13 most beautiful Greek beaches

Elafonissi (Crete)

Elafonissi beach is a beautiful lagoon in western Crete, where other wonderful beaches can also be found. However, this one stands out among them all! It’s no wonder it has been named Europe’s most beautiful beach!

Colors play a key role here too. Its shore is pinkish, thanks to coral remnants mixed with white sand. Combined with the crystal-clear water, it offers a fantastic sight.

The beach is well-developed, so always be prepared for crowds. If you want a quieter spot, walk across the lagoon to enjoy relaxation on an island.

Elafonissi beach is particularly recommended for families with children, as the water is about one meter deep at its deepest point.

Crete attractions, beaches

A few days in Crete – Two wonderful beaches and cities

Myrtos (Kefalonia)

When we talk about Kefalonia, this is likely the first beach that comes to mind. No wonder, as it has been chosen as Greece’s most beautiful beach multiple times.

The unique color of the water is due to the limestone from the mountain behind being washed into the sea by the waves. The snow-white sandy-pebbly beach can also be admired from above, as several viewpoints have been built on the main road leading to it.

These factors result in Myrtos being wonderful primarily due to its variety of colors. The turquoise water, white shore, and grayish-black mountain create an unparalleled color combination.

Kefalonia attractions, beaches

Navagio Bay (Zakynthos)

This isolated bay is perhaps the most famous Greek beach. Many boats dock in the semicircular bay, as people want to see the white sandy beach with the high cliff behind it.

The immense interest and popularity are evidenced by the fact that Navagio is one of the most photographed beaches.

Another attraction is the shipwreck in the bay. Legend has it that this was a smuggler’s ship that sank in a storm in the 1980s. Of course, nothing proves this story, but it has become an integral part of Navagio Bay’s existence.

Many prefer to drive to the area above the cliffs, which offers a fantastic view of one of the most beautiful Greek beaches.

2023 update: authorities do not allow boats to dock due to rock falls. So for now, the bay can only be admired from boats!

Zakynthos attractions, beaches

Porto Katsiki (Lefkada)

Lefkada island might be a bit overshadowed by the most famous ones, even though it’s accessible by car from our country.

Porto Katsiki beach, located in the northwestern part of the island, is somewhat similar to Myrtos in Kefalonia. The turquoise water, pebbly shore, and the mountainside rising behind it also offer a wonderful panorama for tourists.

Tsampika (Rhodes)

The environment of this beach is also impressive. There’s a monastery at the top of the mountain peak, which is associated with a local tradition: those who walk up barefoot will be successful in conceiving children. Give it a try!

From above, you can clearly see Tsampika, which lies at the foot of the mountain and is one of the best, some say the best, beach on the island. Its shore is sandy and gradually deepening, making it ideal for families with small children.

Rhodes attractions, beaches

Lalaria (Skiathos)

Skiathos island has many great beaches, but Lalaria is worth highlighting because it can only be accessed by boat. The beach’s snow-white, pebbly shore attracts thousands of tourists every year.

The blue water, white shore, and gray cliff behind offer a fantastic sight even as you approach the beach.

Skiathos attractions, beaches

Simos Beach (Elafonisos)

Elafonisos is a small island between the Peloponnese and Kythira island. Its area is only 18 square kilometers.

Simos Beach has fine sand, crystal clear water, and since the bay is shallow, it’s an excellent bathing spot for children. It’s not a developed beach, you can’t drive directly to the shore, so you can almost only hear the waves of the sea.

Sarakiniko Beach (Milos)

Sarakiniko is exceptionally not famous for its wonderful sandy beach, but for its „moonlike” landscape. The grayish-white rocks have been shaped into unique forms by wind and waves.

Everyone can find the right part of the shore: there are sandy and rocky areas, as well as shallow and quickly deepening water sections.

Ios Papa Beach (Ios)

I don’t know if anyone has heard of Ios island. It’s located roughly halfway between Athens and Crete. It’s a perfect location for both party-goers and those seeking quiet relaxation.

