Best Beaches in Greece: 30 Picks, Region by Region (2026)

Greece has the second-highest number of Blue Flag beaches in the world, 624 of them in 2026, and most of the famous ones really do look like the photographs. What the usual lists leave out is that two of the most photographed, Navagio on Zakynthos and Red Beach on Santorini, are currently closed to visitors on the sand, and 251 of the wildest beaches now ban sunbeds altogether.

This guide picks the 30 best beaches in Greece across six regions: Milos's white volcanic moonscape at Sarakiniko, the pink-sand lagoons of Elafonissi and Balos in Crete, Myrtos's cliff-backed crescent on Kefalonia, the omega-shaped bay at Voidokilia in the Peloponnese, and the best beaches near Athens for anyone without a ferry ticket. For each one you get how to get there, what to know before you go, and who it suits.

It's written by Greeks who swim at these beaches every summer, with beach selection and field research by Vaggelis, a certified Greek tourist guide. Where a beach has closed, changed or come under new rules, we say so.

Which Greek Beach Should You Visit? A Quick Answer

The mother of all questions—which Greek beach should you prioritize? Well, it ultimately depends on what type of experience you're looking for.

If you want that jaw-dropping "is this even real?" moment, Sarakiniko on Milos or Balos on Crete will deliver; Navagio on Zakynthos, the famous shipwreck, is currently closed to landings and best seen from the clifftop or a boat. If you're after pink-tinged sand and shallow turquoise lagoons, Elafonissi in Crete is calling your name.

Here's the best part though—Greece has so many incredible beaches that you can easily visit several in one trip. Within a single island, you might find five completely different beach experiences.

So, if you have the time, why not plan to visit a few? You'll get to see all the different sides of Greece's stunning coastline. Or just read on and find your perfect beach…

This page ranks individual beaches. If you're still choosing the island first, our guide to which Greek island has the best beaches ranks them island by island, and the best Greek islands for beaches guide matches islands to the kind of beach holiday you want.

What are Greek Beaches Like?

Greek beaches are surprisingly diverse—far more than the typical Mediterranean image of pebbly shores and calm water. If you're planning a trip to Greece, understanding the variety will help you choose wisely.

Here's what to expect from Greek beaches:

Greece offers every type of beach imaginable. You'll find long stretches of golden sand (Naxos, Crete), dramatic white pebbles (Kefalonia, Lefkada), volcanic black sand (Santorini), red cliffs (Santorini), and even pink-tinged shores (Elafonissi, Balos). The diversity is genuinely remarkable.

The Aegean vs. Ionian difference matters. The Ionian Sea (western Greece) tends to be calmer, warmer, and more turquoise. The Aegean (eastern Greece) can be windier—especially during the Meltemi season in July-August—but offers that iconic deep blue color. Both are stunning; just know what you're getting into.

Access varies wildly. Some beaches have beach bars, sunbeds, and parking lots. Others require boat trips, steep hikes, or dirt roads that will test your rental car. Often, the harder a beach is to reach, the more spectacular (and less crowded) it will be.

Water clarity is exceptional almost everywhere. Greece consistently ranks among the top countries in Europe for water quality. You'll find visibility of 30+ meters in many spots—snorkeling here doesn't require a boat trip to a reef.

Every beach is public. By Greek law the shoreline belongs to everyone, so you can always spread a towel for free outside the area a beach bar has leased for its sunbeds. Rented sunbeds and umbrellas are the only thing you pay for.

Highlights to tempt your beach-hopping itinerary:

• Navagio Beach, Zakynthos: The most photographed beach in Greece, a rusting shipwreck on white sand under towering cliffs. Closed to landings in 2026, so you see it from above or from a boat
• Balos Lagoon, Crete: A shallow turquoise lagoon that looks like it belongs in the Caribbean, not the Mediterranean
• Sarakiniko, Milos: Lunar white volcanic rock meeting impossibly blue water—unlike anywhere else on Earth
• The hidden coves are endless! From boat trips to Kleftiko's sea caves to hiking down cliff paths to secret shores, exploration is rewarded here

The 30 Best Beaches in Greece

Related Post - Best Greek Islands to Visit: Ultimate Guide

When I first started exploring the Greek islands, I thought I knew what to expect—pretty beaches, blue water, the usual Mediterranean stuff. I was completely unprepared for the variety and drama of what I found.

