Agia Paraskevi

Skiathos holiday report and map

Agia Paraskevi beach Skiathos

The long sandy Skiathos beach of AGIA PARASKESVI is also confusingly called PLATANIAS after the inland village that lies in the hills just to the north.
Agia Paraskevi beach is located about 9km from Skiathos Town on the south coast between the beach resorts at Kolios, to the east, and Troulos to the west.
The beach lies at the end of the long and wide Platanias Valley, which has a stream running through it most of the year. Access to Agia Paraskevi beach is from bus stops 15 or 16 on the main road that runs along the head of the valley.
Most of the tourist accommodation in the area is sited along this valley and, if you are based here ,you will find it is usually a 5-10 minute walk to the Agia Paraskevi beach.
There are tavernas, snack bars, grills and mini markets dotted all over the resort and also at nearby Platanias village. Several hotel swimming pools are open to non-residents provided you buy a drink at the hotel bar.
Agia Paraskevi has a long sand beach with several beach tavernas behind, a watersports school and a swimming pool, should you need one, at the Skiathos Princess Hotel just at the back of the beach. The watersports at Agia Paraskevi include waterskiing and paragliding and there are daily boat excursions on offer.
The sands are clean and golden, gently shelving into the sea and so popular with families with young children. Pine trees offer good natural shade.
The Church of Agia Paraskevi, from which the beach also takes its name, is close to the shore and hidden behind a huge plane tree. The church is well known for a religious festival that is held there on June 26.