Best Beaches in Greece

Greece is home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in Europe, where turquoise water meets dramatic cliffs, pink-tinged sand and whitewashed villages perched above the sea. From the iconic shores of Mykonos and Santorini to the wild beauty of Crete and the Ionian Islands, the best beaches in Greece offer something for every traveler. Whether you’re looking for calm, family-friendly waters, postcard-perfect scenery or hidden coves accessible only by boat, Greece delivers sun-drenched perfection at every turn.

Here are the best beaches in Greece, organized by region.

Cyclades Islands Beaches

1. Paradise Beach, Mykonos – Best for beach clubs and energy

Paradise Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Greece, known for its lively atmosphere and crystal-clear Aegean waters. By day, it’s ideal for swimming and sunbathing on soft sand. By afternoon, the music begins and it transforms into a vibrant beach party scene. It’s perfect for travelers who want their beach day to blend seamlessly into sunset cocktails.

2. Red Beach, Santorini – Best for dramatic volcanic scenery

Red Beach stands out for its towering rust-colored cliffs and deep blue water. The volcanic landscape creates a striking contrast that feels uniquely Santorini. While the shoreline is pebbly, the swimming is refreshing and unforgettable, especially with caldera views in the distance.

3. Agios Prokopios, Naxos – Best for soft sand and families

Agios Prokopios is one of the most family-friendly beaches in the Cyclades. With calm, shallow water and a long stretch of golden sand, it’s ideal for relaxed beach days. Tavernas and cafés line the shore, making it easy to spend the entire afternoon without leaving the sand.

Crete Beaches

4. Balos Lagoon, Kissamos – Best for shallow turquoise waters

Balos Lagoon is often ranked among the most beautiful beaches in Greece. Located on Crete’s northwest coast, it features shallow, warm water in shades of bright turquoise. The sand has a pinkish hue in places and the elevated viewpoint above the lagoon offers one of the most iconic vistas in the country.

5. Elafonissi Beach, Chania – Best for pink sand

Elafonissi is famous for its pale pink sand and calm, shallow waters. The gentle lagoon-like conditions make it especially popular with families. Even during busier months, the wide beach allows visitors to spread out and find a quiet corner.

6. Vai Beach, Sitia – Best for palm forest backdrop

Vai Beach is framed by Europe’s largest natural palm forest, giving it a tropical feel that surprises many visitors. The golden sand and clear water make it ideal for swimming, while the palm trees provide welcome shade on hot summer days.

Ionian Islands Beaches

7. Navagio Beach, Zakynthos – Best for iconic shipwreck views

Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach, is one of the most photographed beaches in Greece. Surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and accessible only by boat, the bright white sand and electric-blue water create a stunning setting. The rusting shipwreck at the center adds to the dramatic appeal.

8. Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia – Best for dramatic cliffs

Myrtos Beach is framed by steep cliffs and deep blue Ionian waters. The pebbly shoreline gives way to vivid hues that shift from turquoise to navy as the depth increases. It’s particularly breathtaking from above, where panoramic viewpoints capture the full sweep of the bay.

9. Paleokastritsa Beach, Corfu – Best for snorkeling

Paleokastritsa is actually a collection of small coves surrounded by green hills. The calm, clear water makes it one of the best beaches for snorkeling in the Ionian Islands. Boat rentals allow you to explore nearby sea caves and hidden inlets.

Mainland Greece Beaches

10. Sarakiniko Beach, Milos – Best for lunar landscapes

Sarakiniko is unlike any other beach in Greece. White volcanic rock formations sculpted by wind and waves create a surreal, moon-like setting. Instead of traditional sand, visitors lounge on smooth rock platforms before diving into brilliantly clear water.

11. Porto Katsiki, Lefkada – Best for dramatic turquoise water

Although Lefkada is an island, it is accessible by car via a causeway, making it feel like a mainland destination. Porto Katsiki is famous for its tall white cliffs and vivid blue water. The descent down the stairs is rewarded with one of the most visually striking beaches in Greece.

12. Simos Beach, Elafonisos – Best for pristine sand dunes

Simos Beach is known for its fine, pale sand and rolling dunes that stretch along the shore. The water is clear and calm, making it perfect for swimming. Its natural setting feels peaceful and unspoiled compared to some of the more commercial beaches in the country.

Royal Beach Club Santorini – Best for a Curated Black Sand Beach Day

Santorini is already famous for its volcanic coastline and Royal Beach Club Santorini takes that dramatic setting to the next level. Set along a secluded stretch of volcanic black sand, this beach experience blends the island’s raw natural beauty with comfort and ease. Complimentary transportation, shaded loungers, Mediterranean bites and uninterrupted views of the Aegean Sea create a seamless beach day without the planning.

What makes this experience unique is that it’s part of the Ultimate Santorini Day — a three-stop journey that includes Oia’s iconic blue-domed views, Fira’s vibrant cliffside capital and time to unwind at the beach club. It’s a structured yet relaxed way to experience Santorini’s most scenic highlights in one day.

If you’re searching for a beach in Greece with elevated amenities and organized access, this is one of the most distinctive options available.