Cue Lindsay Lohan dance moves, because this is how you throw a party in Mykonos, bitch!

If you want to, that is. There are many different ways to experience Mykonos, Greece depending on your vibe. The island is known for attracting some major partygoers (hence Lindsay Lohan opening a club there), but also offers some delicious meals, serene beaches, and world class shopping in town if that’s more your speed.

For my recent trip to Mykonos, I was coming off 7 days at sea with The Yacht Week, so I wanted to relax with small spurts of partying. The city delivered, and by the time we left I had dubbed Mykonos my new favorite city and gave Prague the boot. So I encourage you to first identify your vibe, and then create your own itinerary. Here are some ways to “Choose Your Own Adventure.”

Drinks:

Chill with a view → 180° Sunset Bar

I would actually say this is a must-do no matter what your vibe. Get here about 30-45 mins before sunset and grab a drink (Entry is 20 euro, but you get a free cocktail — I recommend the pina colada). Then grab a seat and take in the spectacular views as the sun goes down.

High energy to mingle → JackieO Town Bar

Situated right on the water in port, JackieO Town Bar is known as a hotspot for partiers, and hosts nightly drag shows in an oh-so-chic setting.

Beaches:

Party & Indulge → Super Paradise Beach

Find excellent service as you lounge at Super Paradise Beach all day. With delicious cocktails, yummy bites, and even a free 5 minute massage at the snap of your finger, you’ll feel like royalty that has traded in their throne for a lounge chair. Great music is played all day long, and in the afternoon the energy picks up with a full beachfront dance floor.

Dance & Pop Bottles → Paradise Beach – Tropicana Beach Bar

In stark contrast to Super Paradise, Tropicana Beach Bar’s beachfront service is SLOW (like very slow). Consider bringing your own alcohol here, or walking to the bar to get drinks. However, if you’re looking for a party, the dance floor and DJ here are stellar.

Rest & Relax → Paragos Beach – Kalua Beach Bar

We didn’t make it to this beach, but I’ve heard that it’s one of the more laid back areas to get some real R&R on your vacation.

Live Like a Local → Aghios Sostis

A local told us that this was her absolute favorite beach. Come to find out later that one area of it is a nude beach — so, you go freaky local shop lady 👏. If you’re into that sort of thing head to Aghios Sostis, which is a beautiful remote beach in northern Mykonos. Be sure to bring your own towel, snacks, water, and umbrella or hat since there are no sunbeds here and you might be, yknow, *exposed.*

Where to Stay:

In town on a budget → Villa Varnali Small Boutique Hotel

This is a small boutique hotel with a bit of an Airbnb feel. We stayed in one of the larger rooms, which had its own kitchenette and balcony. It was nice, and situated just above town so there was less noise than if you stayed in the center. It wasn’t the most luxurious option, but it was super comfortable, clean, and service was great.

At the beach mid-priced → Kosmoplaz Beach Resort

This is where we would have stayed if we had chosen to stay at one of the beaches. It’s located on the water in Platys Gialos, and has its own private beach with sunbeds. You can grab a room to fit your desires here. If you’re budgeting, book one of the courtyard-facing rooms, but opt for an ocean-view if you want to treat yourself. My friend Karina stayed here and raves about it to this day.

Ball out & Sleep in a Cave → Cavo Tagoo

There’s no doubt you’ve seen this hotel on Instagram before. It’s famous for its cave rooms and pool suites. Though they are super pricey ranging from 700-3,000 euro/night, these rooms stay BOOKED, so be sure to grab one in advance if you’re dreaming of staying here.

Where To Eat:

Breakfast on the Water → Bouboulo

If you love a cute cafe moment, you’ll want to stop by Bouboulo. With chic boho decor (and a mini garden in the bathroom) Bouboulo hits the mark for all of your Insta Story dreams. Try the Myconian Brunch and get a taste of everything, including delish coffee.

Mediterranean Dinner & Espresso Martinis → Pelican

Recommended to us by a local shop employee, Pelican is right on the water and serves up delicious Mediterranean dishes. I’m going to be completely honest, due to the Espresso Martinis I indulged in, I don’t remember what I ordered here. But I do remember that it was divine. So try whatever you want. (Including the Espresso Martini 😉.)

Intimate Seafood → Kounelas Fish Tavern

This felt like a very cool secret dive restaurant — is that a thing? Expect modest decor, and delicious seafood. The fish is incredibly fresh and flavorful. Try the catch of the day — you can choose your own fish for them to grill up, or go for the Grilled Seabream or a Salmon Steak.

Grab & Go → Crepaland

This is a chain restaurant (which I try to stay away from on vay-k), but it features an array of waffles and sweet and savory crepes that you can quickly grab and be on your way if you’re trying to catch a bus or explore the town.

Authentic Greek Bakery → Gioras Wood Medieval Mykonian Bakery

We stumbled in here after a day at the beach and it was an absolute treasure. Tucked away on a street right next to the bus station in town, Gioras Wood Medieval Mykonian Bakery serves up pies, pastries, and of course — baklava. It dates all the way back to the 18th century and is the oldest wood fired bakery in the Cyclades.