Top 10 Best Beaches in Greece
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Lesezeit 14 min
Best beaches in Greece
Greece offers a dazzling array of beaches, where dramatic cliffs meet turquoise waters, and soft sands stretch under the endless sun. From the famous shipwreck bay of Zakynthos to hidden coves in the Cyclades, each beach has its own unforgettable charm. Whether you’re searching for a family-friendly retreat, a snorkeling paradise, or a picture-perfect escape, our curated list of the top 10 best beaches in Greece will guide you straight to your dream shoreline.
Table of contents
Best beaches in Greece 1. Navagio Beach – Zakynthos 2. Elafonissi Beach – Crete Pro Travel Tip ☀️ 3. Balos Lagoon – Crete 4. Porto Katsiki – Lefkada Comfort You Can Pack 🏖️ 5. Myrtos Beach – Kefalonia 6. Sarakiniko Beach – Milos Hit Greece’s beaches in style 🏖️ 7. Voidokilia Beach – Peloponnese 8. Simos Beach – Elafonisos 9. Red Beach – Santorini 10. Kolymbithres Beach – Paros Somewhere Between Ancient Legends and Endless Beaches
1. Navagio Beach – Zakynthos
– Dramatic shipwreck scenery and surreal turquoise waters on Zakynthos’ northwest coast
Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach, is one of the most photographed and iconic beaches in Greece — and for good reason. Nestled between towering limestone cliffs and accessible only by boat, this stunning cove features powdery white sands and water so vividly blue it looks almost unreal. The centerpiece is the rusting remains of the shipwrecked MV Panagiotis, adding an extra layer of mystery and allure. A must-visit if you’re chasing the very Best Beaches in Greece!
- 🌍 Location: Zakynthos, Ionian Islands, Greece (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Surreal turquoise waters, famous shipwreck, dramatic limestone cliffs, accessible only by boat
- 👎 Downsides: Can be extremely crowded in peak season; boat tours can be weather-dependent
A real shipwreck on a beach? Yep, it’s true
Navagio Beach gets its wild charm from the wrecked MV Panagiotis, stranded on the sand since the 1980s — and now one of Greece’s most iconic sights.
The boat ride there is half the fun
Since you can’t drive to Navagio, hopping on a boat tour across that insane blue water makes the whole trip feel like a mini adventure.
Water so blue it barely looks real
It’s that crazy-bright turquoise you only see in postcards. Bring a snorkel — and maybe some sunglasses just for the water’s glow.
The clifftop view is epic (but hold your phone tight)
The lookout above the beach gives you that world-famous view — just be careful, it’s high, windy, and there are no safety rails.
Why Navagio Beach ranks among the Best Beaches in Greece
You get shipwreck legends, jaw-dropping scenery, and water that could outshine any tropical island — all wrapped into one unforgettable spot.
2. Elafonissi Beach – Crete
– Pink sand, shallow lagoons, and dreamy island vibes on Crete’s southwest coast
Elafonissi Beach, located on the island of Crete, feels like stepping into another world. Known for its shimmering pink-tinged sand and shallow, crystal-clear lagoons, it’s one of the most surreal beaches in Europe. A sandbar connects the beach to the tiny Elafonissi Islet, where you can wander between dunes and explore hidden coves. Whether you’re swimming, sunbathing, or just snapping photos of the magical pink sand, Elafonissi easily secures its spot among the Best Beaches in Greece.
- 🌍 Location: Crete, Greece (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Pink sand, shallow lagoons perfect for wading, ideal for families and nature lovers
- 👎 Downsides: Gets very crowded during summer afternoons; limited shade
Pink sand? It’s real — and it’s magical
The beach glows with blush-pink hues thanks to crushed seashells — it’s even more beautiful in the morning light.
Lagoon swimming at its dreamiest
The shallow, crystal-clear waters stretch for ages, making it perfect for floating, paddling, and feeling like you’re in a giant natural pool.
Cross over to your own mini island
At low tide, you can walk across the sandbar to Elafonissi Islet, where hidden beaches and wildflowers are waiting.
Plan ahead if you want your pink paradise
This place is no secret — arrive early to enjoy the serenity before the tour buses roll in around midday.
Why Elafonissi Beach shines among the Best Beaches in Greece
Between the pink sand, the surreal lagoons, and the untouched islet, it’s a one-of-a-kind natural wonder you’ll remember forever.