Each beach had its own personality: volcanic landscapes that looked like Mars, lagoons so shallow you could walk forever, cliffs so dramatic they took my breath away. It didn't take long to realize that Greek beaches aren't just places to swim—they're destinations in themselves.

Here are my top picks for the best beaches in Greece, organized by region:

Ionian Islands Beaches

1. Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach) – Zakynthos

The most iconic beach in Greece

Let's start with the big one. Navagio Beach is probably the single most photographed spot in all of Greece—that aerial shot of a rusty shipwreck on white sand, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, has graced a million travel posters.

And you know what? It genuinely lives up to the hype.

The legendary shipwreck from above...

The MV Panagiotis ran aground here in 1980 (allegedly while smuggling contraband—hence "Smuggler's Cove"), and it's been rusting photogenically ever since. The contrast of the decaying ship against white pebbles and impossibly turquoise water is surreal.

How to visit: Not on foot, and not by landing. After a cliff collapse, the beach and the water of the cove are closed until 31 October 2026: no landing, no swimming, and boats must stay 50 metres offshore. You can still see it from a boat holding position at the mouth of the cove, on trips from Porto Vromi, Agios Nikolaos and Zakynthos Town, or from the clifftop observation platform above when it is open. Our Shipwreck Beach guide has the current position and which boats still go.

What to know: The famous aerial shot is taken from the cliffs, not the beach, so the closure costs you less than you'd think. The clifftop has no barrier in places; stay behind the fencing. For a swim the same day, the Blue Caves at Cape Skinari are unaffected by the closure.

Best for: Bucket-list photographers, boat-trip days. Not for swimming in 2026

2. Myrtos Beach – Kefalonia

The dramatic crescent

Myrtos consistently appears on "best beaches in Europe" lists, and once you see it, you'll understand why. This sweeping crescent of white pebbles sits beneath massive limestone cliffs, with water that shifts from pale turquoise near the shore to deep cobalt blue further out.

The iconic view from above Myrtos...

The drive down is half the experience—hairpin turns with increasingly jaw-dropping views. There's a famous viewpoint on the road above where everyone stops (you'll know it by the cars).

How to visit: Drive from Argostoli (about 30 minutes) or Fiskardo (40 minutes). The road down is steep but paved. There's a parking area at the bottom (gets full by midday in summer). Beach has a small snack bar but limited facilities.

What to know: The pebbles are large and can be uncomfortable—bring water shoes. The drop-off is steep, so supervise kids carefully. Currents can be strong. The afternoon sun hits the cliffs beautifully.

Best for: Photographers, dramatic scenery lovers, Captain Corelli's Mandolin fans

3. Antisamos Beach – Kefalonia

The green-hilled bay

Kefalonia's other famous beach is the opposite of Myrtos: a sheltered bay of white pebbles on the east coast near Sami, wrapped in steep wooded hills that run straight down to the water. Scenes from Captain Corelli's Mandolin were filmed here, and the sea is usually calmer than on the west coast because the hills block the prevailing wind.

How to visit: Drive from Sami, about 15 minutes over a steep, winding road with big views on the way down. Organised, with sunbeds and a beach bar.

What to know: Pebbles again, so water shoes help. It fills up in the middle of the day in July and August; the early morning is glassy and empty. Our Kefalonia travel guide covers where to base yourself.

Best for: Calm-water swimmers, snorkellers, film fans

4. Porto Katsiki – Lefkada

The cliff-backed paradise

Porto Katsiki translates to "Goat Port"—apparently only goats could access it before the steps were built. Now it's one of the most famous beaches in Greece: a perfect curve of white pebbles backed by sheer white cliffs, with that distinctive Ionian turquoise water.

The famous stairs down to Porto Katsiki...

The beach sits at the bottom of dramatic cliffs on Lefkada's west coast. The descent involves around 100 steps (not too bad) with stunning views the whole way down.

How to visit: Drive to the parking area at the top (about 40km from Lefkada Town on winding roads). Walk down the steps. Limited facilities at the bottom—bring supplies. Gets very crowded in peak summer; arrive before 10am.

