Greek Summer: Best Beaches of Greece You Need to Visit
Every guide is crafted with love, real research, and carefully chosen photos that show what each destination actually looks like. Thank you for exploring with me. - Narmin (Read more)
Greece is blessed with some of the most stunning beaches in the world-think turquoise waters, powdery white sands, hidden coves, and dramatic cliffs. Whether you’re seeking a lively beach with beach bars and music or a quiet, secluded bay for peaceful swims, Greece has a paradise waiting for you.
From the famous shores of the Ionian and Aegean Seas to secret islands only the locals know, here’s your ultimate guide to the best beaches in Greece.
St. Paul’s Bay, Rhodes – A stunning sheltered cove with crystal-clear turquoise waters and dramatic rocky surroundings/Depositphotos
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1. Navagio Beach, Zakynthos
Also known as Shipwreck Beach, Navagio is one of Greece’s most iconic spots. Surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and accessible only by boat, its white sand and electric-blue waters create a scene straight out of a postcard.
Navagio Beach, Zakynthos – A boat approaches the iconic white-sand cove framed by towering cliffs and turquoise waters/Depositphotos
Navagio Beach, Zakynthos – Aerial view of boats anchored near the beach, with visitors enjoying the white sand and turquoise waters/Depositphotos
2. Elafonissi Beach, Crete
Famous for its soft pink-tinted sand and shallow turquoise lagoons, Elafonissi looks almost unreal. Perfect for families and nature lovers, it’s one of Crete’s most beloved beaches.
Elafonissi Beach, Crete – Aerial view of pink-tinged sands, shallow turquoise waters, and the stunning coastline/Depositphotos
Elafonissi Beach, Crete – Colorful umbrellas and orange sunbeds line the pristine sandy shore/Depositphotos
3. Sarakiniko Beach, Milos
Sarakiniko offers a lunar-like landscape of smooth white volcanic rock contrasted with deep blue sea. It’s one of the most photographed and unique beaches in Greece-perfect for adventurous swimmers and explorers.
Sarakiniko Beach, Milos – A striking lunar-like landscape with smooth white rocks and crystal-clear waters/Depositphotos
Sarakiniko Beach, Milos – White rock landscape with yachts anchored in the turquoise waters/Depositphotos
4. Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia
Nestled between dramatic cliffs, Myrtos Beach is known for its bright white pebbles and vibrant turquoise water. It’s a favorite for photographers and one of the top must-visit beaches in the Ionian Islands.
Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia – A breathtaking beach framed by steep cliffs, featuring vibrant turquoise waters and soft white pebbles/Depositphotos
5. Porto Katsiki, Lefkada
Porto Katsiki is a dramatic paradise where steep cliffs meet glowing turquoise seas. You’ll need to descend several steps to reach it, but the reward is a breathtaking beach perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
Porto Katsiki, Lefkada – A stunning beach backed by dramatic white cliffs, with crystal-clear turquoise waters and golden sand/Depositphotos
6. Simos Beach, Elafonisos
Located on a tiny island off the southern coast of the Peloponnese, Simos Beach is famous for its stunning double bay of fine white sand and clear waters-ideal for snorkeling and beach lovers seeking a more off-the-beaten-path escape.
Simos Beach, Elafonisos – A breathtaking beach with fine white sand and vivid turquoise waters, perfect for a summer escape/Depositphotos
7. Balos Lagoon, Crete
Balos is a breathtaking blend of turquoise lagoons, white sand, and rugged scenery. Accessible by boat or hike, Balos Lagoon feels exotic and untouched, offering some of Crete’s most spectacular scenery.
Balos Lagoon, Crete – A stunning natural wonder with shallow turquoise waters, soft white sand, and breathtaking scenery/Depositphotos
8. Red Beach, Santorini
Near the ancient site of Akrotiri, Red Beach features dramatic red cliffs, dark volcanic sand, and crystal-clear waters. It's small but absolutely unique-perfect for a quick swim or a photo stop during your Santorini adventure.
Red Beach, Santorini – A dramatic beach framed by striking red cliffs and crystal-clear waters/Depositphotos
9. Agios Georgios Beach, Naxos
Located just a short walk from Naxos Town (Chora), Agios Georgios Beach, also known as Saint George Beach, is the perfect city escape. With its soft golden sand, shallow turquoise waters, and lively seaside tavernas, it’s ideal for families, couples, and anyone looking to relax without straying far from the town center. Calm waters and convenient amenities make it one of the most popular beaches on the island.
Agios Georgios Beach, Naxos – A golden sandy beach with shallow, calm waters, perfect for swimming and relaxing/Depositphotos
10. St. Paul’s Bay, Rhodes
Near Lindos, St. Paul’s Bay is a stunning sheltered cove with sparkling blue waters and historic views of the Acropolis above. It’s a small, cozy beach perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking in ancient history.
St. Paul’s Bay, Rhodes – A picturesque cove with turquoise waters, framed by dramatic cliffs and historic charm/Depositphotos
11. Voidokilia Beach, Peloponnese
Shaped like the letter “Ω,” Voidokilia Beach is known for its perfect, almost symmetrical crescent shape, soft sand, and shallow, crystal-clear waters. It feels hidden and wild-ideal for nature lovers.
Voidokilia Beach, Peloponnese – A stunning crescent-shaped beach with crystal-clear waters and golden sand, surrounded by natural beauty/Depositphotos
12. Voutoumi Beach, Antipaxos
Accessible mainly by boat, Voutoumi Beach boasts fine white sand and mesmerizing turquoise waters. It's one of the hidden gems of the Ionian Sea, often compared to Caribbean beaches for its beauty.
Voutoumi Beach, Antipaxos – A breathtaking beach with powdery white sand and brilliant turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and relaxing/Depositphotos
Final Thoughts
From hidden coves to world-famous shores, Greece offers an endless array of breathtaking beaches for every type of traveler. Whether you dream of lounging under pink skies, swimming in surreal blue lagoons, or exploring dramatic rocky landscapes, Greece’s beaches promise unforgettable summer memories.
Start planning your Greek beach adventure-you’ll find your slice of paradise waiting for you.
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