Best beaches in Greece | Our top picks

With thousands of islands to choose from, Greece can feel overwhelming when you're searching for your next beach break. But don't let that stop you – this country has a lot to offer, whether you're island-hopping or just after the perfect place to unwind. From busy, iconic bays to quiet, scenic coves, here's our rundown of the 20 best beaches in Greece.

What are the best beaches to visit in Greece?

Greece isn’t short on beaches, but not all are worth your towel space. With over 6,000 islands (only a fraction inhabited), narrowing down where to go can be overwhelming. That’s where we come in.

This guide cuts through the noise to bring you the best Greece beaches – spots where the water’s actually clear, the vibe is just right, and the views hit hard. Whether you’re into wild swims, lazy days under a taverna’s shade, or just looking for a place to finally finish that book, we’ve got you covered.

We’ll take you from hidden coves on lesser-known isles to buzzy, big-name bays on the best islands in Greece. Some beaches are backed by cliffs, others by olive groves. Some need a bit of a hike. All are worth it.

This isn’t about ticking boxes. It’s about finding your place – whether it’s on the pink sands of Elafonisi, the windsurfing playground of Paros, or somewhere you’ve never heard of (yet).

Ready to dive in? Here’s our pick of the best beaches in Greece.

1. Elafonísi, Crete

This tiny, uninhabited islet sits on the edge of a turquoise lagoon that shares its name – Elafonísi is often listed among the best beaches in Crete, and for good reason. Think soft pink-white sand, shallow warm water, and a dreamy islet you can wade to without breaking a sweat.

It’s no secret, though. Come in high season and you’ll be sharing the sand with crowds, rows of sunbeds, and a smattering of stalls selling cold drinks and snacks. Facilities are minimal – portable toilets and even a phone box, bizarrely – but don’t expect much beyond that. If you're day-tripping, pack a picnic and don’t count on quiet.

How to get to Elafonísi

The beach is around a two-hour drive from Chania, following winding mountain roads. There’s no public transport that drops you directly at the beach, so your best bet is to rent a car or join a tour from major towns like Chania or Kissamos. Parking fills up fast in summer – arrive early.

When to visit Elafonísi

Skip July and August if you can. May, early June, or September offer the same clear waters and glowing sand, minus the packed car park and beach towel chaos. Come midweek for your best shot at space to breathe.

2. Limniónas beach, Pelion Peninsula

Southeast of Mylopótamos lies the attractive Limniónas beach. You can arrive on foot from Mylopótamos, but most people get there via Lambinoú village (no reliable facilities). From here a paved road leads down past the restored eighteenth-century Lambidhónas monastery, which sports fine frescoes over the doors. Scenic Limniónas has a freshwater shower but no other reliable amenities.

Limniónas is a small but superior-for-swimming cove 2km further west; yachts and kaïkia occasionally call at the protected bay, which offers decent swimming at the east end, away from a rock shelf in the middle.

How to get to Limniónas

The easiest route is by car via Lambinoú village. From there, a paved but narrow road winds 2 miles (3km) downhill to the beach. It’s possible to hike in from nearby Mylopótamos, but you’ll want sturdy shoes and water – there are no facilities along the way. Public transport won’t get you close, so this one's best for drivers or dedicated walkers.

When to visit Limniónas

Late spring and early autumn are ideal – May, June, or September – when the sea’s warm enough and the crowds thin out. Summer weekends can draw locals, but it's rarely packed. Aim for a weekday morning for maximum peace, especially if you want to swim without dodging yachts.

3. Horeftó, Pelion Peninsula

Eight twisting kilometers down the mountain from Zagorá, Horeftó makes an excellent coastal base – especially if you’re mapping out a northern Greece itinerary with a mix of beaches and mountain villages. There’s a long, sandy beach right in front of this former fishing village, ideal for lazy swims and low-key lounging.

More secluded options lie nearby: Áyii Saránda beach sits 1¼ miles (2km) south, while to the north, two coves at Análipsi reward a short hike. The first cove is a little paradise, popular with nudists and rough campers who make use of a freshwater spring tucked behind the sand. Push on for twenty minutes along the coastal path and you’ll reach a second, rockier cove that’s also road-accessible.

For a break from the beach, take the old kalderímia (stone paths) back up to Zagorá – there are two routes, each about an hour, which can be linked into a scenic circular walk.

