About a ten-minute drive from the capital, Apollonia, lies Faros Beach, the beach of the charming fishing village of Faros. Parking? Free and right on the beach, which is the case everywhere on the island (isn't that a vacation in itself?). Afterward, it's simple: coffee and a sweet treat at Betty's Bakery, followed by lunch at Pelicanos. Right on the beach, with a sea view. Faros is one of those places you arrive without a plan and still end up spending the whole day.

A fifteen-minute drive from Apollonia lies Vathi Beach, the largest beach on Sifnos. First, stop at Atsonios Ceramics – one of those lovely family-run businesses where you're guaranteed to pick up something you can't fit in your suitcase. Then, on to the beach: feet in the sand and relax all afternoon. The further you walk, the quieter it gets. Want to stay until the evening? You can! Finish off with grilled shrimp at Manolis and ice cream at the neighboring coffee shop, Phlo. Just how a beach day should be.

A little further from the capital, but still within a half-hour drive, lies Cheronissos beach – all the way up north. Small, charming, and situated on a fishing village, you can swim among the boats bobbing in the water – a truly unforgettable experience. For fresh fish, stop by Cheronissos Fish Tavern, where the fish literally lands straight from the boat to your plate. And all this with a view that never gets old.

Also about a fifteen-minute drive from the capital, on the quiet side of Chrisopigi, lies Apokofto Beach – a little paradise with soft sand and crystal-clear water. First, stop at Way Cup Roaster for takeaway coffee and baklava – because honestly, the terrace doesn't invite you to linger. The owner roasts her own beans, and that homemade baklava? Absolutely take it home. Then head to the beach: swim, nap, and do nothing. Be sure to walk to the Chrisopigi Monastery, a cozy and authentic place. And if hunger strikes? Then the grilled feta at Chrisopigi Tavern is highly recommended.