The Ultimate Party Beach Of The Greek Islands Is On Mykonos, According To Rick Steves

Rick Steves might not be your natural first stop for advice on where to party in Europe. But Steves may just be America's most versatile traveler, able to wax lyrical on all things European, from hiking the Tour de Mont Blanc to how it feels to visit Michelangelo's David. So it shouldn't come as a surprise that Steves knows where the ultimate party beach is. According to his blog, Paradise Beach on the island of Mykonos is the Greek islands' party capital.

Steves writes that he visited Paradise Beach as a student (some 40-plus years ago by our reckoning) and believes that the beach "has been thumping ever since." Back in the 1960s and 70s, Paradise Beach was a famed hippie hangout and later evolved into a major party destination. Today, beach bars and clubs line the shore and the vibes are distinctly youthful. Legendary DJs play the clubs, the music ramps up after 4 p.m., and the fun continues well into the early hours.

If you're heading to Paradise Beach to join the festivities, Paradise Resort is a great choice. It's home to the famous Paradise Beach Club, where you can dance under the stars until the early hours before staggering back to your nearby room to recover. You'll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy yourself as parties happen every night throughout the summer.

Surprisingly, Rick Steves' answer is no. Of Paradise Beach, he writes that "during the day I found it enjoyable for people of all ages." Other beachgoers agree. On TripAdvisor, JohnmDavies writes that at age 64, Paradise Beach is his favorite ever. The sandy beach doesn't only offer clubbing: visitors can enjoy a range of watersports, including water skiing, jet skiing, and banana boating. Sunbeds are available to rent, too.

However, if you prefer to be tucked up in bed early, don't book accommodation on Paradise Beach. Mykonos is so much more than Greece's party island, offering incredible food and wine, a charming old town, and fascinating historical sites. The island is also lined with beaches and as it's relatively small, you could visit a different one every day.

Be warned that Paradise Beach doesn't offer a tranquil experience: It gets crowded in the high season, and it's always lively. If you're looking for a quieter getaway, consider Rick Steves' favorite Greek island. He bestows that honor on Hydra, a picturesque, relaxing escape close to Athens. Before you book your next trip, read our guide about why choosing which Greek island to visit could make or break your trip.