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30 Best beaches in Greece: where to swim on the islands

30 Best beaches in Greece: where to swim on the islands

A vacation in Greece is almost always tied to the sea, and the sea here varies. Some shores are sheltered from the wind and work well for children, others keep a wild look and require a drive along cliffs. The spread across the islands is huge, and choosing the right beach is not easy.

We have gathered thirty Greek shores with photos, descriptions, and an honest catch. For each beach you will see what it looks like, who it suits, and what to watch out for. The season and beach accessibility are verified as of 09/2026 according to the official Greek tourism portal.

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What to consider when choosing a beach

💡 In short:

  • Choose organized shores with loungers, showers, and tavernas if you are traveling with children.
  • Choose wild beaches without infrastructure if you are ready to bring water and food with you.
  • Beach access and infrastructure: 09/2026, verified on the official Greek portal.

1. Balos, Crete

Turquoise Balos Lagoon with a sandy spit on Crete© dronepicr · CC BYPhoto: dronepicr, CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0), Wikimedia Commons

Balos Lagoon lies in the northwest of Crete, near the Gramvousa Peninsula. You can get here by boat from Kissamos or by car along a dirt road from Chania. The shallow lagoon is protected by rocks, so the water is warm and calm even when it is windy.

The shore is made of white sand with pinkish shells. There is no shade from trees here, and no tavernas or bars either. The only amenities you will find are loungers and umbrellas.

  • Who it's for: for those who value wild nature and are ready for a long journey.
  • Not for: families with small children and those who want lunch at a taverna nearby.
  • How to get there: by boat from Kissamos or by car along a dirt road.
  • The catch: no shade and no food, bring water and a hat.

2. Elafonisi, Crete

Elafonisi is separated from the western coast of Crete by a narrow strait. You can wade across it: the water never rises above the knee, even at depth. It is the pink sand that draws tourists here from all over the island.

The shore gets its color from tiny red-brown shells and corals ground into dust. The entry into the water is gentle, and there are almost no waves. Loungers, umbrellas, changing rooms, and toilets are on site, and drinks and food are sold at several spots near the shore.

  • Who it's for: for families with children, because the entry into the sea is gentle and safe.
  • Not for: those seeking complete quiet, the shore is crowded in summer.
  • How to get there: by car to the southwestern tip of Crete.

3. Preveli, Crete

Preveli Beach with palm grove and river lagoon, Crete© Mihael Grmek · CC BY-SAPhoto: Mihael Grmek, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia Commons

Preveli lies on the southern coast of Crete, where the Kourtaliotiko Gorge opens to the Libyan Sea. A mountain river flows out of a palm grove and into the sea right on the beach. You will not find this mix of fresh and salt water on most shores of the island.

The descent to the water goes down a long stone staircase cut into the rock. You will have to walk down, and especially back up. There are no loungers or canopies here, but you can stroll among the palms in the heat. One of the symbols of the shore, a heart-shaped rock fragment, is easy to recognize from photos.

  • Who it's for: for those ready to climb stairs for a rare landscape.
  • Not for: tourists with a stroller and those who need shade.
  • How to get there: by car to the southern coast, then on foot down the stairs.
  • The catch: the climb back up the stairs is hard in the heat.

4. Georgioupolis, Crete

Sandy Georgioupolis Beach with umbrellas and mountains

Georgioupolis is a quiet resort village among cypresses and eucalyptus trees on the northern coast of Crete. The beach here is long, sandy, and fully equipped. The coastline is framed by green hills, so the scenery is soft, without sharp cliffs.

You will find sun loungers, umbrellas, changing rooms, showers, and volleyball courts. Tavernas, cafes, shops, and hotels are a few steps away. The entry into the water is convenient for children, and there are water sports for the active.

  • Who it's for: for families and for those who do not want to travel far for infrastructure.
  • Location: northern Crete, along the village of Georgioupolis.
  • The catch: in high season the shore is packed, look for a free spot by the water in the morning.

Hotels in Crete on Trip.com

5. Lindos, Rhodes

Lindos Bay and white houses above the sea© Tsui · CC BY-SAPhoto: Tsui, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia Commons

The main beach of Lindos lies in a bay at the foot of the cliff with the ancient acropolis. The terrain forms a natural bay, so there are almost no currents or cold wind here. The shore has been awarded the Blue Flag for clean water and sand.