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3. Balos Lagoon – Crete
– Shallow turquoise waters and wild island beauty on Crete’s northwest coast
Balos Lagoon is pure postcard perfection. Located on the Gramvousa Peninsula in northwestern Crete, it’s famous for its shallow, turquoise waters blending with white-pink sands in a dreamy swirl. The lagoon is framed by wild, rugged mountains and can be reached either by a bumpy drive and short hike or by a scenic boat ride. It’s a top contender for anyone looking to explore the Best Beaches in Greece, offering an unforgettable, almost otherworldly beach day.
- 🌍 Location: Crete, Greece (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Shallow turquoise lagoons, white-pink sand, epic natural scenery, ideal for families and photographers
- 👎 Downsides: Rough dirt road if driving; gets crowded midday; limited shade
Swim in a natural pastel painting
Balos is a mesmerizing mix of baby-blue, turquoise, and pink — you’ll feel like you’re floating inside a real-life watercolor.
Get there by boat… or by adventure
You can sail in on a ferry from Kissamos — or brave the bumpy dirt road and hike down the cliffs for that unforgettable first glimpse.
Family-friendly shallows
The lagoon stays shallow and warm for meters out, making it a giant natural pool that’s perfect for splashing, wading, and lazy floating.
Be an early bird to beat the crowds
By noon, the ferries start to unload — so come early in the morning or late in the afternoon if you want that dreamy, peaceful Balos vibe.
Why Balos Lagoon belongs among the Best Beaches in Greece
Because nowhere else looks quite like it — the colors, the wild beauty, and the untouched feel make Balos a true bucket-list beach.
4. Porto Katsiki – Lefkada
– Towering cliffs, electric blue waters, and dramatic beauty on Lefkada’s west coast
Porto Katsiki is the ultimate showstopper beach on the island of Lefkada — and a total must for lovers of jaw-dropping landscapes. Framed by towering white cliffs that plunge into a sea of almost fluorescent blue, this beach looks like it was designed for postcards. You reach it by descending a long flight of stairs carved into the cliffside. Whether you’re sunbathing, swimming, or just staring in awe, Porto Katsiki stands tall among the Best Beaches in Greece.
- 🌍 Location: Lefkada, Ionian Islands, Greece (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Stunning white cliffs, neon-blue waters, dramatic scenery, crystal-clear swimming
- 👎 Downsides: Lots of stairs to reach it; limited shade; can be crowded in peak season
Stairway to beach heaven
Getting here means descending steep stone steps — but every step down brings you closer to one of Greece’s most breathtaking beach views.
Swim in the bluest blue you’ve ever seen
The water at Porto Katsiki is so intensely turquoise that it practically glows, especially under the midday sun.
Cliffside drama you’ll never forget
Towering white cliffs wrap around the beach like a giant amphitheater — it feels wild, raw, and unforgettable.
Top tip for a peaceful vibe
Arrive early or stay late to avoid the crowds and experience Porto Katsiki when it’s at its most magical and serene.
Why Porto Katsiki is one of the Best Beaches in Greece
It’s that perfect mix of epic cliffs, dreamlike waters, and a little effort to get there — making the reward even sweeter.
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5. Myrtos Beach – Kefalonia
– Sparkling blue waters and towering cliffs on Kefalonia’s northwest coast
Myrtos Beach is the crown jewel of Kefalonia and easily ranks among the Best Beaches in Greece. Enclosed by towering limestone cliffs and covered in dazzling white pebbles, it’s a breathtaking sight from every angle. The water changes color throughout the day, shifting from deep blue to electric turquoise depending on the light. Whether you’re sunbathing, swimming, or simply admiring the view from above, Myrtos is pure magic.
- 🌍 Location: Kefalonia, Ionian Islands, Greece (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Dramatic cliffs, changing water colors, stunning viewpoint from above, crystal-clear sea
- 👎 Downsides Strong waves at times; limited facilities; winding road access
That view from above is unreal
Driving down the cliff road gives you one of the most iconic beach views in all of Greece — have your camera ready!
Water that shimmers every shade of blue
Depending on the sunlight, the water shifts from deep navy to bright turquoise — it’s like watching the sea breathe in color.
