Did you know: in 2024, 625 Greek beaches and 18 marinas were awarded ‘Blue Flag’ status – of the 52 countries that participate in the international quality awards, Greece placed second worldwide. Greece also has one of the longest coastlines in the world, homing a range of waters and natural beauty.
Discover the diverse and striking beauty of Greece’s coastline: from the Ionian oases, to the Dodecanese historic gems, the 10 beaches below are worthy of any sun-and-sea-loving travellers’ bucket-list:
Navagio, Zakynthos
Nicknamed ‘smugglers cove’, this ship-wrecked beach has become one of the postcard destinations of Greece. Its nickname is based on a rumour that, in October 1980, a ship carrying contraband cigarettes from Turkey to Italy ran aground during and storm, and was abandoned by the crew thereafter. Today, the incredible shipwreck is wedged between the limestone cliffs of Zakynthos, overlooking its bright blue waters.
You can either see the bay from above: walk along the clifftop paths and see the incredible view at the look-out point:
Or marvel at the beach from below, by boat. This is also a great way to see the island’s coast from a different perspective, and can be combined with other sights, like the blue caves and sulphur springs:
Antisamos, Kefalonia
Hidden on the west side of Kefalonia, nestled between lush green hills, Antisamos’ bright blue waters shine above its pebble bay. Gaining more popularity since the filming of Captain Corelli’s Mandolin, Antisamos is a naturally beautiful beach that is definitely worth visiting. Today, the beach is also ‘organised’ with beach bars and a vibey atmosphere between the forest cliffs and Caribbean-like waters.
Porto Katsiki, Lefkada
Porto Katsiki is a pebble beach along the west coast of Lefkada. Surrounded by the iconically Ionian white cliffs, and bright blue waters, this beach is an incredible place to spend the day. Despite its popularity, the beach remains ‘unorganised’ meaning you will need to bring your own snacks, umbrellas and towels. There is free parking available, along with a small cafe above, with well-kept steps to guide you down.
Tambakio, Rhodes
Next to the Agios Pavlos/Saint Pauls beach (also amazing) but it is smaller and nicknamed “Pink Agios Pavlos” because of the blossoms surrounding it. The water is warm and lovely to swim in, surrounded by pink flowers and shadowed by the acropolis.
Agios Ioannis, Skopelos
Known as the ‘mamma mia’ beach, and setting of the movie’s famous church on the hill, this beach is iconically beautiful. While you can access this by road, and enjoy a frappe from the top, an alternative access point is by boat – allowing you to explore the island’s hidden coves and other movie spots, like the ‘lay all your love on me‘ bachelor beach scene.
Porto Timoni, Corfu
Corfu has some of the most unique and diverse beaches on a coastline. With that being said, the one that continues to leave a naturally jaw-dropping view is Porto Timoni. The pebble beach is a corridor, surrounded by water on both sides, with large lush cliffs looming over it. That being said, like most beaches on the island, it’s a rugged walk to get there. But you can catch a boat back to the ‘mainland’ beach (around €30 each one way, and they’ll bus you back to the car park).
Sarakiniko, Milos
The iconic white marble-looking beach and arguably the magnet that draws visitors to Milos. The slice of the moon look is a unique landscape for photographers, especially at sunrise, and provides a great spot for the adventurous cliff jumpers too. The beach itself carries a bit of history, known as a pirates’ hideout – explore the maze of tunnels built into the beach ‘walls’ (be careful of the uneven ground).
Kolymbithres, Paros
The stone-age looking beach, with clear and calm waters. Found close to Naoussa, this beach is one of Paros most famous spots. And rightfully so.
Asteria, Syros
Located just under the Agios Nikoloas church, Asteria is the perfect spot to cool off in Ermpoupoli. The umbrellas are free of charge, but more often than not: you have to fight for shade with the ducks and cats too – the beach locals. As you walk down, passing Sta Vaporia (cafe), you’ll see the crystal clear water and kids diving in off the platform, as well as a beach bar (Ciel).
Giola Lagoon, Thassos
2 images above sourced from @DiscoverGreece
The tear-shaped natural swimming pool, also known as Aphrodite’s tear, is one of the most photographed spots in Thassos. After a 20min walk, burrowed into the rock, with an 8m ledge at the back – perfect for cliff jumping, you’ll find mother nature’s pool.
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