Dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and an iconic shipwreck

Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach, is a secluded cove on the northwest coast of Zakynthos Island, Greece. Accessible only by boat, this beach is famed for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, towering limestone cliffs, and the rusting remains of the MV Panagiotis shipwreck that rests on its white sandy shores. The striking contrast between the azure sea, white cliffs, and the shipwreck creates a breathtaking and photogenic landscape.

• 🌍 Location: Zakynthos, Ionian Islands, Greece (Google map)
• ✅ Highlights: Iconic shipwreck, stunning cliff views, vibrant turquoise waters
• 👎 Downsides: Access limited to boats; can be crowded during peak season; potential safety concerns due to cliff erosion

A must-visit for photographers and beach lovers

The unique combination of natural beauty and historical intrigue makes Navagio Beach a top destination for travelers. Whether you're capturing the scene from the cliffs above or lounging on the beach beside the shipwreck, the experience is unforgettable. Boat tours often include stops at nearby attractions like the Blue Caves, adding to the adventure.

Access and safety considerations

Access to Navagio Beach is exclusively by sea, with numerous boat tours departing from ports such as Porto Vromi and Agios Nikolaos. Visitors should be aware of safety advisories, as the area has experienced landslides in the past, leading to temporary closures. It's essential to check current conditions and follow local guidelines when planning a visit.

Why Navagio Beach is one of the Best Beaches in Greece

Navagio Beach's unparalleled scenery, combining dramatic natural elements with a storied shipwreck, offers a unique and captivating experience. Its remote location enhances its allure, making it a must-see destination for those exploring the Greek islands.

Pink sands and shallow turquoise waters in Crete’s southwest

Elafonissi Beach, located on the southwestern coast of Crete, is renowned for its unique pink-hued sands and crystal-clear, shallow waters. The distinctive pink color of the sand results from crushed shells and coral fragments, creating a stunning contrast against the turquoise sea. This beach is part of a protected Natura 2000 area, preserving its diverse flora and fauna.

• 🌍 Location: Elafonissi, Chania, Crete, Greece (Google map)
• ✅ Highlights: Pink sand, shallow lagoon ideal for families, protected natural area
• 👎 Downsides: Remote location; can be crowded during peak season; limited shade

Family-friendly lagoon and natural beauty

The beach features a shallow lagoon separating the mainland from Elafonissi islet, allowing visitors to wade through knee-deep waters to explore both areas. The calm, warm waters make it an ideal spot for families with young children. The surrounding sand dunes and native vegetation add to the beach's natural charm.

Access and visitor information

Elafonissi Beach is approximately 75 kilometers southwest of Chania and can be reached by car or organized tours. Facilities include sunbeds, umbrellas, and small beach bars offering refreshments. Due to its popularity, it's recommended to arrive early, especially during summer months, to secure a good spot and avoid crowds.

Why Elafonissi Beach is one of the Best Beaches in Greece

Elafonissi Beach's unique pink sands, clear shallow waters, and unspoiled natural surroundings make it a must-visit destination in Crete. Its family-friendly environment and ecological significance offer a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration for all visitors.

Turquoise waters and pink-tinged sands in a remote Cretan paradise

Balos Lagoon, located on the northwestern coast of Crete, is a breathtaking beach renowned for its vivid turquoise waters, white and pink-hued sands, and stunning natural surroundings. This idyllic spot is formed where the Gramvousa Peninsula meets the island of Tigani, creating a shallow, warm lagoon ideal for swimming and relaxation. The area is part of the Natura 2000 network, protecting its unique flora and fauna.

• 🌍 Location: Gramvousa Peninsula, Chania, Crete, Greece (Google map)
• ✅ Highlights: Shallow, warm lagoon waters; pink-tinged sands; protected natural area
• 👎 Downsides: Access involves a rough dirt road and hike or boat ride; limited facilities; can be crowded during peak season

Family-friendly shallows and snorkeling opportunities

The lagoon's shallow waters, often no deeper than 50 centimeters, make it an excellent spot for families with young children. Beyond the lagoon, the deeper waters offer opportunities for snorkeling, revealing a variety of marine life. The unique pink hue of the sand, caused by crushed shells, adds to the beach's allure.

