Last Updated: December 21, 2023
There may be many exotic destinations around the world that attract travellers who are in search of the most beautiful beaches but there are very few countries that can beat the crystal clear, turquoise waters of the beaches in Greece.
Greece is a favourite destination for people around the world! It is so easy to fall in love with Greece, all it takes is to try the mouthwatering Greek cuisine, visit one of its wonderful islands with unique architecture or simply befriend a local. Combine that with the fascinating history and the warm Mediterranean weather and you have one of the best holiday destinations in the world.
THE MOST BEAUTIFUL BEACHES IN GREECE
1. Vai, Crete
Vai is one of the most exotic beaches in Crete and it is located on the far east corner of the island. Access to Vai may be a bit tricky considering its location, but I guarantee you that it is totally worth it. Expect to find a lush palm tree forest stretching all the way to the white sandy beach and sparkling clear waters. The beach was a well-kept secret amongst the locals until the 1970s, when it became a popular hippy enclave. That changed in the 1980s when Vai was declared a protected area and was cleared up. It is worth noting that Vai Beach has been awarded a Blue Flag by the EU so if you visit this part of Crete, do not miss your chance to see one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece!
2. Elafonisi, Crete
Elafonisi is otherwise known as “pink sand beach” and it is located on the southwest coast of Crete. It has been voted not only as one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece but in the world! This extraordinary beach with the spectacular pink sands is separated from the coast by a warm shallow lagoon and a sandbar. It has become very popular during the last years so it gets very crowded during the summer months. For a chance to enjoy the beach with fewer crowds the best time to visit Elafonisi is between April – May and October-November.
3. Balos Beach, Crete
It is not possible to compile a list of the most beautiful beaches in Greece and not include Balos beach. The landscape is jaw-dropping, with white-pinkish sand, shallow crystal-clear turquoise waters and views of Tigani and Gramvousa providing the perfect backdrop. To get to the lagoon-like sandy beach of Balos, you will need to hike for roughly 20-25 minutes. Keep that in mind when you visit so you avoid carrying with you extra weight which will make your hiking more diffuclt.
READ ALSO: 10 BEST THINGS TO DO IN CHANIA, CRETE
4. Red Beach, Santorini
The Red Beach is undeniably one of the most beautiful beaches in Santorini, Greece. The unique combination of red colour deriving from the hills surrounding it and the blue crystal clear water of the sea create an idyllic scenery. To reach Red Beach you can either drive or catch a bus to Akrotiri village. From there, follow the footpath leading to the beach (just follow the masses and you won’t miss it). Alternatively you can reach it by boat. If you have time to visit only one beach in Santorini then this should be the one.
5. Sarakiniko Beach, Milos
Sarakiniko is the most famous beach in Milos which comes as no surprise, seeing how it is unlike any other beach you’ve ever seen. Sarakiniko’s white volcanic rock formations were created by lava, giving the impression as if you’ve landed on another planet. The colour of the water has the most beautiful shade of blue and it is so clear, it looks like a giant swimming pool. Be sure to visit Sarakiniko during sunset and watch as the golden light reflects on the cotton-white rocks. It is truly a remarkable sight!
6. Lindos Beach, Rhodes
If you’re looking for the best golden sand beach in Rhodes, look no further than Lindos. What I find most attractive about the scenery here is the colour palette. A beautiful combination of the blue water against the green and rocky hills, the whitewashed houses and Lindos Castle at the top. The beach is very organised with umbrellas and sunbeds, as well a few tavernas dotted here and there where you can enjoy a delicious Greek lunch. It is not difficult to see how Lindos is one of the most beautiful beaches in Rhodes, Greece.
7. Navagio, Zakynthos
Surely you’ve seen all across social media the iconic image of a rusted shipwreck washed up on the white sands of Navagio beach in Zakynthos or otherwise known as the Shipwreck beach. Navagio is one of the most beautiful and photographed beaches in Greece and the world if I dare say, attracting masses of visitors each year.
TIP: Navagio is also one of the most Instagrammable beaches in Greece. The best place to snap a picture and take in the breathtaking views over this magnificent small bay is from the cliffs surrounding Navagio beach, rather than from up close.
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: 8 BEST BEACHES IN ZAKYNTHOS YOU MUST SEE
8. Foki Fiskardo beach, Kefalonia
Kefalonia may not be the most popular amongst the Greek islands but this low-key lush Ionian island has some of the best beaches in Greece. If you’re like me and you prefer sometimes rocky beaches that are surrounded by a picturesque landscape, then Foki beach will steal your heart. This wonderful little piece of heaven is located only a five-minute drive from Fiskardo village. It is an excellent spot to enjoy not only swimming in its turquoise waters but also explore its numerous caves and coves found nearby.
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: 10 MOST WONDERFUL BEACHES IN KEFALONIA
9. Voidokilia , Peloponnese
Peloponnese is one of my favourite parts of Greece mainly due to its unspoiled landscape and excellent cuisine. There are so many amazing beaches to explore in Peloponnese but in my humble opinion, none beats Voidokilia beach. The beach is located at a remote location and getting there requires for the longest part of the trip driving through small villages with narrow streets but it is absolutely worth it! The most recognisable characteristic of Voidokilia beach is its perfect omega (Ω) letter shape and the clear shallow sea. The best place to enjoy a panoramic view of Voidokilia beach is from the sandy dunes surrounding it.
