13 of the Best Beaches in Greece
Greece’s world-class beaches attract travelers from around the globe. From the mainland to the Mediterranean Sea and from the Ionian Sea to the Aegean Sea, these stretches of sand attract every type of beachgoer. Planning a trip to Greece? Learn which of its hundreds of beaches is right for you.
Voutoumi, Antipaxos
The surreal juxtaposition of vibrantly blue waters and emerald-green vegetation has entranced many a traveler here. From the perch at Bella Vista, one of two taverns on Voutoumi, visitors can appreciate how the blues and greens are reflected in the beach’s brilliantly white sand.
Located on the island of Antipaxos in the Ionian Sea, Voutoumi is easily accessible by water taxi from the more well-known island of Paxos. Spend the day getting lost in the sights—just be sure to escape your reverie before 5 p.m., when the last water taxi departs.
Balos, Crete
Traveling to this picturesque beach puts you in the company of celebrities—Princess Diana was a notable past visitor. Once you arrive, you’ll understand why she made the trip.
Balos boasts gleaming white sand that shimmers with shades of pink; the vivid blue water, meanwhile, is highlighted with tinges of green. Spend a day laying out on the soft sand, and don’t forget to wade out into the Mediterranean waters. In addition to being visually stunning, they’re pleasantly calm.
Myrtos, Kelafonia
A hidden paradise, Myrtos stretches for a half-mile behind the limestone cliffs of two mountains. Gaze out on the azure waters from the top of the cliffs, then descend down a switchback road to the beach’s white sands.
Snorkelers should be sure to bring their gear, as the waters here are clear and replete with caves ready to be explored. After toweling off, finish the day off by watching the sun disappear behind the Aegean Sea horizon.
Voidokilia, Messinia
This semicircle-shaped cove so closely resembles an omega symbol that it’d be easy to believe it’s humanmade. Appreciate the geometric beauty from your perch near a lagoon behind the beach or get an even better view by trekking up a neighboring hill. Balancing nature with history, the cove is home to pelicans while a 13th-century Frankish castle sits atop the hill.
Kolympithra, Tinos
The bay at this small island in the Aegean is home to two beaches of distinct character. The larger of the two attracts surfers with its consistent summer waves, while the second boasts calmer surf and a more relaxing vibe. Whichever your preference, there’s a canteen nearby in the summer when you’re ready for a snack.
Navagio, Zakynthos
Travelers from the world over come to this peaceful cove to view the remains of a shipwreck that’s splayed across the shoreline. Located on the Ionian Sea island of Zakynthos, Shipwreck Beach (as Navagio is also known) is accessible only by boat. With white sands, sheer limestone cliffs, and stunning turquoise waters, you’ll be glad you made the trip.
Super Paradise, Mykonos
If you’re looking for revelry, Super Paradise is the spot for you. During the summer, partiers flock to a shoreline where the music gets louder and the atmosphere rowdier as the day goes on. Those looking for a more tranquil beach experience can still enjoy Super Paradise’s golden sands and clear waters by getting here early in the day.
Paleokastritsa, Corfu
Located on the Ionian Sea island of Corfu, Paleokastritsa gives travelers a choice of beaches. Whether you opt for the popular but relaxed Agios Spiridon, the smaller and more secluded Ampelaki, or any of the other worthy options, you’ll find a picture-perfect coastline highlighted by beautiful blue waters.
Elafonissi, Crete
Like Balos, Elafonissi boasts stunning pink-hued sands and spectacular blue-green waters. As a protected nature reserve, Elafonissi is also, like Balos, unspoiled in its beauty.
Located on Crete’s southwestern coast, Elafonissi is only a 90-minute drive from Balos. So why not visit both?
Sarakiniko, Milos
Yes, there’s a shoreline here; and yes, there’s also water. But Sarkinko is far from a normal beach.
Located on the Aegean Sea island of Milos, Sarakiniko features a lunar-like landscape where, instead of sand, white volcanic rock constitutes the shoreline. Explore the many nooks and crannies of the uniquely shaped rock, and venture into the mining caves below.
Simos, Elafonisos
Located on a small island just off the coast of the Peloponnese is this hidden treasure of a beach. A favorite among locals, Simos is charming for the wild beauty of its shoreline. Juniper trees and white daffodils dot the golden sand, and imposing sand dunes tower above the turquoise water.
Egremni, Lefkada
Getting to this beach isn’t easy: you either have to descend (and, when you’re ready to leave, climb) more than 300 steps, or hop on a boat from Nydri. Many travelers opt for the latter, but if you can handle the physical exertion, the walk offers one of the most dramatic views on the Ionian island—and in all of Greece. Speaking of dramatic, the sunsets here are worth sticking around for.
Possidi Cape, Halkidiki
One of three finger-shaped peninsulas that jut out from the northern Greek mainland, Possidi Cape is a narrow strip of golden sand surrounded on three sides by aquamarine waters. Come for the relaxation and perfect views and stay for the history—the ruins of the ancient city of Mende are nearby. With bars and taverns also in close proximity, there’s no reason for you to leave.