Shallow pools will appeal to children and those just learning to swim. You can rent a lounger and umbrella, play beach games, or go into the water with a mask. Snorkeling and spearfishing are popular here because of the clear water and marine life.

  • Who it's for: for snorkeling and for families, because the water is calm and shallow.
  • Location: eastern coast of Rhodes, below the acropolis of Lindos.
  • The catch: it is hot and crowded at the acropolis, book your ticket and lounger in advance.

6. Tsambika, Rhodes

Tsambika Beach bay on Rhodes from above© dronepicr · CC BYPhoto: dronepicr, CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0), Wikimedia Commons

Tsambika is located in the southeastern part of Rhodes. A wide strip of golden sand is squeezed on both sides by picturesque cliffs, so the shore is sheltered from the wind. The beach got its name from an old monastery that stands on the mountain above the water.

Shallow water and calm currents make this spot convenient for families with children. Loungers with umbrellas, changing rooms, showers, toilets, bars, and snack stands are available. For the active, there are sports courts and rides on jet skis, water skis, and banana boats.

  • Who it's for: for families with children, because it is shallow and quiet near the shore.
  • Not for: those who want a long promenade along the water.
  • Location: southeast Rhodes, above the shore is the Tsambika Monastery.

7. Kallithea, Rhodes

Rocky Kallithea Bay with loungers and turquoise water© npinikas · CC BYPhoto: npinikas, CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), Wikimedia Commons

Kallithea stretches along the eastern coast of Rhodes and consists of several small coves. Many of them are a mix of large boulders, rocks, and sandy-pebble sections among pines and palms. Stone blocks near the water resemble small islets where you can find privacy.

The shore is equipped with sun loungers, umbrellas, and shower cabins. The clear water is in demand among diving enthusiasts. You can ride a catamaran and a jet ski, or go up in the air on a parachute. Tavernas and cafeterias operate near the beach.

  • Who it's for: for couples and for those seeking privacy among the rocks.
  • Not for: families with a stroller, the descents to the coves are rocky.
  • Location: eastern coast of Rhodes, coves near the village of Kallithea.

8. Faliraki, Rhodes

Faliraki is a large seaside resort on Rhodes with a long beach of golden sand. The shoreline is well maintained and stretches for several kilometers along clear water. The bottom is visible almost right at the shore, and the entry into the water is smooth and free of large stones.

Loungers, umbrellas, and lifeguard towers stand on the shore, and a first-aid station operates. This kind of entry is convenient for children, so there are many families here. Tavernas, bars, and restaurants with Greek cuisine are nearby, and there is scooter and catamaran rental.

  • Who it's for: for families and for those who want to combine the sea and a small town.
  • Location: northeast Rhodes, along the resort of Faliraki.
  • The catch: at popular sections loungers are taken early, come in the morning.

Hotels in Rhodes on Trip.com

9. Paleokastritsa, Corfu

Turquoise water at Paleokastritsa Beach on Corfu© Hombre · CC BY-SAPhoto: Hombre, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0), Wikimedia Commons

Paleokastritsa lies among the rocky hills of Corfu, covered with olive and cypress groves. The beach is small but well equipped, surrounded by green areas and cliffs with caves. The shore has received a Blue Flag for the cleanliness of its water and sand.

You can rent a sunbed and umbrella, take a boat, scooter, or catamaran ride. The clear water is great for observing the underwater world. Coastal restaurants and fish tavernas serve local cuisine.

  • Who it's for: families, because the beach is well equipped and food is nearby.
  • Not for: those who want a long stretch of sand for walking.
  • Location: western Corfu, near the Paleokastritsa Monastery.

10. Barbati, Corfu

Pebble Barbati Beach under a mountain slope© EntaXoyas · CC BY-SAPhoto: EntaXoyas, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0), Wikimedia Commons

Barbati stretches along a long pebble shore between the Pantokrator mountain range and the Ionian Sea. Olive groves come almost to the water's edge, and the sea here is transparent and deeply colored. Many consider this shore one of the best on Corfu.

The central section is equipped with sun loungers, umbrellas, cafes and playgrounds. At the edges there are wild stretches where you can swim among rocks and grottoes. Boat, motorboat, catamaran and diving equipment rentals are available.

  • Who it's for: those who want to combine the conveniences of the center with quiet edges.
  • Not for: families with a stroller, the shore is pebbly and sloped.
  • Location: northeast Corfu, at the foot of Pantokrator.

