Paradise Found: Exploring the Best Greek Island Beaches

When hearing the word ‘Greece,’ what comes to mind is an endless coast and shimmering waters. Those elements have made the country one of the most sought-after summer destinations.

In fact, Greece ranks eleventh in the world in coastline length and has 395 Blue Flag beaches. As a result, distinguishing the best Greek island beaches is not easy!

On the contrary, the options are too many, and the unmatched beauty of all of them is undebatable. 

To help you choose the best beaches to visit on your romantic getaway in Greece and Italy, we have accumulated a list of our top picks. Those that will allow you to make your dream summer vacations to some of the best Greek islands for couples come to life.

Shipwreck Beach, Zakynthos

Who would have imagined that an old boat would star in thousands of photos and videos worldwide? The most beautiful and famous beach in Zakynthos has a fascinating story of a shipwreck around it. In addition to its fascinating past, the beach boasts an impressive setting with white rocks, turquoise waters, and white sand. It’s one of the most romantic island beaches in Greece. No point of view won’t leave you in awe!

Shipwreck can be challenging to access. However, the cruises that take place daily and tours around the island make the beach accessible to everyone. Starting from either the port of Zakynthos, Alykes, or Laganas Bay, you will be taken to the beach in no time.

Those who want to admire the spectacle from above must reach the monastery of Agios Georgios of Gremna. Just below the monastery, an iron platform hangs in the void. From there, you will admire in awe the beautiful beach with the shipwreck and the surrounding steep shores.

Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia

Regardless of its much more challenging nature, this beach is a personal favorite. Near Assos and just 30km from Argostoli, you will reach the most famous beach in Kefalonia. It also happens to be one of the most beautiful in Greece. 

The raw, wild beauty of Myrtos beach is bound to blow you away. White sand mixed with fine pebbles, deep blue waters, and the cliffs that protect it, create an imposing landscape that is difficult to forget. The surrounding rocks and cliffs seem to embrace this piece of heaven on earth. 

To avoid the crowds and enjoy one of the best Greek island beaches for couples, the ideal time to visit Myrtos is early in the morning, when it is usually quiet. Please keep in mind that the strong winds and big waves make Myrtos a testing beach. It can even be potentially dangerous if you’re not careful. Therefore, don’t be overly confident, stay close to the shore, and enjoy the waves to their full potential safely!

Super Paradise Beach, Mykonos

Mykonos is famous for having some of the best beaches for couples. They’re also one of the most popular spot for couples looking to elope in Greece. The Super Paradise is one of the most cosmopolitan & famous beaches of Mykonos for couples and friends. There, you will enjoy crystal clear, turquoise waters and golden sand beaches, which offer multi-star beach service. It is considered one of the top beaches in the Aegean. 

With the Super Paradise bar as its trademark, the beach hosts world-famous, day-long parties, making it a great stop for glamorous Mykonos bachelorette parties. Those parties are the meeting place of VIP celebrities and the most important pole of attraction for the young audience. Of course, Mykonos is one of Greece’s top islands to party! In Super Paradise, you will find lots of people, never-ending clubbing, loud music, and eccentricity in all its glory.

The most common way to access Super Paradise Beach is the boats that reach the shore with frequent itineraries. However, if you get seasick, you can reach the beach by car or taxi.

Lalaria Beach, Skiathos

Words are not enough for Lalaria of Skiathos, a trademark beach of the island, with a striking natural landscape. The beach is located at the northeastern tip of the island. It has deservedly won the title of the ‘most beautiful beach,‘ and its popularity has spread worldwide.

Lalaria is accessible only by boat that you can get from the island’s port. See the incredible stone holes that form a huge arch. Walk on the off-white round pebbles, called ‘lalaria,’ which gave their name to the beach. Dive into its clear blue waters and appreciate the raw beauty of the Greek land.

To protect the beach’s natural beauty, the local authorities have not allowed the operation of a beach bar. Therefore, if you decide to visit the beach, make sure to bring all the necessary supplies with you.

