20 Best Beaches in Greece

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Greece’s coastline is a love letter to the Mediterranean, with the best beaches in Greece weaving together white sands, pebbly coves, and waters in every shade of blue. From island escapes to mainland gems, these shores are pure magic.

Each beach carries the spirit of its place—think tavernas with fresh octopus, ancient ruins nearby, or quiet cliffs whispering myths. Let’s wander through these spots to find your perfect slice of Greek paradise.

Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia

‘Myrtos Beach’ is Kefalonia’s crown jewel, a crescent of white pebbles under dramatic cliffs. The turquoise water glows against the green hills, making it a stunner from every angle.

Swimming’s a dream, but the drop-off’s steep—stick close if you’re with kids. A small canteen serves drinks, and driving from Argostoli takes about 40 minutes. Sunset here paints the sky in pinks and purples.

Elafonissi Beach, Crete

In Crete’s southwest, ‘Elafonissi Beach’ feels like a dream with pink-tinged sand and shallow lagoons. You can wade to a tiny island for extra quiet, with dunes adding a wild touch.

It’s family-friendly, with umbrellas for rent, but bring snacks—cafes are basic. Early mornings keep it serene before buses roll in. Nearby monasteries like Chrissoskalitissa add a cultural detour.

Navagio Beach, Zakynthos

‘Navagio Beach’, or Shipwreck Beach, is Zakynthos’ icon, a secluded cove with a rusty wreck framed by white cliffs. Accessible only by boat, its crystal water begs for a dip.

Tours from Zakynthos Town include Blue Caves stops—pack a hat for sun. No facilities, so bring water. Midweek visits dodge weekend crowds, and the cliff-top view is a must.

Voidokilia Beach, Peloponnese

‘Voidokilia Beach’ in Messinia is a perfect omega of golden sand, backed by a lagoon and ancient ruins. The calm, clear water’s great for kids, with dunes for exploring.

No bars, so pack a picnic from Pylos. Trails lead to Nestor’s Cave and a castle with epic views. Spring brings wildflowers, making hikes even prettier.

Porto Katsiki, Lefkada

‘Porto Katsiki’ on Lefkada’s west coast is a postcard of white pebbles and electric blue water under towering cliffs. Steps lead down, so wear comfy shoes for the trek.

A small cafe serves cold coffee, but shade’s scarce—bring an umbrella. Snorkeling’s fun near the rocks. September’s quieter, letting you soak in the drama without elbowing for space.

Sarakiniko Beach, Milos

‘Sarakiniko Beach’ in Milos looks like the moon, with smooth white volcanic rocks dipping into turquoise waves. It’s less about sand and more about diving into deep, clear pools.

No facilities, so come prepared. The rocks are great for sunbathing—bring a mat for comfort. Morning light makes the cliffs gleam, and nearby caves are cool to explore.

Balos Lagoon, Crete

‘Balos Lagoon’ in northwest Crete is a shallow, turquoise paradise with pink sand and a Venetian fort on a hill. Reach it by boat from Kissamos or a bumpy drive and hike.

The lagoon’s warm for wading, but bring water shoes—paths get rocky. Ferries offer shade and snacks. June’s ideal for warm seas and fewer boats crowding the view.

Red Beach, Santorini

‘Red Beach’ near Akrotiri in Santorini stuns with rust-colored cliffs and black pebbles. The water’s deep blue, and it’s a quick boat or walk from the village for a unique swim.

It’s small, so arrive early for space. A few vendors sell drinks, but pack lunch. Nearby archaeological digs add history to your day. Sunsets here are pure fire.

Egremni Beach, Lefkada

‘Egremni Beach’ is another Lefkada gem, a long pebble stretch with milky turquoise water. It’s a bit remote—lots of steps down—but the vast shore feels like yours alone.

No cafes, so bring supplies. The water’s calm for swimming, but currents pick up later. Late afternoon offers shade from cliffs and a golden glow on the waves.

