Best Beaches in Greece: 25 Stunning Shores You Need to Visit
Greece has over 13,000 kilometers of coastline spread across the mainland and islands. What used to be secret spots known only to locals and adventurous backpackers has become the stuff of travel legend—and honestly, the hype is completely justified.
Despite Greek beaches finding their way onto every "world's best" list in recent years, many remain surprisingly unspoiled. The geography here is insane: volcanic moonscapes, pink sand lagoons, shipwreck coves, and turquoise waters that look photoshopped but absolutely aren't.
With the Aegean and Ionian seas offering dramatically different swimming experiences, Greece has developed a reputation as one of Europe's ultimate beach destinations.
Whether you want Instagram-famous shores, hidden coves accessible only by boat, family-friendly sand, or dramatic cliffs plunging into crystal water—I've got all the best Greek beaches to add to your bucket list.
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, Navagio Beach in Zakynthos with its iconic shipwreck will deliver. But 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…
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.
Highlights to tempt your beach-hopping itinerary:
- Navagio Beach, Zakynthos: The most photographed beach in Greece, with a rusting shipwreck on white sand surrounded by towering cliffs
- 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 25 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: The beach is only accessible by boat—there's no road down. Tours leave from Porto Vromi, Agios Nikolaos, and Zakynthos Town. Book ahead in summer. For the famous aerial view, drive to the clifftop viewpoint above (bring a head for heights—there's no barrier).
What to know: The beach itself is crowded between 11am-4pm with tour boats. Go early or late. The water is cold (deep cove, little sun penetration) and the pebbles are large. Swimming is secondary to the photo op.
Best for: Bucket-list seekers, photographers, drone pilots
Book a boat trip to Navagio Beach
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. 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
4. 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
Cyclades Islands Beaches
5. 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
6. 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.
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
7. 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
Find beachfront hotels in Naxos
8. 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
9. 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
10. 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: Short walk from Akrotiri village (combine with the ancient Minoan site). Path involves some scrambling over rocks—wear proper shoes.
What to know: Beach is small and gets extremely crowded. Cliff rockfalls have caused injuries—check current safety conditions. The swim is refreshing but the beach is pebbly.
Best for: Geology lovers, Instagram photographers, Akrotiri visitors
11. 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
Find beach hotels in Santorini
12. 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
13. 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
14. 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.
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
Book an Elafonissi day trip from Chania
15. 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
Book a Balos & Gramvousa boat trip
16. 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
17. 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
18. 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
19. 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
Mainland Greece Beaches
20. 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
21. 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
22. 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
Dodecanese Islands Beaches
23. 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
24. 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
25. 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 Greek Beaches by Interest
Quick reference guide:
Looking for...
Go to...
Instagram-famous
Navagio (Zakynthos), Sarakiniko (Milos), Balos (Crete)
Pink/unique sand
Elafonissi (Crete), Red Beach (Santorini)
Family-friendly
Plaka (Naxos), Koukounaries (Skiathos), Voidokilia (Peloponnese)
Dramatic cliffs
Myrtos (Kefalonia), Porto Katsiki (Lefkada), Navagio (Zakynthos)
Snorkeling
Kleftiko (Milos), Anthony Quinn Bay (Rhodes), Lalaria (Skiathos)
Off the beaten path
Seychelles (Ikaria), Simos (Elafonisos), Agios Pavlos (Amorgos)
Party/nightlife
Perivolos (Santorini), Paradise Beach (Mykonos)
Accessible by boat only
Navagio, Kleftiko, Lalaria, Balos (optionally)
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 (Navagio, 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 (Navagio, Kleftiko, Balos) 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.
Best Time to Visit Greek Beaches
May-June and September-October offer warm water (22-26°C), fewer crowds, and better prices. My favorite time for beach hopping.
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
Related Post
10-Day Greece Itinerary: The Perfect Island Hopping Route
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.
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.
Start planning your Greek beach adventure
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Last updated: January 2026