The 20 best beaches in Greece
21.07.2023 - 07:39
/ roughguides.com
With thousands of islands to choose from, Greece can be an intimidating place to start looking for your next beach break. Don’t be put off though, as the nation has more than a lot to offer, whether you’re island-hopping or just looking for the perfect setting to unwind. From the busy, iconic bays to the hidden, scenic coves, here’s our run-down of the 20 best beaches in Greece.
The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to Greece , your essential guide for visiting Greece .
This tiny uninhabited islet lies marooned on the edge of a gloriously scenic turquoise lagoon that shares its name. The pinky-white sand, the warm, clear lagoon and the islet to which you can easily wade are magnificent. That said, you certainly won’t have them to yourself unless you visit out of season.
At peak times Elafonísi can be unbearably crowded, with lines of loungers, but little else in the way of infrastructure. There are stalls selling cold drinks and basic food, along with portable toilets and an incongruous phone box. If you’re here on a day-trip, you'll want to bring your own picnic.
To find out more about all the beaches Crete has to offer — read our guide to the best beaches in Crete.
As Greece's largest island, Crete's culture and atmosphere are distinctly different from mainland Greece. Thousands of years of unique culture and rich history complement the island's untamed natural beauty. Explore Crete at your own pace with this unique self-drive tailor-made trip Along the Coast of Crete: from Heraklion to Platanias.
Find more accommodation options to stay in Crete
The pink sands of Elafonísi beach © Zakhar Mar / Shutterstock
Southeast of Mylopótamos lies the attractive Limniónas beach. You can arrive on foot from Mylopótamos, but most people get there via Lambinoú village (no reliable facilities). From here a paved road leads 3km down past the restored eighteenth-century Lambidhónas monastery, which sports fine frescoes over the doors. Scenic Limniónas has a freshwater shower but no other reliable amenities.
Limniónas is a small but superior-for-swimming cove 2km further west; yachts and kaïkia occasionally call at the protected bay, which offers decent swimming at the east end, away from a rock shelf in the middle.
As you begin planning your holiday in Greece, take a look at our list of tips for travelling in Greece.
Famous Limnionas beach at Tsagarada of Pelion in Greece © Shutterstock
Eight twisting kilometres down the mountain from Zagorá, Horeftó makes an excellent coastal base. There is ample choice of beaches: a long, decent one in front of this former fishing village. Secluded Áyii Saránda 2km south and two coves at Análipsi, just north – a brief hike brings you to the first cove, a