Greece › Best Beaches
By Santorini Dave
See Also
• Where to Stay in Santorini
• Where to Stay in Mykonos
• Where to Stay in Naxos
• Where to Stay in Paros
• Where to Stay in Milos
• Where to Stay in Crete
• Where to Stay in Athens
My favorite beach in Greece is Elafonisi Beach in southern Crete. A magical lagoon-like setting with great sand and a wonderful swimming area. Mykonos has the deserved reputation as a beach paradise with a vibrant nightlife. While Naxos is great for beach lovers looking for a quieter, more relaxed island. Santorini is the most remarkable island in Greece but not because of its beaches. Go to Santorini for its views, tours, hikes, food, and wine.
Greek Beaches
- Greece has the best beaches in Europe.
- The Greek islands with the best beaches are Crete, Naxos, Paros, Ios, Milos, Mykonos, and Rhodes. But almost every island has at least a few great swimming beaches.
- Naxos has the best beaches (but little nightlife). Mykonos has the best beach clubs (and nightlife). For a mix of the two – great beaches and some nightlife – Paros is perfect.
- Santorini has amazing luxury hotels, though they’re on the caldera cliff not on the beach.
- The best beach in Greece is Elafonisi Beach on Crete.
- The best beach in Greece for families is St. George Beach on Naxos.
- The best beach in Greece for partying is Paradise Beach on Mykonos.
- The best beach in Greece for quiet and solitude is Plaka Beach on Naxos.
- The best beaches in Mainland Greece are found in Halkidiki.
- The best beach hotels in Greece for an idyllic beach holiday: Ios Palace Hotel & Spa in Ios • Iria Beach Hotel in Naxos • Branco Mykonos in Mykonos • Mykonos Blanc in Mykonos
- Mykonos has the most hotels right on the beach.
- To reserve beach beds on the most popular beaches and beach clubs in Mykonos, Santorini, Ios, Naxos, and Paros you can use beachdibs.com. Though most of the time it’s fine to just show up and find something available.
- When To Visit Greece: Greek beaches are at their best from late May to early October when there’s great weather and the sea water is warm for swimming.
The fantastic Agios Prokopios Beach in Naxos.
See Also
- Best Beaches in Andros
- best Beaches in Corfu
- Best Beaches in Kefalonia
- Best Beaches in Mykonos
- Best Beaches in Naxos
- Best Beaches in Paros
- Best Beaches in Santorini
- Best Beaches in Skiathos
- Best Beaches in Skopelos
- Best Beaches in Syros
- Best Beaches in Tinos
- Best Beaches in Zakynthos
The 19 Best Beaches in Greece
1. Elafonisi, Crete
The best beach in Greece: Elafonisi on the south coast of Crete. There isn’t much else nearby besides a few small hotels so most people do a day trip from Chania or Rethymno. Recommended Hotels near Elafonisi: Elafonisi Resort by Kalomirakis Family (midrange) • Xasteria (midrange) • The wonderful town of Paleochora is a one hour boat ride from Elafonisi. Recommended Paleochora Hotels: Caravella Luxury Apartments (midrange) • Aris Hotel (budget)2. Plaka Beach, Naxos
Naxos is loaded with great beaches and if you’re looking for an island with a large variety of beaches it should be at the top of your list. Naxos Town is wonderfully charming and St George beach (a short walk away) is a great town beach. But down the southwest coast there are many others that are even better: Agia Anna, Agios Prokopios, Mikri Vigla, Pyrgaki – and perhaps the best of the lot, Plaka Beach. I recommend staying in Naxos Town and taking the frequent buses to the beaches down the coast. Recommended Beach Hotels in Plaka: Medusa Resort (midrange) • Stella Naxos Island (midrange) • Recommended Hotels in Naxos Town: Nissaki Beach Hotel (luxury) • Korali Boutique Hotel (midrange) • Xenia Hotel (budget)3. Platys Gialos, Mykonos
