Mandraki Beach

Mandraki is the bay east of the harbour and the only proper sand on Hydra — imported sand, in fact, laid in front of the resort that occupies the bay. It is the most organised beach on the island: sunbeds, a bar, water sports and calm, shallow water, which makes it the obvious choice with small children. A shuttle boat runs from the port in about five minutes; the coastal path is walkable but rough and exposed. Mandraki was Hydra's naval base in the 18th century, and the old shipyard buildings still stand behind the beach.