Cube-like white houses—distinctive of the Cyclades—are scattered along its rocky coastal bluffs, and iconic windmills line the blustery clifftops. While holidaying on the island, journey to its spectacular beaches or linger inland and explore some of the many things to do in Mykonos.

1. Mykonos Beaches

When vacationing in Mykonos, the most obvious thing to do is hit the beach. The island is globally renowned for its soft, golden sand and clear, glassy waters, and there’s arguably no more famous swath of shoreline than Paradise Beach. Nestled next to many Mykonos hotels and eateries, the aptly named stretch of coast features flat sands and beckoning azure waters, perfect for beach games and booming parties after the sun goes down.

More family-friendly options include bustling Ornos and up-scale Psarou, where the sands are dotted with shady straw umbrellas and wooden sunbeds. For a moment of peace, visit Agrari and Elia, 2 beaches joined into one long expanse of sand, or find a place on pebbly Houlakia beach in the north—a fantastic spot to view sunset.

2. Sailing Around the Coast

The strong gusts that blow through Mykonos have earned it the nickname “Island of the Winds” and make it a prime spot for sailing. Skilled skippers, like those from Destination Services Greece SA, can navigate the waters with ease. Charter a boat and enjoy the view from the Aegean Sea, capturing photos of the bright white homes and windmills that crowd the shores. Sightseeing vessels can take you around the coast to reach spots like Paradise Beach for a day of relaxation. Catching the sunset from the water is a magical experience as well—board one of Tourisma’s spacious boats and watch as the sun sinks below the horizon.

3. Wind and Water Sports

Thanks to the same winds that make it a world-class sailing destination, Mykonos also attracts skilled windsurfers and kitesurfers from around the world. The shores along the island’s southern coast are best for catching the winds and waves, with secluded bays such as Kalafatis proving ideal for freestyle windsurfing and other beach activities. Ftelia beckons thrill-seekers as towering waves roll in from the sea, brought in by the north wind. For kitesurfers, Korfos is popular among both veterans and newcomers, as the consistent conditions are ideal for picking up the sport and honing skills.

4. Island-Hopping

For a glimpse into history or a break from all the bustle on the beach, hop over to Mykonos’ most-beloved neighbours: the islands of Rhenia and Delos. Rhenia, a now-uninhabited island, is a serene escape dotted with the ancient ruins of temples thought to be nearly 2,000 years old. Several beaches line its shores, and, free from the rush of tourists found on Mykonos, are the perfect place to take a dip or relax. Nearby Delos, meanwhile, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its abundance of mythological and historical archaeological sites. Look back millennia into the past as you explore the remains of Greek temples, market squares and monuments. Each island can merit its own full-day trip, but visiting both in a day is perfectly doable with groups like Sunfos Alessia Yachting.

5. Food

With a culinary tradition that stretches back some 4,000 years, Greek cuisine has influenced foods around the world with its fantastic flavors. Mykonos boasts its own specialties unique to the island, such as the soft cheese of kopanistí, which is seasoned with pepper for a characteristic kick, or amigdalota, traditional almond cookies flavored with rosewater and caster sugar. The beaches of Mykonos are dotted with eateries and stalls where you can find louza­—a dish of slices of spiced pork—and other bites, but the food tours from Tourisma can introduce your palate to Mykonos’ one-of-a-kind tastes. In the evening, be sure to cap off a day in the sun with soumada, a refreshing non-alcoholic almond-based drink with a hint of rosewater.

Where to stay

Mykonos is bursting at the seams with beautiful places to stay, but if you’re after a little bit more paradise, consider staying at one of the Expedia +VIP Access hotels, such as the Palladium Boutique Hotel or the Kenshō Boutique Hotel & Suites.

Step right up to the 5-star experience at the Palladium Hotel, where you’ll be welcomed by a coastal oasis. As soon as you arrive, you’ll receive a complimentary drink to help you bring on the vacation state of mind, as you decide between lounging around the luxury outdoor pool or grabbing a bite to eat at the divine Thymare Restaurant. You can’t go wrong with a meal overlooking the ocean and a relaxing session in the pine room sauna, before venturing out to the nearby beaches at Psarou and Platis Gialos.

You’ll find another magical retreat at the Kenshō Boutique Hotel & Suites, which dazzles with its crisp, white Aegean architecture. When it comes time to pick a place to rest your head, choose a deluxe room with a superb outdoor area and plunge pool, or raise the stakes with your very own private villa, complete with an infinity pool, butler service, and even a helicopter for hire. With spectacular views of Ornos Bay, this charming accommodation introduces to you to lap of luxury in Mykonos, so what are you waiting for? It’s time to indulge.

This Greek island is eagerly waiting for you to appreciate it all, from the incredible seaside views to the delectable cuisine. Set your watch for island time and get ready for paradise.