Paros is a relatively small island renowned for its stunning beaches, ancient white houses, and delicious food. If you are about to book a holiday there, you will most likely start planning all the details to make the most of your vacation.
You may be interested in which restaurants to try, what activities to opt for to fill your days, and what beaches to visit. Yet, there’s something you may have not thought about. Sunsets! There’s no point in booking a trip to this island if you’re not watching the sun slowly setting on the Mediterranean Sea at least once.
Understanding where to get the best sunsets is crucial, especially if you are a photographer. It may even help you choose where to stay in Paros and book the perfect accommodation. Here is everything you need to know.
Why Paros Offers Some of the Best Sunsets in Greece
While most Greek islands have amazing sunsets, Paros often stand out. Why? Because it gives tourists so many options! Whether you are in the town of Naoussa, Paros town, or a completely different place on the island, chances are you’ll have an amazing view of the sunset.
Even better, this island is relatively tiny, meaning that even if you’re in the wrong place, for instance, a beach facing east, you can get back to your car and be in the right spot in 30 minutes.
Paros has a variety of restaurants, gorgeous beaches, and even churches and ancient monasteries offering stunning sunset views. Here are some of the best places to watch the sunset in Paros.
Ideal Times of Year and Day for Sunset Watching
The ideal time of year to watch sunsets in Paros is late spring, summer, and early autumn.
During these months, the weather is pleasant, and rain is uncommon. While tourists may still find beautiful sunsets in the winter months, the island is completely different during this period of the year. Most Paros villa rentals, hotels, and restaurants close from October to April, so visiting the island in these months is never a good idea.
Obviously, sunset time varies depending on the months you decide to visit. In general, you can expect the sun to set at the following times:
- May: Sunsets are from 8:00 PM to 8:35 PM.
- June: Sunsets are around 8:30 PM to 8:45 PM.
- July: Sunsets are around 8:25 PM to 8:45 PM.
- August: Sunsets are around 7:45 PM to 8:25 PM.
- September: Sunsets are around 7:00 PM to 7:45 PM.
Top Sunset Spots in Paros
Agioi Anargyroi Monastery
If you’re eager to take the perfect shot of a Paros sunset, this is the place to go. Here, you will find a small authentic village and almost no tourists. The white houses, typical of the island, coupled with the welcoming locals and tranquil vibes, make this a must-visit for all tourists heading to Paros.
The drive to this village is not the easiest. You will have to park a bit far from the monastery and proceed by foot for the last segment of the road. It’s a quick walk but pretty steep, so wear sneakers and avoid high heels.
The monastery can be visited, but it’s not always open, so you need a bit of luck. From here, you’ll be able to see Paros Town and a variety of islands.
Perfect if: You want to see the sunset from a traditional village
Paros Park
Located about 4 miles north of Naoussa, Paros Park is a nature reserve where you can spend an afternoon of total relaxation. This area has a variety of well-marked walking trails for all fitness levels, giving you plenty of options.
The lighthouse is the best spot in Paros Park to see the sunset, so try to choose a path heading there. Once on this site, you can also visit the Paros Park Museum and the Monastery of Agios Ioannis Detis.
Perfect if: If you want to spend a day walking in nature
Chapel of Agios Fokas
The Chapel of Agios Fokas is another great option. Located about three miles west of Paros Town, it is the perfect spot to take a photo of the sun slowly setting on the Mediterranean Sea. Here, you’ll find the ruins of the Agios Fokas Lighthouse and the charming Chapel of Agios Fokas with its white walls and blue dome.
Tourists can visit for free and then head to the nearby beach to enjoy the sunset. If you’re in the mood for a hike, you can head here with a long walk from Paros Town. It will take sixty to ninety minutes, depending on your fitness level, and you’ll be able to enjoy amazing views over the Mediterranean Sea.
Perfect if: You want to visit an ancient chapel
Sunset Cruises Around Paros
Paros: Paros Bay Sunset Boat Tour with Snorkeling
This boat tour takes you around Parikia Bay on a traditional boat, allowing you to explore Agios Spyridonas and Krios Beach. Here, you can snorkel with your friends or relatives to observe amazing fish and marine wildlife on these beautiful beaches. Your tour operator will provide masks, fins, refreshments, and fruit.
Remember that all people participating in the experience must be at least 15 years of age, so unfortunately, this is not an option for families with your kids.