Tsigrado Beach, Milos

‘Tsigrado Beach’ in Milos is a tiny sandy cove reached by a rope ladder through cliffs—a mini adventure. The water’s crystal, and the small size keeps it intimate.

Pack light for the climb—snacks and water are key. Snorkeling’s great in the calm bay. Hit it early to avoid ladder traffic, and nearby Firiplaka’s worth a peek.

Platis Gialos, Mykonos

‘Platis Gialos’ in Mykonos mixes golden sand with a lively beach-bar scene. It’s family-friendly, with shallow water and boats zipping to quieter coves like Paraga.

Tavernas grill fish steps from your towel, and sunbeds are plush. Evening walks to Psarou catch Mykonos at its glitzy best. Buses from Mykonos Town make it a breeze.

Agios Prokopios, Naxos

‘Agios Prokopios’ on Naxos is a long, sandy sweep with clear water and a chill vibe. It’s got enough bars for fun but stays relaxed compared to busier islands.

Windsurfing’s popular, and tavernas serve Naxian cheese. A short walk to Agia Anna’s quieter end feels private. May’s warm with wild thyme scenting the air.

Paleokastritsa Beach, Corfu

‘Paleokastritsa Beach’ in Corfu is a string of pebbly coves with emerald water and olive groves. Boats rent for cave-hopping, and the monastery above adds charm.

Tavernas dish up souvlaki, and snorkeling’s a treat—bring a mask. Morning swims are calmest, before wind picks up. A drive to Angelokastro ruins rounds out the day.

Kleftiko Beach, Milos

‘Kleftiko Beach’ in Milos is a pirate hideout turned swim spot, with white cliffs and sea caves reachable only by boat. The water’s unreal, perfect for diving through arches.

Tours from Adamas include lunch, but bring sunscreen—shade’s just caves. Snorkelers spot fish galore. Book midweek for fewer boats and a wild, free feel.

Kathisma Beach, Lefkada

‘Kathisma Beach’ on Lefkada’s west side is a lively pebble shore with bars pumping music. It’s big enough for quiet corners, with paragliding for thrill-seekers.

Beach clubs serve cocktails, and the water’s great for swimming. Nearby Agios Nikitas has cute cafes. September keeps the buzz but skips peak crowds.

Lalaria Beach, Skiathos

‘Lalaria Beach’ in Skiathos is a white-pebble cove with a rock arch, accessible only by boat. The water’s sapphire, and cliffs keep it pristine—no buildings in sight.

Pack everything—there’s nothing here. Morning trips from Skiathos Town catch soft light. The boat ride’s half the fun, weaving past tiny islets.

Simos Beach, Elafonisos

‘Simos Beach’ on tiny Elafonisos is a double-sided sandy gem, with dunes and turquoise water. It’s a short ferry from Peloponnese, feeling like a secret despite summer crowds.

Camping’s big here, with basic tavernas nearby. The shallow side’s great for kids. June’s perfect for warm days and space to spread out.

Super Paradise Beach, Mykonos

‘Super Paradise Beach’ in Mykonos is a party hub with golden sand and thumping clubs. It’s wild but has chill zones for families or couples dodging the dance floor.

Tavernas serve fresh lobster, and boats shuttle from Platis Gialos. Afternoon’s peak party time, but mornings are mellow for swimming. Book sunbeds early in July.

Anthony Quinn Bay, Rhodes

‘Anthony Quinn Bay’ near Faliraki in Rhodes is a pebbly nook with green water and pine cliffs. Named for the actor who loved it, it’s small but packed with charm.

Snorkeling’s ace—rocks hide fish. A canteen serves snacks, but it’s tight for space. Buses from Rhodes Town are easy, and evenings feel romantic as lights twinkle.

Voutoumi Beach, Antipaxos

‘Voutoumi Beach’ on Antipaxos is a white-pebble shore with Caribbean-blue water, reachable by boat from Paxos. Vineyards slope above, and the vibe’s pure peace.

No facilities, so pack a picnic. Swimming’s blissful, with gentle waves. Day trips from Gaios keep it simple, and a taverna stop on Paxos seals the deal.