One of its most beautiful beaches is Ios Papa Beach. It’s located in a small bay, quite hidden, and this seclusion makes it unique. The crystal clear water and the many palm trees around the beach create a wonderful environment.

As the water deepens quite quickly from the shore, it’s not ideal for families with small children.

Kolona Beach (Kythnos)

Kythnos is part of the Cyclades island group, not far from the Greek mainland.

Kolona Beach is a narrow sandy isthmus that separates two sea bays. It offers a special experience as it’s surrounded by water on both sides, creating a wonderful sight.

The island is not crowded even in summer, and the beach is not easily accessible, making the sandy shore perfect for quiet relaxation.

Kamares Beach (Sifnos)

The beach of the capital of this island, located about halfway between the mainland and Santorini, lies in a wonderful environment.

What makes it one of the most beautiful Greek beaches is the combined view of the mountains surrounding the bay and the crystal clear water. The white houses of the small town, Kamares, make the beach even more beautiful.

The shore is fine golden sand that deepens slowly, making it particularly attractive for families and children.

Voutoumi Beach (Antipaxos)

Antipaxos is a small island in the Ionian Sea, south of Corfu. It’s most easily accessible by boat from Paxos.

The water at Voutoumi Beach is extremely clean and transparent, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The water color ranges from light blue to turquoise, offering a special sight.

The shore is covered with fine white sand and pebbles, with various rock formations in the background. As its water is shallow, it’s ideal for children too.

Saliara Beach (Thassos)

Thassos is also called the greenest island, where sea waves have created a wonderful beach with rounded marbles.

Also known as Marble Beach, Saliara or Marble strand is one of the island’s attractions. The shore covered with white marble stones is tucked away in two bays, which can be reached by boat or car.

Thassos attractions, beaches

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Located in the Aegean Sea between Athens and Thessaloniki, Skiathos is part of the Sporades island group. It covers an area of 48 km² and has just over 5000 inhabitants.

The island doesn’t boast many attractions, focusing primarily on beach relaxation and leisure. However, for those interested in hiking, there are opportunities in the pine-covered mountains.

The island has an airport, known for the low-flying planes that pass just a few meters above the road at the end of the runway.

You can reach the island by ferry from the city of Volos, with a journey time of 105 minutes. There are only 1-2 ferry services daily to the island and the neighboring Skopelos.

Skiathos attractions

Skiathos Town

The capital of the island, located near the airport. Most tourists stay here as it is a good starting point for exploring the beaches.

Built on two hills, it offers a great view of the bay. The harbor and the bay area are lined with numerous taverns and bars. The town is characterized by red-roofed, white houses.

It’s worth taking a walk to the small peninsula on the east side of the bay, where you can see the remains of a small fort. From the promenade, there’s a splendid view of the town.

Koukounaries

A resort town in the southwest, with many accommodations. A great choice for those seeking an authentic holiday experience without missing out on beach time. Koukounaries Beach is one of the island’s most beautiful beaches.

Kastro

Located at the northern tip of the island, Kastro is accessible only by foot or boat. It used to be the capital.

The settlement, built on rocky terrain, was eventually abandoned, possibly due to the harsh environmental conditions. Several medieval ruins can be found on the rocks. The view is spectacular, making a hiking trip well worth it!

Skiathos beaches

As mentioned, there are more than 60 beaches on this small island, so I will only mention the ones considered the most beautiful.

Koukounaries Beach

Already mentioned above, it is located in the settlement of the same name. Skiathos’ most famous beach, it has often been ranked as Greece’s most beautiful beach.

Its pleasant, fine sandy shore, crystal clear waters, and surrounding hillsides make this beach famous. However, be aware that the sea deepens quickly, so be cautious.

Megali Ammos Beach

Located on the western side of Skiathos town, this is the capital’s most famous beach. Naturally, it’s a well-developed and easily accessible beach.

Lalaria Beach

Near Kastro and only accessible by boat. Thus, it’s an untouched, stunning seaside area with large white rocks rising in front of azure waters.

