While it is renowned for all its ancient ruins and historic sights, Greece is also famous for its breathtaking beaches and warm, sparkling waters. As it boasts the Mediterranean’s longest coastline, it has thousands for you to choose from with many dotted about its idyllic islands.
Often set in spellbinding spots, the beaches in Greece range from small, secluded stretches of sand to wide, open expanses alongside the Aegean. While some are completely wild and untouched, many others have plenty of bars, restaurants and watersports to try out.
Besides Crete, Corfu or Rhodes, there are countless other stunning islands to visit that are perfect for relaxing beach holidays.
20. Possidi Cape, Kassandra
Jutting out into the Aegean, the triangular-shaped Possidi Cape is bordered on both sides by beautiful beaches. Lying along the west coast of the Kassandra Peninsula, it is very peaceful and picturesque, especially in comparison with other over-developed parts of Halkidiki.
While one side of the long sandbar is quite calm but has a deep drop, the other is shallower with larger waves. Aside from swimming and splashing about in its crystal-clear waters, you can stroll along and bask in its stunning views.
As there are no facilities nearby, make sure to bring a parasol and snacks and drinks with you. Sunsets here are particularly spectacular.
19. Prasonisi Beach, Rhodes
Another interesting and attractive beach to visit is that of Prasonisi, right down in the south of Rhodes. Like the Possidi Cape, its strip of sand has water on both sides as it acts as an isthmus to the rather small isle of the same name, just offshore. Remarkably enough, this is where the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas meet, merging at high tide and during the winter time.
Quite a unique spot, it stretches around 3 kilometers in total with one side again being calmer than the other. Due to the other’s constant wind and waves, many people enjoy both kitesurfing and windsurfing here. As its sands are quite compact, it’s not the best beach for sunbathing with most visitors instead ambling out to the isle or enjoying some of its exciting watersports.
18. Paleokastritsa Beach, Corfu
While Prasonisi is certainly a special place, Paleokastritsa Beach has breathtaking beauty. Surrounded by gorgeous cliffs and greenery, its bright white sands and twinkling turquoise waters look like something straight out of a travel catalogue. A must-see on Corfu, it lies in the northwest of the Ionian Island.
Also known as Agios Spiridon, the beach has plenty of bars and restaurants to try, almost all with astounding views. You can also rent kayaks, paddleboards and pedalos or take cruises to see its nearby caves and dolphins.
Besides exploring its series of small, scenic bays, hike up to its charming old monastery for yet more phenomenal viewpoints. While it is extremely busy in summer, you definitely won’t regret spending time at Paleokastritsa Beach.
17. Voutoumi Beach, Antipaxos
At least rivalling it, however, are the enticing white sands and incredible azure waters of the isolated Voutoumi Beach. Only reachable by boat from Paxos, its sheltered cove lies hidden along the northeast coast of Antipaxos. Despite the remote setting, there are still a couple of small tavernas to grab a drink at.
Lined by large white cliffs topped with lush vegetation, the paradisiacal beach also has some amazing rock formations to check out. Other than enjoying the wonderful colors and waters, there are lots of shimmering shoals of fish to snorkel above. As both boat tours and private yachts often stop here, its pristine reaches can still get quite packed in summertime.
16. Voidokilia Beach, Messinia
One of Messinia and mainland Greece’s most popular beaches, Voidokilia Beach is located in a spellbinding spot by the Mediterranean Sea. Part of the Peloponnese region, its fine sands are backed by the Gialova Lagoon; an important bird habitat. Sure to delight nature lovers, it also has the atmospheric ruins of a thirteenth-century fortress to explore.
Laid out in the shape of the Greek letter Omega, its gently curving strip of dunes is fronted at either side by massive rocky mounts. The waters are very shallow and calm with warm, soft, golden sands ideal for lounging on lazily. Aside from sunbathing, swimming and seeing its archaeological sites, you can walk about its dunes and watch out for local bird life.
