This small beach town on Sithonia peninsula draws visitors to its clear Aegean waters and 3-kilometer sandy coastline with views of Mount Athos across the bay.
Sarti sits on Greece's Sithonia peninsula, where a 3-kilometer white sand beach meets the Aegean Sea. You can swim in the calm waters while looking at Mount Athos rising from the sea, eat fresh seafood at traditional tavernas, or browse small shops selling local olive oil and honey. Walk to the chapel on the northern promontory for sunset views, or drive 6 kilometers to swim at Kavourotripes beach with its distinctive orange rocks.
Layout of Sarti
Two areas make up Sarti: the old town and the new district. The old town sits on a hill, with narrow streets winding up to a small square shaded by palm trees. The newer area, built since 2008, runs along the beach with modern accommodations. A rocky hill at the northern end has a white chapel at its peak, where you can see the entire coastline and neighboring beaches.
The Main Beach
The 3-kilometer Blue Flag beach has distinct sections. Near the old town, the water drops off quickly, making it good for swimming. Along the new district, the shallow water extends far out, creating safe zones for children. You'll find beach bars and water sports rentals scattered along the shore, with kayaks, surfboards, and water skis available. The beach's width - about 50 meters in most places - means you can always find quiet spots away from the beach bars.
Daily Life and Services
About 1,000 people live in Sarti year-round. The town has three supermarkets, two pharmacies, and ATMs. In the center, local food stores, clothing shops, and bakeries line the main street. Each evening in summer, people fill the beachfront walking path, eating at tavernas that later become cocktail bars.
Getting Around
Sarti lies 135 kilometers from Thessaloniki, connected by five daily buses. You can rent a car in town to explore Sithonia's beaches and mountains, or take local buses to nearby villages. In summer, boats leave from the small pier for Mount Athos viewing trips.
Nearby Beaches
Several beaches sit within easy reach of Sarti. Platanias beach, 2 kilometers south, attracts fewer visitors than the main beach. Kavourotripes, 6 kilometers north, has distinctive orange rocks and small coves. Drive 8 kilometers north to reach Armenistis beach and its Blue Flag campsite.
Historical Background
Ancient Sarti belonged to the Athenian Alliance, with stone ruins still visible on the hills above the Gulf of Sykia. The current town began in 1922 when families from Asia Minor settled in the area. You can see old photos of early settlers in the small local history exhibition at the cultural center.
