Best Greek islands for beaches
8+1 amazing beaches to visit this summer!
Which are the must-see beaches in Greece? Well, there are around 6,000 islands and small islets in Greece, but let’s focus on the inhabited islands for now. So, we are left with 227 islands. Let’s assume that each island has 23 beaches on average. Speculating that dozens of those beaches are accessible to visitors and raising this number to the third power, while subtracting the value of Pi, we are left with … no idea! A gazillion amazing beaches!
If you're looking for islands with stunning coastlines and awesome beach experiences, you're in the right place. On Ferryhopper, we’ve rounded up some of the top beaches across the Greek islands to help you plan your seaside getaway in 2025.
- Sarakiniko in Milos
- Kolymbithres in Paros
- Elia in Mykonos
- Plaka in Naxos
- Psathi in Ios
- Vlychada in Santorini
- Saint Paul's in Rhodes
- Elfonisi in Crete
- Gidaki in Ithaca
Book your ferry tickets to visit your favorite this summer!
1. Milos: the lunar beauty of Sarakiniko beach
Sarakiniko is one of the best Greek island beaches for couples. The famous beach on the island of Milos is popular with young travelers and it is one of the most unique coasts in Greece.
The lunar landscape of the beach and its turquoise waters create an amazing scenery. The greyish rocks are great for sunbathing all day long and they’re also great to make your friends back home jealous when showing them your photos! You can swim under natural arches and explore the secluded spots of the small bay.
Amenities and access
The beach gets quite busy, so it’s better to visit in the early morning if you want to enjoy it in peace. There are no visitor amenities, such as sunbeds or tavernas, so make sure you bring plenty of water. Oh and don’t forget your summer hat!
Just 10 minutes from Adamas port, the stunning beach can be easily reached by car, motorcycle, or local bus.You can drive to the free parking space close to the beach and follow the short path to the coast on foot.
How to get to Milos
You can get to Milos from Athens by ferry from the ports of Piraeus and Lavrio. The Piraeus - Milos route is the most popular one and is mostly serviced by high-speed ferries that reach the island in less than 4 hours.
Check out all up-to-date Milos ferry schedules for 2025 and plan your trip in no time!
Impressive white rocks at Sarakiniko
2. Paros: heavenly rocks at Kolymbithres beach
One of the most beautiful beaches in Paros and the Cyclades islands, it enchants visitors with its natural landscape. Kolymbithres is famous for its unique granite rock formations that form private natural coves and pools. This is a family-friendly spot with shallow turquoise waters and a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for a slow-moving Cycladic afternoon.
Amenities and access
Kolymbithres is a pretty popular spot and is partially organized with sunbeds and umbrellas and beach bars, while there are also tavernas nearby. If you are a water-sports enthusiast, you can find several options.
You can easily reach the beach by car from Parikia town in around 15 minutes, or by water taxi from Naoussa, which adds a scenic twist to your day at the beach.
How to get to Paros
You can reach Paros by ferry from the ports of Piraeus and Rafina in Athens. There are also connections from other islands in the Cyclades, in case you want to include the island in your island-hopping adventure. Piraeus - Paros is the most popular ferry route to the island, with a duration of a bit over 3 hours by high-speed ferry.
Check out the latest Paros ferry schedules on Ferryhopper.
The heavenly Kolymbithres beach in Paros
3. Mykonos: the Cycladic elegance of Elia beach
Elia is one of the best sandy beaches in the Greek islands. This large beach in Mykonos is perfect for relaxing moments by the sea. Despite its popularity, Elia is great to kick back and enjoy the sun. The beach is covered with golden sand and has clear deep-blue waters.
Apart from relaxing and enjoying the view to the cliff-built Cycladic houses, you can also dine at one of the seaside restaurants, enjoy a cocktail at your sun lounger or try water sports!
Amenities and access
Elia beach is partially organized. If you want to secure a sun lounger and an umbrella, we recommend that you get there as early as possible.
If you want even more peace and quiet, you can head to the rocky coast on the western edge of the beach. You should also know that some parts of the beach are nude-friendly.
You can get to Elia beach either by car or by a boat that takes passengers on a tour of Mykonos’ most popular beaches.