Tsougrias Beach

Located south of Skiathos on the island of the same name, it’s considered one of the best excursions. Motorboats depart from Nostos Beach to this destination, offering a fine sandy beach and crystal clear waters.

Banana Beach

Near Koukounaries, in a bay, it’s recommended for families as the water is quite shallow. To the north is its „little sibling,” which operates as a nudist beach.

Mandraki Beach

North of Koukounaries, this exotic beach can be reached by car through a pine forest on a sandy road up to a certain point, after which a short walk is required.

Agia Paraskevi Beach

Located in the southern town of Platanias, it has a fine golden sandy beach. The beach is well-developed, and a wide variety of water sports are available.

Xanemos

Known for airplanes flying just meters above sunbathers, similar to Saint Maarten. Unlike most beaches, it has a pebbly-sandy composition.

Skopelos

Located east of Skiathos, several scenes from the „Mamma Mia!” movie were filmed here.

The island is dotted with signs marking „Mamma Mia!” filming locations, and many local travel agencies offer tours and boat trips to these sites.

Known as the „green and blue island”, it indicates the beauty of its vegetation and seashores. Most beaches are pebbly, with water often deepening quickly, but they are crystal clear and most well-developed beaches are sheltered.

You can take a boat from Skiathos to reach the main town of Skopelos.

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Santorini is a circular volcanic island group in the Aegean Sea, about 200 km southeast of Athens. It’s the southernmost member of the Cyclades island group.

The island’s classic name is Thera, but it’s also known as Thira.

Santorini is essentially the remains of a massive volcanic eruption that destroyed settlements on the originally single island. This shaped the current caldera, mostly filled with water.

Its stunning beauty and vibrant nightlife have made these islands one of Europe’s most attractive tourist destinations.

You can read my travelogue here!

Santorini attractions

Fira

The capital of Santorini, and the base for most tourists. Built on a large cliff, it offers fantastic views of the sea.

Those arriving by boat can climb 600 steps from the port, ride a donkey, or take the cable car to reach the city.

The city’s architecture follows the classic Greek pattern. The characteristic houses, with whitewashed walls and blue domes, doors, and window frames, are all built of volcanic rock.

The capital is teeming with great restaurants and hotels, from budget to luxury. Along the city’s sea-facing arc, numerous Greek restaurants and taverns line up.

The Thira Museum in Fira lets you dive into Santorini’s past. Exhibits include finds from the Mesavouno excavation, the ancient city of Thera, the fortress at Sellada, and other archaeological sites around the island.

Imerovigli

Located 2 km north of Fira, Imerovigli also offers stunning views of the caldera islands surrounding Santorini. Often referred to as the „Balcony of the Aegean Sea.”

The Ekklisia Theoskepasti hiking trail passes by the 13th-century Skaros Castle, leading up to the Skaros Rock viewpoint and the blue-domed Theoskepasti church built on a rock outcrop.

Pyrgos

Situated on one of the slopes of Profitis Ilias mountain, this was once the capital of Santorini. The village was built around a Venetian castle, whose ruins can be visited. The panoramic view here is also beautiful.

The surrounding vineyards produce the renowned Assyrtiko white wine.

Nearby, the island’s highest point offers fantastic views of the island and the sea.

Oia

Located at the northern tip of the island, accessible even by hiking from Fira.

Often considered the most beautiful town on Santorini, it’s almost mandatory to watch a sunset here. Hence, expect large crowds during the peak season.

Oia’s symbol is a windmill, often seen in pictures of Santorini.

Ruins of a Byzantine castle stand on the edge of the town, offering an even more beautiful sunset view. However, it also attracts large crowds.

Kamari

The center of the island’s eastern part. The town was designed and created after the 1956 earthquake for the inhabitants who fled from the town of Messa Gonia.

Its 2 km long, black sandy beach is the island’s most popular.

Kamari has everything a true resort town needs: a long beach, restaurants, bars, hotels, apartments, a cinema, shopping opportunities, ATMs, a bakery, a playground. Every year, a jazz festival is held.