11. Agios Gordios, Corfu

Agios Gordios Bay with Ortholithos Rock from above

Agios Gordios is located near Kerkyra, the capital of Corfu. The shore is long and spacious, with golden sand framed by rocks with sharp peaks and pine forests. Hotels, shops, bars and restaurants line the water.

On the beach you can soak up the sun or keep busy with active recreation. Boat, motorboat and canoe rentals, scooter, catamaran and water ski rides are available, as well as diving, snorkeling and windsurfing. The entry into the sea is even, with no sudden drop-offs, so children swim safely. The central section is taken up by sun loungers and umbrellas.

  • Who it's for: families and water sports enthusiasts.
  • Location: west coast of Corfu.
  • The catch: in season the central loungers get taken quickly, look for a spot in the morning.

12. Nissaki, Corfu

Nissaki is several intimate coves on the northeast of Corfu. Rocks shelter them from cold winds and strong currents, so the water here is calm. Dense Mediterranean vegetation comes close to the shore.

The shore is covered with large white pebbles that contrast with the turquoise water. The depth increases gradually, so children can swim here comfortably. Several fish tavernas with local seafood dishes operate nearby, and diving and snorkeling enthusiasts find transparent water.

  • Who it's for: those who want a quiet holiday in a cove without crowds.
  • Not for: those who need sand, here there is only pebble.
  • Location: northeast Corfu, several separate coves.

Hotels on Corfu on Trip.com

13. Red Beach, Thira

Red Beach under volcanic cliffs on Santorini© Dr Petros Tzeferis · CC BY-SAPhoto: Dr Petros Tzeferis, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia Commons

Red Beach on Santorini is made of volcanic rock. Sheer red cliffs hang over the shore, and huge boulders lie right at the water's edge. The combination of turquoise sea and red stone makes this shore one of the most recognizable on the island.

The beach is covered with bright orange, brown and black gravel. The entry into the sea is rocky and inconvenient for children, so it's better to swim in footwear. Infrastructure here is minimal: no shops, bars, changing rooms or toilets, you'll only be offered loungers with umbrellas.

  • Who it's for: those who came for the unusual scenery and underwater world.
  • Not for: families with small children because of the rocky bottom.
  • The catch: there are almost no facilities, bring water and swim shoes with you.

14. Perivolos, Thira

Perivolos coast on Santorini from the mountain top© ArticCynda · CC BY-SAPhoto: ArticCynda, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia Commons

Perivolos is washed by a clean bay of the Aegean Sea, and the shore is covered with soft black volcanic sand. The infrastructure here matches a comfortable holiday, so it's convenient to come with family. Sun loungers with umbrellas and soft chairs are set up along the water.

There are changing rooms and shower cabins on site, and the entry into the sea is gentle. Bars, tavernas, snack bars and restaurants with Greek cuisine surround you. For active visitors there are volleyball and mini-soccer courts, diving, surfing, scooter rentals and parasailing.

  • Who it's for: families and those who want to combine relaxation and sports.
  • Location: south of Santorini, along the village of Perivolos.
  • The catch: the black sand gets very hot during the day, walk in footwear.

15. Kamari, Thira

Black pebbles of Kamari Beach and Mesa Vouno rock© Jules Verne Times Two · CC BY-SAPhoto: Jules Verne Times Two, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia Commons

Kamari lies on the southeast of Santorini and occupies a flat part of the island. The wide, long shore is covered with black volcanic sand and fine pebbles. A large rock rises above the waterline, and the water area itself receives the Blue Flag every year.

The coastal zone is equipped with sun loungers, umbrellas, changing cabins, restrooms and showers. The entry into the sea is steep, the depth increases quickly, so keep an eye on children near the water. Entertainment includes jet skis, catamarans, parasailing and diving, as well as mini-soccer, volleyball and badminton. Playgrounds are available for children, and bars and restaurants line the area nearby.

  • Who it's for: active tourists and families with older children.
  • Not for: those who need a gradual entry into the water.
  • Location: southeast Santorini, along the village of Kamari.

16. Perissa, Thira

Perissa Beach with umbrellas and a rock at sunset© PCN02WPS · CC BY-SAPhoto: PCN02WPS, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia Commons

Perissa is a long beach of black and gray sand formed after a volcanic eruption. Low rocks frame the shore, and Mount Mesa Vouno rises over the surrounding area. The water here is transparent, with the color characteristic of Santorini.