What to know: Unlike many Greek beaches, Lefkada is connected to the mainland by a bridge—no ferry needed. The west coast beaches are windier but more dramatic than the east.

Best for: Beach lovers, cliff scenery enthusiasts, those who want Ionian beauty without a ferry

5. Egremni Beach – Lefkada

The dramatic rival

Just north of Porto Katsiki, Egremni is arguably even more beautiful—a longer stretch of white sand and pebbles beneath even taller cliffs. It was severely damaged by an earthquake in 2015, which destroyed the famous staircase, but the beach has reopened with boat access.

How to visit: Currently accessible only by boat from Nidri or Vassiliki, or by a new (rough) path from the top. The earthquake changed the landscape, but the beach is still stunning.

What to know: Check current access conditions before planning a visit. The remoteness means fewer crowds than Porto Katsiki.

Best for: Adventure seekers, those seeking fewer crowds

6. Porto Timoni – Corfu

The double beach

Below the hill village of Afionas in Corfu's northwest, a narrow neck of land leads out to Porto Timoni, where two small coves sit back to back. You can swim in one bay, walk thirty seconds across the isthmus and swim in another, and the view from the path above is one of the best on the island.

How to visit: On foot from Afionas, about 30 minutes down a rough, stony path (longer coming back up), or by boat from Agios Georgios Pagon.

What to know: No facilities at all, and little shade. Wear proper shoes for the path and carry plenty of water. Our Corfu travel guide has the rest of the island's beaches.

Best for: Hikers, photographers, anyone who wants a Corfu beach that still feels wild

Cyclades Islands Beaches

7. Sarakiniko Beach – Milos

The lunar landscape

Sarakiniko is unlike any beach you've ever seen. Forget sand—this is smooth white volcanic rock, carved by wind and waves into surreal lunar formations. The contrast with the deep blue Aegean water is almost alien.

The famous moonscape of Sarakiniko...

People swim in the natural channels between the rocks, sunbathe on the smooth white surfaces, and jump from the low cliffs into crystal-clear water. There's a sea cave to explore and a dramatic natural arch.

How to visit: Easy drive from Adamas or Plaka (free parking). No facilities—bring everything you need. Gets busy by midday; sunrise is magical and empty.

What to know: The white rock reflects intense sunlight—bring serious sunscreen and sunglasses. Water access is via climbing down rocks (can be slippery). Not ideal for elderly visitors or small children.

Best for: Photographers, Instagram lovers, geology nerds, anyone wanting something truly unique

Book a Milos boat tour including Sarakiniko

8. Kleftiko – Milos

The sea cave paradise

Kleftiko might be the most spectacular boat-access-only destination in Greece. This collection of dramatic rock formations, sea caves, and hidden swimming spots was once a pirate hideout (kleftiko means "stolen goods" or "thieves"). You can only reach it by boat, and it's worth every minute.

Crystal-clear waters in Kleftiko's caves...

The snorkeling here is exceptional—swim through cave tunnels, explore underwater rock formations, and enjoy water visibility that seems impossible.

How to visit: Boat tours leave from Adamas daily. Full-day tours (around €40-80) include multiple stops including Kleftiko, lunch, and snorkeling gear. Book ahead in high season.

Set off on an all-inclusive afternoon catamaran cruise to Milos highlights.

What to know: There's no beach per se—you swim from the boat or rocks. The caves are the attraction. Best experienced as part of a full-day boat tour around Milos.

Best for: Snorkelers, adventure seekers, cave enthusiasts

9. Plaka Beach – Naxos

The endless golden stretch

Naxos has arguably the best beaches in the Cyclades for actual swimming and beach-going (as opposed to dramatic scenery). Plaka Beach is the crown jewel: kilometers of golden sand, shallow turquoise water, and a fraction of the crowds you'd find on Mykonos or Santorini.

Golden sand stretching forever at Plaka...

The beach runs for about 4km, so even in August you can find your own space. The southern end is more organized with sunbeds and beach bars; walk north for seclusion.

How to visit: Drive or bus from Naxos Town (15 minutes). Multiple access points along the road. Beach bars and tavernas scattered throughout.