Ancient Thira

A ruin city uncovered in the early 20th century, located between Kamari and Perissa. It can be approached via a serpentine road from Kamari, even by car.

The site features ruins of temples, buildings, ceramics, coins, and other artifacts that showcase the former Minoan culture.

Akrotiri

Often referred to as the Greek Pompeii, this city was also destroyed by a volcanic eruption in the 16th century BC.

It was a developed Minoan trade center with an ideal location and a network of canals.

Discovered in the 19th century, it remains one of the best-preserved ancient memories, thanks to volcanic ash.

Faros Lighthouse

Located at the southwestern tip, the lighthouse offers great views of the sea. Worth visiting if in the area.

Nea Kameni

This island and its smaller ‘sibling,’ Palea Kameni, were formed due to volcanic eruption.

The barren island is undeveloped, but you can take a tour around the crater.

As it’s still an active volcano, there’s a warm water beach, the Hot Springs, on the island. A similar beach is found on Palea Kameni.

Therasia

The island west of Santorini offers a similar experience but with less crowd.

There are regular boat trips from Santorini. There are two small villages on the island, Manolas has a great view. From the shore, a steep slope leads up to the village.

Beaches

Kamari Beach

The most developed and popular beach on the island, bordered by hotels, bars, and nightclubs, with black sandy and pebbly shores.

Red Beach

Near Akrotiri, difficult to access by land, best reached by boat.

The small pebble beach is famous for the large red rocks behind it, attracting many visitors in peak season.

Perissa Beach

Similar to Kamari Beach with black sand and pebbles but less developed. Its long shore is a good choice for those preferring a peaceful setting.

Eros Beach

Between Vlichada and Akrotiri, considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Santorini. Its beauty comes from the massive, variously shaped white rocks surrounding the long, pebbly shore.

Vlichada Beach

Located in the southernmost part of the island. About 800 meters of black pebbly shore, backed by white rock walls. A major advantage is that it’s usually not crowded.

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Crete, Greece’s largest island, lies close to the coasts of Africa. It stretches 260 kilometers in an east-west direction, with its widest point being 60 kilometers and its narrowest 12 kilometers. Its capital is Heraklion (Iraklio).

The center of the Minoan civilization (circa 2600-1400 BC), the oldest known European civilization, has greatly influenced the historical and architectural treasures that Crete offers today, along with the Venetian rule from the 13th century that lasted for four centuries.

I spent a few days in Crete, where I visited some of the most beautiful beaches.

Attractions in Crete

Heraklion

The largest city of Crete, it is also the capital and main port. Situated around the center of the island, it’s an ideal starting point for exploring Crete.

The Archaeological Museum displays in chronological and thematic order from the early Bronze Age to Roman times highlight the island’s archaeological heritage, particularly the Minoan civilization. Famous exhibits include frescoes from the Knossos palace. More information is available here!

Venetian City Walls are 3 km long with seven angular bastions and two gates (Porta Hánion and Kenuria Porta). A prominent feature is the Pili Iszu, or Jesus Gate.

Rocca a Mare Fortress is two-tiered fortress in the port, though not extensive, is worth the modest entrance fee for the views and ambiance.

The CretAquarium mainly showcases the Greek and Mediterranean marine life with about 60 aquariums. The shark species are among the most visited. The area is not large and can be explored in a few hours. More information is available here!

Several fountains can be found in Heraklion. The most beautiful is Morosini Fountain in Venizelu Square, adorned with bas-reliefs of mythological figures. The island’s oldest fountain is Bembo, over 450 years old.

Knossos

Located 7 km south of Heraklion, it is one of Europe’s oldest city ruins.

Likely the religious and political center of the Minoan civilization, the current ruins are from the third palace built around 1700 – 1400 BC. Originally 5-6 stories high, the palace had a spacious courtyard surrounded by a labyrinth of smaller rooms, totaling nearly 1500.

Excavated by Sir Arthur Evans of the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford, he controversially reconstructed the site based on his interpretations.

More information are available on the official website!