How to get to Horeftó

From the mountain village of Zagorá, it’s a 5 miles (8km) drive down a winding but scenic road. If you don’t have a car, some buses run from Volos to Zagorá, but connections to Horeftó itself are limited – check timetables carefully or consider a taxi for the final leg.

When to visit Horeftó

Late June through early September is best for beach time, though July and August can get busy. If you’re building a shoulder-season Greece itinerary, Horeftó in May or late September offers a quieter experience and comfortable walking weather.

4. Paleohóri, Mílos

The main road to southern Mílos splits at Kánava junction, near the large power station. The sea there contains underwater hot vents resulting in fizzy hotspots that locals use for jacuzzi-like baths. The eastern fork leads to Zefyría, which was briefly the capital until an eighteenth-century earthquake (and subsequent plague) drove out the population. 

5 miles (8 km) south of Zefyría, down a winding, surfaced road, is Paleohóri, one of the island’s best beaches, warmed by underground volcanism. A little rock tunnel leads west to a second beach, which is backed by extraordinarily colored cliffs and where steam vents heat the shallow water.

How to get to Paleohóri

From Adámas (the main port), it's about a 20-minute drive. Follow signs to Zefyría, then continue south toward Paleohóri on a well-maintained road. There’s also a bus service in summer, though car or scooter rental gives you more flexibility, especially if you plan to explore nearby beaches.

When to visit Paleohóri

June to September is prime time for beachgoers, with the warmest water and plenty of sun. Thanks to the volcanic heat, the sea here stays warmer longer into the season, making it a great stop on an early spring or late autumn itinerary, too. Visit early in the day if you want to claim a spot near the thermal vents.

5. Ayía Kyriakí in Mílos – one of the best beaches in Greece for water activities

Further west of Paleohóri, Ayía Kyriakí sits under towering cliffs stained with sulfur and red oxide. It’s one of the most striking Greece beaches, where the rocky landscape feels wild and untouched, yet the beach itself is surprisingly accessible.

The shore is mostly pebbles, but the water, clear and bright blue, makes up for it. You’ll find a few trees offering shade and calm waters perfect for a swim. It’s also one of the best beaches in Greece for water activities: snorkeling here is excellent, with plenty to spot in the shallows, and the gentle conditions make it ideal for paddling or just floating around all afternoon.

A handful of cafés and tavernas sit just behind the beach, so you’re not short on cold drinks or lunch options.

How to get to Ayía Kyriakí

From Adámas, it’s about a 25-minute drive heading south. The road is paved the entire way, and parking is available near the beach. Public buses run here in high season, but if you're exploring multiple spots, a car or scooter is the way to go.

When to visit Ayía Kyriakí

July and August bring the most buzz – and the most people. Visit in June or September for the same swim-friendly weather but fewer crowds. Mornings are quieter, while afternoons are best for snorkeling once the sun lights up the underwater rocks.

6. Shipwreck Bay, Zákynthos

Surrounded by sheer cliffs and impossibly blue water, Shipwreck Bay is one of the most photographed beaches in Greece – and not without reason. Also known as “Smuggler’s Cove,” this iconic spot is home to the rusting remains of the Panagiotis, a cargo ship allegedly smuggling contraband, which ran aground in the 1980s (not the 1960s, despite common myth) after being chased by the coastguard.

The golden sand, dramatic setting, and cinematic shipwreck make it an essential stop on many Greece itineraries. Just don’t expect solitude – this place gets packed in high season, both on the beach and at the cliffside viewpoint above.

How to get to Shipwreck Bay

You can’t drive directly to the beach. To set foot on the sand, you’ll need to take a boat; tours leave daily from Agios Nikolaos, Porto Vromi, and Zákynthos Town. If you're just after the view, a paved road leads from Volímes to a viewing platform perched on the cliffs above. Be ready for crowds (and vertigo).

When to visit Shipwreck Bay

The best time to visit is between May and early October, when boats are running regularly and the sea is calm. June and September strike the perfect balance – warm weather, clear skies, and fewer crowds. July and August are peak season: expect high temperatures, packed tours, and little personal space. If you're heading to the viewpoint, aim for a clear mid-morning in any of those months for the most dramatic color in the water.

