Platys Gialos (Sifnos), Greece

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Platys Gialos ( Greek: Πλατύς Γιαλός, wide beach) is a beach in southern Sifnos, one of the longest beaches of the island. The crystal clear water and have made it the most popular beach on the island. The name is rather contradictory, because of the absence of regulations in early years, there are houses, restaurants, coffee houses and bars right on the beach, thus making it very narrow in some parts, although overall there is plenty of space. A pier is being constructed in order to keep all boats in one place in order to clear up the sea, it is due to be completed by this June.

Former prime minister Kostas Simitis has been spending part of him summer holidays in the island, usually staying at the Xenia hotel, which is located in the edge of the beach.

Accommodation, food and things to do

There is a range of hotels, rented rooms and an organised camping, so anyone can visit the island and have a good time while still keep the cost down. There are also over a dozen restaurants, from traditional Greek cuisine, such as the Sofia and Steki restaurant, with salads, steaks and seafood to Italian pizza and spaghetti at the ristorante Mamma Mia.

If you like snorkelling you are going to have a great time exploring the many underwater attractions, there is enough light till 7pm to see all that's going on under the sea, the water is clear and if you didn't bring your equipment with you can get a mask and a pair of fins for a rather good price at the local mini market.

Beach voley, football and especially beach tennis are very popular, so you can get in shape and get a great tan at the same time, who needs a diet anyway?

If you can get a boat ride, you can also visit the small island of Kipriani, which is about 10 minutes away from the beach. The local people are very friendly and will always try to help you with what you need, English is widely spoken all over the island Sifnos.

Be sure to check out the pottery, there are a few studios that have traditional hand-made crafts of all sorts.