Mykonos is definitely one of my favorite Greek islands. With its whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, narrow stone alleyways, windmills, and brilliant turquoise water, it captures the traditional image of Greece that so many of us have in our minds from photographs.
Mykonos Quick Facts
- Best time to visit
- June–September
- Where we stayed
- Private luxury villa
- Don't miss
- Private boat day & Scorpios sunset
- Best family beach
- Ornos Beach
- Top hotel pick
- Santa Marina Resort
- Getting there
- Direct flights from major European cities
What Mykonos Is Really Like
What surprises many first-time visitors, however, is how dry and rugged Mykonos is. This is not a lush, tropical island filled with greenery. The landscape is rocky and sun-bleached, with very little vegetation and strong seasonal winds — hence its nickname, the Island of the Winds. Mykonos belongs to the Cyclades island group in the Aegean Sea, near the islands of Tinos, Syros, Paros, and Naxos.
Despite its arid landscape, there is something undeniably beautiful about Mykonos. The stark white architecture against the deep blue sea creates one of the most recognizable and photogenic settings in Greece.
Sanaz's tip: The winds can be strong, especially in July and August. Pack a light layer for evenings and be prepared for choppy sea conditions on some boat days.
Getting to Mykonos
One of the greatest advantages of visiting Mykonos is that the island has its own airport. During the summer season, international flights operate directly into Mykonos, which can eliminate the need to connect through Athens.
Before this particular trip, we had been visiting family in London and were able to fly directly from London to Mykonos. It made the journey remarkably easy, especially when traveling with children and a large family group.
Mykonos can also be reached by ferry from Athens and from many neighboring Greek islands, making it easy to include in a longer island-hopping itinerary.
Sanaz's tip: Book direct flights early — summer routes from London, Paris, and other European cities sell out quickly and prices rise sharply as the season approaches.
Our Luxury Villa Experience
I have visited Mykonos several times, but our most recent trip was particularly special because it was part of a family reunion and celebration.
Since we were traveling with a large multigenerational group, we rented a three-story luxury villa overlooking the Aegean Sea. The villa had a beautiful infinity pool, expansive outdoor entertaining spaces, and panoramic ocean views.
One of its most unusual — and helpful — features was a private elevator connecting all three floors. This was an absolute blessing for the older members of our family, who could move comfortably throughout the villa without having to navigate several flights of stairs.
For a large family reunion or a group traveling together, a villa can be an excellent choice in Mykonos. It gives everyone more room, creates natural gathering spaces, and offers the privacy of your own pool and outdoor areas. However, travelers who prefer resort amenities, organized children's facilities, restaurants, spas, and beach service may be happier staying at one of the island's luxury hotels.
Sanaz's tip: For groups of eight or more, a villa often works out to a similar price per person as a luxury hotel — with far more space, privacy, and the joy of shared meals together.
The Best Luxury Family Hotels in Mykonos
Although we stayed in a villa ourselves, there are several excellent luxury hotels I would recommend to families.
Santa Marina, a Luxury Collection Resort is my top overall recommendation for luxury families. The resort sits in Ornos Bay and offers a protected sandy beach, elegant rooms and suites, larger villas, pools, restaurants, and a full-service spa. The private beach is a major advantage in Mykonos, particularly for parents who want an easy beach day without arranging transportation or navigating crowded public beaches.
Mykonos Grand Hotel & Resort is an exceptional choice for travelers seeking a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere. The peaceful setting makes it especially attractive for parents who want to enjoy Mykonos during the day but return to a calmer environment at night.
Myconian Utopia, set high above Elia Beach, is perfect for families who prioritize dramatic sea views. Its striking architecture, infinity pool, and sophisticated atmosphere provide the glamorous Mykonos experience many travelers envision.
Cali Mykonos is ideal for travelers looking for a newer, design-forward luxury resort. Known for its privacy, suites with private pools, and contemporary interpretation of Cycladic design, its secluded location suits families who want peace and privacy.
Myconian Villa Collection provides an appealing compromise between a private villa and a full-service hotel — larger accommodations and greater privacy while still having access to resort services, restaurants, pools, and concierge assistance.