Do not miss your chance to visit the nearby hotel complex of Costa Navarino. This is one of the largest and most beautiful hotels in Greece. It has a few excellent restaurants and bars which are usually open to non-guests.
10. Ververonda Beach, Porto Heli, Peloponnese
Porto Heli is a popular summer resort town, in the southeastern part of the Argolis region in Peloponnese. Porto Heli has been for years a favourite destination for the Greek elite for its classy hotels which are tucked away in the beautiful and lush Mediterranean landscape. Ververonda beach is an idyllic place to spend a few days soaking up the Greek sun and relaxing with a good book on its pebble beach. Next to it, you will find Ververonda lake. Rumour has it that during medieval times the areas surrounding the lake were a pirate hideout. I have witnessed one of the most magical sunsets in Ververonda and I do believe that it deserves a place on the list of the most beautiful beaches in Greece.
11. Simos Beach, Elafonisos, Peloponesse
Peloponesse has some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece so I couldn’t possibly conclude this list without including at least one more of its gorgeous locations. Simos beach is actually located on the island of Elafonisos, south-east of Nafplio, reachable by ferry from Punta port. Elafonisos has many noteworthy beaches but Simos amongst the most popular ones. You will want to spend hours here, swimming in its emerald-coloured waters and lounging on the fine golden sand. Elafonisos is a favourite destination for those who enjoy camping. This could be the perfect opportunity to bring your gear and set up a camp. This way will allow more days to fully enjoy all the beaches that the island has to offer.
12. Vouliagmeni Beach, Athens & Vouliagmeni Lake
I know, most people when thinking of Athens, the first thing that comes to mind is Acropolis but trust me, Athens has so much more to offer. Head over to one of its most prestigious suburbs, Vouliagmeni, and you’ll see what I mean. Vouliagmeni feels more like a luxury resort town than just another suburb of the metropolis. Home to many luxury estates, renowned hotels, eclectic restaurants and of course, one of the most beautiful beaches in Athens, Greece. It is not just the beach itself that is so special but rather the overall scenery that you see here. A wonderful combination of the blue sea and the lush green vegetation covering the rocky hillside.
Whilst you’re in the area be sure to visit Vouliagmeni Lake, a flooded limestone cave, surrounded by cliffs. The water here stays constantly between 21-24° C which is perfect! It is being replenished constantly by the sea and the underground thermal springs, offering a natural thermal spa experience.
13. Kalogria Beach, Halkidiki
Halkidiki is a popular seaside destination in northern Greece, more so amongst the Greeks, who flock there during the summer months. The majority of the beaches in this part of Greece are surrounded by nature and Kalogria is the best example. Kalogria is one of the longest sandy beaches in Greece and one of the most beautiful in Halkidiki. Access to this beach is pretty easy and there is plenty of parking spaces where you can leave your car. There are also a few restaurants and bars so all you have to bring is a towel and sunscreen. Although Kalogria gets quite crowded it also offers several spots where you can simply lay your towel on the beach and enjoy the natural shade provided by the pine trees lining the coast.
14. Liasti Beach, Mykonos
Mykonos may be famous for its party scene but it has no shortage of stunning beaches to explore. Liasti beach is the perfect destination if you need a break from the loud music and the crowded places. It is located west of Mykonos in Lia beach, which is an unspoiled beach offering the perfect scenery to relax and unwind in style. Like most beaches in Mykonos, this one too is organised with sunbeds and umbrellas. You will also find an excellent restaurant where you can enjoy your favourite Greek dishes. Liasti is not just a restaurant but more of a complex where you can also find a beachfront bar and a boutique shop selling clothes and unique accessories.
15. Monastiri Beach, Paros
It is difficult for me to choose just one beach from Paros as this beautiful Greek island has some of the best beaches I’ve ever seen! However, if I would have to choose just one, then Monastiri beach would undoubtedly be it. Everything about this beach is so inviting. Located in a bay it creates the impression of a swimming pool with the clearest waters. This unique beach is excellent for families with small kids due to its shallow waters. If you’re after a more “adult” beach, then be sure to walk a little further and you’ll come across rocks and coves that will allow you to find a more secluded spot. Oh and before I forget, the further away from the bay you get, the closer you’ll be to Paros’ official nudist beach. So, don’t be surprised if you come across people sunbathing “as nature intended”.
16. Lichades Islands, Evia
Did you know that Greece has its own Seychelles?
Okay, this is a bit of a paradox as they don’t REALLY look like Seychelles once you reach its shores. However, Lichadonisia has some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece that are definitely worth exploring.
Lichadonisia, otherwise known as Lichades is a total of seven islands that were created by volcanic activities, located in Evia, Greece.
You may not see the resemblance while approaching by boat but from an aerial view, this unique location will take your breath away. It is an exotic destination with pristine beaches. Here you can enjoy diving, snorkelling or simply swimming in its emerald waters. Bear in mind that during the summer months it gets very crowded. The best time to visit Lichades is during July and August.
You can reach Lihadonisia by boat either from Kamena Vourla in Fthiotida or from Kavos port.
