Located in the middle of the Aegean Sea, Paros stands out as the most sporty island of the Cyclades, offering a wide range of water and outdoor activities. Whether you are a nature and sea lover, a sportsman, or a thrill-seeker, Paros will keep you entertained during your stay.
Here is a short guide to all the sports activities available in Paros.
Canoeing or kayaking Paros's coastline is a great way to explore the island's hidden coves and beautiful landscapes, making it a bracing experience. You can go on a day trip that might last between 5 to 8 hours, and if you're up for a real adventure, you can join long expeditions that schools organise, involving 5 to 7 days of island hopping and open water crossings. Some of the best places for kayaking are in the North-Eastern part of the island, paddling around Filizi's turquoise waters or Santa Maria's beach, as well as across Peregrine Falcon's rocky coastline.
One can also leave from the quaint island of Ghaidouronisi and move along the imposing cliffs at the entrance of Naousa's bay. Other great places worth the paddle are New Golden beach in Tserdakia and Pounda beach.
Water Ski
Water skiing is one of the most famous sports in Paros. You can take lessons on most of the beaches and the sport is suitable for all ages. The best beaches to practice this activity and rent equipment are Golden Beach and Punda Beach. Other good places to kitesurf are Pounda Beach, Fargas Beach, and the famous Kolymbithres Beach.
Snorkelling
Snorkelling is a unique opportunity to discover Paros's seabed and beautiful rocky topography with its coral reefs and fish. You can explore diverse underwater sceneries, and if you're lucky, you can even come across a turtle! Paros's marine ecosystem sustains thousands of fish species from groupers, white seabreams, perch and octopus to mullet, pandora, bream and amberjack. It is also home to stunning sea mammals, such as monk seals, dolphins, and whales. Some of the best places for snorkelling in Paros are Parikia, Delfini, Souvlia beach, Faragas beach, Molos beach, Santa María beach, Kalogeros beach, Pounda beach, Marcelo beach, Tserdakia and New Golden beach.
Kite Surfing & Windsurfing
With windy conditions, Paros is a kitesurfing and windsurfing paradise.
Whether you are an experienced or a beginner, there are many clubs on the coast offering lessons. The best spots are Pounda, Golden Beach, New Golden beach, and Tsoukalia beach.
Scuba Diving
Paros offers a variety of marine life to explore, from reefs and ancient wrecks to hidden coves. Diving schools can be found in the most touristy areas such as Santa Maria, Golden Beach, Naoussa, and Parikia, which offer different courses for all ages and levels. The most famous dive sites are the Bubble Reef, with a depth of 12-18 meters, Stringway Point, the uninhabited island of Panderonisi, and the mysterious Samina wreck, with a depth of 35 meters, which is more suitable for experienced divers.
Tennis
For tennis enthusiasts, you can find various courts around the island. The most famous establishment is the Paros Tennis Club, near the picturesque town of Naoussa, which features six tennis courts with coaches available for adults and children. Here you'll be able to improve your skills, meet new players and join fun social events.
Mountain Biking
Mountain biking allows the opportunity to discover the natural treasures of the island from a different perspective. Follow dirt paths and explore the Cycladic mainland's beauties and stunning views of its beaches and villages that will take your breath away.
Hiking
If mountain biking is not for you, you can choose to walk the trails. You can also go to the natural park of Paros. There are several hiking trails and we recommend you take the one that leads to the lighthouse. There you can enjoy a wonderful view of the coast of Paros. Lefkes is another good place to hike, with a 1,000-year-old Byzantine path leading to the village of Prodromos, where you can enjoy a delicious meal in one of the local tavernas.
Horse riding
Paros's popular horse farm in the bay of Pounda offers horse riding lessons and excursions, suitable for all ages and levels. Horse riding can be a unique and traditional way to explore the island. You can go on a riding trip and walk along Paros's sandy beaches and contemplate a magical sunset on one of these majestic animals. Naoussa and Kokou are other ideal places for this activity.
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