Sanaz's tip: Santa Marina is my top pick for families thanks to its private sandy beach, protected water, and outstanding service. For a quieter experience, Mykonos Grand is equally exceptional.
Exploring Mykonos Town
One of the things I love most about Mykonos is how lively it feels.
Mykonos Town, also called Chora, is a maze of whitewashed alleyways filled with restaurants, cafes, cocktail bars, art galleries, and beautiful boutiques. The town remains animated late into the night, and during the summer, the streets can still be bustling well after midnight.
Even when traveling with children, it is wonderful to walk through town after dinner, stop for gelato, browse the shops, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. The island attracts a glamorous international crowd, but you will also find traditional churches, tiny family-run stores, waterfront tavernas, and quiet passages hidden only a few steps away from the busiest streets.
Be sure to walk through Little Venice, where colorful balconies appear to hang directly over the sea, and continue toward the famous Mykonos windmills around sunset.
Sanaz's tip: Head to the windmills about 30 minutes before sunset — the light on the white walls and the sea behind them is extraordinary, and it is one of the most photographed moments in all of Greece.
Shopping in Mykonos
Mykonos has some of the best shopping of the Greek islands.
Alongside recognizable luxury labels, Chora is filled with independent Greek designers and stylish boutiques selling beautiful clothing, handmade leather sandals, jewelry, woven bags, resort wear, and one-of-a-kind purses.
This is not inexpensive souvenir shopping. Mykonos is generally considered one of Greece's most expensive island destinations, and boutique prices often reflect its affluent international clientele. Nevertheless, the selection is exceptional, and shopping through the narrow streets is part of the Mykonos experience.
Some of my favorite purchases from Greece have been locally designed sandals, handbags, and summer dresses that I continued wearing long after returning home.
Sanaz's tip: Set aside a morning for unhurried shopping before the streets get crowded. The best boutiques are tucked into the quieter alleys just off the main pedestrian routes.
The Best Way to Experience the Water
The sea around Mykonos is absolutely gorgeous — clear, blue, and incredibly inviting.
I strongly recommend renting a private yacht or boat for at least one day. A boat allows you to leave the busier organized beaches behind and discover private coves, quieter swimming areas, and beautiful stretches of water that are difficult to reach by road.
For our family, boating is always one of the highlights of visiting the Greek islands. Children can swim directly from the boat, adults can relax onboard, and the captain can tailor the itinerary around the day's wind and sea conditions.
Depending on the length of your charter, you may also be able to incorporate Delos, Rineia, or several secluded beaches into the day.
Sanaz's tip: Book your boat charter at least two to three weeks in advance in July and August. Ask the captain about wind forecasts — some days are better suited to the sheltered western side of the island.
Mykonos Beach Clubs with Kids
I believe the beach clubs are part of the true essence of Mykonos. They combine beautiful water, long lunches, music, fashion, and the island's famous social energy.
Although Mykonos is known for adult nightlife, several of its upscale beach clubs can still be enjoyed with children earlier in the day.
Nammos Mykonos, located on beautiful Psarou Beach, is one of the island's most famous beach clubs. The setting is stunning, with clear turquoise water, a sandy cove, upscale dining, shopping, yachts anchored offshore, and a fashionable international crowd. During the earlier part of the day, it can be entirely appropriate for families. The music and atmosphere generally become louder and more energetic later in the afternoon — families who want a calmer experience should reserve an earlier lunch and beach time.
Scorpios Mykonos is much larger and more expansive, set on a rugged peninsula near Paraga Beach with restaurants, terraces, cabanas, boutiques, and sweeping sunset views. During the day, families can enjoy lunch and the setting. As sunset approaches, however, Scorpios transforms into a music-driven social scene. This is one evening when I would highly recommend arranging a babysitter and returning for a date night — Scorpios is the ultimate Mykonos see-and-be-seen experience.
Sanaz's tip: For beach clubs with children, arrive early — before noon if possible. Reserve your loungers in advance and plan to leave by mid-afternoon before the music and energy intensify.
The Best Family Beach: Ornos
For a simple family beach day, Ornos Beach is one of the most convenient choices.
