Travel with Kids to Greece Forum

Travel to Greece Forum for Families
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Which Greek islands are best for active families?

We're a family of 4. During our trips, we love to have hikes, and our boys are into cycling! Which are the best Greek islands on your opinion when it comes to this type of trips?

Hey Nicole! Good news! Greece is home to numerous islands that cater to families like yours who love adventure and outdoor activities. While each island offers something unique, here are some of the best Greek islands for active families:

1. Crete
Crete is an excellent destination for families who love a mix of history, nature, and adventure. The island offers incredible hiking opportunities, including the famous Samaria Gorge, which is one of the longest gorges in Europe. Families can also explore Imbros Gorge or hike to Balos Beach, a stunning lagoon. For water activities, Crete has plenty to offer: you can try snorkeling, diving, or kayaking along its coastline. The island also has several family-friendly bike routes, particularly around the towns of Chania and Rethymno, where you can cycle through olive groves and traditional villages.

2. Naxos
Naxos is perfect for families who enjoy watersports. Its long, sandy beaches such as Agios Prokopios and Plaka Beach offer perfect conditions for windsurfing, paddleboarding, and kitesurfing, with lessons available for beginners and kids. The island’s interior is also rich in opportunities for hiking, with trails that lead to villages like Halki and Apeiranthos. You can hike up Mount Zas, the highest peak in the Cyclades, for panoramic views of the island.

3. Paros
Paros is another island that’s great for families who want to stay active. Known for its excellent windsurfing spots, Golden Beach and New Golden Beach are ideal for both beginners and experienced windsurfers. There are also calm spots perfect for paddleboarding. For land-based activities, Paros offers scenic cycling routes that pass through traditional villages with trails suitable for families. The island also offers fantastic hiking opportunities, such as the Byzantine Path, an ancient stone-paved trail that takes you through olive groves and offers stunning views of the island.

4. Santorini
While Santorini is often known for its stunning sunsets and romantic vibes, it's also a great destination for active families. One of the best activities is hiking the famous Fira to Oia trail, a scenic path that offers breathtaking views of the caldera and takes around 2-3 hours to complete. Families can also explore Perissa Beach and Kamari Beach, where kids can enjoy swimming and beach sports. For water lovers, boat tours are a must—your family can take a sailing trip to the volcanic islands of Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni, where they can swim in the hot springs and explore the volcanic landscape. Snorkeling and diving opportunities also abound around the island’s unique volcanic reefs.

Each of these islands offers a range of activities that will keep the whole family engaged, providing a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, cultural exploration, and breathtaking scenery.

For more ideas or customized family-friendly tours, contact our team!