The shore is equipped with loungers, umbrellas, showers, changing rooms and toilets. The entry into the water is gentle, but in places there are large stones, so footwear won't hurt. Scooters, canoes, catamarans and banana boats, diving and windsurfing are available, as well as volleyball and soccer. Cafes, bars and tavernas operate along the coast.

  • Who it's for: families with children, because the depth near the shore increases gradually.
  • Location: south of Santorini, near the village of Perissa under Mount Mesa Vouno.
  • The catch: stones at the water entry, it's more comfortable to swim in water shoes.

Hotels on Santorini on Trip.com

17. Plaka, Naxos

Path through sand dunes to Plaka Beach© Atle1963a · CC BY-SAPhoto: Atle1963a, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0), Wikimedia Commons

Plaka is one of the wildest and most secluded shores of green Naxos. The wide sandy beach impresses with its open space and stretches for several kilometers. Most of the shore is untouched by civilization, loungers, cafes and tavernas appear only in certain sections.

Sand dunes combined with the turquoise Aegean Sea create a pristine landscape. This place suits both swimming and long walks along the water. If you want active recreation, water sports are available here.

  • Who it's for: those who value open space and don't like dense development by the sea.
  • Not for: tourists who want infrastructure every hundred steps.
  • Location: west coast of Naxos, south of the village of Agia Anna.

18. Agios Prokopios, Naxos

Sandy Agios Prokopios Beach with loungers and turquoise sea© Carlo Pelagalli · CC BY-SAPhoto: Carlo Pelagalli, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0), Wikimedia Commons

Agios Prokopios stretches along the west coast of Naxos, in a bay sheltered from the northern winds. The long golden strip of sand contrasts beautifully with the azure sea. The clear water shimmers in different shades, and the gently sloping bottom makes swimming safe for children.

Part of the shore is set up for a full day of relaxation. Here you can rent a sunbed with an umbrella, play on the sports court, or have lunch at a bar or restaurant. The other part of the beach remains natural, with low, gently sloping dunes.

  • Who it's for: families with children and anyone who wants both convenience and quiet.
  • Location: western Naxos, a bay near the village of Agios Prokopios.
  • The catch: windy days happen even in a sheltered bay, so bring a windbreaker.

Hotels on Naxos on Trip.com

19. Logaras, Paros

Logaras sits on the south of Paros and suits those looking for quiet along with modern conveniences. Fine sand and deep blue sea draw plenty of visitors here. The distinctive village of Piso Livadi lies nearby, and the shore offers a view of white houses, a hill, and the harbor.

Half of the beach area is taken up by loungers with umbrellas, but you can also find shade under the trees. In some spots, rocks make entering the sea tricky, so swim with care. Across the road from the shore runs a strip of shops, hotels, snack bars, and tavernas. The underwater world here is rich, so snorkeling and diving won't disappoint.

  • Who it's for: couples and anyone who loves snorkeling.
  • Not for: those who need a perfectly smooth entry into the water.
  • Location: southern Paros, near the village of Piso Livadi.

Hotels on Paros on Trip.com

20. Paradise, Mykonos

Sandy shore and turquoise water of Paradise Beach© rene boulay · CC BY-SAPhoto: rene boulay, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0), Wikimedia Commons

Paradise is the liveliest beach on Mykonos. It draws mostly a young crowd because the shore is lined with well-known bars playing loud music. After dark, the beach turns into an open-air dance floor.

The shore is covered with golden sand and packed with sun loungers, soft chairs, and umbrellas. Clear water washes a small bay surrounded by hills, and part of the shore is nudist. Just offshore, concrete slabs lie underwater to protect the beach from waves. Jet skis, canoes, and sailing are available.

  • Who it's for: anyone who wants music, bars, and parties by the sea.
  • Not for: families with children and anyone looking for quiet.
  • Location: southern Mykonos, in a bay off the road to Paradise.

21. Ornos, Mykonos

Ornos Bay with white houses on the hillside© Bgabel · CC BY-SAPhoto: Bgabel, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0), Wikimedia Commons

Ornos sits in a natural bay on the southern coast of Mykonos. It's a calm, well-equipped spot with everything you need for a relaxed stay. Rows of loungers and umbrellas line the soft, shallow sand, and the bay itself is framed by hills.