Sarakiniko beach, Milos

Milos is a top choice for many first vacations as a couple in Greece and is one of the best places to visit in Greece for your honeymoon. Its stunning Sarakiniko beach is worth a visit! It is located in the Northeastern part of the island, around 5 km from the capital of Milos, Adamas. Unfortunately, the beach is not organized. Regardless, at the beginning of the descent to the beach, you will find a cantine offering snacks and refreshments. 

White volcanic rocks soft as chalk, with shapes reminiscent of sculptures, dominate the landscape. There, you will also find a deep cove with blue-green waters. There is no doubt that Sarakiniko beach is a force of nature. You may even find couples gathered here to renew their wedding vows in Greece.

Its photogenic nature attracts countless visitors who use it as the backdrop for their pictures. Because the sun reflects off the white rocks and creates intense heat, it is advisable to avoid visiting Sarakiniko at noon. The ideal time to visit is towards the sunset, when you’ll be rewarded with a striking view of this enchanting lunar landscape. If the mood takes you, why not use the spot for your wedding proposal in Greece?

Kolimbithres beach, Paros

Another lunar landscape is waiting for you in Paros, specifically, on the beach of Kolimbithres. The wild beauty of Kolimbithres beach is undisputable.

It is located in the northwest of Paros, on the west side of the bay of Naoussa. There, you will find a landscape that strays from the norm of a typical Cycladic island.

To find out more about how the islands change in different regions, read our guide to a Greek island vacation.

Kolimbithres is not a single beach but many sandy beaches in a row, ready to meet all your tastes and needs.

There is one that comfortably fits two, while other ones host umbrellas and sunbeds, offering all modern comforts.

Each ‘Kolimbithra,’ regardless of its size, is isolated from its neighbor. Therefore, if you decide to explore them all, you can access them by swimming across them or climbing their rocks.

Read also: The Ultimate Paros Honeymoon Guide

In any case, Kolimbithres in Paros is suitable for seclusion, as there is no beach bar on site. As a result, you will enjoy the incredible turquoise waters and sandy coves in a serene atmosphere.

Lastly, you will marvel at the gray rocks carved by the wind and the waves at your leisure.

Therefore, Kolimbithres is definitely among the best Greek island beaches and one of the top beaches on Paros island.

Canal D’amour beach, Corfu

It is located in northern Corfu, in Sidari, at the western end of the coast. Visitors can find it at a distance of 32 km from the city.

The uniqueness of the beach is attributed to the white sculpted clay rocks, which rise into the sea, creating a unique canal.

Legend has it that couples who swim under the canal remain in love forever. Those who manage to swim to the last edge are said to find the love of their lives.

Canal d’Amour is also widely known for its therapeutic properties. Namely, the detoxifying and healing properties attributed to the large clay reserves in the sea area.

Another point of attraction is the unique clay rocks, which have been eroded by wind and salt. These rocks extend into the sea, creating small coves and beautiful caves.

Canal d’Amour boasts incomparable beauty and has been one of the most famous Greek island beaches since the 1960s. It is honored with the blue flag every year, while it is suitable for lovers of water sports.

Porto Katsiki Beach, Lefkada

It has been voted one of the six best beaches in the Mediterranean. Porto Katsiki lies on the southwest side of Lefkada, about 40 km from the city of Lefkada. It is probably the most famous beach on the island and one of our favorite Greek beaches.

There, you will come across a landscape of wild beauty with heavenly waters that invite you in. Porto Katsiki’s rock is awe-inspiring. The beach has fine white pebbles and is extremely pleasant.

The only downside to the famous beach is its difficulty in access. You can reach it by taking the tourist boats departing from Vasiliki, Nidri, the port of Lefkada, and Kefalonia.

Alternatively, you can drive there and then descend 90 stairs, keeping in mind you’ll have to climb them later on.

The spectacle, however, will surely reward you. The vastness of the blue and the enchanting Ionian sunset create a sight for sore eyes.

