Makriyialos is literally translated as "long shore" and the long beach, which has been awarded Blue Flag status, and several other sandy coves that are never overcrowded, provide excellent conditions for swimmers of all experience and children due to the soft, gently shelving main beach and clean water. The charming small harbour of Makriyialos boasts several excellent bars and fish restaurants, some of which have their own fishing boats, so you can be assured that the fish will be fresh. One of the many pleasures of holidaying here is to watch the fishermen take their nets out in the evening and stroll down to the harbour the following morning to view their catch.
Just off the coast of Makriyialos, due East, is the picturesque deserted island of Koufonisi, which offers fine sandy beaches, clear blue seas and for those with an interest in archaeology, a Roman amphitheatre and mosaics. This has recently been made a protected archaeological site.

Surrounding Makriyialos are several mountain villages steeped in history with narrow winding streets, old and beautifully renovated stone houses encircled by geraniums, bougainvillea and vines, lemon and orange tress too numerous to count and of course the occasional goat or donkey being led through the streets. Daily life goes on in the villages as it has done for many decades, but the locals are never too busy to stop and welcome their visitors with a warm smile, or a friendly 'Yia Sas' ("hello"). Makriyialos offers something for everyone - the historian, the sun worshipper, the ornithologist, the botanist, the keen walker, the geologist and those of you in search of complete rest and relaxation.