Discover the Best Beaches in the Greek Isles

The Greek Isles are renowned for their crystal‑clear waters, dramatic coastlines and sun‑drenched beaches that cater to every traveler’s dream. From secluded coves framed by towering cliffs to vibrant stretches of sand buzzing with beach bars, each island offers a unique seaside experience. Whether you’re seeking a serene escape, water‑sports adventures or a lively party scene, the Greek Isles have a beach for you. In this guide, we’ll explore eight of the best beaches across Zakynthos, Crete, Kefalonia, Milos, Mykonos, Lefkada and Ios. You’ll find practical information on how to reach each location, recommended accommodations, local cuisine and estimated costs to help you plan your perfect beach getaway. Read on to discover the coastal gems that make the Greek Isles a top destination for sun seekers.

Location
Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach, lies on the northwestern coast of Zakynthos, accessible only by boat. The beach is nestled within a steep cliff cove, creating a dramatic backdrop.

Beauty & Attractions
The iconic rusted shipwreck resting on white sands, framed by towering limestone cliffs and turquoise waters, makes Navagio one of the most photographed beaches in Greece. Visitors can swim in crystal‑clear waters, snorkel around the wreck and enjoy panoramic views from the cliff‑top lookout.

How to Get There
Regular boat tours depart from Porto Vromi, Agios Nikolaos and Zakynthos Town. A round‑trip boat ticket costs around €20–€30 per person. From Zakynthos Town, it takes 45 minutes to reach the departure points by bus (€3–€5).

Accommodation
Nearby villages like Anafonitria and Volimes offer guesthouses and small hotels from €50 per night in low season to €120 in peak summer. Zakynthos Town has larger hotels starting at €80 per night.

Food & Cost
Beachside tavernas serve fresh seafood, Greek salads and local wines. Expect to pay €15–€25 per person for a meal and drink. Snacks and refreshments on boats cost around €5.

Travel Tips
Arrive before 10 AM to avoid crowds. Wear sturdy shoes for the cliff‑top viewpoint. Swimming off boats can be rough; check sea conditions. Carry water and sunscreen as facilities on the beach are limited.

Location
Elafonissi Beach is located on the southwestern tip of Crete, about 75 km from Chania. A sandbar and shallow lagoon separate Elafonissi islet from the mainland.

Beauty & Attractions
Famous for its pink‑tinged sands and shallow, warm waters, Elafonissi is ideal for families and waders. The rare pink hue comes from crushed shells and coral. The area is a protected Natura 2000 habitat with unique flora and fauna.

How to Get There
Regular buses run from Chania to Elafonissi (€7 one way, 1.5–2 hours). Car rentals cost €30–€50 per day; the drive takes about 1.5 hours. Limited parking is available near the beach (€1 per hour).

Accommodation
Guesthouses and small hotels in Elafonissi village start at €60 per night off‑season and rise to €150 in July–August. Chania offers more options from €70 to €200 per night.

Food & Cost
Local tavernas offer dakos, fresh fish and Cretan cheeses. Meals range from €12–€20 per person. Beach umbrellas and sunbeds cost €6 for two sunbeds and one umbrella.

Travel Tips
Visit early to secure a spot under an umbrella. Respect protected dunes and flora. Bring water shoes for walking on sandbars. Facilities can be crowded in summer.

Location
Myrtos Beach is nestled between the mountains of northern Kefalonia, 40 km from Argostoli. A steep road leads down to a dramatic cove.

Beauty & Attractions
Known for its striking white pebble shore and deep blue waters, Myrtos is often voted among Greece’s best beaches. The backdrop of towering cliffs enhances its wild beauty. Swimming and snorkeling are popular activities.

How to Get There
Buses run from Argostoli to Divarata village (€4 one way, 1 hour), followed by a short walk or taxi (€5). Driving from Argostoli takes about 50 minutes; car rentals cost €35–€55 per day.

Accommodation
Nearby villages like Assos and Fiskardo have guesthouses from €45 to €100 per night. For more options, stay in Argostoli with hotels from €60 per night.

Food & Cost
Beach kiosks sell snacks, cold drinks and ice cream (€3–€6). Tavernas in Divarata serve local dishes for €10–€18 per person.

Travel Tips
The beach is pebbly; wear water shoes. There is limited shade; bring an umbrella. Swimming can be deep quickly; non‑swimmers should exercise caution.

Location
Balos Lagoon sits on Crete’s northwest coast, near the Gramvousa peninsula, 56 km from Chania. It’s accessible by boat or a gravel road.

Beauty & Attractions
Balos features a shallow lagoon of turquoise and sapphire waters, pinkish sand patches and a view of Gramvousa island with Venetian castle ruins. It’s ideal for families and photographers.

How to Get There
Daily boats depart from Kissamos port (€25–€30 round‑trip, 1.5 hours). Alternatively, drive to the Balos parking area on a rough road and hike 20 minutes downhill; car rentals are €30–€50 per day.

Accommodation
Kissamos town offers hotels from €50 to €120 per night. On Gramvousa island there are no accommodations; return to Kissamos or Chania.

Food & Cost
No facilities at the beach; bring water and snacks. Kissamos tavernas serve meals for €10–€18 per person.

