This month, we’re taking you to Mykonos. Part of the Greek island group known as the Cyclades, Mykonos sits in the Aegean Sea, and epitomizes the beauty of the region – its charming, whitewashed buildings glitter beneath a dazzling azure sky. It’s so beautiful, we couldn’t resist using it as the backdrop of our May digital photoshoot.

Today, the locale is renowned for its postcard-perfect scenery, but Mykonos has played host to many an ancient myth. It’s named for the god Apollo’s grandson – a local hero – and is the famed spot where Zeus battled the Titans.

If your grasp of Greek mythology is a bit rusty, fear not – as historically significant as the island is, it’s also the ideal modern-day getaway, thanks to white-sand beaches, incredible cuisine, and bustling nightlife. Here, we share a few of our favorite ways to explore the isle.

There are many white-sand beaches to choose from in Mykonos, but we’re partial to Agios Sostis, an idyllic, semi-remote piece of paradise. Situated on the north side of the island, the beach is well-worth the 20-minute ride from town – instead of sitting shoulder-to-shoulder with fellow sun bathers, you’ll feel like this gem of a spot is all your own.

No trip to Agios Sostis is complete without sampling the cuisine at Kiki’s Tavern. Loved by locals for its fresh, Mediterranean dishes and stunning ocean views, this low-key spot has no need for a phone, a sign, or electricity. Even though it’s tucked away from the main tourist sites, you’ll want to arrive early to beat the crowd and try Kiki’s grilled-to-perfection shrimp and sea bass for yourself.

See Mykonos from the sea by booking a trip with Aegean Ventures. Each of their handcrafted boats is captained by a member of the Faroupos family, a group of hospitable, seafaring Grecians who have called the Cyclades home for generations.

High up on a hill sits Castle Panigirakis, a historic structure that houses Sunset Yoga. This all-levels center takes its name seriously – with a breathtaking view of the town and the horizon, it’s easy to have a quiet, meditative workout.

Nestled on a natural platform that juts out into the Agia Anna Bay, Spilia – Greek for “cave” – offers oysters, mussels, and urchins freshly caught from the Aegean waters below. If you can, snag a seat in the candlelit cave. But if not? The moonlight peeking through a canopy of florals creates an ambience of equal romance.

Start your day by the sea at Kazarma, a well-loved waterfront destination for Greek cuisine. Add one of their savory breakfast dishes, like salmon toast with egg, to your must-try list. It’s a great spot to people-watch over a glass of a fresh-squeezed OJ or a specialty latte.

Cubic structures, colorful wooden doors, and whitewashed walls – Mykonos’s architecture seems like it’s been pulled straight from a postcard. Take the morning to stroll around and appreciate the traditional Cycladic buildings that dot the island. Our favorite stop was the Church of Panagia Paraportiani – a picturesque complex of five small churches, built between the 15th and 17th centuries.

Wander around Mykonos’s mazelike streets for all sorts of fashionable finds, from high-end boutiques to tiny shops filled with handcrafted goods. Jewelry stores are especially plentiful here – we recommend a stroll down Polykandrioti Street to find the best Grecian-inspired gold pieces.

Aside from having some of the best cocktails in Mykonos on the menu, Kastros is a top spot for taking in the dramatic Aegean sunset. Tucked away in the Venetian-influenced section of town, Little Venice, it’s a great place to relax while sipping on creative libations like the Lychee Martini or the Lemon Tart cocktail.

It doesn’t get more traditionally Greek than Bakalo. Set in a whitewashed house built in the 18th century, this stylish courtyard spot serves up traditional Greek comfort food – think homemade moussaka, spiced cheeses, and tzatziki. As for dessert? A trip to Greece wouldn’t be complete without a bite of baklava.

The stone streets are irresistible – bring some comfortable sneakers for strolling around all day. A linen sundress and hair scarf will be your go-tos, but pack some wide-legs for good measure. For the day spent at the beach, you’ll need a bathing suit and cover up. Oh, and did we mention that the sun shines on Mykonos for an average of 300 days a year? We think sunglasses and a sun hat are in order.