Waterpark

Located about 15 km east of Heraklion, this waterpark is universally praised for its wave pool, slides, and pools. Try the slides that require the park’s own inflatable rings!

More information is available here!

Rethymno

Situated between Heraklion and Chania, this charming city features a 16th-century Fortezza fortress built against the Turks, who later captured it.

Visible inside are the old armory, commandant’s office, and mosque. The fortress offers great views of the harbor and city.

The Venetian Old Town, owned by the Venetians since the early 13th century, features houses in their style, many of which remain in their original form.

Stone carvings, gateways, arches, windows, and balconies can be seen on houses along the narrow streets and alleys.

East of the port, the city’s coastal area stretches along the beach. The golden sandy beach with shallow waters is perfect for holidays as the city center is just minutes away.

Lake Kournas

Located not far from the Rethymno-Chania main road, it is the island’s largest freshwater lake.

Set in a beautiful environment, it’s an ideal place for a hike and picnic.

Chania

The most significant city in West Crete and a starting point for exploring the wonderful beaches on the western coast.

Like other cities, the old town encompasses the harbor area, bordered by remnants of a 16th-century city wall. This area hides old, eye-catching Venetian buildings, quaint cafes, and restaurants.

The Old Chania Market, a large covered market, offers a variety of delicious foods and goods.

Chania also hosts several renowned museums: Military, Ethnographic, Archaeological, Greek National Football Museum.

Samaria Gorge

Europe’s longest gorge at 16 km, a must-visit for hiking enthusiasts and one of Europe’s most beautiful hiking routes!

It’s a north-south oriented gorge. The northern starting point is near Omalos plateau at Xyloskalo, 1230 meters high. There are drinking water and restroom facilities along the way. The southern end is at Agia Roumeli on the Libyan Sea coast, from where you need to take a boat to Sougia.

Surrounded by fantastic flora and fauna within a national park, the gorge’s cliffs sometimes exceed 500 meters, and at one point, it narrows to just 3 meters wide!

Hiking is allowed from May 1 to October 31.

Organized trips from Chania are available for those who prefer not to deal with logistics. It’s a full-day activity.

Gramvousa Island and Balos Beach

It’s advisable to take a boat as Balos can be reached by car but the route is rough and parking can be challenging during busy times.

Like Elafonissi, it attracts tourists with its pink-blue waters and scenery. Ideal for children as the water in most of the bay is only ankle-deep.

Accessible by boat from Kissamos. Boat information can be found here!

Falassarna

A nearly 1 km long sandy beach, but it deepens quickly. More developed than other seaside beaches.

Easily accessible by car, located 15 km from Kissamos.

Elafonissi

Often cited as one of the world’s most unique beaches. Its pink hue is due to crushed coral and shell fragments.

Like Balos, the water is shallow in many places, making it ideal for families with small children.

The name refers to a small island you can walk to through a lagoon. If you seek tranquility, it’s worth walking over. It’s a top sight among Crete’s attractions.

Also reachable by a paved road.

Paleochora

Not overcrowded even in peak season, Paleochora is a south-Cretan town not focused on mass tourism. Its surrounding mountains offer great hiking opportunities.

Its most visited beach is the sandy Pahia Ammos, located on the town’s western side.

Loutro

If you’re looking for a quiet, serene Cretan village, Loutro is the answer, accessible only by foot or boat.

It offers a few apartments, but there’s a good selection of restaurants and cafes.

Matala Beach

The town’s sandy-pebbly beach is unique for its large rock wall with various caves.

Ierapetra

An important hub in the south of the island, divided into the alley-filled old town and the modern, newly built city area. The waterfront promenade houses numerous shops, bars, and taverns.

Ierapetra is Greece’s sunniest city, with weather similar to North Africa. Prepare for warm temperatures if vacationing here!

From its port, you can reach Chrissi Island.

Chrissi Island and its beaches

Accessible by boat from Ierapetra, this island offers beautiful beaches. Chrissi is also home to Europe’s largest cedar forest, adding to its uniqueness.