White pebbles instead of sand
Tiny white stones create the dazzling effect underfoot — and bonus: no sand sticking to everything!
When the waves come alive
On windy days, the surf can get pretty wild — making it even more dramatic (but stay safe if you swim!).
Why Myrtos Beach is one of the Best Beaches in Greece
Because it’s pure coastal drama — the cliffs, the colors, the wild energy — it’s the kind of place that leaves you speechless.
6. Sarakiniko Beach – Milos
– Lunar landscapes, white cliffs, and surreal swimming spots on Milos’ northern coast
Sarakiniko Beach doesn’t feel like Earth — and that’s exactly why it’s one of the Best Beaches in Greece. Sculpted by wind and waves over centuries, the blinding white volcanic rock forms smooth, flowing shapes that look straight out of a sci-fi movie. The shallow turquoise water tucked between the cliffs adds an otherworldly touch. Whether you’re swimming, cliff-jumping, or just wandering through the lunar landscape, Sarakiniko promises a beach experience like no other.
- 🌍 Location: Milos, Cyclades, Greece (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Unique white rock formations, crystal-clear water, perfect for photos and cliff-jumping
- 👎 Downsides: Very little shade; rocks can get hot under the sun; popular with tourists
Feel like you’re walking on the moon
The smooth, white volcanic rocks create a dreamlike setting — you’ve seriously never seen a beach like this before.
Crystal pools tucked between the rocks
Find natural swimming holes carved into the cliffs where you can float in peace, surrounded by pure white stone.
Best spot for cliff-jumping daredevils
There are plenty of safe(ish) spots to leap into the deep blue sea — just watch locals first and be smart about it.
Get there early for sci-fi beach vibes
The place fills up quickly! Come at sunrise to have Sarakiniko’s surreal beauty (almost) all to yourself.
Why Sarakiniko Beach deserves its spot among the Best Beaches in Greece
Because no other beach mixes moon-like landscapes and sapphire waters into one epic, unforgettable adventure.
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7. Voidokilia Beach – Peloponnese
– A perfect circle of golden sand and calm blue waters on the Peloponnese coast
Voidokilia Beach looks almost too perfect to be real — a flawless crescent of fine sand wrapped around calm, shallow turquoise waters. Located near Pylos in the Peloponnese, it’s part of a protected nature reserve, giving it an untouched, serene vibe. Surrounded by sand dunes and backed by a saltwater lagoon, Voidokilia is as dreamy as beaches get, easily earning its spot among the Best Beaches in Greece.
- 🌍 Location: Peloponnese, Greece (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Perfect semicircle shape, calm shallow waters, nature reserve setting, peaceful and unspoiled
- 👎 Downsides: No facilities; can get crowded in peak season; limited parking
Swim in a perfect natural circle
The beach is a flawless semicircle — it’s like Mother Nature used a giant compass to draw it.
Shallow, calm waters for ultimate chill
The bay is super shallow and warm, making it perfect for lazy floats and family swims.
Wild dunes and ancient legends
Voidokilia is surrounded by rolling dunes and myth — it’s said to be where Hermes hid cattle stolen from Apollo!
Bring your picnic and beach day essentials
No shops, no beach bars — just you, your towel, and the sound of gentle waves (and maybe a cold drink you packed yourself).
Why Voidokilia Beach is one of the Best Beaches in Greece
Between the perfect shape, the lagoon backdrop, and the unspoiled nature, it feels like you’ve stumbled onto a hidden paradise.
8. Simos Beach – Elafonisos
– Twin bays, soft white sands, and crystal-clear waters on the tiny island of Elafonisos
Simos Beach is pure Mediterranean perfection. Located on the tiny island of Elafonisos off the southern Peloponnese coast, it boasts soft, dazzling white sands and waters so clear you can see every ripple on the seafloor. Simos is famous for its twin bays — Fragos and Sarakiniko — separated by a thin strip of sand. It’s a beach lover’s dream and absolutely deserves its spot among the Best Beaches in Greece.
- 🌍 Location: Elafonisos Island, Greece (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Twin sandy bays, incredibly clear shallow waters, stunning sand dunes, relaxed island vibe
- 👎 Downsides: Can be windy; limited shade; ferry access needed from the mainland
Two beaches for the price of one
Simos has twin bays separated by a skinny sandbar — swim one side, flip your towel, and swim the other.