- Duration: 3 hours
- Included: Snorkeling equipment, refreshments, fruits, and wine
Palos Tours: Naoussa Bay Sunset Cruise
This cruise Palos Tours offers takes you on a traditional boat for a 2.5-hour sunset sea tour. Thanos, the skilled sailor guiding your tour, and his wife, Marianna, will give you a unique experience in the northern area of Paros, which tourists often ignore.
You will reach two lesser-known spots where you can dive into the water or swim to the nearby beach to soak up the sun. Fruit, local cheese, and Paros wines are also offered on board. Soft drinks and water are also available. Children are welcome, making this a good option for families.
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Included: Refreshments, fruits, soft drinks, water, and wine
Semi-Private Half Day/Sunset Cruise
This tour lasts about three hours and begins at 6:00 PM. You will sail to the stunning Blue Lagoon in the Panteronisia islands, where you will stop for a refreshing swim before heading to the second stop on the itinerary: Fira Channel. Here, you’ll be able to see the beautiful sunset over the Mediterranean Sea and take a gorgeous photo to remember your trip.
The tour includes seasonal fruit, local bites, and a glass of Paros wine. This can be a great option for those who want to have a full meal on their sailing tour, as some of the food offered includes marinated fish accompanied by fresh tomatoes.
- Duration: 3 hours
- Included: Marinated fish accompanied by fresh tomatoes, fresh fruit, and wine
Dining with a Sunset View
Siparos Seaside Restaurant
Let’s start from Naoussa with Siparos Seaside Restaurant. This place has one of the most magnificent views of the island at sunset, thanks to its huge glass windows overlooking the sea.
The restaurant is quite expensive compared to local tavernas, but the experience is definitely worth it. Some of Siparos Seaside’s signature dishes include split fava peas with octopus sous vide in sun-dried wine and vine leaves filled with minced meat and rice, served in a yoghurt sauce.
Website: https://www.siparos.gr/
What do people say: “Incredible food 5 star quality in an amazing waterfront location” – Kelly Banning, Google Reviews
Bountaraki
Located in Paros Town, this Greek restaurant is the perfect spot for those who want to enjoy an authentic meal without paying a small fortune. It features a large outdoor space from which you can watch the sunset while enjoying your delicious food.
Unlike fancy restaurants, you may not find a massive list of wines or extra complicated dishes. However, you can be 100% sure this place is authentic. If you don’t know what to order, just opt for the dish of the day, and you won’t be disappointed.
Website: https://www.instagram.com/bountaraki/?hl=en
What do people say: “A fantastic Greek taverna and must visit while in Paros! There’s a reason why this place has such high ratings. The dishes are all affordable and portion sizes are quite large.” – Taylor, Google Reviews
The Little Green Rocket
This is the place to go if you prefer to have several international options for dinner, for instance, if you’re traveling with kids. Here, you will find a good mix of Mediterranean and Asian dishes, including sushi and curry.
The Little Green Rocket is close to the sea and has a spacious terrace from which you can admire the sunset. People particularly enjoyed the service, saying everyone was very friendly. However, prices are quite high compared to local tavernas.
What do people say: “So far this is my favorite restaurant in Greece, sorry for all the lovers of traditional Greek cuisine. All the courses we had were amazing, and especially the sushi had us seriously thinking about ordering another set.” – Iiro Huikko, Google Reviews
Best Beaches for Watching the Sunset
Of course, in Paros, you don’t need to pay for an expensive dinner to watch one of the most beautiful sunsets of your life. This island is home to various beaches where you can enjoy a delicious picnic, accompanied by a glass of wine with your partner while marveling at the sun slowly setting on the Mediterranean Sea.
Livadia Beach is probably among the most popular. Located in Paros town, it is the ideal choice if you booked your accommodation in the area and want to watch the sunset every single night without too much effort. If you do, however, have the time to travel a bit, you can visit some underrated places unknown to most tourists.
Lageri Beach is a great option if you want to avoid the crowds. Located about 4 miles from Noussa, it offers all the tranquility needed to enjoy a proper sunset.
Παραλία Παρασπόρος is another good option. Located close to Paros Town, you can reach this destination with a quick drive. Grab a sandwich or a local pastry, buy a bottle of local wine, and enjoy the show.