7. Vríka, Andípaxi

Less than 1¼ miles (2km) south, Paxí’s tiny sibling Andípaxi has scarcely any accommodation and no facilities beyond several seasonal daytime beach tavernas. Andípaxi’s sandy, blue-water coves have been compared with the Caribbean, but you’ll have to share them with kaïkia and sea taxis from all three villages on Paxí, plus larger craft from Corfu and the mainland resorts.

Some of the Ionian Island’s best swimming and snorkelling is on offer on this islet, the smaller sister island of Paxí. Vríka, reached by boat from Corfu, is a sandy beach offering two tavernas – one at each end – of which Spiros serves great grilled and oven food. Quieter bays are accessible if you head south of Vríka.

How to get to Vríka

There are no roads to speak of – Vríka is only accessible by boat. Sea taxis and excursion boats leave regularly from all three villages on Paxí (Gáios, Lógaos, and Lákkos), as well as from Corfu and some mainland resorts. The journey is short and scenic – just bring everything you need for the day.

When to visit Vríka

June to September is prime visiting time, with warm seas and tavernas open. June and September are the sweet spots: great weather with fewer boats clogging the bay. In July and August, it’s beautiful but busy – arrive early to claim a patch of sand or push farther south for quieter spots.

8. Longás Beach, Corfu

The northernmost of Corfu’s west coast resorts, Áyios Stefanos (officially Áyios Stéfanos Avlióton) is a laid-back spot popular with families and anyone looking for a quiet base to explore the island’s northwest. It’s also a great jumping-off point for the Dhiapóndia islands, visible just offshore.

A small harbor sits about a kilometer south of the beach, but the real draw is Longás Beach itself – shaded until early afternoon and backed by dramatic red cliffs. It’s a standout stretch of sand, often named among the best beaches in Greece for its natural beauty and uncrowded vibe.

The beach is reached from nearby Avliótes, a handsome hill town that’s held on to its character, with a couple of traditional kafenia and tavernas, and few tourist trappings. If you’re looking for one of the best areas to stay in Corfu that still feels authentic, this part of the island is a solid pick.

How to get to Longás Beach

From Corfu Town, it’s about a 50-minute drive to Avliótes, then a short downhill road to Longás. There's no reliable public transport to the beach itself, so a rental car or scooter is your best option. Parking is limited in peak months, so get there early.

When to visit Longás Beach

June to September is the best window, with warm seas and little rainfall. July and August bring more visitors, but still fewer than Corfu’s bigger beaches. Go in June or September for the best mix of weather and elbow room. Late afternoons are ideal once the sun hits the beach directly.

9. Avlémonas, Kythira

Avlémonas is the prettiest spot on Kythira’s east coast – a quiet fishing village tucked into a rocky bay that feels almost like the end of the road. From a distance, it seems sparse, but up close it charms with coordinated white-and-blue houses, bougainvillaea-draped balconies, and a relaxed, lived-in atmosphere.

There’s a small Venetian fortress near the harbor, and the village is dotted with tiny coves offering some of the clearest swimming water on the island. It’s not a sandy beach kind of place – think rocky platforms and ladders into the sea – but the swimming here is top-notch, and the scenery isn’t bad either.

How to get to Avlémonas

From Kythira’s main town (Chóra) or the island’s airport, it’s about a 20-30 minute drive east. There’s no public transport to Avlémonas, so you’ll need your own wheels. Roads are well-maintained, and there’s enough parking near the port.

When to visit Avlémonas

The best time to go is between May and September, when the weather is warm and the water is crystal clear. June and September offer a quieter vibe with perfect swim conditions. In July and August, expect more visitors, but it never gets truly crowded – Avlémonas keeps its sleepy charm even in peak season.

10. Áyii Anáryiri, Spétses

Áyii Anáryiri is Spétses’ biggest and most popular beach – a long, sheltered bay with calm water and just enough going on to keep things interesting. It’s partly sandy, has a solid beach taverna, and comes with a floating pontoon for offshore swims. If you’re into activities, there’s a watersports center renting out everything from kayaks and pedalos to windsurfers, catamarans, and even a waterski boat.

At the far end of the beach, concrete steps wrap around the coast to Bekiris Cave – a shallow, low-ceilinged cavern with a narrow entrance at the back. You can scramble in and swim out, but bring water shoes unless you want to test your feet on the sharp rocks.