The entry into the turquoise water is gradual and clean, which makes it convenient for families with children. You can try water sports or head out on a boat trip. The area around Ornos has plenty of hotels, bars, and restaurants.

  • Who it's for: families with children, because the water entry is safe.
  • Not for: anyone who wants a wild shore without loungers.
  • Location: southern coast of Mykonos, Ornos Bay.

Mykonos hotels on Trip.com

22. Myrtos, Kefalonia

Bay with turquoise water and a white beach© Matt Sims · CC BYPhoto: Matt Sims, CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0), Wikimedia Commons

Myrtos lies in a perfect semicircle at the foot of two white cliffs whose slopes are covered with forest. The beach has repeatedly received the Blue Flag for the cleanliness of this Ionian Sea bay. The water shifts from pale blue to deep blue, and the shore is a mix of white sand and fine pebbles.

You can rent a lounger and umbrella here, and there are changing rooms, a toilet, a shower, and a lifeguard tower. The bottom is covered with large stones, so entering the sea feels unpleasant underfoot. The depth drops off quickly, so visitors with children should be careful. Natural grottoes have formed at the left end of the shore, and paragliding is available as an activity.

  • Who it's for: anyone willing to deal with deep water for a rare view.
  • Not for: families with small children, because of the stones and the sudden depth.
  • The catch: the bottom is rocky, so you'll need footwear to enter the water.

23. Emplisi, Kefalonia

Turquoise Emblysi Bay among green hills© Fæ · CC BY-SAPhoto: Fæ, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0), Wikimedia Commons

Emplisi is a small bay on Kefalonia surrounded by pine forest, olive trees, and marble cliffs. Rocky ledges descend straight into the clear turquoise water. The atmosphere here is calm, far from city noise.

You can escape the heat under the tall pine canopies that grow right by the shore. The coast and the seabed are covered with fine white pebbles, and the entry into the bay is gradual and safe for children. If you want some activity, you can explore the underwater world, ride a catamaran, or head out on a boat trip.

  • Who it's for: families with children, because the water entry is gradual.
  • Not for: anyone who needs a sandy shore instead of pebbles.
  • Location: northern Kefalonia, near the village of Fiskardo.

Kefalonia hotels on Trip.com

24. Vroulidia, Chios

Vroulidia lies in a scenic bay on the island of Chios, surrounded by huge rocky cliffs. This wild coastline ranks among the best beaches in Greece. The unspoiled nature and lack of crowds make the shore a good place for a slow-paced stay. A turquoise lagoon washes a narrow sand spit, and the boulders create a sense of seclusion.

A steep stone staircase cut into the rock leads down to the beach. The underwater world here is rich: even snorkeling will be a pleasure. In the clear water you'll see plenty of fish and crabs. Tavernas serving Greek cuisine operate at the top of the cliff.

  • Who it's for: anyone willing to climb down the stairs for seclusion.
  • Not for: travelers with limited mobility.
  • Location: southern coast of Chios.
  • The catch: the climb down and back up is long, so bring water.

Chios hotels on Trip.com

25. Lalaria, Skiathos

White cliffs and a cave at Lalaria Beach© VasilisGkitersos · CC BY-SAPhoto: VasilisGkitersos, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia Commons

Lalaria is a narrow strip of silvery pebbles on the island of Skiathos. Limestone cliffs hang over the shore and, together with the clear Aegean water, create a striking landscape. The rock formations are only sparsely covered with vegetation in places.

At the left end of the beach, a stone arch rises out of the water. According to local belief, anyone who swims under it twice gains strength. The shore has no resort facilities at all: no loungers or umbrellas, no cafes, no water activities. You can only reach Lalaria by boat.

  • Who it's for: anyone who wants a secluded stay without people or facilities.
  • Not for: families with children who need loungers and tavernas.
  • Location: northern Skiathos, accessible only by boat.
  • The catch: no shade, no food, no toilets, so bring everything with you.

Hotels in Skiathos on Trip.com

26. Navagio, Zakynthos

Rusty shipwreck on Navagio Beach among cliffs© dronepicr · CC BYPhoto: dronepicr, CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0), Wikimedia Commons

Navagio is a protected cove on the island of Zakynthos. The inaccessible sand-and-pebble shore is framed on three sides by sheer limestone cliffs that form tall vertical walls. The aquamarine water of the Ionian Sea impresses with its rich shades.