How to get to Mykonos
Ferries from Athens to Mykonos are running daily with up to 14 crossings. There are ferries departing from 2 ports in Athens: Piraeus and Rafina. The Piraeus - Mykonos ferry route is serviced both by standard and high-speed ferries, with the fastest ferry reaching the island in less than 3 hours. The Rafina - Mykonos ferry trip usually takes a bit over 2 hours by high-speed vessel.
Take a look at all active Mykonos ferry schedules for 2025.
Relaxation at the popular Elia beach in Mykonos
4. Naxos: endless golden charm at Plaka beach
The beach of Plaka in Naxos is a wonderful sandy coast with visitor amenities in an unspoilt setting. It is one of the top beaches in the Greek islands, as it combines easy access, virgin nature, crystal-clear waters, and several dining options.
Plaka is famous for its fine white sand, pretty sand dunes and large rock formations along the coast. The beach is family-friendly, perfect for relaxation away from the crowds of the neighboring Agia Anna and Agios Prokopios beaches. Part of it is also popular for travelers who are after clothing-optional coasts. The long coast means there are many spots for seclusion and serenity.
Amenities and access
Located only 20 minutes from Naxos Town, Plaka is accessible by car, scooter, or local bus.
At Plaka, you can find sun loungers and umbrellas, as well as quite a few tavernas and cafés. This means you spend all day at the beach. There are also many hotels in the area if you want to be the first to get to the beach every morning!
How to get to Naxos
You catch a ferry from Athens to Naxos all year round. During the summer months, there are frequent ferry crossings from 3 ports in Athens: Piraeus, Rafina and Lavrio. The most popular route is Piraeus - Naxos, as it is available up to 8 times per day. The Rafina to Naxos ferry route is usually served 2 times a day.
Find out about prices and trip duration for Naxos ferries in 2025.
The long, golden coast of Plaka beach
5. Ios: tranquility vibes at Psathi beach
A peaceful beach surrounded by hills and overlooking the neighboring island of Irakleia, Psathi is tucked away on the eastern coast of Ios. It’s a perfect pick for visitors looking to relax and embrace the quieter, more untamed side of the island.
The beach boasts a long stretch of white sand, but if you take a tour around the coves near the beach, you will also stumble onto private golden-sand beaches.
Amenities and access
Psathi is a partly organized beach, so you will find some sunbeds and umbrellas, but most of its coast remains untouched. This is definitely a less crowded spot than most beaches in the cosmopolitan Ios. You can also enjoy local flavors in Alonistra taverna.
Note that this beach is also a great spot for windsurfing and snorkelling.
Located about 25 minutes by car from Chor town, the beach can be accessed via a winding road.
How to get to Ios
You can reach Ios island from 3 ports in Athens: Piraeus, Rafina, and Lavrio. The Piraeus - Ios route is the most popular one and is served more frequently, with up to 6 daily crossings. There are both high-speed and conventional ferry options.
Find out all about Ios ferry schedules in 2025 in our designated guide.
Incredible water colors at the sandy Psathi beach
6. Santorini: the volcanic excellence of Vlychada beach
Vlychada is one of the most remote beaches in Santorini, famous for its breathtaking lunar landscape. Imposing rocks, dark pebbles and charcoal sand create a unique setting.
The beach is distinguished by its intricate volcanic rock formations, naturally carved over time, as well as its eerie, otherworldly feeling. It is a large beach with dark blue waters covered with sand and pebbles.
Access and amenities
Vlychada is one of the best beaches to visit in Santorini, as it offers visitor amenities and peace. There are sun loungers, umbrellas and a small beach canteen at one part of the beach, while the north side is more untouched and serene. You can try water sports, go horseback riding or simply relax at the beach café.
There are more restaurants and tavernas at the nearby village. If you’re into sightseeing, you can visit the restored Tomato Industrial Museum located right by the beach.
About 25 minutes from Fira town, Vlychada accessible by car, scooter, or local bus.
How to get to Santorini
You can travel by ferry to Santorini from the ports of Piraeus and Rafina, with up to 9 daily ferry crossings in total. Ferries to Santorini arrive at the port of Athinios. There are high-speed ferries serving both the Piraeus - Santorini route, as well as the Rafina - Santorini connection.
Take a look at our complete guide on how to get to Santorini, as well as the latest Santorini ferry schedules.