How to get to Áyii Anáryiri

You can reach Áyii Anáryiri by boat taxi from the main town of Dápia, or by road – either by rental scooter, quad bike, or the occasional bus service in summer. If you're up for a walk, it’s around 40 minutes on foot from Dápia. Note: No cars are allowed on Spétses, so plan accordingly.

When to visit Áyii Anáryiri

June to September is the best stretch, with everything open and watersports in full swing. July and August are the busiest, especially on weekends, but the beach is long enough to handle the crowd. For a more relaxed visit, aim for June or early September, when the sea is warm but the vibe is calmer.

11. Kékes beach, Thássos

Alykí, a hamlet about 22 miles (35km) from Liménas, sits just below the main road and looks out over a perfect double bay that nearly seals off a rocky headland. Unlike much of the island, Alykí has kept its original charm – whitewashed houses with slate roofs – thanks to strict building restrictions tied to the area’s significant ancient ruins.

While the west bay draws the bulk of beachgoers in peak season, you can escape the crowd by heading southwest through the trees to Kékes beach. Set in a peaceful pine grove, this secluded cove offers a quieter, more scenic alternative. It’s sand-and-pebble, backed by forest and usually blissfully uncrowded.

How to get to Kékes beach

Drive to Alykí via the coastal road from Liménas (about 45 minutes), then follow the track southwest along the shoreline – on foot or by car – towards Kékes. The last stretch is unpaved, so a decent pair of shoes or a car with clearance helps. There are no facilities at Kékes, so come prepared.

When to visit Kékes beach

May to September offers ideal conditions, with warm seas and clear skies. June and September are best for peace and quiet. In July and August, skip the packed main bay at Alykí and head straight to Kékes early in the day for maximum solitude and shade from the pines.

12. Ayía Eléni, Skiáthos

Roughly 0.4 miles (600 meters) from the bus stop at Koukounariés, Ayía Eléni is a broad, sandy beach facing west toward the mountainous Pélion Peninsula. It’s more spacious and family-friendly than the nearby Banana beaches, making it a good pick if you're after room to spread out without sacrificing atmosphere.

There are a couple of relaxed beach bars, plus rentals for pedalos and kayaks. While it’s lively during the day, Ayía Eléni is also one of the best places on Skiáthos to catch the sunset – the glowing sky framed by mainland mountains is hard to beat.

How to get to Ayía Eléni

From Skiáthos Town, take the local bus toward Koukounariés and get off at the final stop. From there, it’s an easy 10-minute walk along a well-used path to the beach. If you’re driving, parking is available near the bus stop, though it can fill up fast in high season.

When to visit Ayía Eléni

June to September is the best time to enjoy the sea and water activities. For fewer crowds and great sunsets, go in June or September. July and August are busier but still manageable, especially earlier in the day or for a laid-back evening swim as the sun drops behind the hills.

13. Vromólimnos, Skiáthos

The prettiest beach on the Kalamáki peninsula, Vromólimnos offers fine sand, calm water, and a quieter vibe than most of Skiáthos’s south coast. It’s a short but slightly uphill walk from the nearest bus stop, which helps keep the crowds away. Despite its laid-back feel, you’ll still find a handful of beach cafés and a lively water-ski setup.

Vromólimnos is one of the more secluded beaches on Skiáthos – perfect if you’re after peace without sacrificing comfort. Just behind the beach, there’s a cluster of stylish studios, apartments, and villas set in a well-tended garden. Most have cooking facilities, decent bathrooms, and generous outdoor space. The garden bar is a nice bonus for sundowners.

How to get to Vromólimnos

Take the local bus toward Kalamáki and get off at the Vromólimnos stop. From there, it’s about a 10-minute walk down a shaded path. If you're driving, there's limited parking near the beach, but spaces fill quickly in peak season.

When to visit Vromólimnos

June and September are the sweet spots – warm, sunny, and much quieter. July and August bring more visitors, but even then, Vromólimnos feels calmer than nearby beaches like Koukounariés. Go early in the day or stick around for sunset views from the cafés lining the sand.