The sunset in Porto Katsiki is impressive. However, if you choose to visit the beach during the high-season summer months, be prepared to come upon large crowds.

For that reason, either visit Corfu during the low-season months or visit the beach early in the morning.

Balos Beach, Crete

One of the most exotic beaches in Greece is also considered one of the best in the Mediterranean. Balos is located at the northwestern tip of Crete, at Cape Gramvousa near Kissamos and Kastelli in Chania.

Access can be either by road or by boat. Reaching it by road includes driving on a dirt road and then following a path and descending many stairs. 

The beach has white and pink sand and is full of tiny shells. The waters are shallow and warm. Hence, those who prefer icy dips at great depths may be content to enjoy the scenery.

They can leave their swimming endeavors for another beach.

Read also: Crete Honeymoon; The Ultimate Guide and The Best Spots for Snorkeling in Greece

There is a third way to reach the enchanting Balos for the most dedicated nature lovers. You can walk the distance of 10 km that separates it from the village of Kaliviani.

This is about a 3-hour route, where you will have the opportunity to enjoy the wild Cretan nature.

You will have the smell of oregano and thyme accompany you to the idyllic lagoon. It is undoubtedly one of the most impressive beaches on Crete island.

Read also: The Best Greek Islands for Hiking and Nature-gazing

Falasarna, Chania, Crete

Falassarna has been awarded the title of the ‘most beautiful beach in Crete.’ It is always included in the top 10 beaches in Europe, with excellent white fine sand and warm, clear waters.

Additionally, it has been included in the Natura2000 project. It made the list due to the variety of flora and fauna in the area and its unique natural beauty.

Falasarna beach is located on the west coast of Crete in Chania. Specifically, Falasarna is a small settlement with one of the most famous beaches in the prefecture.

Essentially, there are two large beaches, separated by dunes, with the southern one -Pachia Ammos-being longer and wider.

The beach’s only drawback is that it is exposed to north and west winds, so you will often encounter big waves. However, this is what makes it popular with those who like windsurfing.

It is fully organized, with umbrellas and sunbeds for the most part. There are, however, several free spots for those who prefer to put their own umbrella and towel in the sand.

There are bars and cafes on the beach that often host parties in the evening. Therefore, don’t rush to leave the beach. The element of fun increases dramatically as time goes by, especially after sunset.

Tis Grias to Pidima, Andros

One of the most characteristic and famous beaches of Andros is the beach of ‘Tis Grias to Pidima.’ It lies in the northern part of Korthio Bay. It is about 38 km from the port of Gavrio and 23 km from the capital Chora.  

This beach has many fans, not only for its uniquely beautiful sandy beach but also its name. In Greek, it translates to ‘the old lady’s jump.’

According to the legend, there are two different scenarios of how this name was given. However, both have in common the large rock located in the sea which is the trademark of the beach.

Despite being one of the most famous Greek island beaches, the beach is not easy to reach. You can access it by boat from the bay of Korthio.

Alternatively, you can also drive from Korthio up to a point and then walk for an additional 5 minutes.

Regardless, the stunning waters with the golden sand reward those who want to enjoy a dive in southeastern Andros.

Final thoughts on Greek island beaches

The Greek island beaches are a fail-safe way to upgrade your trip to Greece or your Greece honeymoon to one of the most magical and memorable times in your life.

The variety and diversity of Greece’s beaches mean that there is something for every taste. If you’re short on time, you could also consider some of the most couple-friendly islands near Athens.

Add one of the options we have mentioned above to your Greece honeymoon itinerary, and you’re sure to return home with a lust-worthy tan and a happy heart. 

Relax after your day of sun in some of the Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Greece for Couples and the Best Adult-Only Resorts in Greece.

If you’re struggling to pick your favorite beaches, why not see lots of them on a cruise of Greece?

Helpful resources:
Greek Islands Vacations guide
Best Greek islands for couples
Mykonos vacations guide
Santorini vacations guide