One of the best beaches on Mykonos and backed by hotels and restaurants. A fun mellow vibe through the day becomes a romantic/trendy vibe at night. Recommended Beach Hotels in Platys Gialos: Branco Mykonos (luxury, right on the beach) • Petasos Beach Resort & Spa (luxury) • Myconian Ambassador (luxury) • Petinos Beach Hotel (midrange)4. Ornos Beach, Mykonos
The most family friendly beach on Mykonos. Great sand and calm relaxing water with a shallow slope. Kostantis restaurant serves incredible food right on the beach. It’s 10 minutes by bus from Mykonos Town. Recommended Beach Hotels in Ornos: Kivotos Luxury Boutique Hotel (luxury – great for honeymoons) • Santa Marina Resort & Villas (luxury – great for families) • Mykonos Blanc (luxury – fantastic location on the beach)5. Faragas Beach, Paros
Paros has many great beaches – some of them like Golden Beach, Pounda, and Piso Livadi can be a bit too popular. Faragas is located in the south (protected from the meltemi winds) and away from the main towns. I recommend staying in Parikia and making a day trip to the beaches on the east and south coast. Recommended Hotels in Parikia: Argonauta Hotel (midrange) • Captain Manolis (budget)6. Sarakiniko, Milos
Is this a beach? Who knows, who cares. Mylos has many great little coves for swimming and sunning. Sarakiniko is one of the best spots to swim and relax. (Although the true highlight of Milos is a boat tour along the coast.) Recommended Milos Hotels: Melian Boutique Hotel and Spa (luxury) • Milos Breeze Boutique Hotel (luxury) • Eiriana Luxury Suites (boutique)7. Mylopotas Beach, Ios
Wonderful sand and a quick drop-off for people who like to swim. Stay at either Mylopotas Beach or in the fun main town (Chora) up on the hill (lots of nightlife if you want it, easy to avoid if you don’t). Recommended Hotels: Ios Palace Hotel & Spa (luxury, pictured above) • Levantes Boutique Hotel (midrange)
The semi-private beach at Calilo Hotel in Ios.
8. Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia
Often cited as one of the most dramatic beaches in Greece, Myrtos is a stunning arc of white pebbles set between the feet of two mountains. The water color is an electric blue that has to be seen to be believed. Recommended Kefalonia Hotels: Myrtos Bay Apartments (midrange – great place but you do need a rental car) • Kefalonia Grand (the best hotel in Kefalonia)9. Paleokastritsa, Corfu
Paleokastritsa is a fantastic series of bays and beaches on beautiful Corfu. Recommended Hotels: Akrotiri Beach Hotel (luxury – great views) • Zefiros Traditional Hotel (midrange – steps from beach) • Bella Venezia (luxury hotel in Corfu Town)10. Stafylo Beach, Skopelos
Stafylo is one of the several great beaches on Skopelos. Recommended Hotel: Poseidon Hotel (midrange – easy walk to Stafylo Beach)11. Koukounaries Beach, Skiathos
Koukounaries Beach on Skiathos. Absolutely beautiful. Two fantastic hotels are within walking distance of the beach: Skiathos Palace Hotel (midrange) • Mandraki Village Boutique Hotel (midrange)12. St Paul’s Bay, Rhodes
The beach is small but this is still one of my absolute favorites. It’s great little swimming spot near the castle at Lindos. The east coast of Rhodes (where St Paul’s is located) is protected from the wind and sprinkled with great beaches (including Faliraki and Lindos). Anything west of Rhodes Town will be very windy. I love staying in beautiful Rhodes Town and busing to the east coast beaches on short day trips. Recommended Hotels: Atrium Palace Thalasso Spa Resort And Villas (luxury – near Lindos) • Spirit Of The Knights Boutique Hotel (luxury – Rhodes Old Town)13. Kamares Beach, Sifnos
Sifnos – a quiet island in the western Cyclades – has a handful of great beaches. Vathi and Platis Gialos may well be the best on the island but I love the quaint charm of Kamares. Backed by mountains and a small charming Greek village the beach feels like a throwback. The water is shallow and perfect for kids and there are loads of tavernas and hotels nearby. The ferry port is walking distance from the beach. Recommended Hotels near Kamares Beach: Delfini (midrange) • Nymfes Hotel (midrange)14. Livadakia, Serifos
