Koukounaries Beach

Koukounaries is a 1.2-kilometre arc of fine golden sand on the south-west coast of Skiathos, consistently rated among the best beaches in Greece. The beach is sheltered from the prevailing north-east winds by the Pelion peninsula and backed by a dense stand of umbrella pines (Pinus pinea), which provide natural shade and give the beach its name (koukounaries means pine cones). Behind the pine forest lies the shallow brackish lagoon of Strofilia (also known as Black Lake), a protected wetland habitat for migratory birds. The sea in front of the beach is shallow and turquoise, making Koukounaries particularly popular with families.