Santa Maria offers pale sand, beach clubs and water sports near Naousa, but its open northeast aspect makes wind central to the experience.
Our take
A lively Naousa-side beach shaped by the meltemi
Santa Maria is a social, active beach northeast of Naousa. Organised seating, diving and water sports occupy the main bay, with smaller sandy coves continuing along the coast. The area suits travellers who want service and activity rather than still water and silence.
The meltemi can strengthen quickly and sends chop through the bay. Swim within marked zones, ask operators where craft launch, and use early buses or legal parking before the narrow local roads become congested.
Good to know
Water sports, Meltemi, Beach clubs, and Sandy beach
