Curious about the best beaches in Greece? You’ve come to the right place. The Greek islands and the mainland are home to some of Europe’s most stunning sandy shores, rivaling any other beaches in the world.
Greek beaches are some of the most popular in Europe and are definitely a favorite for summer getaways. To avoid debates about rankings, this list is in random order. From golden sands and clear waters to rock formations shaped by waves, here are some of the nicest beaches in Greece you shouldn’t miss.
Porto Katsiki: Located on the Ionian Island of Lefkada, this beach was once accessible only to goats navigating the steep cliffs. Now, there are stairs from a parking lot at the top of the cliff. It’s best to visit early around 8 am to avoid the crowds. There are no hotels or camping allowed nearby, but you can find small restaurants on the cliffs. The beach is easily accessible by bus or taxi from towns or by boat tours from Nidri.
Elafonisi Beach: Found on Elafonisi Island, off the southwest coast of Crete, this beach is famous for its pink sand and warm, clear waters. It’s a protected nature reserve and a perfect spot for windsurfing during summer. The beach can be reached by wading through shallow waters from Crete on calm days. Buses and taxis from Chania can get you here, with buses being a slower, budget option.
Koukounaries Beach: On Skiathos Island, this beach offers fine white sand and a fragrant pine forest, making it one of the Mediterranean’s most unspoiled beaches. Protected since the 1960s, the area is perfect for swimming, watersports, and nature walks. Local buses circle the island, dropping tourists at Koukounaries, one of the main stops.
St Paul’s Bay: South of Lindos on Rhodes island, this bay is known for its clear waters and history, allegedly where Apostle Paul landed during a storm. Popular for weddings and family visits, it offers swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The beach can be reached by bus or taxi from Rhodes city.
Lalaria Beach: Accessible only by boat from Skiathos town, this beach is known for its white sand, cliffs, and sea caves. Boat tours generally visit only in the mornings due to strong afternoon winds. It’s a stunning and adventurous destination.
Myrtos Beach: Located on Kefalonia Island, this beach is famous for its turquoise waters and beautiful sunsets. It’s a top attraction and easily reachable from Argostoli, the main town. Buses run regularly from Argostoli to the beach.
Sarakiniko Beach: On Milos Island, this beach is known for its unique volcanic rock formations shaped by wind and sea. The white rocks contrast beautifully with the clear blue waters. It’s usually quiet and easily accessible from the northern shore of the island.
Matala Beach: With a rich history, this beach in Crete once attracted hippies who lived in Neolithic caves at the beach’s edge. Now there are campgrounds and numerous hotels nearby, making it a great family destination. It’s accessible from Heraklion by taxi or bus.
Voidokilia Beach: This semicircular beach in southwest Greece forms part of Gialova Lagoon and is a protected bird sanctuary. It’s known for its beauty and historical significance. It’s about 30 minutes from Pylos, and if traveling from Athens, you can get there by bus and taxi.
Navagio Beach: Also known as Shipwreck Beach, located on Zakynthos Island, this beach is famous for its stunning views and the remains of a smuggler’s shipwreck. Accessible only by boat from Porto Vromi, it’s one of the most photographed spots in Greece.
Diamandi Beach: On Skiathos Island, this small, secluded beach offers beautiful sands and clear waters, particularly outside the high tourist season. It’s accessible from Sklithri by a short hike.
Lindos Beach: Near Lindos on Rhodes, this beach combines historical sites with beautiful sands. The nearby Acropolis offers a glimpse into the island’s rich past. It’s easily reachable by bus or taxi from anywhere on the island.
Mylopotamos Beach: On the eastern coast of the Pelion peninsula, this beach features white pebbles and blue waters, divided by rocks. Accessible from Tsagarada village, this tranquil spot is a must-visit.
Balos Beach: Located on Crete, near Balos Lagoon, this beach is known for its clear waters and Venetian castle on a nearby rocky island. Access is either by boat from Kissamos or by a rough track from Kaliviani.
Xi Beach: Situated on Kefalonia Island, this beach is known for its unique reddish-brown sand and calm shallow waters, making it ideal for families. It’s accessible from Lixouri by bus or taxi.
FAQs
– The best Greek beaches are often found on islands like Lefkada, Skiathos, Rhodes, and Crete.
– Crete is often cited for having some of the best beaches, featuring gorgeous white sands.
– For clear water, head to Balos Beach in Crete.
– Both Corfu and Crete boast incredible Greek beaches, with Crete offering more expansive options.
– Greek beaches are renowned globally, though Turkey also offers less crowded alternatives.
Greek beaches are among the world’s best, so grab your passport, plane tickets, and gear up for an amazing adventure in Greece!