Access and visitor information

Reaching Balos Lagoon can be an adventure. Visitors can drive to a parking area via a rough dirt road, followed by a hike down to the beach. Alternatively, boat tours are available from Kissamos Port, offering a more relaxed journey. Facilities are minimal, so it's advisable to bring essentials like water, snacks, and sun protection.

Why Balos Lagoon is one of the Best Beaches in Greece

Balos Lagoon's combination of stunning natural beauty, unique geological features, and tranquil waters make it a must-visit destination in Crete. Its remote location adds to its charm, offering visitors a sense of discovery and escape from the more crowded tourist spots.

Iconic cliffs and dazzling blue waters on Kefalonia’s west coast

Myrtos Beach, nestled between the towering mountains of Agia Dynati and Kalon Oros on Kefalonia's northwest coast, is renowned for its dramatic scenery and vibrant turquoise waters. The beach's striking contrast of white pebbles against the deep blue Ionian Sea has made it one of the most photographed beaches in Greece. Its crescent-shaped bay, surrounded by steep limestone cliffs, offers a breathtaking panorama that captivates visitors.

• 🌍 Location: Pylaros region, Kefalonia, Greece (Google map)
• ✅ Highlights: Stunning cliffside views, vibrant turquoise waters, unique white pebble beach
• 👎 Downsides: Steep access road; limited shade; sudden depth drop-off; can be crowded during peak season

Access and visitor information

Access to Myrtos Beach is via a steep, winding road descending from the village of Divarata. A small parking area is available near the beach, but it fills up quickly during the summer months. Facilities include sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, a beach bar, showers, and restrooms. Lifeguards are on duty during the high season to ensure swimmer safety.

Why Myrtos Beach is one of the Best Beaches in Greece

Myrtos Beach's unparalleled natural beauty, characterized by its dramatic cliffs and mesmerizing sea colors, offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Its iconic status and breathtaking vistas make it a must-visit destination for beach lovers and photographers alike.

Omega-shaped serenity and mythic beauty on the Ionian coast

Voidokilia Beach, nestled in the Messinia region of the Peloponnese, is renowned for its distinctive omega (Ω) shape, golden sands, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. This pristine beach is part of the Natura 2000 network, highlighting its ecological significance and unspoiled natural beauty. Adjacent to the beach lies the Gialova Lagoon, a vital wetland habitat supporting diverse bird species.

• 🌍 Location: Near Petrochori, Messinia, Peloponnese, Greece (Google map)
• ✅ Highlights: Unique omega-shaped bay, soft golden sands, clear shallow waters, proximity to historical sites
• 👎 Downsides: Limited facilities; no shade or lifeguards; access via dirt road or hiking path

Natural splendor and tranquil waters

Voidokilia's calm, shallow waters make it ideal for swimming and relaxation. The beach's unique formation offers a sheltered environment, perfect for families and nature enthusiasts. Surrounded by sand dunes and native vegetation, the area provides a serene setting away from commercial development.

Access and visitor information

Access to Voidokilia Beach is possible via a dirt road from the village of Petrochori or by hiking through the Gialova Lagoon area. Parking is available near the beach, but spaces are limited, especially during peak season. Visitors should come prepared with essentials, as there are no facilities, shade, or lifeguards on site.

Why Voidokilia Beach is one of the Best Beaches in Greece

Voidokilia Beach's harmonious blend of natural beauty, ecological importance, and historical significance make it a standout destination. Its untouched landscape offers a peaceful retreat, allowing visitors to connect with nature and experience one of Greece's most iconic coastal settings.

Dual bays, golden dunes, and turquoise waters on Elafonisos Island

Simos Beach, located on the southern coast of Elafonisos Island in the Peloponnese, is renowned for its twin bays—Megalos (Big) Simos and Mikros (Small) Simos—separated by a narrow sandbar. The beach features fine white-golden sand, towering dunes up to 10 meters high, and crystal-clear turquoise waters, creating a breathtaking natural landscape. This area is part of the Natura 2000 network, highlighting its ecological significance.

