Milos Yacht Charter Guide

Discover a Greek sanctuary like no other. The volcanic island of Milos is found at the southernmost tip of the Cyclades archipelago. Its colorful beaches of red, orange and yellow sand and otherworldly rock formations make Milos one of the most breathtaking islands in Europe. A romantic holiday destination that has drawn visitors to its shores for centuries, Milos is the place to enjoy long walks along cobbled streets and see awe-inspiring sunsets. Bursting with activities, the island also has a thriving gastronomic scene and rich cultural heritage that will satisfy everyone in your charter group. 

Best time to visit: August is the most popular time on the island, so to avoid the crowds (and still soak up the best of the Greek sunshine), May - July and September - October are excellent times to visit. 

Key cruising areas: There are almost 80 beaches and coves to visit on Milos and half of them can only be reached by boat. Explore Sykia Cave, Cape Vani or Glaronisia for a relaxing day trip. Drop anchor in the shallow bays and dive into the warm, calm Greek sea. Head ashore on Gerakas beach to discover an ancient cave with natural hot springs. If you wish to venture further afield, Milos is an ideal location to start a charter of the Cyclades archipelago, with Santorini, Paros, Sifnos, Serifos and Ios nearby. 

Don't miss: Explore the town of Klima , an ancient port with 35 syrmata, cave-like structures once used to store boats that now house colorful holiday homes. This quaint fishing village is unique to the island and is a picturesque spot to spend the day. 

Best spots for wining and dining: Milos is blessed with many excellent restaurants serving authentic Greek food made from natural, local ingredients. O Hamos is a traditional, family-run restaurant with a wonderful patio for al fresco dinners. For amazing seafood, Armenaki in Pollonia is renowned for its fresh dishes and friendly owners. Finally, make sure to visit Sirocco, a waterfront restaurant that uses the geothermal springs to slow cook dishes in the sand.

Best local dish: Simple and fresh, much of the Milos’ cuisine is defined by the island’s volcanic nature. Many local taverns and restaurants will serve ‘minions’, small fish dried in the sun and then cooked over fire embers. Bouyiourdi is a delicious traditional dish of tomatoes, feta cheese and spicy peppers baked in a clay pot. For dessert, try Portokali Glyko, an orange-and-chocolate filo pastry pie.

Local culture: Milos boasts a long and varied history. The famous ‘Venus de Milo’ marble statue of the goddess Aphrodite was discovered on the island in the 19th century – now only available to view in the Louvre Museum in Paris. You can venture to the Catacombs of Milos (which date back to the 1st century) or learn more about the island’s historic association with pirates who took advantage of the rocky landscape and narrow sea caves to hide their treasures. 

Best beach: With its white volcanic rocks, Sarakiniko is one of the most famous beaches in Milos and a popular destination to view the sunset. Kleftiko also offers spectacular rock formations and unbelievably clear waters – take a tender out to explore the natural coves and sea caves. 

IYC recommends: Grab your SCUBA gear and dive into the blue waters of Milos. The seabed of volcanic rock is fascinating to see up close and you can even swim to see the shipwreck of tanker ‘Africa’ off Sarakiniko. If you’re lucky, you may spot a native Monk seal up close.