Water so clear it’s like swimming in glass
Seriously, the visibility here is insane. It’s the perfect place to snorkel, float, and just admire the sea’s colors.
Camp under the stars if you dare
There’s a camping site nearby — and waking up to the twin bays at sunrise? Absolutely worth it.
Catch the ferry to your paradise
Elafonisos is a tiny island just a quick ferry ride from the Peloponnese — but once you’re there, it feels a world away.
Why Simos Beach shines among the Best Beaches in Greece
Twin lagoons, powdery white sand, and sparkling blue seas — it’s basically Greece’s secret beach playground.
9. Red Beach – Santorini
– Dramatic crimson cliffs and deep blue waters on Santorini’s stunning south coast
Red Beach is one of the most unique and visually striking beaches in Greece. Located near the ancient site of Akrotiri on Santorini, it’s famous for its towering red volcanic cliffs that tumble down onto a small strip of deep-hued sand. The intense contrast between the rusty red rocks and the sapphire Aegean Sea makes this spot an unforgettable sight — and an easy entry among the Best Beaches in Greece.
- 🌍 Location: Santorini, Cyclades, Greece (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Unique red volcanic landscape, clear deep waters, dramatic scenery perfect for photography
- 👎 Downsides: Small beach area; access involves a rocky path; can be very crowded
A beach made of fire and lava
Red Beach’s dramatic color comes from volcanic eruptions long ago — it’s like stepping onto another planet.
Short hike, big reveal
You’ll need to walk a rocky trail to reach the beach — but rounding that final bend and seeing the red cliffs meet blue sea? Goosebumps.
Swimming in a natural amphitheater
The curved cliffs wrap around the bay, creating a magical, intimate vibe while you swim in deep, clear water.
Come early or stay late
This beach is no secret — beat the crowds by arriving early morning or late afternoon when the lighting makes the cliffs glow.
Why Red Beach is one of the Best Beaches in Greece
Because it’s unlike anywhere else — dramatic, colorful, and packed with that wild Santorini energy.
10. Kolymbithres Beach – Paros
– Sculpted granite rocks and shallow crystal waters on Paros’ northern coast
Kolymbithres Beach, located in the bay of Naoussa on Paros Island, is a natural wonderland of smooth, weather-sculpted granite rocks and sheltered sandy coves. The beach feels like a series of private natural pools, with warm, shallow waters perfect for relaxing, swimming, or exploring. The dreamy scenery and calm vibe make Kolymbithres a true gem — and one of the Best Beaches in Greece.
- 🌍 Location: Paros, Cyclades, Greece (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Unique granite formations, small private coves, shallow clear waters, ideal for families and snorkeling
- 👎 Downsides: Limited parking; can get crowded in peak season; some rocky walking areas
Swim between natural granite sculptures
The crazy-shaped rocks create tiny coves and pools — you’ll feel like you’ve found your own secret beach.
Perfect for lazy swims and snorkeling
The shallow, calm waters are made for floating, exploring, and spotting little fish among the rocks.
Find your own private nook
Wander between the rocks and set up in a cozy cove away from the crowds — ultimate beach day goals.
Best time to snag a perfect spot
Arrive early, especially in July and August, if you want to score one of the best tucked-away corners.
Why Kolymbithres Beach deserves its place among the Best Beaches in Greece
Where else can you swim through ancient rock sculptures and feel like you’re living inside a Greek island dream?
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“At the shore, we find more than the sea — we find a part of ourselves set free.”
Somewhere Between Ancient Legends and Endless Beaches
You chase the sun, explore new shores, and live for beach days done right.
SummerSand’s lightweight towels are made for travelers like you — light to pack, easy to love.
Table of contents
Best beaches in Greece 1. Navagio Beach – Zakynthos 2. Elafonissi Beach – Crete Pro Travel Tip ☀️ 3. Balos Lagoon – Crete 4. Porto Katsiki – Lefkada Comfort You Can Pack 🏖️ 5. Myrtos Beach – Kefalonia 6. Sarakiniko Beach – Milos Hit Greece’s beaches in style 🏖️ 7. Voidokilia Beach – Peloponnese 8. Simos Beach – Elafonisos 9. Red Beach – Santorini 10. Kolymbithres Beach – Paros Somewhere Between Ancient Legends and Endless Beaches
