Plaka beach, Beach in Plaka, Naxos, Greece
Plaka beach is a long sandy beach on the west coast of Naxos, Greece. It stretches for about 2.5 miles (4 km) and is backed by sand dunes, with clear water and a view of the nearby island of Paros.
Plaka beach became a gathering place for hippies in the 1970s, who camped freely along the shore. Since then, it has developed with organized facilities while retaining its natural appeal.
In August, the sand dunes behind the beach bloom with white sea lilies, a sight that locals appreciate. The beach is also a popular spot for watching the sunset over Paros.
The beach is easy to reach by bus from Naxos Town, with stops along its length. You can choose a spot near the organized areas with sunbeds and tavernas, or walk further to find a more secluded place.
The beach is part of the Natura 2000 network, a protected area for its sand dune ecosystem. In some places, you might notice sandbags placed to counter erosion, a sign of the ongoing battle to preserve the shoreline.
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