Naxos Geography

Naxos is the largest among the Cycladic group of islands. It is located 103 nautical miles southeast of Athens and its history is strongly related to its position. The shape of the island is almost round, and its total area is large compared to the rest of the islands (429 square kilometers). The coastline is 150 km long and both sandy and rocky beaches are part of it.

Naxos has a population of approximately 20.000 inhabitants. Most of them live in Chora, the main town of Naxos.

The island generally has extremely moderate temperatures, but its proximity to the sea creates humid conditions as well. Summers and winters are typically mild. The Meltemi wind blows across the island from the north during the summer months and is stronger from mid-July to mid-August.
Due to the island's location right at the center of the Cyclades, the winds tend to be strong; therefore, Naxos constitutes a perfect haven for kitesurfers & windsurfers.

The uniqueness of the island is that its landscape is varied. Tall mountainous ranges are contrasted by lush valleys, which slope to form exotic and panoramic white and golden sandy beaches with azure waters. The soil is rich and fertile, thus delivering good quality products each year.

Mount Zas' summit is the highest point of the Cyclades, rising 1003 meters above sea level.
The geomorphology of Naxos is known for its long coasts on the western side of the island, where beaches are sandy. The eastern beaches are more remote and the coastline is rocky. The villages located in the fertile valleys are Halki, Tripodes, Melanes, Sangri, and Egares. The main occupation of the islanders is in the tourism industry, farming & cattle breeding.

Discover the Map of Naxos
View the map of Naxos with the main villages, beaches, and sights, as well as the location of the port and the airport.
View: Map of Naxos