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It can be hard to know where to begin exploring Serifos. We answered three questions about the island.
What is special about its 70 beaches?
They are all mysterious. It is no coincidence that “lazy” travelers avoid this island. They all boast turquoise or emerald waters, and only two have some basic amenities. For instance, Vagia, a beauty of a beach with golden sand and refreshing waters (bring your snorkeling gear), also features a small canteen that serves cocktails and dakos (a meze/salad consisting of dry barley rusk topped with the most delicious tomatoes and local cheese).
Agios Sostis is like a painting, with a chapel located a few meters from the water (ideal for shade if all the tamarisk trees are taken) and a pier for jumping into the sea. This is where Paola Navone’s house is, and it’s also a nudist beach.
You need to hike in the sun to reach Kalo Abeli, but it is well worth it – so much so that thinking about your experience here could see you through the winter.
Is there good food on Serifos?
Those who claim the island is not known for its gastronomy, are right. However, Kali’s Fish Taverna (Tel. (+30) 22810.52301) in Livadi will not disappoint. In Sikamia, To Akrogiali tou Vitou (Tel. (+30) 22810.51289) has delicious home-cooked dishes and good meats on the grill. On days without wind you can eat fresh fish at Nikoulias at Platis Gialos (Tel. (+30) 22810.52174).
Also, nobody should leave the island without tasting the raki meze platter at Stou Strati, the local kafenion in Hora (Tel. (+30) 22810.52566).
And when the night falls?
For a true Serifos by Night experience, enjoy your aperitivo at Gaidaros (Tel. (+30) 22810.52150) in Hora and then head to Livadi, the port, and in particular to Yacht Club (Tel. (+30) 22810.51888). Do not let the name deceive you; this is not a formal yacht or sailing club. It looks like a well-tended kafenion that will make you dance, one way or another. Watch the sun rising through its blue windows as you listen to Frank Sinatra singing “New York” (the official song marking the end of every night) and exclaim: “Oh dear! It’s dawn again!”
