There is no dearth of beautiful beaches around the world, where golden sand, swaying coconut trees and blue waters attract tourists. But there is a coastal area in the Aegean Sea of the European country Greece, which changes the entire definition of traditional sea beaches. As soon as you step into this place, it seems as if you have left the Earth and reached straight to the surface of the Moon or some unknown space planet. We are talking about the world famous 'Sarakiniko Beach' of Milos Island located in the Cyclades Islands of Greece. Sarakiniko Beach is considered unique throughout the world for its magical combination of bone-like milky white rocks, strange curved formations and glass-transparent deep blue waters. Here neither are any trees or plants visible at a distance nor is there a sheet of sand like normal sea beaches. Instead, there are miles of smooth, sloping, white rocks that shine like silver in the bright sunlight. This is the reason why in the international tourism world it is also known as 'Lunar Beach' or 'Alien Landscape'. Unique Architecture of Nature: How were these milky white volcanic rocks formed? Millions of years of geological movements are responsible for this unimaginable and unreal looking geography of Sarakiniko Beach. The island of Milos has historically been a highly active volcanic island. According to scientists and geologists, huge amounts of lava, ash and pumice were released during massive undersea volcanic eruptions millions of years ago. Over time, layers of volcanic ash and limestone solidified under extreme pressure into hard sedimentary rocks (tuff and pumice stone). After this nature started its carving work. The powerful sea waves of the Aegean Sea and the strong 'Meltemi' winds blowing from the north caused erosion of these rocks for millions of years. The constant friction of wind and water molded these white stones into extremely smooth, wavy and cavernous formations. Today these rocks are visible in the form of natural bridges, arches, tunnels and huge pits, which look exactly like the craters of the Moon. Dreaded Base of Pirates: The Mysterious History Behind the Name 'Sarakiniko' Sarakiniko Beach is known not only for its natural beauty but also for its interesting and mysterious history. This beach is named 'Saracinico' after the dreaded 'Saracen Pirates' of the medieval period. During the medieval period, when the Aegean Sea was the main sea route for international trade, Saracen pirates of Arab and North African origin were active in the region, plundering merchant ships. The deep natural caves and narrow sea inlets formed among the white rocks of Sarakiniko used to be the safest haven for these pirates. The pirates used to hide their ships under the cover of these white rocks so that the ships passing through the open sea would not get a clue of them. Even today, when tourists visit this beach, they get to see ancient mooring points cut into the rocks and caves which, centuries ago, were used by pirates to stay and hide treasure. Crystal clear turquoise waters and the thrill of adventure: From cliff jumping to snorkelling, Sarakiniko Beach is not only a sight to behold, it is also a perfect paradise for lovers of adventure activities and water sports. The water here is so clean and transparent that fish swimming several meters deep from the surface and the rocky bottom are clearly visible. The water appears emerald green, turquoise and deep cobalt blue against the backdrop of white rocks. Exciting Cliff Jumping: The towering white dunes of Sarakiniko are a favorite spot for cliff jumpers. Jumping from sheltered white cliffs ranging in height from 3 meters to 10 meters straight into the deep blue sea is a very popular adventure. snorkelling and scuba diving: natural underwater sea arches, submerged caves and rich marine life create an ideal environment for snorkelling. It feels like a dream to see the amazing underwater views while swimming below the rocks. Mystery of the Shipwreck: The wreckage of 'MV Africa', a cargo ship that sank in 2003, just off the rocks of Sarakiniko, still exists in shallow waters. This shipwreck is a major attraction for divers and drone photographers from around the world. Natural Canyon Walk: The water flowing through the rocks has created a narrow natural canyon, which acts like a small safe natural swimming pool, where there is no fear of waves. Photography paradise: Real magic awakens on the full moon night. In the era of social media and modern photography, Sarakiniko Beach has become one of the most Instagrammed tourist destinations in the world. Sunlight at different times of the day casts different colors on these white rocks. In the morning, when the first rays fall on these stones, the entire area is bathed in light pink and golden colors. Direct exposure to Mediterranean sunlight in the afternoon creates a white glow so intense that the rocks are difficult to see without sunglasses. At sunset the horizon of the Aegean Sea turns into shades of orange, purple and vermillion, the reflection of which casts a magical hue on the white stones. The most supernatural view of Sarakiniko can be seen on full moon nights. When the full moon shines in the sky, its silvery light bounces off these white volcanic rocks and is reflected back. In the dark of night, the rocks glow blue-white and the calm water shows the reflection of the moon in the sea. At that time, every person who strolls here feels as if he has actually stepped onto the lunar land, millions of kilometers away from the Earth. How to reach Sarakiniko and Milos Islands? Important travel tips for tourists If you are also planning a trip to this most unique beach in the world, then it is very important to understand the travel route and local arrangements: How to reach Greece and travel to Milos: From India or any part of the world, first of all one has to reach Athens, the capital of Greece. There are daily high-speed ferries and regular ferries to the island of Milos from the port of Piraeus in Athens, which take 3 to 5 hours to reach Milos' main port 'Adamas'. Additionally, short domestic flights to Milos are also available from Athens Airport. Local Transport: The distance from Adamas port or main town Plaka to Sarakiniko beach is only 4 to 5 kilometers. Tourists use ATVs (quad bikes), scooters, rental cars or local buses to reach here. Best time to visit: May to October is considered the most favorable time to visit Sarakiniko. The months of June and September are the best as the weather is pleasant during this period and the crowds of July-August can be avoided. Important precautions: Sarakiniko is a completely raw and natural beach. There are no restaurants, lounge bars or umbrellas here. Therefore, while going here, be sure to carry adequate drinking water, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses and shoes with strong grip to walk on the rocks. Also, it is the moral responsibility of every tourist to keep this sensitive natural heritage clean and not to damage the stones.