A rusted vessel adds a distinctive touch to this place. It is a smuggler ship that was thrown onto the sandy shore by a wave while the Greek coast guard was chasing it. The crew escaped, and the wrecked boat remains as a contrast to nature. There is no infrastructure on the shore, so you can only get here by boat.

  • Who it's for: those who came for the famous view with the cliffs.
  • Not for: those who want to spend a whole day on the beach with amenities.
  • Location: northwest Zakynthos, accessible by boat.
  • The catch: the shore is uninhabited, with no water or shade here.

27. Alykanas, Zakynthos

Bench and palm tree at sandy Alykanas Beach© KrauS · CC BYPhoto: KrauS, CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), Wikimedia Commons

Alykanas is a long sandy shore by a village that wraps around a wide bay of the Ionian Sea. The beach is lush with greenery and surrounded by scenic hills. It is comfortable both for those who prefer a quiet getaway and for those who like to stay active.

The beach has a Blue Flag designation. You have access to sunbeds with umbrellas, bars and tavernas, children's play areas, and sports courts for volleyball and soccer. Various water activities will keep you entertained: diving, riding scooters and catamarans, and parasailing behind a boat.

  • Who it's for: families and those who want both the sea and sports.
  • Location: northeast Zakynthos, along the village of Alykanas.
  • The catch: in August the shore is packed, and sunbeds near the water are taken from the morning.

28. Gerakas, Zakynthos

Long sandy Gerakas Beach from the hill© dronepicr · CC BYPhoto: dronepicr, CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0), Wikimedia Commons

Gerakas is a protected area of Zakynthos with no infrastructure at all. All water activities are prohibited here, and there are no showers, changing rooms, tavernas, or bars. That is exactly why the shore keeps its calm atmosphere.

A long stretch of golden sand lies in a bay with azure water. The outlines of the cliffs create a sense of isolation, and olive groves complete the picture. The water entry is gentle, and swimming here is comfortable. On this shore, Caretta caretta sea turtles build nests and lay eggs (according to the National Marine Park of Zakynthos).

  • Who it's for: those who want quiet and are willing to go without amenities.
  • Not for: tourists with children who need sunbeds and cafes.
  • Location: southeast Zakynthos, within the marine park boundaries.
  • The catch: there is no shade or water, so bring your own.

Hotels in Zakynthos on Trip.com

29. Mylopotas, Ios

Mylopotas ranks among the most popular resort destinations in Greece. It is located on the island of Ios in the southern Aegean Sea. The long sandy shore has repeatedly received the Blue Flag award. Transparent water washes the horseshoe-shaped beach area, and the bay is framed by low rocky hills.

Sandy Mylopotas Beach and white houses on the hill© Davide Taviani (Helios) · CC BY-SAPhoto: Davide Taviani (Helios), CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0), Wikimedia Commons

A string of snack bars and tavernas serving Greek dishes stretches along the beach. The gentle slope into shallow water is suitable for safe swimming for children. Changing rooms, restrooms, showers, sun loungers, and straw umbrellas are available. For active visitors, there is a diving center, boat and scooter rentals, sports courts, and children's trampolines.

  • Who it's for: families with children and water sports enthusiasts.
  • Location: east coast of Ios, near the village of Chora.
  • The catch: in season it can get noisy near the tavernas, walk further along the shore.

30. Manganari, Ios

Manganari is a quiet corner of the southern coast of Ios. Golden bays with turquoise water and surrounding hills make a strong impression. The shore stands out for its high environmental standards for water and sand, earning the Blue Flag award. Here you can expect a calm and contemplative vacation.

Sandy beach with umbrellas and sun loungers by the bay© Abeeeer · CC BYPhoto: Abeeeer, CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/), Flickr

Shallow water, a gentle slope, and the absence of strong currents make this spot convenient for a family holiday. Several cozy tavernas blend harmoniously into the local landscape, and villas with apartments are located nearby. Part of the beach is set aside for loungers and sun umbrellas. Active visitors can go snorkeling or windsurfing.

  • Who it's for: families with children, because the water near the shore is shallow and calm.
  • Not for: those who need loud bars and clubs.
  • Location: south of Ios, southeast of Mylopotas.

Hotels on Ios on Trip.com

Beaches of Greece on the map

The map below shows all thirty beaches from our list. Open it to estimate distances between shores and plan your island route.

