tip: Sit near the shoreline to combine views with conversation.
Try a kitesurfing taster lesson:
Book a 1-hour windsurfing or kitesurfing intro at a local surf school.
Tip: Reserve a session online in advance to lock in your slot.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Paralia Monolithos
- Arrive by 9 AM: Secure a shaded spot and access free courts before crowds.
- Combine with cliff hike: Walk nearby footpaths to Thermi Beach for varied views.
- Pack essentials: Bring water, snacks, and a beach mat to save rental costs.
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)?
From June to August, arrive before 10 AM to secure shade under tamarisk trees and avoid peak sun. In May and September, bring a light windbreaker for breezy evenings.
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Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Bus ticket (Fira–Monolithos) | EUR 2 |
| Coffee at beach bar | EUR 4 |
| Sunbed & umbrella rental | EUR 10 |
| Snack from mini-market | EUR 3 |
| Kitesurfing taster lesson (1 hr) | EUR 60 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 79 |
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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