Travel Tips
Wear sturdy shoes for the hike. Boats run less frequently in October. Carry water, shade and sunscreen. Respect the fragile ecosystem by avoiding trampling sandbars.

Location
Sarakiniko sits on the north coast of Milos, 7 km from Plaka, the island’s capital.

Beauty & Attractions
Known for its lunar‑like white rock formations sculpted by wind and waves, Sarakiniko’s smooth white cliffs contrast with the deep blue Aegean. It’s a popular spot for photography, cliff jumping and swimming.

How to Get There
Buses run from Plaka to Sarakiniko (€2 per person, 15 minutes). Renting a quad bike or ATV (€25–€40 per day) is common. Driving takes 10 minutes by car (€30–€50 per day).

Accommodation
Milos offers accommodations from €50 for guesthouses to €150 for boutique hotels. Stay in Plaka or Pollonia for easy access.

Food & Cost
Food trucks and a small taverna sell snacks and drinks (€4–€10). Meals in Plaka cost €12–€20 per person.

Travel Tips
The white rock reflects sunlight strongly; wear sunglasses and sunscreen. No shade or facilities; bring water and snacks. Cliff jumping can be dangerous; check water depth and tides.

Location
Super Paradise Beach is located 6 km south of Mykonos Town on Mykonos island.

Beauty & Attractions
This beach is famous for its golden sand, clear waters and vibrant beach club scene. DJs spin tunes all day, and water sports like jet skiing and paddleboarding are available.

How to Get There
Buses run from Mykonos Town (€2.50 per person, 15 minutes). Taxis cost €15–€20. Car rentals are €50–€80 per day.

Accommodation
Nearby Platis Gialos and Mykonos Town have hotels from €120 to €300 per night. Budget travelers can stay in Ornos (€80–€150 per night).

Food & Cost
Beach bars and clubs offer cocktails (€10–€15) and light bites (€8–€15). Beach beds cost €30–€50 for two sunbeds and umbrella.

Travel Tips
Book beach beds in advance in peak season. Party atmosphere until late; noise can be loud. Dress code is beach casual but fashionable. Stay hydrated and use sun protection.

Location
Porto Katsiki lies on the southwestern coast of Lefkada, about 40 km from Lefkada Town. It’s framed by towering white cliffs.

Beauty & Attractions
Porto Katsiki is famous for its dramatic cliff backdrop, fine white pebbles and intense turquoise waters. The beach is a natural amphitheater, perfect for swimming, snorkeling and photography. Sunset views are spectacular as the sun dips behind the cliffs.

How to Get There
During summer, local buses run from Lefkada Town to Porto Katsiki (€5–€7 one way, 1 hour). Driving or renting a car (from €30 per day) offers more flexibility; parking costs €2 per hour. A steep stairway of over 100 steps leads down to the beach.

Accommodation
Nearby villages like Agios Nikitas and Vasiliki offer guesthouses from €60 to €120 per night. Lefkada Town has a wider range of hotels from €70 to €150 per night, with many options offering sea views.

Food & Cost
A small taverna at the top of the stairs serves light meals, coffee and cold drinks (€5–€12). For full‑service tavernas, head to Agios Nikitas where meals cost €12–€20 per person. Bring water and snacks if you plan a long beach stay.

Travel Tips
Wear comfortable shoes for the stairway. Arrive before noon to secure a parking spot and avoid peak crowds. There is no shade on the beach; bring an umbrella or rent one. Be cautious of strong currents in deeper waters.

Location
Paradise Beach is located on the southeast coast of Ios, 3 km from Chora (Ios Town). It’s one of the island’s most famous beaches.

Beauty & Attractions
Known for its golden sand, clear shallow waters and vibrant beach bars, Paradise Beach caters to both sunseekers and partygoers. Daytime DJ sets, beach volleyball and water sports create a lively atmosphere, while the sunset transforms the sky into vibrant hues.

How to Get There
Buses run frequently from Chora to Paradise Beach (€2 one way, 10 minutes). Taxis cost around €10. Car or scooter rentals start at €25 per day, offering flexibility to explore other beaches.

Accommodation
Ios Town has hostels and budget hotels from €30 to €60 per night. For beachfront stays, Paradise Beach has a campsite and bungalow options from €40 to €80 per night in high season.

Food & Cost
Beach bars offer cocktails (€8–€12) and light bites (€6–€10). Taverns in Chora serve traditional Greek dishes for €12–€18 per person. Expect to pay €20–€30 for an evening at a beach club with entry fees.

Travel Tips
Paradise Beach is popular for late‑night parties; bring earplugs if you plan to stay nearby. Water sports equipment is limited; reserve in advance. Respect local noise regulations after midnight to avoid fines.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Greek Isles boast a stunning array of beaches that cater to every type of traveler. From the dramatic cliffs of Navagio and the pink sands of Elafonissi to the party vibe of Paradise Beach, each destination offers its own unique charm. Planning your trip in advance—booking accommodations early, arriving at popular beaches before peak hours and respecting local guidelines—will ensure a smooth experience. Keep an eye on weather and sea conditions, especially at beaches with strong currents or cliff access. With this guide, you can explore the best coastal spots in the Greek Isles, savor local cuisine and create unforgettable memories under the Mediterranean sun.