Apart from the seductive contours of the Patmian landscape, the myriad seascapes, and the seemingly countless churches, the beaches of Patmos draw most visitors beyond the island's core. Don't be tempted to think of the strand between the old and new ports in Skala as a beach. It's better and safer to take a shower in your bathroom. Most beaches have tavernas on or near them, as well as rooms to rent by the day or week. They're too numerous and similar to list here.
The North Island
The nicest beaches in the north lie along the northeastern coastline from Lambi Bay to Meloi Bay. The northwestern coastline from Merika Bay to Lambi is too rocky, inaccessible, and exposed. The most desirable northern beaches are in the following bays (proceeding up the coast from south to north): Meloi, Agriolivada, and Lambi. Meloi has some shade and good snorkeling. Kambos Bay is particularly suitable for children and families, offering calm, shallow waters, rental umbrellas, and some tree cover, as well as a lively seaside scene with opportunities for windsurfing, paragliding, sailing, and canoeing. East of Kambos Bay at Livada, it's possible to swim or sometimes to walk across to Ayiou Yioryiou Isle; be sure to bring shoes or sandals, or the rocks will do a number on your feet. The stretch of shoreline from Thermia to Lambi is gorgeous, with crystalline waters and rocks from which you can safely dive. The drawback here is that access is only by caique from Skala. Also, avoid the north coast when the meltemi (severe north summer winds) are blowing.
The South Island
The island's south end has two beaches, one at Grikou Bay and the other at Psili Ammos. Grikou Bay, only 4km (2 1/2 miles) from Skala, is the most developed resort on Patmos and home to most of the package-tour groups on the island. Psili Ammos is another story, an extraordinary isolated fine-sand cove bordered by cliffs. Most people arrive by one of the caiques leaving Skala Harbor at 10am, and on arrival (at 10:45am) do battle for the very limited shade offered by some obliging tamarisks. The only way to ensure yourself of a place in the shade is to arrive before 10:30am; the best way to do that is to take a taxi to Diakofti for 15€ ($20) and ask the driver to point the way to Psili Ammos, which is about a 30-minute trek on goat paths (wear real shoes). The caiques returning to Skala leave Psili Ammos around 4 to 5pm. At any given time, a range of caiques provide this service. Round-trip fare is about 15€ ($20) and 10€ ($13) one-way.
Another reason to head south is to dine at Benetos, only a short taxi ride from Skala and known as the finest restaurant on the island.