15. Lalaria, Skiathos
Yet another of Greece’s best beaches has to be the lovely Lalaria that lies on the north side of Skiathos. Surrounded by steep, white cliffs, its small, smooth pebbles are bordered by tantalising turquoise waters with a striking sea arch also located at one end. Try and visit in the morning if you can, as the afternoon shrouds everything in the shade.
Although it is only accessible via boat, the picture-perfect beach can still get pretty crowded during the peak tourist season. Countless sightseeing tours stop off here so people can snap pics of its colossal cliffs and swim in its crystal-clear waters. Make sure to bring any snacks or drinks with you as there is nothing around when you arrive.
14. Plaka Beach, Naxos
Much easier to reach are the warm, inviting sands and sparkling clear waters of Plaka Beach along the west coast of Naxos. While it is a firm favorite with both locals and tourists alike, it is still very calm and quiet most of the time. Numerous bars, restaurants and small hotels are also dotted along its sprawling sands.
Stretching 4 kilometers in length, the beach is completely untouched and unspoiled with only a few sections having sun loungers and parasols for rent. As it is so long, there is more than enough space to go around. The parts nearer its parking spaces are normally busier though with nudists heading further off.
13. Mylopotas Beach, Ios
A very popular holiday destination, Ios is known not just for its lively nightlife scene but its lovely beaches too. One of the best is Mylopotas, just outside of its capital Chora. Here you can relax on either sand or sunbed or enjoy delicious Greek dishes in its umpteen bars and restaurants. Plenty of fun watersports are also on offer at the beach too.
Protected by the bay, its golden shores and glimmering blue waters are hemmed in by rugged mountains. Very picturesque, the beach makes for some fantastic photos from all the hills overlooking it. In addition to topping up your tan, you can kayak and paddleboard or arrange sightseeing cruises and scuba diving trips.
12. Sarakiniko Beach, Milos
Very lunar-like in appearance, the startlingly-white cliffs of Sarakiniko Beach make it one of the most photographed spots on Milos. Fascinating to see, the unusual rock formations contrast delightfully with the brilliantly blue waters. While the beach is tiny, most people come to explore its incredible landscapes and arresting ocean caves.
Tucked away along the isle’s northern coast, the long, narrow cove is bordered by reflective white volcanic rocks that create stunning shapes and silhouettes. Besides clambering about the cliffs and jumping into the sea from atop them, you can actually enter some of its enchanting caves. No trip would, of course, be complete without taking some photos and selfies at the beautiful beach.
11. Red Beach, Santorini
As its name indicates, Red Beach is known for the remarkable ruddy hues of the huge cliffs that overlook it. Set right in the southwest of Santorini, a bit far from all Fira’s famous white and blue buildings, its vivid colors make it well worth visiting. Other than admiring its epic scenery, you can sunbathe or swim and snorkel in the shimmering Aegean Sea.
Formed over the course of countless millennia, the rich red and black sands and rearing cliffs were forged by volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. Very dramatic looking, it creates some fabulous photo opportunities, particularly at sunset. As it only has a narrow strip of sand to lie on, the beach can get pretty busy in summer.
10. Agios Prokopios, Naxos
The Naxos Island beach of Agios Prokopios is a haven for beachgoers who wish to lounge all day on the white sand. Travelers can see the beach dotted with rented umbrellas much of the year, though strong winds in the summer months make the water more appropriate for wind surfing than sunbathing.
The vista at Agios Prokopios is one of the best in Greece. You’ll see outcroppings of rock to the north and large, shade-giving trees to the south. This beach is popular with families that enjoy the shallow shoreline and easy access to markets and cafes.
9. Koukounaries, Skiathos
Located on the island of Skiathos, Koukounaries is popular with travelers from home and abroad. The water is clear, the sand is soft, and the stone pine forest creates a cozy atmosphere that is unique to this part of the world.
Tourists can be spotted swimming, boating, and skiing in the water or horseback riding on land. There are dining options on the beach for casual meals and many resorts nearby for a more elegant approach.
8. Paradise Beach, Mykonos
The island of Mykonos is truly home to Paradise. This is particularly true for those tourists wishing to party the night away near the sand and the sea. Paradise Beach is open to partiers, naturists, and anyone wanting an exciting beach experience from dusk through dawn.