What to know: The water is shallow for a long way out—perfect for families with small children. Cedar trees provide natural shade in some areas. Windsurfing and kitesurfing available at the southern end.

Best for: Families, beach lovers, those seeking the best swimming in the Cyclades

10. Agios Prokopios – Naxos

The organized paradise

Just north of Plaka, Agios Prokopios regularly wins "Best Beach in Greece" awards. It's more developed than Plaka—beach bars, water sports, sunbed rentals—but the sand quality and water are equally stunning.

How to visit: Short drive or bus from Naxos Town. Well-organized with parking, facilities, restaurants.

What to know: More family-friendly infrastructure than Plaka but also more crowded. The village behind the beach has excellent tavernas.

Best for: Families wanting facilities, water sports enthusiasts

11. Kolymbithres – Paros

The granite sculpture garden

Paros's most famous beach isn't about long stretches of sand—it's about bizarre granite rock formations that create natural swimming pools and hidden coves. Kolymbithres looks like a giant sculptor went wild with grey boulders.

The unique rock formations of Kolymbithres...

How to visit: Drive to the parking area or take a boat from Naoussa (more scenic). Multiple small coves to explore.

What to know: Small beaches fill up fast—arrive early. Rocks can be slippery. Great for kids who want to climb and explore.

Best for: Families with adventurous kids, photographers, geology enthusiasts

12. Golden Beach (Chrysi Akti) – Paros

The windsurfers' beach

On the east coast of Paros, Golden Beach is a long sweep of fine golden sand that turns into one of the Aegean's best windsurfing and kitesurfing spots when the summer meltemi blows across it. Schools and rental centres line the sand, and on a windy afternoon the bay fills with sails.

How to visit: Drive or take the bus from Parikia or Naoussa; there are tavernas and rooms right behind the beach.

What to know: In July and August it's often too windy for a lazy swim, which is the point for the windsurfers. In June and September it's calmer and suits families. For where to stay on this side of the island, see where to stay in Paros.

Best for: Windsurfers, kitesurfers, sandy-beach lovers

13. Paradise Beach – Mykonos

The party beach

Mykonos's most famous beach is a long stretch of golden sand on the south coast lined with beach clubs that run from lunch into the early hours in July and August. You don't come here for quiet; you come to dance in your swimsuit with a view of the sea.

How to visit: Bus from Mykonos Town's Fabrika station, or the water taxi from Platis Gialos, which also stops at Paraga, Super Paradise and Elia.

What to know: Club sunbeds are expensive in high season; the edges of the beach are free. For a calm swim the same day, head to Agios Sostis on the north coast. Our guide to the best beaches in Mykonos ranks all twelve by vibe, and the Mykonos beach clubs guide covers prices and booking.

Best for: Party seekers, young travellers, groups

14. Red Beach – Santorini

The volcanic drama

Santorini's beaches are unique—forget white sand, we're talking volcanic geology. Red Beach near Akrotiri is the most dramatic: a cove backed by towering red and black volcanic cliffs that look like they're on fire.

The dramatic red cliffs of Red Beach...

How to visit: For now, only from the water. Red Beach was closed to the public after a rockfall during the earthquakes of February 2025, and the path from Akrotiri is shut. Boat trips along Santorini's south coast pass close enough to see the red cliffs; check locally whether it has reopened before planning a walk down.

What to know: The beach is small and the cliffs above it are unstable, which is why it closed. If you want a Santorini swim, the long black-sand beaches below are the ones to use. Our guide to the best beaches in Santorini covers all ten and their current status.

Best for: Geology lovers, Instagram photographers, Akrotiri visitors

15. Perissa/Perivolos – Santorini

The black sand stretch

For actual beach-going in Santorini, head to the southeast coast. Perissa and Perivolos are essentially one long stretch of black volcanic sand with beach bars, restaurants, and water sports.

How to visit: Easy bus or drive from Fira. Well-developed with facilities.

What to know: Black sand gets extremely hot in summer—bring sandals or water shoes. Good nightlife scene. Calmer and more swimming-friendly than the iconic caldera villages.