14. Lalária beach, Skiáthos

Near the northern tip of Skiáthos, Lalária is one of the island’s most iconic beaches – and one of the best beaches in Greece for dramatic scenery. With sheer cliffs towering over glistening white pebbles and a natural rock arch dipping into the turquoise sea, it’s pure postcard material.

You can only reach it by taxi-boat or on an island cruise, which keeps the vibe wild and untouched. Just east of the beach, three sea grottoes are often included on round-the-island boat trips and are worth a stop for a quick swim or photo.

Unlike most of Skiáthos’s sandy south-coast beaches, Lalária is all about contrast – rock, water, and raw coastline. Don’t expect facilities, though. This is a swim, snap, and sail-away kind of place.

How to get to Lalária Beach

There’s no land access – boats are the only way in. Taxi-boats and daily excursions depart from Skiáthos Town’s old harbor, usually starting mid-morning. Trips depend on sea conditions, so calm weather is key. Check locally the day before to confirm departures.

When to visit Lalária Beach

June to early September is the ideal window, when seas are calm and boat trips run daily. Avoid windy days – strong northern winds can cancel sailings. For the clearest photos and warmest water, aim for mid-June to late August, but early September offers fewer crowds and cooler evenings.

15. Atháni, Lefkádha

South of Kalamítsi, past the quiet hamlets of Hortáta and Komíli, Lefkádha’s landscape turns wild and rugged. At 24 miles (38km) from Lefkádha Town, Atháni is about as remote as it gets on the island – an excellent base if you're chasing dramatic views, fewer crowds, and the Ionian’s most spectacular beaches.

From here, three of Lefkádha’s finest beaches are within reach. The closest is Yialós, just 4km away via paved road – wide, long, and framed by cliffs. Egremní, famous for its steep drop and turquoise waters, is trickier to reach: the road is unpaved for the last 2km and ends in a steep walk down. Farther south, a smoother road leads to Pórto Katsíki, a dramatic twin beach often counted among the best in Greece for its sheer cliffs and blindingly blue water.

Atháni itself is small, with a few places to stay and eat, but the beach access is the real reason to come here.

How to get to Atháni

From Lefkádha Town, follow the main road west through Kalamítsi, then continue south past Hortáta and Komíli. It’s about an hour’s drive. A rental car is essential – not only to reach Atháni, but also to get down the coastal tracks to the beaches.

When to visit Atháni

The best months are June to September, when the sea is calm and the coastal roads are dry. June and September offer the best balance of sun and solitude. If you're tackling Egremní or Pórto Katsíki, head out early before the day-trippers arrive.

16. Káthisma beach, Lefkádha

Lefkádha’s west coast doesn’t hold back – this stretch can go head-to-head with anywhere in Greece when it comes to dramatic scenery. Just beyond Áï Nikítas, the island’s only proper resort, winding mountain roads dip and climb with sweeping views of turquoise water and golden sand tucked between towering cliffs.

The most popular beach on this coastline is Káthisma. It’s a long, shadeless kilometer of fine sand and clear, rolling surf. The main stretch is lined with loungers and beach bars, but head past the large rocks midway down and things get quieter – nudists and free campers tend to stake out this end.

Despite its popularity, the beach is big enough to find your own space, especially in the mornings or outside peak season.

How to get to Káthisma Beach

From Lefkádha Town, it’s about a 30-minute drive west to Áï Nikítas, then a few more minutes to Káthisma. The access road is paved but steep, with plenty of switchbacks. There’s a large parking area near the beach, though it fills up fast in July and August.

When to visit Káthisma Beach

Late May to early October is beach season here. June and September offer warm seas without the crush of peak crowds. July and August are busy but lively, with beach bars in full swing. For quieter vibes and cooler walks along the sand, early mornings are best.

17. Anthony Quinn Bay, Rhodes

Just south of Faliráki, the rocky cape of Ladhikó hides one of the island’s most scenic spots: Anthony Quinn Bay. This narrow cove, with emerald-green water and pine-fringed cliffs, is named after the actor who starred in The Guns of Navarone, filmed on Rhodes in the 1960s.

Quinn fell hard for the place and was promised the land by the Greek government, with plans to build an international arts center. But the deal fell apart due to shifting politics and legal hurdles. He never got the title, but the name – and his love for the bay – stuck.