Fantasic beach with great swimming. Lowkey and affordable Coralli Seaside Resort (midrange) has a nice pool, bar, and restaurant. The port and tavernas of Livadia are a short walk away.15. Matala Beach, Crete
A great little town. The cliff at the end of the beach is filled with caves that you can explore. Recommended Hotels: Nautilus (midrange apartment) • Matala View (budget)16. Shipwreck Beach, Zakynthos
Accessible by boat on a day trip. Take one of the smaller operators out to the beach and you’ll be able to explore some caves. The beach is often closed to foot traffic due to safety concerns regarding the cliffs. Most boat tours now take you close for photos but do not allow you to land on the sand. Check local conditions before booking your boat trip. Recommended Beach Hotels: Porto Zante Villas And Spa (luxury, Tragaki) • Astir Palace Hotel (midrange, Laganas)17. Vai Beach, Crete
The best beach in eastern Crete and backed by a unique palm forest (the only one in Europe). Vai is a good day trip from Sitia. Good Hotel in Sitia: Sitia Beach18. Perissa Beach, Santorini
The nicest beach and sand on Santorini. Great restaurants and low-key bars are spread along the waterfront down to Perivolos Beach. A taxi-boat connects Perissa with Kamari Beach (the trip takes 10 minutes and is quite fun). Recommend Hotels in Perissa: Istoria Hotel (luxury) • Meltemi Village Hotel (midrange)19. Athens Riviera, near Athens
The best beaches near Athens are in the Vouliagmeni area. It is about a 30 to 45-minute taxi ride from the city center depending on traffic. Best beach resorts near Athens: Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel (5-star, pictured above) • Divani Apollon Palace & Thalasso (4-star)What are the best beaches for kids in Greece?
Agios Georgios Beach on Naxos is the absolute best choice for families. It is an easy walk from Naxos Town (Chora), making it convenient for those staying near the port. The water here is incredibly shallow and calm—a natural shelf extends far out into the sea, allowing toddlers to play safely in knee-deep water for yards. The beach is well-organized with tavernas, sunbeds, and easy access to amenities.
Other excellent family-friendly beaches include:
- Naxos: Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna are just south of town and offer protected, crystal-clear waters and soft sand. For a quieter day, Alyko Beach is a beautiful, unorganized spot surrounded by a cedar forest.
- Paros: Monastiri Beach is located in a sheltered bay with very shallow water and no waves, making it ideal for young children. Golden Beach (Chrissi Akti) is perfect for older kids who want to try windsurfing or paddleboarding.
- Antiparos: Psaralyki Beach is a short walk from the main village. It is tree-lined for natural shade and has very calm, shallow water.
- Mykonos: Ornos Beach is the best family option on the island due to its shallow slope and protection from the northern winds.
Read: The Best Islands in Greece for Families
What is the best beach for partying?
Paradise Beach on Mykonos is the ultimate party beach in Greece. It is home to legendary clubs, world-class DJs, and a young, high-energy crowd. If you are looking for beach parties that start in the afternoon and run until dawn, this is the place. For a more upscale but equally intense party scene, Super Paradise Beach (just next door) and Psarou Beach are also top Mykonos picks.
Other top party beaches include:
- Ios: Mylopotas Beach is the hub for college-aged partying in the Cyclades, with plenty of beach bars and a fun, social vibe.
- Paros: Punda Coast (near Logaras) is famous for its massive beach club, pool parties, and loud music that draws a young crowd throughout the summer.