Best for: Beach lovers, budget travelers (cheaper than caldera villages), nightlife seekers

16. Seychelles Beach – Ikaria

The hidden gem

Ikaria is famous as a "Blue Zone" (where people live exceptionally long lives) and for its alternative, relaxed culture. Seychelles Beach (named for its resemblance to the famous Indian Ocean islands) is a small cove with stunning turquoise water—and a fraction of the tourists you'd find elsewhere.

How to visit: Hike down from the road (about 15-20 minutes, steep path). No facilities—bring everything.

What to know: The hike deters casual visitors, keeping it relatively uncrowded. Water is crystal clear. Part of Ikaria's charm is that nothing is too easy to reach.

Best for: Adventurous travelers, those seeking authentic Greek island life

17. Agios Pavlos – Amorgos

The Big Blue beach

Amorgos gained fame from the film "The Big Blue," and Agios Pavlos bay on the western coast captures why. Crystal-clear water, a small sandy beach, and the dramatic Monastery of Hozoviotissa clinging to the cliffs above.

How to visit: Boat or hike from Aegiali. The monastery visit is essential (modest dress required).

What to know: Remote and uncrowded. Combine with monastery visit for a full experience. Amorgos generally attracts independent travelers seeking authenticity.

Best for: Film buffs, hikers, spiritually-inclined travelers

Crete Beaches

Crete has more great beaches than most countries. These four are the famous ones; our guide to the best beaches in Crete ranks the rest region by region, including the south coast most visitors never reach.

18. Elafonissi Beach – Crete

The pink sand lagoon

Elafonissi regularly appears in "best beaches in the world" rankings, and it absolutely deserves it. A shallow lagoon connects to a small island, with water so clear and turquoise it looks artificial. The sand has a pink tinge from crushed shells.

The famous pink-tinged sands of Elafonissi...

The water is remarkably shallow—you can wade to the island (Elafonissi) without swimming. It feels like you've been transported to the Maldives.

Looking for Greece's pink beaches? Elafonissi and Balos, both in western Crete, are the two famous ones. The colour comes from fragments of tiny red-shelled sea organisms mixed into the sand, and it shows best at the water's edge. Santorini's Red Beach is a different thing: it gets its colour from volcanic cliffs, not pink sand.

How to visit: Long drive from Chania (about 75 minutes on winding roads) or organized tour. Large parking lot, basic facilities. Gets extremely crowded in summer—arrive before 10am.

What to know: The pink color is subtle (not Barbie pink) and varies with light conditions. Protected area—respect the dunes and vegetation. Water is cool due to shallowness (evaporates heat quickly).

Best for: Families with small children, photographers, bucket-list seekers

19. Balos Beach & Lagoon – Crete

The Caribbean of Greece

If Elafonissi is stunning, Balos might be even more dramatic. This lagoon on the Gramvousa peninsula features the same impossibly turquoise shallow water, but with a wilder, more remote feel and the ruins of a Venetian fortress on the island opposite.

The famous view down to Balos Lagoon...

How to visit: Two options: 1) Boat from Kissamos (includes Gramvousa fortress stop, easier), or 2) Drive the rough dirt road and hike down (harder but more flexible). The hike down takes 20-30 minutes; the hike back up in the heat is brutal.

What to know: The boat is crowded but easier. If driving, rent a sturdy vehicle (not a Smart car). Bring more water than you think. The lagoon is shallow and warm. Fewer facilities than Elafonissi.

Best for: Adventure seekers, photographers, those who don't mind effort for reward

20. Vai Beach – Crete

The palm forest beach

Vai on Crete's eastern coast is famous for its palm forest—the largest natural palm grove in Europe. The contrast of tropical-looking palms against Mediterranean sand and water is unexpected and beautiful.

How to visit: Drive from Sitia or Agios Nikolaos. Well-organized with parking and facilities.

What to know: Gets crowded due to tour buses. The palm forest is protected—stay on marked paths. For quieter options nearby, explore the small coves south of Vai.

Best for: Nature lovers, families, those exploring eastern Crete

21. Falassarna Beach – Crete

The sunset beach

Falassarna on Crete's west coast offers wide golden sand, excellent swimming, and some of the best sunsets on the island. Less famous than Elafonissi and Balos, it's actually better for traditional beach activities.

