Agia Anna Beach | Naxos

Agia Anna is a popular coastal resort and fishing harbor on the western coast of Naxos, located approximately 6 km south of Naxos Town (Chora). It serves as a natural continuation of Agios Prokopios Beach.

Visual Characteristics

The beach is characterized by fine golden sand and calm, shallow turquoise waters. A small, picturesque harbor at the northern end provides shelter for traditional fishing boats (kaikia). The shoreline is dotted with cedar trees that provide limited natural shade. A distinctive rock formation featuring a small chapel marks the transition between the harbor and the main swimming stretch.

Location & Access Logistics

Position: Situated between Agios Prokopios to the north and Plaka Beach to the south.

Transit: Frequent bus service (every 20–30 minutes in summer) from Naxos Town.

Vehicle Access: Accessible via a paved road; however, the seaside road is narrow and often becomes one-way or pedestrian-heavy in peak season.

Parking: Small public parking areas are available near the harbor and behind the village tavernas.

Pedestrian: Directly walkable from Agios Prokopios via a shoreline path.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The beach is named after the Chapel of Agia Anna, which sits on a rocky promontory overlooking the bay. Historically, it was a quiet fishing settlement for the inland village of Agios Arsenios. The area retains a cluster of rare Atlantic cedars, which are part of a protected coastal ecosystem.

Key Highlights & Activities

The "Shark" Rock: A natural rock formation near the chapel that resembles a shark, frequently used as a photography spot.

Small Harbor Pier: A popular spot for jumping into the water and watching local fishermen unload their daily catch.

Seaside Dining: The village is known for having tavernas with tables placed directly on the sand.

Boat Excursions: Small tour boats depart from the Agia Anna pier for daily trips to the "Small Cyclades" (Iraklia, Schinoussa, Koufonisia).

Infrastructure & Amenities

Organization: Heavily organized with sunbeds and umbrellas, leaving limited space for free towel placement in the central section.

Catering: High density of beach bars, traditional fish tavernas, and cafes.

Facilities: Showers and changing cabins are provided by the beach clubs; public restrooms are located near the harbor.

Connectivity: 5G signal is stable.

Best Time to Visit

Morning: For the calmest water, as the bay is well-protected from the southern winds.

Lunchtime: Specifically for the beachfront dining experience.

Facts & Legends

A verified fact is that the Agia Anna harbor was once the primary port of the island before the modernization of the main Naxos harbor. Local lore suggests that the small chapel of Agia Anna was built by a captain who survived a shipwreck in the bay and dedicated the church to the saint in gratitude.

Nearby Landmarks

Agios Prokopios Beach: 0.5 km North.

Plaka Beach: 0.5 km South (separated by a small rocky headland).

Agios Arsenios Village: 4 km East.