Arriving on the south, a 400-meter walk leads to the popular Belegrina Beach on the north coast.

Information available on the official website.

Dikteon Cave

Located on the Lassithi Plateau, this cave is where Zeus was born according to mythology. A must-visit during a trip to Crete!

The cave descends about 60 meters, where you can see extraordinary stalactites, stalagmites, and a lake.

Sitia

The most significant, tourism-reliant city in the northeast.

Perfect for a tranquil getaway, it’s not overcrowded and offers a choice of bars and taverns.

Vai Palm Beach

East Crete’s most beautiful beach, backed by Europe’s largest natural palm forest.

A well-developed beach, easily accessible with options for water sports like jet-skiing and wakeboarding.

Agios Nikolaos

Located about 60 km east of Heraklion, this beautiful Cretan coastal city is a popular resort due to its excellent location.

Its center is almost a closed bay, known as Voulismeni Lake, surrounded by numerous taverns and bars, offering beautiful views, especially in the evening. According to legend, Pallas Athena bathed in it.

Recommended for those seeking peaceful relaxation.

Hersonissos

About 28 km east of Heraklion, combined with Sarantaris, Chersonisou, it forms a popular resort area, even featuring a dedicated party district.

Aquaworld Aquarium, smaller than CretAquarium, is praised for its family-friendly environment.

You can see a variety of aquatic creatures, not just fish, and interact with free-roaming reptiles in the yard. You can even handle several types of snakes. All information can be found here!

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The last Wizz Air flight on October 12th, Thursday, had tickets for a hard bargain of 15 €. My task then was to find a connecting flight home. I managed to get one with a stop in Athens for about 73 € for the three flights.

Those who have read some of my reports know I don’t like to stay long in one place. This time was the same, but I thoroughly explored four locations.

Surprisingly, many were on the last flight there, the plane departed and landed on time. From the airport, I took a bus to Fira. All buses start from the capital, and you buy tickets on the bus (a ticket collector goes around collecting the fare).

The buses have a schedule, but let’s just say it’s quite flexible. They regularly depart once they’re about full. I experienced this last year during my trip to Crete.

Fira

Located in the center of the island on the western cliff edge, Fira is the hub. I arrived while it was still light to see the wonderfully lit city and buildings.

You could tell it was mid-October, fortunately, it wasn’t too crowded. Of course, there were many people, but you could walk, gawk, and take photos at ease.

Since Santorini is very popular as a cruise ship stop, you can almost always see ocean liners stationed in the water. Thursday evening, I saw five ships.

Oia

The most beautiful part of Santorini, where iconic photos are taken. Here too, you must wander through the entire town. In places, you can walk through narrow alleys; it could be challenging to navigate during peak season.

Buses run every 20-30 minutes from Fira and back, the journey itself is beautiful. Especially the trip there, as you reach Oia via a road carved into the cliff.

The best view in Oia is from a small castle on the western edge: the windmills and the step-like arrangement of houses. And of course, the two islands in front of us.

Imerovigli

A continuation of Fira to the north, this small village is worth the walk, except for a few hundred meters, it can be done among houses.

And it’s definitely worth the walk! There are far fewer people, and the view is just as stunning. Plus, there are several great spots to view Fira.

Kamari

I read in several places that besides the above, it’s worth visiting here. However, after Fira and Oia, you arrive in a city of a completely different character.

Kamari is famous for its black beach and the large rock rising in the southern part of the town. On its top is the ancient city of Thira, which can be reached via a winding road. I skipped this.

Despite being mid-October, there were quite a few people on the beach and swimming in the sea. The long promenade is lined with restaurants, which were quite sparse in the early afternoon.

Overall, the fascination with Santorini is no coincidence. Fira, especially Oia, is truly a wonderful place. It has its charm both during the day and when lit up at night; I can’t decide which is more beautiful. Let’s just say it’s gorgeous either way.

However, I recommend not traveling here during peak season! The number of tourists was pleasant now, no crowding, and the weather was very good. In summer, just looking at pictures and videos shows how crowded it can get.

Santorini in TikTok video

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