How to visit: Drive from Chania (about 50 minutes). Multiple beach sections—some organized, some wild.

What to know: Faces west, so perfect for sunsets. Can be windy. Excellent for families wanting sand, swimming, and facilities without the extreme crowds of Elafonissi.

Best for: Families, sunset lovers, those wanting a great beach without extreme crowds

Sporades Islands Beaches

22. Lalaria Beach – Skiathos

The white pebble paradise

Skiathos has over 60 beaches, but Lalaria on the northern coast is special. Accessible only by boat, it features smooth white pebbles, dramatic cliffs, a natural rock arch, and intensely blue water.

The famous rock arch at Lalaria...

How to visit: Boat trips from Skiathos Town (the cliffs make land access impossible). Typically combined with a "round the island" tour.

What to know: No facilities—bring supplies. The smooth white pebbles are gorgeous but can be uncomfortable. The boat ride itself is beautiful, passing sea caves and cliffs.

Best for: Day-trippers, photographers, those seeking dramatic scenery

23. Koukounaries Beach – Skiathos

The pine forest beach

Koukounaries is regularly voted among the best beaches in Greece—and it's actually accessible without a boat. Golden sand backed by a protected pine forest, with clear water and good facilities.

How to visit: Bus from Skiathos Town (end of the line) or drive. Well-organized with parking, sunbeds, water sports.

What to know: Popular but large enough to absorb crowds. The pine forest behind provides natural shade. Lake behind the beach is a nature reserve.

Best for: Families, beach lovers wanting facilities, nature enthusiasts

If you want to wake up next to it, our guide to the best hotels in Skiathos names the resorts in the pine forest behind the sand.

One more from the Sporades that just missed the numbered list: Kokkinokastro on Alonissos — red cliffs dropping into turquoise water, reached down an unpaved track, and the one beach in this region you will most likely have to yourself even in August. Alonissos sits inside Europe's largest marine protected area, which is why its water is clearer than anything on Skiathos.

Mainland Greece Beaches

24. Voidokilia Beach – Peloponnese

The perfect omega

Voidokilia near Pylos is one of the most perfectly shaped beaches you'll ever see—a near-perfect omega (Ω) of golden sand enclosing a shallow lagoon. Views from the hilltop ruins above are spectacular.

The perfect omega shape of Voidokilia...

How to visit: Drive from Kalamata or Pylos. Access via dirt road or hike over the hill from Petrochori. No facilities—bring everything.

What to know: Relatively undeveloped (Greece protects this area). Climb to the Paleokastro ruins above for the famous view. Water is shallow and warm—perfect for kids. Combine with Nestor's Palace nearby.

Best for: History buffs (Nestor's Palace nearby), photographers, families

25. Simos Beach – Elafonisos

The Caribbean of the Peloponnese

Elafonisos is a tiny island just off the southern Peloponnese, reachable by a quick ferry from Pounta. Simos Beach (actually two connected beaches) has some of the most Caribbean-like water in Greece—shallow, warm, and ridiculously turquoise.

The double beach of Simos...

How to visit: Drive to Pounta (southern Peloponnese), take the 10-minute ferry to Elafonisos, then drive or take a shuttle to Simos. Can be done as a day trip from Monemvasia or Gytheio.

What to know: Very popular with Greeks in August (island gets packed). Visit in June or September for more space. Two beaches—one more organized, one wilder.

Best for: Families, Peloponnese road-trippers, those seeking Cyclades-quality water without the ferry journey

26. Sarakiniko Beach – Parga (Mainland)

The Ionian coast gem

Not to be confused with Milos's lunar landscape, mainland Sarakiniko near Parga is a beautiful cove on the Epirus coast. The colorful town of Parga provides a perfect base for exploring this stretch of coast.

How to visit: Boat from Parga or drive. Multiple beaches in the area to explore.

What to know: Parga itself is a charming town worth a night or two. The mainland Ionian coast is underrated—fewer tourists than the islands.