Today, it’s a favorite for swimmers and snorkelers, with rocky ledges for sunbathing and incredibly clear water. The bay can get crowded in summer, but it’s still worth braving the buzz for a dip in one of Rhodes’ most photogenic swimming spots.

How to get to Anthony Quinn Bay

It’s just a 5-minute drive from Faliráki or around 20 minutes from Rhodes Town. Follow signs to Ladhikó Beach, then take the turn-off to Anthony Quinn Bay. There’s a small parking area, but it fills up quickly – arrive early if you’re driving. You can also take a boat tour or catch a bus to Faliráki and walk from there.

When to visit Anthony Quinn Bay

June to September is best for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun. June and September are less crowded but still warm, with crystal-clear water. In July and August, the bay gets packed by mid-morning – go early for a swim before the boat tours roll in.

18. Áyios Nikólas beach, Karpathos

Áyios Nikólas is the standout beach near the village of Arkasa – a broad 328 feet (100-meter) stretch of golden sand that still feels pleasantly low-key. A new hotel has popped up beside the long-standing beach taverna, but the place hasn’t lost its relaxed, rural vibe.

Set on Karpathos’s breezy west coast, the beach is a favorite for swimmers and sunbathers looking to escape the crowds. The sand is soft, the water clean, and the ever-present breeze makes it a great spot for cooling off on hot days. It’s easily one of the best beaches in Greece if you’re after a quiet, no-fuss seaside break.

How to get to Áyios Nikólas Beach

From Pigadia (Karpathos Town), it’s about a 20-minute drive west to Arkasa. Once there, follow the signs to Áyios Nikólas – parking is available near the beach. There are also local buses connecting Pigadia with Arkasa, but services can be infrequent, especially outside peak season.

When to visit Áyios Nikólas Beach

June to September is ideal for beach time. June and September offer warm seas and lighter winds, perfect for swimming. In July and August, the breeze picks up – great for staying cool, but occasionally choppy for swimmers. Go early or late in the day for fewer people and softer light on the sand.

19. Símos, Elafónissos

Once part of the mainland, Elafónissos became an island after an earthquake in 375 AD. Today, it’s a tiny 7.3 square-mile (19-square-kilometer) slip of land with a big summer draw. During peak season, its 700 or so residents are heavily outnumbered by beach-hungry visitors. The island’s main town isn’t much to look at, but it has a decent choice of small hotels and some solid fish tavernas.

The star attraction is Símos, about 5km southeast of town. Regularly listed among the best beaches in Greece, this double bay stuns with its soft, pale sand, dune landscape, and views across the water to Kýthira. The beach is wild and open, with space to roam and shallow waters perfect for swimming. It’s Elafónissos at its most photogenic.

How to get to Símos

From the main town, it’s a 10-15 minute drive along one of the island’s only paved roads. Parking is available near the dunes, but it fills up fast in summer. Alternatively, a kaïki (small boat) runs from the harbor to Símos every morning during the peak months – expect a scenic ride and a soft landing on the sand.

When to visit Símos

June to early September is beach season. July and August are the busiest – expect crowds, especially on weekends. For a quieter experience and slightly cooler temperatures, aim for June or early September. Arrive before 11 am if you want to beat the heat and claim a good patch of sand.

20. Tholos cove, Tílos

If you’re after a mix of hiking and beach-lazing, Thólos Cove ticks both boxes. Quieter than the beaches near Livádhia, it’s tucked away on a scenic walking trail that starts at the cemetery and chapel of Áyios Pandelímon, then winds beneath the dramatic castle ruins of Agriosykía.

The cove itself is small and peaceful, with clear water and no development – just you, the sea, and the cliffs. From the saddle on the paved road above, a marked route heads northwest to the ancient citadel in about twenty minutes. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, continue east along the road to reach the trailhead for Áyios Séryis Bay – Tílos’s most pristine (and most remote) beach.

How to get to Thólos Cove

Start from Livádhia and follow the road south toward Áyios Pandelímon chapel. From there, the trail is well-marked and takes around 30-40 minutes on foot. There’s no road access to the cove itself, so bring water, snacks, and anything else you’ll want at the beach.

When to visit Thólos Cove

May to October is the best window for both hiking and swimming. June and September strike the perfect balance: warm sea, manageable heat, and far fewer people. Avoid midday hikes in July and August, when the sun is relentless and there’s no shade until you hit the beach.