The most beautiful beaches in Greece: 16 beaches by island, and what to know (2026)
Greece has thousands of beaches, but a few come up again and again. Here are 16 stunning beaches by island, with what matters: how to get there, who they suit, and what to check first.
- Crete: Balos, Elafonisi, Falassarna, Preveli and Vai. Lefkada: Porto Katsiki and Kathisma.
- Milos: Sarakiniko and Kleftiko (boat only). Halkidiki: Karydi and Kavourotrypes in Sithonia.
- Navagio in Zakynthos is closed to landing and swimming until at least 31 October 2026 because of rockfall risk.
When choosing a beach, think about the wind and the kids. Beaches open to the sea (west Lefkada, north Milos in summer) get strong waves on windy days. With young children, choose sheltered bays and shallow sand.
Which is the most beautiful beach in Greece?
There is no single one. Each island is famous for a different kind of beach: turquoise lagoons in Crete, white cliffs in Lefkada, a "lunar" landscape in Milos, and pine-fringed bays in Halkidiki. Here is our list, by island.
Crete
| Beach | Area | What's special |
|---|---|---|
| Balos | Chania | Exotic water and white sand, by car or boat from Kissamos |
| Elafonisi | Chania | White and pinkish sand in the south-west |
| Falassarna | Chania | A large, organised sandy beach, good for families |
| Preveli | Rethymno | A river flowing into the sea through palms |
| Vai | Lasithi | Surrounded by Europe's largest palm forest |
More: Crete guide.
Lefkada
- Porto Katsiki: beneath white cliffs, turquoise water. Down steps or by boat.
- Kathisma: a long sandy beach with facilities. Big waves on windy days.
- For kids: the calm east coast (Nikiana, Lygia, Nydri). See Lefkada with kids.
Milos
- Sarakiniko: smooth white rock like a lunar landscape. No shade, bring water and a hat.
- Kleftiko: rock arches and sea caves, by boat only.
- Firiplaka: a long beach under orange-and-pink cliffs.
Halkidiki
- Karydi (Sithonia): white sand and shallow water, like a natural pool.
- Kavourotrypes (Sithonia): small coves between white rocks and pines.
- Vourvourou (Sithonia): a calm bay with islets, great for families.
- Sani (Kassandra): kilometres of white sand by a pine forest.
More: Halkidiki guide.
More famous beaches
- Myrtos, Kefalonia: white pebbles under cliffs. Check the road is open.
- Koukounaries, Skiathos: golden sand, shallow water and pines.
- Marble Beach, Thassos: a cove of white pebbles and turquoise water.
- Voidokilia, Messinia: a semicircular sandy bay near Pylos.
What is happening with Navagio in Zakynthos?
Navagio (Shipwreck Beach) is closed to landing, swimming and boats approaching the shore until at least 31 October 2026, under a Greek government decision, because of rockfall risk. You can view it from the clifftop platform or from a boat outside the restricted zone. Check the status before you go. More: Zakynthos guide.
Beach tips for Greece
- Wind: in July–August the meltemi blows across the Cyclades. On those days choose a sheltered beach.
- Arrive early: parking at famous beaches fills in the morning.
- Sunbeds: organised beaches charge for loungers and umbrellas; wild beaches have no shade.
- Getting there: Greek islands with direct flights from Israel · ferries guide.
FAQ
What is the most beautiful beach in Greece? There is no single answer. Among the most famous: Balos and Elafonisi in Crete, Porto Katsiki in Lefkada, Sarakiniko in Milos and Karydi in Halkidiki.
Which Greek beach is best for children? Shallow, sheltered sandy beaches such as Falassarna in Crete, Vourvourou and Karydi in Halkidiki, and Lefkada's east coast.
Can you visit Navagio in Zakynthos? Landing and swimming are banned until at least 31 October 2026. You can view it from above or from a boat outside the closed zone.
When is the sea warmest in Greece? Usually in August and September. See our weather pages by month.