Best for: Those exploring northwestern Greece, Zagori villages visitors wanting beach time

27. Kavourotrypes – Halkidiki

The granite coves

On the east coast of Sithonia, the middle finger of Halkidiki, Kavourotrypes is a string of small coves between smooth white granite rocks, with pine trees growing almost to the water and a sea that runs from pale turquoise to deep blue. It's the beach that turns up on every Halkidiki postcard.

How to visit: Drive along Sithonia's east-coast road, a short way north of Sarti, and park on the road above; a short path leads down to the coves.

What to know: Each cove is tiny, so arrive early in July and August or you won't find a rock to sit on. No organised facilities in the coves themselves. Our Halkidiki travel guide covers the other beaches on all three peninsulas.

Best for: Snorkellers, photographers, northern Greece road-trippers

Dodecanese Islands Beaches

For the Dodecanese beaches almost nobody writes about, Tilos is the outlier: Eristos runs two kilometres under tamarisk trees, Lethra and Red Beach can only be reached on foot, and Plaka has a resident population of wild peacocks. The whole island sits inside Natura 2000, which is why the water is what it is.

For the rest of the island's coast, east and west, our guide to the best beaches in Rhodes compares them side by side.

28. Tsambika Beach – Rhodes

The family-friendly favorite

Rhodes has dozens of beaches, but Tsambika on the east coast stands out: a long stretch of golden sand with shallow, calm water perfect for families.

How to visit: Easy drive from Rhodes Town. Well-organized with facilities, parking, restaurants.

What to know: Named after the monastery on the hill above (great views, 300 steps). East coast beaches are calmer than west. Can get crowded but the beach is large.

Best for: Families with children, those wanting facilities and safety

Find top-rated hotels in Rhodes on Booking.com, then cross-check Agoda for savings.

29. St. Paul's Bay – Rhodes

The postcard cove

Near Lindos, St. Paul's Bay is a small heart-shaped cove beneath the famous Acropolis. Legend says St. Paul landed here in 51 AD. The chapel and dramatic setting make it popular for weddings.

How to visit: Walk from Lindos village (about 10 minutes downhill). Small beach, so arrive early.

What to know: More about setting than beach quality. Combine with Lindos Acropolis visit. The view from above (from the Acropolis) is stunning.

Best for: History lovers, romantics, Lindos visitors

30. Anthony Quinn Bay – Rhodes

The film star's cove

Named after the actor who fell in love with the area while filming "The Guns of Navarone," Anthony Quinn Bay is a small rocky cove with crystal-clear water, excellent for snorkeling.

How to visit: Drive or bus from Rhodes Town. Gets crowded—arrive early.

What to know: More rock than sand—water shoes helpful. The snorkeling is the attraction here. Nearby Ladiko Bay has more sand.

Best for: Snorkelers, film buffs, those seeking clear water

Best Beaches Near Athens (No Ferry Needed)

Yes, Athens has beaches, and you can reach some of them by tram. The coast south of the city, the Athens Riviera, runs from Faliro past Glyfada and Vouliagmeni towards Cape Sounion, and the tram from Syntagma follows it as far as Voula, stopping near free beaches in Glyfada and Voula.

Vouliagmeni Lake. Not a beach but a brackish lake under a limestone cliff, fed by underground springs and warm enough to swim in for most of the year. Paid entry, sunbeds and a café.

Legrena. A sandy bay just before Cape Sounion, close enough to swim in the afternoon and watch the sunset from the Temple of Poseidon after.

Schinias. A long, pine-backed sandy beach near Marathon, northeast of the city, shallow and good for families, about an hour's drive from the centre.

Our guide to the best beaches near Athens covers ten, from the tram line to a ferry to Aegina.

Nude and Naturist Beaches in Greece

Topless sunbathing is normal on almost every Greek beach and nobody will look twice. Full nudity is tolerated on secluded beaches and on stretches with a long naturist tradition, but not on busy family beaches, where it can draw complaints or a fine. The rule of thumb: if nobody else is naked, you shouldn't be either.

A few places where it's the norm: Gavdos, south of Crete, where Tripiti and the remote coves have a strong naturist tradition (see our Gavdos travel guide); the southern end of Plaka on Naxos, away from the sunbeds; Little Banana on Skiathos, around the rocks from Banana Beach; and the far end of Elia on Mykonos.

