Pollonia, on the north-eastern tip of Milos about ten kilometres from Adamas, is where the island slows down. The village curves around a small bay with a beach of fine golden sand and tamarisk trees that provide natural shade, a seafront lined with tavernas, ice cream shops and cafes, and a harbour where fishing boats and day-cruise boats moor. It is family-friendly and low-key, with a more upscale feel than it had a decade ago, thanks to a handful of boutique hotels and restaurants. Pollonia is also the gateway to Kimolos, the island just across a narrow strait. A small local car ferry runs from Pollonia to Psathi on Kimolos in about twenty-five minutes, carrying foot passengers and vehicles, and it makes a day trip easy for independent travellers. Boat trips to Polyaigos depart from here too, shortening the crossing. In the evening, the waterfront fills with diners watching the light fade over the bay and the lights of Kimolos twinkling across the water. It is a good base for people who prefer a village to the port and who want quick access to beaches, the north-coast sights and the ferry.
The beach
Pollonia's beach is gentle, with shallow water and sand, so it suits children and relaxed swimmers. The tamarisk trees give welcome shade, which is rare on Milos. There are a few sunbeds and tavernas close to the sand. The bay is sheltered from some winds but exposed to the north, so strong meltemi days can bring waves. A short drive or walk leads to other quiet beaches and rocky coves for snorkelling.
The Kimolos ferry
The local ferry to Kimolos operates several times a day in season, with fewer sailings in the cooler months. Tickets for the local boat are normally bought at the ticket offices in Pollonia or in Psathi on Kimolos rather than online, and passengers should arrive in good time before departure. Timetables change by season and can be affected by wind, so check the current schedule and pick your return sailing first. If you take a hire car or motorbike across, confirm that your rental agreement allows it.
Eating and staying
Pollonia has some of the island's best seafood and a few international options, and prices are higher in high season. It is smaller than Adamas, with fewer services and a quieter evening scene, which many guests prefer. Buses connect to Adamas but run less frequently than on other routes, so a car or scooter helps.
Pollonia suits couples, families and travellers who like to base themselves in a village, and it is an excellent place to start a day on Kimolos or a cruise to Polyaigos. Walk the waterfront at sunset and eat early to catch the light.
A good evening routine is a late afternoon swim, a stroll to the end of the harbour wall for the view across to Kimolos and an early dinner at a waterfront table. Early in the season and in autumn, the village is especially peaceful, with fishing boats at the quay and a few families eating on the terraces, and the pace of life seems to slow down even more.
What to expect
The experience
A waterfront village with a shaded sandy beach, seafood tavernas and the short local ferry to Kimolos.
Best time
Morning for the beach and ferry; evening for dinner on the waterfront.
How long
Two hours to a full day.
Tips
Buy local ferry tickets at the office, check the timetable and pick your return sailing first.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families and couples who like a small village and easy beach.
- Families
- Shallow sandy beach with shade and tavernas close by.
- Couples
- A seafront dinner with views to Kimolos.
- Pair with
- Kimolos, Polyaigos cruises and Firopotamos.
- Time needed
- Two hours to a full day.
Good questions
How long is the ferry to Kimolos?+
About twenty-five minutes from Pollonia to Psathi on the local car ferry.
Can I book ferry tickets online?+
The local ferry typically sells tickets at the offices in Pollonia and Psathi. Check with the operator for current practice.
Is there a beach?+
Yes, a sandy beach with tamarisk shade and tavernas.
Can I take a car on the ferry?+
Yes, but confirm your rental agreement allows it.
Is Pollonia a good base?+
Yes, for a quiet village stay, though buses are less frequent than from Adamas.