Playa de Mareza

Introduction

As beach tourism experts, we are always on the lookout for those special corners that offer more than just sun and sand. And Playa de Mareza, on the charming island of Angistri, Greece, is undoubtedly one of those treasures. Far from the hustle and bustle of major capitals, this small cove invites us on a journey of disconnection and wonder, where nature reveals itself in its purest and most seductive state. It's the kind of place that stays etched in your memory, a refuge for the soul that yearns for peace and beauty.

Angistri, a small island with a big heart, welcomes us with its characteristic hospitality. And within it, Playa de Mareza stands as a banner of tranquility. Its waters, of astonishing clarity, invite us to dive into an underwater world full of life, while its rocky surroundings gift us landscapes that seem taken from a postcard. If you're looking for an authentic experience on the beaches of Greece, Mareza is a must-stop on your itinerary. It's the perfect place to recharge your batteries, read a good book, or simply contemplate the vastness of the Aegean Sea.

How to Get to Playa de Mareza

Getting to Playa de Mareza is part of the adventure and, at the same time, surprisingly simple. First, we must reach the island of Angistri. The most common way is to take a ferry from the port of Piraeus, in Athens. Trips are frequent and last approximately between 55 minutes (with the 'Flying Dolphin' or 'Flying Cat') and 1 hour and 45 minutes (with the conventional ferry). Once in Angistri, the ferry will drop us off at one of the two main ports: Skala or Milos (also known as Megalochori).

From either port, Playa de Mareza is a short journey away. If we land in Milos, which is the closest village, we can opt for a pleasant 15-20 minute walk, allowing us to enjoy the Mediterranean landscape. Alternatively, we can rent a scooter, bicycle, or quad, which are very popular means of transport on the island and give us great flexibility to explore. Taxis are also available. The beach is located southwest of Milos, following a coastal road that offers spectacular views. Once we reach the area, there is a small descending path that leads directly to the cove. We recommend going by scooter or quad for greater comfort and to easily explore other points of interest on the island.

The Sand and Water

When we talk about Playa de Mareza, it's essential to highlight the uniqueness of its 'sand' and the exceptional quality of its water. Far from the typical fine, golden sandy beaches, Mareza surprises us with a rocky ground type and coarse pebbles. Don't expect to spread your towel on a soft carpet of sand; here, beauty lies in the authenticity and ruggedness of the landscape. Some areas have concrete platforms that facilitate entry into the sea and the placement of sunbeds, blending harmoniously with the natural rock formations. This characteristic makes it prudent to wear water shoes to protect our feet, especially if we plan to explore the shores or less-traveled areas.

But it's beneath the surface where Playa de Mareza reveals its true splendor. The crystal-clear waters are, without exaggeration, of astonishing purity. With visibility extending for many meters, the sea here is a canvas of blue and emerald green tones that invite us to dive in immediately. The absence of strong currents and the protection of the rock formations make the water calm and perfect for swimming and, above all, for snorkeling. We have spent hours exploring the vibrant underwater ecosystem, observing small fish, sea urchins, and algae dancing with the gentle movement of the waves. The experience of plunging into these waters is truly rejuvenating and constitutes one of the main attractions of this wonderful beach in Angistri.

Services and Facilities

Despite its more natural and less crowded atmosphere, Playa de Mareza does not lack the essential services to ensure a comfortable and pleasant stay. The heart of the facilities here is the popular 'Mareza Beach Bar and Taverna', a charming place that integrates perfectly into the landscape. This chiringuito not only offers us a wide selection of refreshing drinks, from traditional Greek coffees to exotic cocktails, but also a delicious gastronomic offering. We can enjoy authentic Greek dishes, fresh fish, and light snacks, all with unbeatable views of the Aegean Sea. It's the ideal spot for lunch or to enjoy a sunset dinner, immersed in the tranquility of the surroundings.

In addition to the culinary offering, the chiringuito usually provides umbrellas and sunbeds for rent, allowing us to relax comfortably and protect ourselves from the Mediterranean sun. We always recommend arriving early to secure a good spot, especially in high season. Regarding basic facilities, the bar also has Bathrooms/WCs for customers, which is very convenient. While we won't find public showers or changing rooms like on larger, more organized beaches, the availability of these basic services at the chiringuito is more than enough to enjoy a full day at the beach. Parking is usually informal, in the surroundings of the road leading to the beach, so it's advisable to be respectful of the space and environment.

Best Time to Visit

For us, choosing the best time to visit Playa de Mareza and, in general, the beaches of Angistri, depends a lot on what we're looking for in our vacation. However, we can say that the months of late spring and early autumn offer a bal