• 🌍 Location: Elafonisos, Laconia, Peloponnese, Greece (Google map)
• ✅ Highlights: Twin bays with soft white sand, clear turquoise waters, impressive sand dunes, ideal for swimming and snorkeling
• 👎 Downsides: Limited natural shade; can be crowded during peak season; access requires ferry from the mainland

Natural beauty and recreational opportunities

Simos Beach offers a unique setting with its expansive sand dunes and clear waters, making it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The beach's natural beauty is complemented by its ecological importance, providing a habitat for various species and contributing to the area's biodiversity.

Access and visitor information

Access to Simos Beach involves a short ferry ride from the mainland port of Pounta to Elafonisos Island, followed by a drive to the beach area. Facilities include sunbeds, umbrellas, beach bars, and nearby camping options. Visitors are advised to bring essentials like sun protection and water, especially during the peak summer months.

Why Simos Beach is one of the Best Beaches in Greece

Simos Beach's combination of stunning natural features, including its twin bays, golden sand dunes, and clear waters, along with its ecological significance, make it a must-visit destination for beach enthusiasts seeking both beauty and tranquility.

Fiery cliffs and volcanic sands on Santorini’s southern coast

Red Beach, or Kokkini Paralia, is one of Santorini’s most iconic natural landmarks. Nestled near the village of Akrotiri, this beach is renowned for its striking red cliffs and sands, a result of the island's volcanic history. The vivid crimson hues of the towering cliffs create a dramatic backdrop against the azure waters of the Aegean Sea, offering a unique and picturesque setting for visitors.

• 🌍 Location: Akrotiri, Santorini, Greece (Google map)
• ✅ Highlights: Unique red volcanic cliffs, clear turquoise waters, excellent snorkeling opportunities
• 👎 Downsides: Prone to landslides; limited facilities; access involves a short hike over uneven terrain

Natural beauty and geological significance

The beach's distinctive red coloration is due to the iron-rich sedimentary rocks and volcanic materials that comprise the surrounding cliffs. These geological features not only provide a stunning visual contrast with the sea but also offer insight into Santorini's volcanic past. The underwater rock formations make Red Beach a popular spot for snorkeling enthusiasts seeking to explore its marine life.

Access and visitor information

Red Beach is accessible by car, bus, or boat. From the parking area near Akrotiri, visitors must undertake a brief hike along a rocky path to reach the beach. Due to the risk of falling rocks, caution is advised, and it's recommended to check local advisories before visiting. Facilities are minimal; there are a few sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, but no beach bars or restrooms. Visitors should bring their own provisions and sun protection.

Why Red Beach is one of the Best Beaches in Greece

Red Beach's unparalleled natural beauty, characterized by its dramatic red cliffs and clear waters, offers a unique beach experience that stands out among Greece's coastal destinations. Its geological significance and stunning scenery make it a must-visit for travelers seeking both relaxation and a glimpse into the island's volcanic heritage.

Granite sculptures and serene coves on Paros’ northern coast

Kolymbithres Beach, located in the expansive bay of Naoussa on Paros Island, is renowned for its unique granite rock formations that have been naturally sculpted over millennia by wind and sea. These formations create a series of small, sandy coves, offering visitors both stunning visuals and secluded spots to relax. The beach's name, meaning "baptismal fonts," reflects the natural basins formed within the rocks.

• 🌍 Location: Naoussa Bay, Paros, Greece (Google map)
• ✅ Highlights: Unique granite rock formations, clear shallow waters, family-friendly environment, water sports availability
• 👎 Downsides: Limited natural shade; can become crowded during peak season; parking spaces may be scarce

Natural beauty and recreational activities

The beach's calm, shallow waters make it ideal for families with young children. Visitors can explore the various coves, each offering a sense of privacy. For the more adventurous, water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding are available, allowing for exploration of the bay's intricate coastline.

Access and visitor information

Kolymbithres Beach is approximately 4 km from Naoussa and 11 km from Parikia. It is accessible by car, local bus, or boat taxi from Naoussa's port. While there is a parking area, it tends to fill up quickly during the summer months. Amenities include sunbeds, umbrellas, and nearby tavernas offering local cuisine.

Why Kolymbithres Beach is one of the Best Beaches in Greece

Kolymbithres Beach stands out for its distinctive geological features and tranquil setting. The combination of natural rock sculptures, inviting waters, and accessible amenities make it a must-visit destination for those exploring the Cyclades.