- Santorini: While not a traditional “party island,” Perivolos Beach has several trendy beach clubs (like Jojo or Wet Stories) that offer a lively day-party atmosphere with great cocktails and music.
What is the best beach for quiet and solitude (on a popular island)?
Plaka Beach in Naxos and Ambelas Beach in Paros are my top picks for escaping the crowds. While both islands are incredibly popular, these beaches remain relatively tranquil compared to the main hubs. You’ll find enough tavernas and small hotels to be comfortable, but without the loud music and packed sunbeds found elsewhere. If you visit in June or September, you may even have large stretches of sand entirely to yourself.
Other excellent quiet escapes include:
- Naxos: Mikri Vigla (the southern side) and Kastraki offer miles of soft sand and very few people, even in the height of summer.
- Paros: Lageri Beach is a hidden gem near Naoussa. It is unorganized and accessible only by boat or a bit of a hike, ensuring it stays quiet and pristine.
- Milos: Agathia and Triades on the west coast are spectacular and remote. You will need a 4×4 vehicle to reach them, but the solitude is worth the effort.
- Santorini: Baxedes Beach (near Oia) is a local favorite. It is a long stretch of black pebbles and sand that feels a world away from the busy caldera cliffs.
How do the Meltemi winds affect which beach I choose?
In July and August, the Aegean is dominated by the Meltemi—a strong, dry northern wind. This wind is a blessing because it cools the islands down, but it can make north-facing beaches very choppy and uncomfortable. If you are visiting during peak summer, always check the wind forecast. On windy days, head to the southern coast of the island (the leeward side) where the water will remain calm and flat.
- Mykonos: Stick to southern beaches like Platys Gialos or Ornos.
- Naxos: Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna are well-protected.
- Santorini: Avoid Baxedes and Cape Columbo; stay on the southern stretch of Perissa/Perivolos.
Which islands have the best “soft sand” beaches?
Not all Greek beaches are created equal. If your heart is set on soft, powdery sand, you need to choose your island carefully.
- Best for Soft Sand: Naxos, Mykonos, Ios, and Skiathos.
- Best for Dramatic Pebbles/Shingle: Santorini (volcanic black pebbles), Kefalonia (Myrtos is white pebbles), and Corfu.
- The Mix: Crete and Milos have a massive variety of both, so you can find whatever surface you prefer.
Pro Tip: If you are visiting a pebble beach like Myrtos or Perissa, bring water shoes. The pebbles get incredibly hot in the sun and can be difficult to walk on when entering the water.
What is the best beach close to Athens?
The Athens Riviera is the best stretch of coastline near the city, starting just 30 to 45 minutes south of the center. It is ideal for a swim if you are staying in Athens but want a break from the heat and sightseeing. While it gets busy on summer weekends, the water is remarkably clean and the beach clubs are world-class.
My top recommendations for the Athens Riviera:
- Vouliagmeni: This is the most upscale area of the Riviera. Astir Beach is the most famous and glamorous (entry fee required), while Vouliagmeni Beach is a great, well-organized public option. Don’t miss Lake Vouliagmeni, a sunken limestone cavern with thermal waters that stay warm year-round.
- Glyfada: A vibrant seaside suburb with great shopping, dining, and a long stretch of beach. It is easily accessible from central Athens via the tram.
- Top Beach Resorts: If you want to stay right on the water, the Four Seasons Astir Palace is the pinnacle of luxury in Greece. The Divani Apollon Palace & Thalasso is another excellent high-end choice. For 2026, the One&Only Aesthesis in Glyfada is the newest ultra-luxury addition to the coast.
- Getting There: A taxi from Syntagma Square takes about 30 minutes and costs around €25–€35. For a cheaper, more scenic route, take the Tram (Line 6) from Syntagma; it takes about 45–60 minutes but drops you right by the sea.
When is the best time to visit Greece?
