Santa Maria on Paros: Beach and Nature

Santa Maria lies at the northern end of the island of Paros and attracts water sports enthusiasts. The open landscape, fine sand and crystal-clear water define the area. The beach, water sports and the fragile wetland offer different considerations for planning your trip.

Beach, water sports and hiking trail

The long sandy beach is organized and has umbrellas, sun loungers and water sports facilities. Their availability may vary by season. A diving center and beach bars are nearby and open in summer; here, too, seasonal offerings may vary.

A hiking trail leads from Ambelas to Santa Maria. If you plan to take it, it is advisable to check the current trail conditions before setting out. The area brings together several different themes: activities on the water, a route between two named places, and a fragile natural environment.

The Santa Maria wetland

Rock embankments mark off the wetland to prevent uncontrolled access and protect its fragile ecosystem. A municipal report dated April 30, 2026, also describes a joint ministerial decision prohibiting activities such as parking vehicles. The reference to parking is particularly specific guidance for visitors to the wetland.

Cultural monuments on Paros

Paros is also worth keeping in mind as part of a broader trip: In addition to Santa Maria, the island has its own cultural sites and natural attractions. In Parikia, Panagia Ekatontapiliani is located in the northeastern part of the town, near the port. It is one of Greece’s most important early Christian monuments. The southern part of the church houses the ancient baptistery, dating from the 4th century, regarded as the oldest and best-preserved baptistery in the Orthodox East.

The church also houses the Byzantine Museum of Parikia. Its collection includes rare icons, wood carvings and other religious relics from the Byzantine era and the period of Ottoman rule. The Kastro of Parikia offers another glimpse of historic architecture: it preserves the ruins of a Venetian castle built from columns taken from ancient temples and other architectural elements.

In Lefkes stands the listed Church of Agia Triada. The church building was constructed from Parian marble in 1835. Its three-aisled basilica has a raised central nave and two bell towers. In Marpissa, the Sculpture Museum of sculptor and engraver N. Peratinos displays 192 of his works. The B. Skiadas Museum of Cycladic Folklore presents the history and traditions of Paros and the Aegean. The Folklore Museum of Naoussa includes the collection of Dr. Othon Kaparis, a library, an extensive photo archive and some archaeological finds.

Nature and events on the island

Paros’s natural areas also vary. The Valley of the Butterflies is a rare habitat for Jersey tiger moths, which can be seen in large numbers on tree trunks there. The Paros Environmental and Cultural Park has a seven-kilometer network of hiking trails, as well as organized and natural beaches. Its amphitheater has 700 seats for concerts and performances.

For nature experiences in Aliki, the island’s most important wetland, hiking tours, nature walks and cycling tours are organized for foreign visitors. The events calendar also offers a range of different options: the Alyki Cultural Festival lasts three days and takes place in June in Alyki on Paros. Since 2009, the Environmental and Cultural Park has hosted the summer program “Festival at the Park,” featuring cultural, sporting and environmental events. If you would like to plan your trip around a festival, check the dates for the relevant edition.

Discover more destinations: Páros, Ampelas, Drios, Molos, Andiparos, Kolimpithres, Náousa, Lefkes

For the broader travel overview: Paros.