It is close to Mykonos Town and sits in a relatively protected bay. The water is generally calmer and shallower than at many of the island's more exposed beaches, making it a comfortable choice for families with younger swimmers.
Ornos is organized with restaurants, loungers, and beach service, so parents do not need to pack everything for the day. Because it is popular, it is best to reserve loungers in advance during the busiest summer months.
Sanaz's tip: Ornos is also the departure point for several boat excursions and water taxis — it is a very convenient base for a day on the water.
A Day Trip to Delos
Families interested in history should consider a half-day trip to Delos, the small island located near Mykonos.
In ancient Greek tradition, Delos was considered the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis and became one of the most important sacred centers of the ancient world. Boats depart from Mykonos for the archaeological site, where families can walk among ancient temples, homes, mosaics, theaters, and the famous stone lions.
Delos is essentially an enormous open-air archaeological museum. Older children may find it fascinating, particularly when visiting with a knowledgeable private guide who can bring the ruins and mythology to life.
There is limited shade, so take water, sunscreen, hats, and comfortable walking shoes. I would also choose a morning departure during the summer before the heat becomes too intense.
Sanaz's tip: Hire a private guide for Delos rather than joining a group tour — the mythology and history come alive in a completely different way when explained one-on-one, and older children stay genuinely engaged.
Where to Eat in Mykonos
Dining is a major part of the Mykonos experience — from intimate courtyard dinners in Chora to long glamorous lunches at the beach clubs.
Byblos Mykonos
Mykonos TownA glamorous choice for a stylish night in Chora. Set within a hidden garden, it combines a fashionable courtyard atmosphere with Japanese-Peruvian influences, cocktails, and music. The setting feels like a discovery — tucked away from the main streets but buzzing with energy once you find it.
LPM at Anandes Hotel
Sunset viewsFrench-Mediterranean dining with beautiful views. This is a sophisticated option for oysters, seafood, rose, and a chic sunset dinner. The setting is elegant without being stiff, and the food is consistently excellent.
M-eating
Contemporary GreekAn excellent choice for contemporary Greek cuisine. Located in a historic building in town, it presents familiar Greek flavors in a more refined and creative style. A wonderful option for families who want something genuinely Greek without the tourist-trap atmosphere.
Kalita
Intimate courtyardAn intimate courtyard setting that feels romantic and elegant without losing the charm of Mykonos Town. A lovely choice for a special dinner beneath the stars. The atmosphere is quieter and more intimate than many of the island's louder venues.
Zuma Mykonos
Glamorous poolside settingContemporary Japanese dining in an elevated, poolside setting with dramatic sunset views. Sleek, energetic, and unmistakably glamorous. This is Mykonos at its most international — the food is excellent and the setting is spectacular.
Nammos Beach Club
Psarou BeachBest for a long beach lunch that may gradually evolve into an afternoon celebration. The food is surprisingly good for a beach club of this scale, and the setting — turquoise water, yachts offshore, beautiful people — is pure Mykonos.
Is Mykonos Good for Families?
Mykonos is not the most traditionally family-oriented island in Greece. Families seeking large children's clubs, water parks, inexpensive casual dining, and quiet evenings may be better suited to Crete, Corfu, Rhodes, or one of Greece's more resort-focused destinations.
However, families can absolutely enjoy Mykonos — especially those traveling with older children who appreciate boating, beaches, shopping, beautiful restaurants, and lively towns. The key is choosing the right accommodation and planning the days thoughtfully. Stay at a family-friendly resort or a spacious villa, visit beach clubs earlier in the day, reserve at least one boat excursion, and arrange childcare for an evening when you want to experience the island's adult nightlife.
Mykonos is glamorous, lively, beautiful, and unlike anywhere else in Greece. For me, the ideal trip combines time with family at a beautiful villa or luxury resort, mornings swimming in crystal-clear water, a private boat day, shopping in Chora, leisurely lunches at the beach clubs, and at least one adults-only evening at Scorpios. With the right planning, it can offer an unforgettable combination of family time, luxury, spectacular water, delicious food, and the vibrant energy that makes this island so special.