Stunning rock formations and volcanic sand at Vlychada beach
Saint Paul's beach in Rhodes
Saint Paul’s in Rhodes is one of the best Greek beaches for families, as there are plenty of visitor amenities and a beautiful sandy coast with umbrellas. The beach is wind-protected and has a wonderful view to the historic Lindos Acropolis.
The sandy bay is surrounded by rocks and shrubs. You can join the popular part of the beach where the heart of the action is or walk along the shore to the small chapel for a more relaxing swim among the fishing boats. Moreover, kids can explore the wonderful seabed of the beach diving in the crystal-clear waters and adults can swim beyond the breakwater to explore the rocky shore.
Tip: the Acropolis of Lindos, visible from the beach, is one of the top historical sites in Rhodes.
Amenities and access
Apart from beach amenities, such as umbrellas, loungers and showers, there are also quite a few snack bars and local tavernes, where you can have lunch, enjoy a refreshing coffee or get some water.
Access to Saint Paul’s beach is easy. You can get there by car or on foot from Lindos. There is ample parking space right next to the beach.
Ferries to Rhodes depart from the port of Piraeus in Athens all year round. There are normally 1-2 daily crossings from Piraeus to Rhodes.
As the trip is quite long (usually over 12 hours), we recommend booking a bed cabin to travel more comfortably.
View to the Acropolis of Lindos from Saint Paul’s bay
8. Crete: pink perfection at Elafonisi beach
If you’re wondering which Greek island has the best beaches, many would say Crete! The beach of Elafonissi on the south coast of Chania is one of our favorite! Its pinkish sand and Carribean feeling are what makes it unique!
Elafonissi beach is made up of a narrow peninsula that connects the island of Crete with the small island of Elafonisi. You can actually walk to the island across the shallow waters, which make it one of the best Greek island beaches for families! The beach is covered with rose-gold sand and has clear turquoise waters.
Amenities and access
Elafonisi beach is one of the most popular in Greece and it gets quite busy during peak season. It is a favorite among families, groups of friends and couples, as it offers visitor amenities, wonderful views, and many many opportunities for amazing photos!
There are some loungers and umbrellas, but no natural shade, so make sure you come prepared. Although there are parking lots around the beach, they tend to get full fast. As for food and drinks, there are quite a few options on the road to the beach, as well as some cafés and snack bars right above the coast.
The beach of Elafonissi is located in the southern part of the region of Chania. The distance between the town of Chania and the beach of Elafonissi is around 1.5 hours by car. Although there are parking lots around the beach, they tend to get full fast.
How to get to Chania (Crete)
Ferries from Athens to Chania in Crete normally run once a day during the summer months. They depart from Piraeus port and arrive at the port of Souda, 7 km from Chania. The ferry from Athens normally makes the crossing in approximately 8 hours 30 minutes.
Amazing pinkish sand at Elafonissi beach in Crete
9. Ithaca: the secluded and otherworldly Gidaki beach
Gidaki is a secluded beach with crystal-clear waters perfect for relaxation. The beautiful beach is considered the best beach on the Greek island of Ithaca and one of the top in the Ionian Sea.
The beach is covered with pebbles and it is surrounded by tall verdant rocks. Its remote location and challenging access make it one of the top choices for relaxation in an idyllic setting. The turquoise and deep blue waters, as well as the view to the neighboring islets create a fantastic landscape.
Amenities and access
You can access the beach either via a challenging 35-minute hiking trail starting from Skinos beach or by boat. Most travelers get there by boat, but you can also try the trail if you’re an experienced hiker.
There’s a small beach café serving refreshments and snacks on the beach. They’re also renting out sun loungers and umbrellas. However, make sure you come prepared especially if you’re visiting off-season.
How to get to Ithaca
Ithaca is normally connected by ferry with the ports of Astakos and Patras in Western Greece. There are also ferries from Kefalonia to Ithaka if you fancy an island-hopping trip in Greece.
See all Ithaca ferry schedules for 2025 and book ferry tickets from Astakos to Ithaca or from Patras to Ithaca.
Peaceful morning at Gidaki beach in Ithaca
Pick your favorite Greek island for beaches, see up-to-date ferry schedules for 2025, take advantage of the latest ferry ticket offers, and start planning your summer vacation on Ferryhopper!