Late May to Early October is the best time to visit Greece. July and August are the hottest and busiest months. June and September are nearly perfect with one small difference between them being that the sea is warmer in the fall while the countryside is greener in spring. Early May and Late October can still see warm weather and sunny days but you should be prepared for the possibility of rain and cloud – and pack a sweater for coolish nights. On the southern coast of Crete it’s not unheard of to be swimming into the first weeks of November.
What are the Best Greek Islands?
- The Best Beaches: Mykonos • Naxos • Paros • Milos • Crete
- The Best for Natural Beauty: Santorini and Crete
- The Most Romantic: Santorini
- The Best for College-Aged Partying: Ios
- The Best for 20 to 30-Something Partying: Mykonos
- The Best for Families: Naxos
- The Best for Outdoor Activities and Historical Sites: Crete and Santorini
- The Best for Quiet, Untouristy Beaches: Antiparos
When Is the Best Time to Visit the Greek Islands?
The Greek Islands have great beach weather from late May until early October – the weather is hot, the skies are blue, and there is very little rain. July and August are the hottest months but also see the largest crowds and the highest prices. My favorite time to visit is September and early October when the weather is still consistently hot and the sea is at its warmest. Swimming and sunbathing are possible in early May and late October, but you are taking a risk if you visit then with the primary goal of hitting the beach – though they are fantastic times if you are here to hike, sightsee, and wine and dine.
I Only Have 1 Week in Greece, Where Should I Go?
I recommend spending 4 days in Santorini and 3 days on one of the less touristy islands nearby. Naxos, Milos, or Folegandros are excellent choices. If your goal is to party and dance for a few nights, choose Mykonos or Paros instead.
I Have 2 Weeks in Greece, Where Should I Go?
With two weeks, I would still spend 4 or 5 days on Santorini as your base. Then, spend 3 days each on three of the following islands:
- Naxos: Best for beaches, hiking, and traditional mountain villages.
- Paros: Great mix of beaches, dining, and nightlife.
- Antiparos: Ideal for tranquility and relaxed beach days.
- Mykonos: Famous for its iconic port town, beach clubs, and heavy partying.
- Folegandros: Best for dramatic scenery, hiking, and a non-touristy vibe.
- Milos: Essential for unique volcanic landscapes and full-day boat tours.
Booking Hotels on the Greek Islands
I receive more questions about hotels than any other topic. From June to September, the islands are packed and the best hotels sell out completely. You must book early.
- Book your hotel before your ferry. Large conventional ferries rarely sell out, even in peak summer. Hotels, however, fill up months in advance. Secure your room first, then worry about the ferry tickets. You can usually buy ferry tickets just a few days before departure without an issue.
- Booking.com/Greece is the best website for finding accommodation. It has the widest selection and most listings allow for flexible cancellation. This is vital for locking in a great rate while you finalize your itinerary.
- Avoid relying on port rentals. When ferries arrive, you will see owners holding signs for rooms. While this can be a way to find a cheap last-minute bed, these rentals are often far from the main attractions or the beach. It is better than sleeping on the sand, but I do not recommend it for a planned holiday.
- When to book for summer? Greece is more popular than ever. For the best hotels on popular islands, you should book 4 to 8 months in advance. If you wait until 3 or 8 weeks before your trip, you will likely have to settle for less desirable locations or higher prices.
- Group size impacts availability. A solo traveler or a couple can often find something at the last minute. A family of 4 or 5 will have a very difficult time finding a suitable suite or connecting rooms if they do not book well ahead of time.
- Off-season travel. If you are traveling outside of July and August, you do not need to be as aggressive with your booking. You can often find great rooms upon arrival, though I still recommend booking your first 2 nights in advance to avoid stress.
- Santorini: Book well in advance for travel from June to September.
- Athens: Book well in advance for travel from April to October.
- Mykonos, Rhodes, Corfu, and Crete: Book well in advance for late June through early September.
- Naxos, Paros, Milos, and Kefalonia: Book well in advance for July and August.
I hope that helps.
Good luck,
Dave
About Santorini Dave