Glysteri is the closest beach to Skopelos Town — around 4km by road along the north coast. A small pebble cove with a seasonal taverna, it functions as the everyday swimming spot for Chora residents and the default beach for visitors based in town who don’t want to drive to the west coast.
The beach
Glysteri is compact — around 80 metres of grey pebbles in a shallow bay. The water is calm enough for swimming in most weather, though less reliably so than the west-coast beaches. Rocky outcrops at both ends of the cove make for good snorkelling — this is arguably the best snorkelling easily accessible from Skopelos Town, with good populations of sea urchin, octopus in the rocks, and small reef fish. Depth increases quickly beyond the shoreline.
Facilities and taverna
The taverna at Glysteri operates from approximately May to October. It’s a simple operation — wooden tables, fresh fish, grilled octopus, cold beer. Sun loungers are available for hire in limited numbers. There are basic facilities including a toilet and shower. Parking is on the side of the road above the beach.
Practical tips
- Around 4km from Skopelos Town — a 20-minute walk or 5-minute drive on the north coast road
- Boat trips from the port also stop at Glysteri; ask at the Skopelos Town harbour
- Best for snorkelling: the left-hand rocky margin of the cove
- Water is clear but can be choppy in strong north or northeast winds
- Combines well with an evening return to Skopelos Town on foot — the coast road is pleasant in the late afternoon
Also in This Section
- Panormos — The island’s largest organised bay — calm water, tavernas, and easy beach access.
- Milia — Long white-pebble beach with some of the clearest water in the Northern Sporades.
- Kastani — Intimate pine-fringed cove — the Mamma Mia! filming location on the west coast.
- Stafylos & Velanio — Two connected coves steeped in Minoan mythology, 4km south of Skopelos Town.
- Hovolo — Emerald-water cove reached by a short coastal walk from Neo Klima — no facilities.
- Agnontas & Limnonari — A working fishing harbour for lunch and a beautiful double cove for the afternoon.