Best Greek Beaches by Interest

Best sandy beaches. If you want soft sand rather than pebbles, the Cyclades and Crete are the safe bets: Plaka and Agios Prokopios on Naxos, Golden Beach on Paros, Falassarna and Elafonissi on Crete, Koukounaries on Skiathos, Simos on Elafonisos and Voidokilia in the Peloponnese. The Ionian's famous beaches, Myrtos, Porto Katsiki and Egremni, are mostly white pebbles: beautiful, but bring water shoes.

Best beaches for families. Plaka on Naxos (shallow for a long way out), Koukounaries (pine shade and facilities), Falassarna, Tsambika, Simos and Elafonissi. With small children, skip Sarakiniko (bare rock, no shade), Myrtos (steep drop-off and strong currents) and Balos (a hot hike or a crowded boat).

One thing worth knowing: the best beaches and the best snorkeling are rarely the same places. Crowded sand with speedboats and churned-up sediment is the worst underwater visibility you can find, and the clearest water tends to be at rocky coves nobody photographs. Our snorkeling in Greece guide explains which of these beaches are worth a mask and where to go instead.

Practical Tips for Greek Beach Hopping

Water shoes are essential. Many of Greece's most beautiful beaches have pebbles, not sand. A €10 pair of water shoes will transform your experience.

Arrive early or stay late. The most famous beaches (Sarakiniko, Elafonissi, Balos) get mobbed by midday in summer. Sunrise or sunset visits are magical and peaceful.

Rent a car (or boat). Public transport reaches major beaches, but Greece's best hidden coves require wheels—or a boat tour. Check out my Greece road trip guide for tips.

Book boat tours in advance. Popular trips (Kleftiko, Balos, the Navagio and Blue Caves cruises) sell out in high season. Book at least a few days ahead.

Respect protected areas. Elafonissi, Balos, and others are protected sites. Stay on marked paths, don't take sand or shells, and avoid stepping on dunes.

Sun protection is serious. Greek summer sun is intense, especially reflected off white sand, volcanic rock, or water. High SPF sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are non-negotiable.

Greece's Protected "Untouched" Beaches: The 2026 Rules

In April 2026 Greece expanded its list of protected "untouched" beaches to 251, up from 238. On these beaches the rules ban sunbeds, umbrellas, tables and chairs, amplified music, motor vehicles on the sand, water-sports rentals and gatherings of more than ten people, and no new commercial concessions are granted inside Natura 2000 zones.

Reporting on the April additions named Elafonissi, Balos and Falassarna in Crete, along with beaches on Milos, Naxos, Corfu and Lefkada; the official list is published only in Greek. What it means for you: expect no sunbeds or beach bars, bring your own shade, water and food, and take your rubbish home.

Best Time to Visit Greek Beaches

June and September: the sweet spot. The sea is warm, the crowds are thinner than in high summer and prices drop. May and October are lovely for walking and photography, but the water is cooler, especially in May. My favourite time for beach hopping is the first three weeks of September.

July-August means peak heat (35°C+), maximum crowds, and the Meltemi winds that can make some Aegean beaches uncomfortable (but make the Ionian more appealing). Water is warmest (25-27°C).

Late April and early November can be lovely for dramatic scenery and photography, but water is cooler (18-21°C) and some beach facilities close.

Plan Your Greek Beach Adventure

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Whether you're chasing Instagram fame at Navagio, seeking family-friendly sand at Plaka, or exploring volcanic moonscapes at Sarakiniko—Greece has a beach waiting for you.

For first-time visitors, I'd recommend combining an iconic beach destination (Milos for drama, Naxos for all-around quality) with some lesser-known gems.

For budgeting help, check out my guide on how much a trip to Greece costs. And if you're overwhelmed by choices, our Greece trip planning quiz can help match you with your perfect beaches.

One that belongs on any honest list and almost never makes one: Kedros on Donoussa. Powdery sand, water clear enough to see the bottom well out from shore, the best restaurant on the island sitting behind the drystone wall at the back of it, and the wreck of a German warship you can snorkel to from the beach.

Whatever you choose, you honestly can't go wrong. Greece's coastline is endlessly rewarding—the trick is picking the beaches that match your travel style.