Beaches of Greece

Places on the map
  1. 1Balos Lagoon in northwest Crete, white sand with pink shells
  2. 2Elafonisi Pink sand in Crete, water no deeper than the knee
  3. 3Preveli South Crete, a mountain river flows into the sea, steps down to the beach
  4. 4Georgioupoli Quiet resort village in north Crete, long sandy beach
  5. 5Lindos Bay by the Lindos acropolis on Rhodes, Blue Flag
  6. 6Tsampika Golden sand in southeast Rhodes, a monastery above the shore
  7. 7Kalithea Several coves on the east coast of Rhodes among the rocks
  8. 8Faliraki Major Rhodes resort with a long golden beach
  9. 9Paleokastritsa Beach among the rocky hills of Corfu, Blue Flag
  10. 10Barbati Pebble shore at Mount Pantokrator on Corfu
  11. 11Agios Gordios Long golden beach near Kerkyra on Corfu
  12. 12Nissaki Intimate coves in northeast Corfu, white pebbles
  13. 13Red Beach Volcanic red cliffs on Santorini
  14. 14Perivolos Black volcanic sand in south Santorini
  15. 15Kamari Southeast Santorini, black sand with pebbles, Blue Flag
  16. 16Plaka Wild sandy shore on the west of Naxos, several kilometres long
  17. 17Agios Prokopios Golden strip on the west of Naxos, a sheltered bay
  18. 18Logaras South Paros near the village of Piso Livadi, fine sand
  19. 19Paradise Mykonos's liveliest beach, bars and parties
  20. 20Ornos Quiet bay in south Mykonos, fine sand
  21. 21Myrtos Semicircle by white cliffs on Kefalonia, Blue Flag
  22. 22Emplisi Bay in a pine forest on Kefalonia, white pebbles
  23. 23Vrouliadia Wild bay on Chios, descent by a stone staircase
  24. 24Lalaria Silvery pebbles on Skiathos, accessible only by boat
  25. 25Navagio Bay with a shipwreck on Zakynthos
  26. 26Alikanas Sandy bay on Zakynthos, Blue Flag
  27. 27Gerakas Protected area of Zakynthos, loggerhead turtle nests
  28. 28Mylopotas Popular resort on Ios, sandy horseshoe
  29. 29Manganari Quiet golden coves in south Ios, Blue Flag

⁉️🤔 Frequently asked questions

Which beach in Greece has pink sand?

Pink sand can be found at Elafonisi off the southwestern coast of Crete. The shore gets its color from tiny red-brown shells and corals ground into dust.

Which beaches in Greece are suitable for a family vacation?

For families with children, Agios Prokopios on Naxos, Ornos on Mykonos, Emblisi, and Alykanas are good options. They have a gentle entry into the water, and the depth increases gradually. Shallow water and calm currents can also be found at Tsambika on Rhodes and Nissaki on Corfu. Choose shores where loungers and tavernas are nearby.

Where in Greece is there a beach with a shipwreck?

Navagio Bay is located on the island of Zakynthos. A rusted smuggler ship lies on the shore, and the only way to get here is by water.

What does the Blue Flag mean on beaches in Greece?

The Blue Flag is awarded for water cleanliness, safety, and environmental standards. Among the shores on our list, the award has been given to Lindos, Paleokastritsa, Kamari, Alykanas, Mylopotas, and Manganari. The designation means the beach meets the program's strict requirements (according to the Greek Blue Flag office). Before traveling, check the seasonal award dates for a specific shore.

How much does a beach vacation in Greece cost?

Entry to most beaches in Greece is free. You only pay for a lounger and umbrella, and prices depend on the island and season. Organized shores have showers, changing rooms, and tavernas nearby, while wild beaches have no facilities at all. Before traveling, compare conditions and check exact prices on site.

In short: what to book

Choosing a beach in Greece depends on what matters more to you: quiet or infrastructure. For families, choose Agios Prokopios, Ornos, and Emblisi; for unusual scenery, head to Red Beach and Navagio; and for seclusion, look to Balos, Vroulidia, and Lalaria.

  • If you have small children: choose a gentle entry into the water and loungers nearby.
  • If you are going for wild nature: plan your route over rocks or by boat.
  • If you want snorkeling: check out Lindos, Kallithea, and Logaras.

Book hotels on the islands in advance, as waterfront availability runs out quickly in season.

Hotels on Crete on Trip.com