Even if you’re not interested in the party, the water is warm and the beach is sandy and soft. Plenty of food and drink options round out the trip to Paradise, just be sure to leave the kids at home.
7. Balos Lagoon, Crete
One of Crete’s most beautiful beaches, Balos Lagoon is located near the town of Kissamos. Sandwiched between the small island of Imeri Gramvousa and Crete itself, the beach is accessible by boat or car. At Balos Lagoon, you’re greeted with a stunning vista created by an outcropping of rock that is surrounded by pink sand and blue and turquoise water.
This is arguably the most photographed natural wonder in all of Greece, which causes tourists to visit in massive numbers. The months of July and August are the busiest. When arriving at Balos Lagoon, it is important to bring your own refreshments. A small cafe is available on the beach, but the selections can be limited.
6. Lindos Beach, Rhodes
Rhodes is home to Lindos Beach, also referred to as Pallas Beach, which is an area that marries the sea with the history of the Greek islands. You can relax on the beach while gazing at a 4th century temple, which is only a short hike away. You can also relax in the water, renting a canoe or paddle boat for a lazy afternoon in the calm of the sea.
The nearby village of Lindos, a beautiful hillside settlement made up of whitewashed houses and cobbled streets, is a must visit. Taste the local cuisine and buy souvenirs in safety as the streets are made for pedestrians.
5. Elafonisi Beach, Crete
The beach of Elafonisi is truly outstanding. Located on the island of Elafonsi in southwest Crete. The exotic, pink and white sand gives way to azure water that is perfect for swimmers of all ages. Lifeguards make sure everyone stays safe, and umbrella rentals keep all tourists cool even in the hot Grecian summers.
For a break from the beach, you can easily tour the nearby Chrysoskalitissa monastery or the Agia Irini lighthouse.
4. Simos Beach, Elafonisos
The small island of Elafonisos hosts Simos Beach, often hailed by locals as the best beach in the country. The combination of turquoise waters, sand dunes, and unique flora create an atmosphere that is appreciated by all. Indeed, visitors will often find more locals than tourists at Simos Beach, which is known for its calm waters and lively party atmosphere.
The entire family can enjoy Simos Beach during the day. Children can swim and splash in clear, shallow water with a sandy floor. In the evening, the beach comes alive with music, dancing, and drinks thanks to the many bars in the area.
3. Porto Katsiki, Lefkadha
The Lefkadha beach of Porto Katsiki is regularly ranked as one of the best beaches in Europe. Once you reach the bottom of the stairwell leading to the seashore, they do not have to wonder why so many covet this location. The turquoise blue water and the long expanse of beach beneath a grassy cliff is breathtaking.
Though throngs of visitors ascend upon this beach, there is plenty of room for everyone. However, you’ll need to bring any sporting supplies as the only items for rent on the beach are umbrellas and sunbeds. Porto Katsiki can also be reached via taxi boat for those who prefer to avoid the long climb.
2. Navagio Beach, Zakynthos
Secluded and stunning, Navagio Beach is the highlight to a vacation on Zakynthos, the third largest of the Ionian Islands. The beach is poised between the limestone cliffs of the island and is only accessible by boat.
Once you arrive to Navagio, you’ll see the ruins of a shipwreck, perfectly clear waters, and tourists trying their hands at BASE jumping from the cliffs above. There are no amenities on this beach, though the boats that carry tourists to and from sometimes offer drinks or even lunch.
1. Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia
Kefalonia’s Myrtos Beach is as surprising as it is stunning. The bright white of the pebbles jut sharply into the deep blue of the sea. The steep mountains and tall cliffs behind Myrtos beach only add to its beauty. For all these reasons Myrtos has previously been voted 12 times as the best beach in Greece.
Those who enjoy Myrtos Beach come for sun, sun, and more sun. There is little to no shade and the only water sport available is swimming. However, sunbeds and umbrellas can be rented for a small fee. Most visitors suggest wearing sandshoes to Myrtos Beach. What looks like sand is actually rock, which can be difficult on the soles until one reaches the sandy seabed.
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