Psili Amos

Psili Amos is a picturesque sandy beach located on the southwestern side of Patmos Island, Greece, approximately 10 km southwest of the island's capital, Chora. Renowned for its fine golden sand, sweeping dunes, and clear azure waters, Psili Amos is considered one of the best beaches on the island and one of Europe's top seaside retreats.

The beach's natural characteristics are further enhanced by the presence of tamarisk trees that provide shade to beachgoers. On windy days, the beach becomes a playground for those who enjoy playing with waves that can reach heights of 0.5 to 1 meter. It's recommended for visitors to check wind conditions before visiting, as the wind can lead to large waves and an accumulation of seaweed. On calm days, flies may be present, so carrying a spray is advised.

Psili Amos does not have amenities such as umbrellas or sun loungers, so visitors are advised to bring their own gear. The beach is managed by a family that operates a tavern during the summer months, providing basic needs for visitors. The tavern is known for its well-cooked food made from fresh ingredients. Those planning to stay overnight and would like to dine at the tavern must inform the establishment in advance to ensure sufficient meal preparation.

The beach does not have a designated parking area. Visitors can reach Psili Amos by one of the regular boats departing from Skala, the main town on the island. Alternatively, visitors can take a bus to Diakofti and then walk for about 25 to 30 minutes on a moderately walkable path. The walk involves crossing two hills and a small mountain on a well-trodden donkey track. It is recommended to avoid walking during midday due to the heat, which can be challenging for the elderly, children, and unfit individuals.

Despite its popularity, Psili Amos is less crowded due to its distance from Skala. However, it can get particularly busy in August, especially on Sundays when locals and tourists alike flock to the beach. The beach is spacious with plenty of room for everyone, including campers who often set up their tents under the tamarisk trees. However, finding a spot for a tent can be challenging due to the number of campers who come specifically for Psili Amos and stay on the beach until they leave the island.

While the island of Patmos has a strong religious background, and nudism is generally not fully accepted, it is tolerated at the far south end of Psili Amos. This section of the beach is unofficially considered the nudist area, although signs of respect are expected near the tavern and in view of those who might be offended.